Video by NOY MORCOSO III/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — It could be the closest fans could get to experiencing the electric NBA playoffs atmosphere while being here in Manila.
The first ever NBA Café officially launched on Friday in one of the most basketball-passionate cities in the world, and it promises to be one heck of a treat for a Filipino NBA fan.
Everywhere you look, there is something that will remind you of the game: from interiors plastered with life-sized photos of unforgettable moments in the NBA, the dazzling display of signed hoops, to a wall decorated with jerseys of all the teams.
“It’s never been better for the fans here in the Philippines. Now I’m happy to say the NBA Café is open, finally. Giving fans chance to enjoy the energy and spirit of the game,” said NBA country manager Carlo Singson.
The NBA Café is the perfect place to watch the NBA playoffs with friends with plasma televisions at every corner of the well-decorated space offering a great view of Bonifacio Global City, from the cushioned booths to the bar.
“It does [remind me of home]. I think it’s really hip and cool. The decor is really nice. All things basketball is always good in my book,” said WNBA legend Tina Thompson.
Thompson, along with Utah Jazz swingman Gordon Hawyard, is in Manila for the Jr. NBA and Jr. WNBA events and the launch of the first-of-its-kind sports bar.
New NBA commissioner Adam Silver also had a message to basketball fans here in Manila, who will be the first to experience this new offering by the league.
“Filipinos are known to be among the most passionate basketball fans in the world and the NBA Café is another great way for them to experience the excitement of our league,” Silver said.
United States Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg was also in attendance, leading the ribbon cutting ceremonies alongside Singson.
The NBA Café is located at the fifth floor Skypark of the SM Aura Premier in Taguig.
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