Star Magic artists are gearing up for one of their biggest basketball challenges yet, as they prepare to represent ABS-CBN in the much-anticipated Star Magic All-Star Games against a visiting team from Thailand, GMMTV.
Leading the squad as playing coach is Gerald Anderson, who expressed excitement over the event, describing it as a milestone for both Star Magic and its supporters.
“It’s a great event. It’s a global, international event,” Anderson said. “We’re going to represent Star Magic and ABS-CBN.”
Anderson said the matchup is another step in elevating the annual Star Magic All-Star Games, offering fans a fresh and exciting experience.
He credited ABS-CBN and Star Magic for making the collaboration possible.
“ABS-CBN and Star Magic gumawa sila ng paraan para magbigay sila ng ibang event sa mga audience natin. I think they deserve it, yung mga fans, yung audience, yung supporters ng ABS at Star Magic,” he said.
Actor Ronnie Alonte, who is making his basketball comeback after taking a year-long break, admitted he is thrilled to be back on the court.
“Mangyayari ang dapat mangyari. Kahit na 80% Thailand talaga kayo,” Alonte joked, referring to the crowd’s expected support for the visiting team.
“Enjoy lang. Excited na kami. Isang taon na akong nagpahinga so ito yung first time ko mag-basketball ulit. Excited ako kasi si Gerald parang halos ngayon lang din nagkampi.”
Star Magic All-Star Games: PH stars clash with Thailand's GMMTV talents
Despite the challenge ahead, Anderson is confident in the roster assembled to represent Star Magic.
“We want the best players to represent Star Magic,” he said. “This lineup, nakita niyo kanina, talagang powerhouse ’to. Palaban. For sure.”
The actor also revealed that the team begins formal training next week, emphasizing that strengthening their chemistry will be just as important as working on game plans.
“Next week we’re going to start practicing. More than the strategy, although there’s chemistry already, we want to build it even stronger,” Anderson shared.
A longtime basketball enthusiast, Anderson said he is determined to ensure the team is fully prepared for the international exhibition.
“We have a strong team. I’m passionate about basketball. I respect basketball,” he said.