The first-ever NBA 3-on-3 Philippines presented by Sprite took place in Manila at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall from July 1 – 3, with exciting on-court competition for seven age divisions and fun experiences for Pinoy basketball fans.
A total of 112 teams in seven divisions – some from Palawan, Cebu and Zamboanga — experienced the NBA’s newest activity in the country, envisioned to be a yearly tournament that will eventually evolve into a pan-ASEAN competition.
Four-time NBA Champion, All Star and NBA Legend Horace Grant interacted with fans through clinics and an NBA Cares event while the New York Knicks City Dancers wowed the crowd with their high-energy numbers. The girls, whose dance director Michelle Marella Harris is Filipina, introduced themselves in Pilipino, and endeared themselves to the crowd even more.
“We’re very excited to have partnered with the NBA in this inaugural NBA 3-on-3 event. It is important to encourage the youth to engage in sports like basketball to keep them active and hone their passion for the game at an early age. Sprite is the perfect partner of the NBA because its refreshingly clear attitude embodies the youth spirit of fun and love for the game,” said Criselle Pascual, Sprite Brand Manager, The Coca-Cola Export Corporation.
“The Philippines is the perfect place to launch this event given the country’s rich culture and passion for basketball. Thanks to the support of all of our partners, we expect this to become an annual competition that gives everyone an opportunity to experience the sport and get further involved in the game of basketball,” said Scott Levy, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, NBA Asia.
NBA-style events such as the Sprite Slam Dunk contest, the Energen Skills Challenge, live music, NBA merchandise giveaways and half time shows by the Knicks City Dancers kept fans entertained every day. Entry to watch the tournament and soak in the festivities was free of charge.
SOLARtv Network Incorporated (Basketball TV and NBA Premium TV) was official media partner together with Studio 23; supporting partners were Energen and Spalding; venue partner was SM Mall of Asia and official hotel was Marriott Manila.