MANILA, Philippines – A Filipino baller with special needs was selected to be part of this year’s NBA Cares Special during the 2014 NBA All-Star weekend in New Orleans, Louisana, on February 16.
The 22-year-old Raymond Macaspac, a native of San Fernando, La Union, joined 11 other special athletes from around the World who will play alongside NBA players in the Unified Sports Basketball Game.
Macaspac was also part of the Philippine team which bagged gold in the 2013 Special Olympics Asia Pacific Games held in New Castle, Australia.
“Since joining Special Olympics, Raymond has overcome his shyness, gained social skills and confidence through sport,” said Kaye Samson, National Director of Special Olympics Philippines, in a statement.
The NBA’s global partnership with Special Olympics started more than 30 years ago when the league helped introduce basketball to the organization.
Not only will they get to play with the world’s most popular basketball players, they will also be treated to a complete All-Star weekend experience, including a dinner with an NBA legend.