NBA 3X Philippines returns to Manila
Our passion for basketball is unrivaled! And it was this passion that we tried to convey to the world’s governing body, FIBA, as we tried to win the right to host the basketball World Cup in 2019 the other week. Unfortunately, we fell short to powerhouse China, but for a few fleeting moments, we entertained the thought of beating a giant.
The world’s premier league, the National Basketball Association (NBA), has always held the Philippines in high regard, and our country has hosted numerous NBA players every year. Just recently, former LA Lakers, guard and former Denver head coach Brian Shaw and Utah player Alec Burks, were in town.
At the end of the month, Kenneth Faried of the Nuggets and Danny Green of the San Antonio Spurs will headline NBA 3X Philippines 2015, which returns to Manila at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall August 28-30.
In its fifth consecutive year, the event combines 3-on-3 competition with authentic NBA entertainment and experiences for fans of all ages, including a slam dunk contest, three-point shootouts, skills challenges, autograph sessions, and more.
As an added attraction, there will be performances by the Golden State Warriors dance team, Philadelphia 76ers mascot Franklin, live bands, and DJs. Faried and Green will be on hand to help run clinics and interact with fans.
Faried, a 6’8” forward out of Morehead State, was drafted 22nd overall by the Denver Nuggets in the 2011 NBA draft. He was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2012 and was voted NBA Rising Stars Challenge MVP in 2013. The 2014 FIBA World Cup gold medalist recorded per game averages of 12.6 points and 8.9 rebounds during the 2014-15 NBA season.
“I’m excited to visit the Philippines for the first time to experience the culture and be part of the NBA 3X festivities,” said Faried. “Filipinos are incredibly passionate about the game, and this will be a weekend of great basketball as the players get the opportunity to showcase their skills.”
Green, who won the NBA championship with the Spurs in 2014, was selected 46th overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2009 NBA draft. The 6’6” swingman set an NBA record for most three-point field goals made in a Finals series with 27 in the 2013 NBA Finals.
“I look forward to meeting the fans and showing my support for the best Filipino basketball talents competing for pride and recognition on the big stage,” added Green.
It’s important for parents to bring their kids to events like this because the youth really appreciate seeing their idols up close and, personally, I have always believed that through heroes like these, the kids gain additional motivation to reach greater heights.
Registration for NBA 3X Philippines 2015 began last Aug. 3 on a first-come, first-served basis at www.nba3x.com/philippines. All participants in NBA 3X Philippines 2015 will receive an NBA 3X jersey and sling bag.
“We continue our goal of providing our loyal fans with a platform to interact with NBA talent and to showcase their on-court skills. The NBA conducts year-round activities in the Philippines with Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA and NBA FIT Week, and NBA 3X is yet another way for our fans to get the authentic NBA experience through a weekend of fun and entertainment for the entire family,” said Carlo Singson, Philippines country manager, NBA Asia.
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