Ja Morant dunks, dances, and rides a jeepney during Manila visit

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant became the latest National Basketball Association (NBA) superstar to visit the basketball-crazy nation of the Philippines, making a stop in Manila for the first time on Friday, August 1.

Morant visited Manila for his “Make Them Watch” tour, in association with sportswear giant Nike. He appeared at the Nike Courtyard in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), where the venue was thronged by adoring fans.

The 25-year-old told the media that he was grateful for the love he received at every stop in Manila.

“Manila showed me so much love — I felt it the moment I touched down. Being this far from home and still feeling that kind of energy? That’s different. You all really made me feel like family out here,” Morant said.

The jam-packed crowd got to witness Morant dancing and showing off his impressive 43-inch vertical leap by dunking the ball twice — once off an alley-oop and another time leaping from the restricted arc. Morant also watched an exhibition game between the Barangay Ballers, led by Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) stars CJ Cansino, Rhenz Abando, and Jack Animam, and a La Salle Zobel team featuring Jeron Teng, Ricci Rivero, and Marga Jimenez.

Grizzlies star Ja Morant brought the griddy to the Philippines 🕺🇵🇭

(via @LanceAgcaoilINQ)pic.twitter.com/L2ZGVHqoDn

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) August 1, 2025

“I am happy to see this many women basketball players joining the event, because I didn’t have these kinds of events when I was younger. We are a basketball-crazed country, so it is just right to see basketball stars come here, so that the kids can see,” said Animam.

Two lucky fans received gifts from Morant, including a signed pair of Ja 3s — his new signature shoe — and a signed Grizzlies jersey. Morant also had the opportunity to ride a local jeepney, or the HoopJeep — a jeepney fitted with a basketball hoop.

“Riding the jeepney, meeting the fans, seeing how deep the passion runs for the game — it’s something I will never forget,” he added.

After witnessing the love and passion for basketball in the Philippines, Morant confirmed he would return to the country in the future.

“I came out here to make them watch, but the Philippines made me feel seen too. I will be back for sure. Salamat, Manila,” Morant concluded.

Manila was the final stop of Morant’s “Make Them Watch” world tour, following visits to New York, Japan, and China.

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