MANILA, Philippines—The fervor for the FIBA World Cup in Manila, already heightened by the arrival of several NBA stars, took another dramatic surge as Golden State Warriors standouts Klay Thompson and Kevon Looney touched down in the bustling city.
The excitement in the Philippine capital is palpable as it plays host to these basketball greats. Both Thompson and Looney recognized not only for their stellar skills on the court but also for their roles in the Warriors' championship triumphs, arrived on Thursday.
Their main agenda? The Anta Squad Asia Tour was held at the lavish Peninsula Manila Hotel.
Klay Thompson's Excitement for Manila
In a statement to the media, Thompson conveyed his thrill for this maiden voyage to Manila. “It’s our first time in Manila, and I’m genuinely excited about what awaits,” he expressed.
“We’ve heard so much about the passion for basketball here, and I’m eager to witness it firsthand. It’s incredible to be in a place where basketball isn’t just a sport, but a way of life”.
Following their official press interactions in the morning, the Golden State pair is scheduled to head to SM Megamall. Here, they're not just spectators; they'll be immersing themselves in the heart of Manila’s basketball spirit, watching an organized 4x4 tournament.
Fans will also get a golden opportunity for an up-close interaction during a meet-and-greet session scheduled for the afternoon. But Thompson and Looney aren't the only Golden State luminaries in town. Their esteemed coach, Steve Kerr, is also making waves.
Kerr, who recently guided Team USA to an impressive 3-0 record in Group C of the World Cup, is showcasing his coaching prowess at the Mall of Asia Arena. Adding to the excitement of their visit, Thompson and Looney are also here to champion the launch of the new Anta “KT9”, further merging the worlds of sports and fashion in the Philippines.
All in all, Manila's basketball scene is buzzing like never before, and the city is set to cherish these moments for a long time.