For Tony Parker, it is only a matter of time before a Filipino player finally breaks into the National Basketball Association (NBA).

The four-time NBA champion believes the Philippines has all the ingredients to produce a homegrown talent capable of making it to the biggest basketball league in the world.

The former France national team playmaker last visited the Philippines in 2016 for the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

“The Philippines is getting better and better. I think it’s just a matter of time that you get a player who’s going to be great in the NBA and be an All-Star,” said Parker, who was on the star-studded French squad that hammered out a 93-84 win over Gilas Pilipinas.

“Around the world, basketball, everybody’s getting better and better.”

Parker’s comments come as several Filipino players continue to chase the NBA dream, with Gilas Pilipinas standout Kai Sotto among the latest to try his luck after entering the 2022 NBA Draft but going undrafted.

He remains committed however as he is currently working a way by gaining entry into the US National Collegiate Athletic Association Division 1.

Parker, one of the most decorated European players in NBA history, said the Filipinos’ deep passion for basketball will eventually translate into success.

“I think the passion that you have for this game, I think it’s just a matter of time that you get somebody coming in and make the Philippines great and bring your country to the Olympics,” Parker said.

“You just have to be patient, but it will come.”