Kobe Bryant visits Manila again July 13

Photo by Francis Ochoa

MANILA—Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant will return to Manila for the third time on July 13 to kick off his five-city Asian Tour, Nike Philippines announced yesterday.

Bryant, arguably the biggest name in the NBA today, will make Manila his first Tour stop before proceeding to Seoul and three cities in China.

“Nike is proud to bring Kobe Bryant back to Manila,” said Mae Dichupa, Nike Philippines country marketing manager.

“In his last two visits, Kobe was able to connect with a lot of young Filipino athletes, encouraging them to fulfill their dreams through sports like he did.”

As in his first two visits, Bryant and his small entourage are expected to fly to Manila in a private jet.

His one-day visit will begin with a short show at Nike Park at The Fort at 3 p.m. on July 13, with the main event scheduled at 5 p.m. at the Araneta Coliseum in Cubao.

The Big Dome program will see players from the Smart Gilas national team as well as Nike-sponsored UAAP teams Far Easter University, La Salle and Ateneo joining Bryant in skills drills.

Tickets to the two activities will be distributed free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis at Nike Park and Titan sports shops at The Fort at 12 noon on July 2. Only two tickets will be given per person.

Bryant fans can also tune in to Magic 89.9 and Wave 89.1 to win tickets.

“As part of our commitment to basketball and young athletes, Nike continuously develops campaigns that will encourage them to reach for their sports dreams,” said Dichupa.