MANILA — As the NBA House Philippines opened its doors in Makati City on Saturday, Filipino sports stars Alex Eala and Jordan Clarkson sent some love all the way from the Big Apple.
Fans gathered at the first-ever NBA House Philippines at SPACE, One Ayala to enjoy basketball, celebrate Philippine culture and share the passion for the game.
NBA champion and Hall of Famer Jason Kidd and WNBA champion Lauren Jackson greeted attendees during the opening festivities.
READ: Jason Kidd, Lauren Jackson to grace first-ever NBA House Philippines
The attendees were aksi treated by a special shoutout from the Filipina tennis ace and first Fil-Am NBA champion all the way from New York City.
"We wanna say what's up NBA House! Everybody here in the Philippines, we're here at the US Open, she [Alex] is! Always! Big love. Peace y'all," Clarkson said.
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"No! I'm here with this legend. So hello NBA House Manila! I'm so excited to be in this guy's presence. And sending love back home," Eala added.
The WTA No. 18 player and NBA champion shared a moment at the US Open, where Eala also competed in mixed doubles and the "Stars of the Open" exhibition ahead of the singles main draw.
READ: Pinoy pride on the spotlight as Alex Eala, Jordan Clarkson link up at US Open
In a video posted by the US Open, Eala and Clarkson bonded over representing the Philippines on the world stage, Filipino pride and support from kababayans.
NBA House Philippines features interactive basketball and pop culture activities, basketball clinics, an all-star game, and meet and greet appearances by the Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer and former WNBA champion.
P-Pop groups SB19 and KAIA, as well as OPM band Lola Amour will be performing at the NBA House Music Session.