Lifestyle

How Sneakers Evolved the UAAP Landscape

Sneakers have become synonymous with the Philippines’ “favorite” sport, slating the toes of the nation’s top cagers. While the professional and international levels garner basketball’s greatest audience, the University Athletics Association of the Philippines (UAAP) doesn’t lag too far behind, with the crowds flocking to witness their artistry—and I’m not just talking about the game.

The UAAP is a breeding ground for tomorrow’s stars as their sneakers of choice join them in their gruesome quest for collegiate glory. As the players go toe-to-toe throughout 40 minutes of regulation, they look at the opportunity to display their potential, mimicking their idols over 12,000 kilometers west. Whether it’s a Black Mamba-infused fadeaway or channeling Luka Magic’s clutchness in crunchtime, sneakers have become a tool and a manifestation of greatness.

From the Association to Manila

Much can be said about Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James’ catalytic impact on Nike Basketball and the legacy they have built in the past 30 years. Their rise has only added fuel to their competitors’ spirited drive to dethrone the Swoosh juggernaut. Nowadays, the blossoming industry courts the next men and women up, equipping them with the latest game-enhancing technologies as poster children who embody their values and excellence.

The UAAP possesses a similar landscape of scouting greatness, as globally renowned brands eye the future of Filipino basketball to take on the mantle. From Green-Archer-turned-Skygunner Kevin Quiambao’s collaborative Quiccs Three Stripe pair to Anta sponsoring a bulk of the league’s apparel and footwear, it fortifies their international acclaim as candidates who showcase a similar vision.

Instagram: @allstar.magazine

Nic Cabañero concluded his breakout year for the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in a deserving fashion. The 21-year-old claimed the tournament’s Mythical Five honors and led the Growling Tigers to a second runner-up finish, equipping the recent Complex Sneaker of the Year, the Adidas AE 1. On an episode of Naveen Ganglani’s “The Navs Effect Podcast,” he spoke on donning his current favorite player’s signature silhouette—a factor in his decision to join the German-based footwear manufacturer.

Ako personally, gusto ko talaga yung AE 1. After LeBron, he’s (Anthony Edwards) my idol na eh, so that’s why I plan on staying with adidas until kailan,” he mentions.

Sneakers aren’t just glass slippers fit for the professional level, but a touchpoint between young stars and the players they dream of becoming.

As a canvas for expression

When dissected to its core, sneakers are nothing but a protective foot cover, but through storytelling and association, their effect becomes widespread. They are tools to improve one’s game, but beyond just an on-court weapon, they connect to its beholder. When lacing up a brand’s premiere pair for its technology, style, hype, what or who it stands for—or being a shoe that just resonates with the player, certain philosophies intrinsically provide a competitive edge.

Instagram: @allstar.magazine

Phoenix Fuel Master Ricci Rivero and Rain or Shine Elasto Painter Shaun Ildefonso may have set the bar for customized kicks back in Season 82. Still, this past year was undoubtedly filled with style and sneakers, as an influx of expression was captured through the ALL-STAR Tunnel and on-court, with sneakers as the focal point.

UAAP Season 87 has had its fair share of “#Kotd” moments with the best offerings from the industry. Nike and Adidas aren’t exactly untouchable, as Anta, Converse, Puma, Under Armour, and even Chinese-based manufacturer, Serious Player Only, pose a promising territorial threat. Evidenced by the University of the Philippines’ Terrence Fortea’s Nike By You Sabrina 1s to the University of the East’s John Abate’s Player1 challenger, there appears to be no shortage of sneaker variety, alongside the talent of the brimming collegiate scene.

A pleasant reminder of yesterday

Instagram: @allstar.magazine

Apart from celebrating the present, sneakers unlock the past as memories of childhood, success, or failure come pouring in. That was the case for the decorated Ateneo Blue Eagles program as they converged to relieve their legacy of excellence, shared through a hearty meal and Kyrie Irving’s Anta Kai 1 “Blue Dynasty.”

Anta Philippines gifted the “Blue,” “Black,” and “White” Duke-inspired colorway of the corporation’s Chief Creative Officer as a memento of their winning ways, sprinkled throughout the past three decades. While only a handful of them were allowed to step on the hardwood simultaneously, the pair symbolized a generational bond, growing and strengthened with time.

“My best memory was winning our first championship against La Salle…It took five years for us to win another championship, so for me, that was really special, especially after the five-peat,” Rain or Shine Elasto Painter Anton Asistio tells Anta Philippines.

“Through joys and tears, through the laughing years,” sneakers have a way of bringing back something special.