Star Magic basketball team players. ABS-CBN News
Members of the Team Star Magic basketball team wrapped up their first training session as they gear up for the upcoming Star Magic All-Star Games 2026, where they will face Thailand’s Team GMMTV for a “SEA-bling showdown” on August 23 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
JV Kapunan said they anticipated a tough challenge from the Thai squad.
“Well, we expect na they’re gonna come and play heavy. Hindi namin sila na-scout but we’re excited to play with them for sure,” he remarked.
Jeremiah Lisbo underscored the pride of representing the country.
“Expectation namin ay maging competitive kasi international. We’re representing our countries… Philippine pride. Siyempre sila rin, 'di ba? Nire-represent din nila yung country nila,” he said.
Tristan Ramirez shared the team’s energy during practice. “Siyempre, una-una mag-e-enjoy kaming lahat… Siyempre sa ating mga ‘SEAblings’ na mga kalaban. At sana, i-expect ng mga manonood na nandoon na mag-e-enjoy sila. Ready na! Ready na! Okay, game. Preparation. Ready, set, go. Siyempre, nagpapractice kami dito ngayon. Yun yung handaan namin para sa game,” he said.
Star Magic basketball team players. ABS-CBN News
Ashton Salvador explained that defense was their main focus during training.
“Magfo-focus kami sa defense and yun talaga yung magiging goal namin para sa game,” he noted.
Argel Saycon added that conditioning and team chemistry were central to their preparation.
“Siyempre, nagpa-condition kami tsaka yung team chemistry namin, winowork namin ngayon,” he shared.