SMART CLARK GIGA CITY--For an athlete, there's no better way to honor one's father by giving an all-out performance.
That's exactly what Ray Parks Jr. did on the eve of the supposed 59th birthday of his late dad and PBA great Bobby Ray Parks Sr.
The younger Parks erupted for 36 points spiked by five triples as he led TNT to a 102-101 victory over Phoenix on Wednesday night for a do-or-die semifinal match in the Philippine Cup.
The 27-year-old combo guard shot an efficient 10-of-16 from the field while also being productive in other departments with six rebounds, three assists and two steals.
"Yeah it's my dad's birthday tomorrow. It means the world to me to try to and get this win (for him). I definitely miss him," said the NU product.
His father was a recognizable figure in the PBA, having won the Best Import award for a record seven times while bagging five championships with San Miguel and Shell.
The PBA inducted Parks Sr. to the Hall of Fame in September 2009.
Almost four years later, he died after a long battle with lung cancer. A day after his death on March 30, 2013, the league decided to name the Best Import plum after him.
Looking to follow in the footsteps of his father, Parks Jr. will try to lead the Tropang Giga to the finals as they go for the jugular against the Fuel Masters in Game 5 on Friday.