For a country that lives and breathes basketball, nothing quite matches the thrill of seeing an NBA superstar up close. That passion reached a fever pitch when Memphis Grizzlies phenom Ja Morant brought his signature flair to Manila, capping off his “Make Them Watch” tour with a fiery celebration of Filipino hoops culture.
Fresh off stops in China and Japan, the 25-year-old NBA All-Star and 2020 Rookie of the Year landed in Manila and delivered a spectacle that went beyond mere fan service — it was a full-blown basketball celebration.
From the moment Morant made a grand entrance at The Courtyard in Bonifacio Global City, riding in style atop a jeepney, Filipino fans knew they were in for something special. Thousands crammed into the upgraded covered court and lined the fences outside, eager to catch a glimpse of the explosive guard known for defying gravity.
Morant didn’t disappoint. With his signature ‘Griddy’ dance moves and high-flying dunks, he turned the court into his own personal stage — and the crowd into his chorus of awe. At one point, he even joined an exhibition game between Team La Salle, led by Jeron Teng, Ricci Rivero, and Marga Jimenez, and Team Barangay, composed of Rhenz Abando, CJ Cansino, Jack Animam, and Andrei Ugaddan.
The highlight reel moments kept coming — Morant finished an alley-oop slam, handed out high-fives, and taught fans his celebratory dance steps, all while beaming with the kind of joy that mirrors the Philippines’ enduring love for the game.
But beyond the showmanship, the event held deeper meaning. For athletes like Jack Animam, it was a moment that reflected the slow but steady growth of gender equality in sports.
“To see this many girls joining the event makes me so happy,” said Animam. “Growing up, we didn’t have this kind of exposure. Now, these girls are showing real talent. Representation matters — and this kind of visibility changes lives.”
That sentiment was echoed by Ricci Rivero, who reflected on how rare these opportunities were when he was younger. “Nike events played a big role in my development as a player,” he said. “Now, kids get to experience that energy firsthand. We can’t take it for granted.”
The event also signaled a broader truth: The Philippines remains one of the most passionate basketball nations in the world. With every NBA visit — from Kobe Bryant’s legendary stops to now Morant’s high-octane showcase — the fire only burns brighter.
Morant capped off his Manila stop by signing the symbolic “Locker #12” at The Courtyard, leaving behind not just a signature, but a memory that will echo in the hearts of young Filipino dreamers for years to come.
Because for many who witnessed the magic that night, it wasn’t just about seeing a superstar. It was about believing that someday, they too could fly.