The seven-time Best Import in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) said that Rayray, as his son is fondly called, was as ecstatic.

“Rayray is really happy and he’s really looking forward to playing in the UAAP,” said Parks on Thursday.

“I’m grateful to the board and I think this is not only good for NU but also for the UAAP, as well. Allowing Rayray and Greg [Slaughter] definitely adds excitement and competitiveness in the coming tournament,” he added.

The UAAP eventually allowed Parks and Slaughter to suit up for the Bulldogs and the Ateneo Blue Eagles, respectively, after questions were raised on their eligibility, especially on rules concerning residency.

The 18-year-old Parks was exempted from the two-year residency rule for players who come from abroad after NU proved that his mother, Shane, was a contract worker in the United States when he spent four years there and that he eventually enrolled in NU last year.

The board approved Parks’s case unanimously but not Slaughter’s, as three schools reportedly voted against his inclusion on the Ateneo roster this season.

The elder Parks said NU could now concentrate on its campaign under new head coach Eric Altamirano.

“This is not only good for NU but also for the Philippines because Rayray wants to play for the national team in the future,” said Parks, who is also the assistant sports director of NU.

The Bulldogs, who finished fifth last year, open their campaign on July 14 against University of Santo Tomas at the Araneta Coliseum.

(Joel Orellana)