Jordan Clarkson witnessed a heartbreaking tip-off game during the 2023 FIBA World Cup. The Gilas Pilipinas played against the Dominican Republic and it was a tough match-up for both teams. Both countries were almost neck and neck the entire time and it seemed as if the Philippines had a slight edge with Clarkson leading the way. However, the Dominicans attacked the moment they found a chance to be the second in Group A with a victory.
Interestingly, the Gilas were performing on home turf making it far more pressurizing for the team. There were 38,115 fans in attendance at the Mall of Asia Arena, Manila. It was quite the struggle during the first quarter of the game as the Dominicans led by Karl-Anthony Towns had a good lead. However, Clarkson was able to balance the score 42-42 by halftime.
But Towns and his team snagged at the chance of winning after Jordan Clarkson was fouled out of the game. Philippines head coach Chot Reyes said, “I really loved the fight of our players. They competed, they competed hard. Unfortunately, though, with the disqualification of Jordan [Clarkson] it was really a big blow for us.” It was apparent from the get-go that Clarkson was important to the Gilas. But luck panned out in the opposite direction.
Fans troll Jordan Clarkson despite the Philippines’ heartbreaking loss in the 2023 FIBA World Cup opener
Jordan Clarkson led all scorers during the game recording 28 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists, and 2 steals. With 3:32 minutes left on the clock and the Dominicans adding a lot of pressure, Clarkson was fouled out, leaving the Gilas without any star power. Towns had a masterful game as well recording 26 points and 10 rebounds. The Dominicans won 87-81 against the hosts of the game.
Emotions ran high on the bench after Jordan Clarkson got fouled out. He was seen covering and wiping his face in frustration. Clarkson’s offense made up for the turnovers which was a major letdown following his ejection. However, Clarkson went viral for another reason as one fan said, “Grown man with painted nails.” Another fan said, “Painting his nails black and crying on the sideline… Get it together Jordan.”
Grown man with painted nails.
— MadridLakersMix 🇨🇦 (@lakersmadridHQ) August 25, 2023
Painting his nails black and crying on the sideline…
Get it together Jordan— Hobby Tag Facilitator (@PCOregonDucks2) August 25, 2023
It seemed like most fans were bothered by his painted nails rather than the frustrations he was dealing with. The Gilas will face Angola on Sunday. Coach Reyes believes that turnovers were a major issue against the Dominican Republic. The Gilas had 19 turnovers throughout the game and gave up almost as many offensive rebounds as well. Considering how defensively strong Angola has been, the Philippines will have to make major adjustments moving into the game.