“Height helps, but isn’t everything”: NBA star Kyle Kuzma talks basketball dreams in Manila

2020 NBA champion Kyle Kuzma made his return to the Philippines on August 19 for his “KuzManila II” tour, marking his second visit to the country. The stop, which runs until August 20, is part of his ongoing Asia tour that also brought him to China earlier this month.

The 30-year-old forward, now with the Milwaukee Bucks, wasted no time updating fans through his Instagram story, sharing clips of a quick workout session where he was seen putting up shots — proof that even while traveling, he remains locked in on his training.

Kuzma, who first visited Manila in 2023, was once again warmly welcomed by Filipino fans, highlighting the strong following he has built since his early years with the Los Angeles Lakers. His previous trip included basketball clinics, fan interactions, and media appearances that further cemented his popularity in the country.

During a press conference on Wednesday, August 20, in Parañaque City, Kuzma addressed a classic basketball question: does height really matter in the sport?

“Yes. But sometimes you just run out of height, especially in basketball,” Kuzma said. “There are a lot of point guards now who are six-foot-seven, so it’s a big league. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make it.”

Kuzma added that perseverance, hard work, and even luck play crucial roles in making it to the NBA.

Kyle Kuzma of the Milwaukee Bucks inspires Filipino players wanting to join the NBA, noting that while height can be a challenge, determination makes it possible, and the road to success is difficult for everyone, tall or short. | via Vlon Bandivas/One Sports#KuzManila #NBA pic.twitter.com/aoqiITQ7Mp

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) August 21, 2025

“You have to work, but you also need a lot of luck because it’s such an important part of success. When luck comes, being prepared for that opportunity is everything. If you make it to the NBA, you’re part of just one percent of players. It’s incredibly difficult, no matter if you’re tall or short,” he explained.

The Michigan native also offered advice to aspiring young athletes with dreams of playing in the NBA.

“It’s super cliché, but true — work hard, block out the noise, and believe in yourself,” Kuzma shared. “Those are the three things I’ve always done in my life, and they’ve helped me get to where I am today. It’s about finding that purpose and staying committed to it.”

Now preparing for his ninth NBA season, Kuzma is looking to build on a strong debut year with the Bucks following a midseason trade for Khris Middleton. In 33 games with Milwaukee, he averaged 14.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists, while shooting 33 percent from beyond the arc.

This offseason, the Bucks face a reshaped roster after losing Damian Lillard and Brook Lopez, but gaining Myles Turner to pair with two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. For Kuzma, the adjustment will be key as he carves out a bigger role on a team still determined to chase championships.

As for Manila, Kuzma’s return is yet another reminder of the Philippines’ deep passion for basketball — and of the growing tradition of NBA stars including the country as a regular stop on their global tours.

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