Ateneo will make history even before its UAAP Season 84 debut against University of Philippines on Saturday.
The three-time defending men’s basketball champions will be sponsored by Jordan Brand, becoming the first-ever non-American varsity team to be backed by the brand.
Also set to be backed by Jordan are the Lady Eagles and the Blue Eaglets basketball teams.
Other varsity teams backed by Jordan are University of North Carolina, University of Florida, University of Oklahoma, UCLA, Georgetown University, and Marquette University.
Rooted in the pursuit of excellence and to inspire the next generation of players, the partnership will unite the two basketball icons through shared DNA of achieving greatness on their own terms, creating opportunities for all, and building a level playing field.
“It’s exciting to announce Jordan Brand’s only university partnership outside of North America, because there are few places in the world where basketball culture shows up as it does in Manila,” says Jordan Brand President, Craig Williams.
“It is so crucial to invest in young people, and in partnership with Ateneo de Manila University, we can inspire young people through our shared love of the game.”
Known for their outstanding performance in basketball, the University squads have built a winning tradition when it comes to hoops. Additionally, Ateneo’s talent pool has also produced some of the best cagers playing today in professional leagues such as Kiefer Ravena, the first Filipino athlete to be signed by the Jordan Brand Family.
The two-time UAAP MVP and two-time men’s basketball champion embarked on a successful professional career in the Philippine Basketball Association and now plays in the B. League.
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“This partnership is a step in the right direction, especially when giving women’s sports the right exposure they deserve,” said Ravena, who currently plays for Shiga.
“The growth of the Jordan family from one athlete to a team shows the Brand’s commitment to building a community in the Philippines and a long-term commitment to investing in youth.”
Commenting on the country’s tremendous talent potential, Ateneo de Manila University’s athletic director Emmanuel Fernandez says: “Investment in the country’s youth and building inclusivity can spearhead basketball culture and translate our passion into profession. As one of the most successful basketball programs, Ateneo Basketball has always strived for excellence. Being associated with a prestigious brand such as Jordan is an acknowledgment of this excellence, which will no doubt fuel the desires of many aspiring Pinoy and Pinay players in their own pursuit of greatness.
“We are all still inspired by MJ’s legacy and his undying love for the game.”
To celebrate the partnership with Ateneo Basketball, Jordan Brand is launching a series of brand experiences, products and services exclusive for members hosted at the Jordan Manila, BGC store. These include viewing parties for select UAAP games and Jordan Flight Camps – basketball skills development clinics for intermediate to advanced level ballers.
Local artists and Ateneo alumni Gica Tam and Mikki Dela Rea were engaged to specifically develop designs for Custom 23, a customization service exclusively available at Jordan Manila. The unique designs by Gica and Mikki are inspired by their love for the game, Ateneo’s culture, energy, passion, and everything that surrounds that through their lens.
In addition, Jordan x Ateneo Men’s and Women’s fan tees will be available for sale in limited quantities at Jordan Manila BGC, Titan BGC and Titan22.com.
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