Wazzup Pilipinas!?
In a move that electrifies both the global NBA community and Filipino hoop fans, Memphis Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant is set to land in Manila on August 2 as the grand finale of his Make Them Watch Tour. This world-spanning journey, powered by Nike, is about more than games—it’s an immersive cultural exchange, celebration of creativity, and an ode to the universal power of basketball
A Tour of Global Impact
Morant's tour began in the U.S. with marquee appearances at Nike Peach Jam in Georgia and New York’s NY vs NY tournament, then moved across Asia—clinic circuits in China, a day-long engagement in Tokyo—and now heads to Manila for a grand culmination
As Morant himself puts it:
“Basketball is all about work and creativity—putting in that grind but also playing with your own style… Getting to learn new cultures through hoops is a unique opportunity, and I’m hyped about that.”
Manila: The Final Stage
Why Manila? The Philippines is arguably one of the most basketball-crazed nations in the world. Courts pepper every neighborhood, PBA matches fill arenas, and the sport lives in every street and heart . Local stars like Anthony Edwards and Chris Paul have praised the nation’s energy:
“The love for basketball there, I was super shocked… that was an 18‑hour flight” — Anthony Edwards
Morant’s Manila stop promises:
A training session open to select high school talents, giving tomorrow’s stars a chance to hone their craft alongside an NBA All-Star.
A thrilling Make Them Watch exhibition game, showcasing both Morant’s signature style and the raw talent that thrives in Filipino basketball
From Street Courts to Spotlight
Everywhere Morant goes—China, Japan, Manila—he’s not just playing hoops; he’s living culture. Nike’s tour is designed to bridge communities through art, fashion, music, and food. For Manila, this means Morant will:
Visit local Nike outlets to meet fans and athletes.
Dive into the hustle of streetball courts and vibrant basketball culture.
Highlight how Filipino youth weave creativity into their game and lives
A Symphony of Style and Substance
Morant’s rise in the NBA is no accident—it’s his fearless blend of grind and expression. Few players convey as much attitude through signature sneakers and bold court flair. In Manila, those traits will strike a chord. The city’s love for basketball isn’t just competitive—it’s celebratory, joyful, and community-driven .
More Than a Game
This tour is bigger than basketball—it’s cultural diplomacy. Nike and Morant are using the global stage to champion:
The next generation of athletes.
The fusion of athleticism and artistry.
Bonds built on hoops, creativity, and shared values
What to Expect on August 2
Open workout/training session with invited high school players.
Exhibition showcase game, giving fans a close-up on Morant’s explosive court presence.
Community engagement, featuring local music, street art, and basketball drills.
A night charged with fandom: chanting, cheering, and the unmistakable spirit that ignites Filipino arenas.
Curtain Call: A Legacy Bathed in Filipino Hoop Light
For Ja Morant, Manila isn’t just an end—it’s a crescendo. A place where grit meets celebration, where courts become cathedrals, and where a young NBA star can leave a lasting mark. It’s also a testament to the power of basketball to unite, inspire, and transcend borders. Come August 2, Manila isn’t just hosting a tour stop—it’s sharing its heartbeat with the world.
Manila, are you ready to Make Them Watch?
For the latest updates on locations, tickets, and livestream info, follow official Nike Basketball social channels.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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