NBA megastar LeBron James was Manila’s biggest attraction on Saturday night, giving his die-hard Filipino fans a show to remember in his and Nike’s Strive for Greatness Tour, held in a jam-packed Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
The Nike-hosted event marks James’ third visit to the Philippines. The four-time NBA Most Valuable Player was supposed to visit the country last 2016, but it did not push through for certain reasons.
“I said two years ago that I was coming back. But last year, some unfortunate things happened,” rued the 32-year-old, as he addressed his thousands of fans in the venue.
“But I’m back! I’m happy to spend some time with you guys.”
The hour-long event was highlighted by a 30-minute long pick-up game, which featured the past, present, and future of the Gilas Pilipinas program. The game saw the veteran-laden Gilas OGs take on the Gilas Young Bloods.
#LeBronJamesTour2017 @TiebreakerTimes One of LeBron James’ dunks in the Gilas OGs vs Gilas Young Bloods game: pic.twitter.com/RXbW84RPqG
— Justine Bacnis (@justinebacnis) September 2, 2017
The OGs were comprised of FIBA Asia and FIBA World Cup veterans Jayson Castro, Ranidel De Ocampo, Gabe Norwood, Jeff Chan, Gary David, Japeth Aguilar, LA Tenorio, Paul Lee, Jared Dillinger, and Jimmy Alapag.
Meanwhile, the Young Bloods, who were coached by James, were made up of Kiefer Ravena, Ray Parks, Matthew Wright, Raymar Jose, Baser Amer, Mike Tolomia, Raymond Almazan, Almond Vosotros, and Kai Sotto.
The Young Bloods went on to win, 92-71. But the game’s highlight was James taking part in it, entering the court with less than five minutes to go. From there, bullet passes and highlight-worthy dunks took place, much to everybody”s delight.
“[Gotta] give a round of applause to the players who played today — the Young Bloods, the Old School. You guys are unbelievable,” said James.
“The way that you guys love the game of basketball… It’s just fun to be a part of.”
As the event was about to wrap up, everyone in the stands were thinking: Will the King ever grace Manila for the fourth time?
“I love coming back here to Manila,” said the 14-year veteran. “I’m happy celebrating this time with you guys. You guys are unbelievable. Thank you so much. Thank you for being part of the LeBron James Tour 2017!
“I hope you guys continue to welcome me, because I’d love to come back as well.”
