Spurs’ Sochan to Lead NBA Rising Stars Philippines Qualifiers
San Antonio Spurs forward Jeremy Sochan will headline the NBA Rising Stars Invitational Philippines Qualifiers presented by Gatorade, the NBA announced today. The event will run from May 7 to 10 in Metro Manila.
The tournament, operated by Eventscape Manila, will feature top boys’ and girls’ teams from across the country battling for a chance to represent the Philippines at the NBA Rising Stars Invitational in Singapore this June. Teams from Ateneo de Davao, Sacred Heart School – Ateneo de Cebu, University of Perpetual Help, University of Santo Tomas, La Salle College of Antipolo, Nazareth School of National University, and St. Paul College Pasig will compete.
Pool games will take place at the Gatorade Hoops Center in Mandaluyong City from May 7 to 9, leading to final matchups at Smart Araneta Coliseum on May 10. Winners in each division will move on to the Asia-Pacific tournament in Singapore from June 25 to 29.
Alongside the games, the final day will include an NBA Cares clinic for 40 boys and girls from Childhope Philippines and a live performance by Filipino artist FELIP.
Gatorade Marketing Manager Raf Baradas highlighted the brand’s support for youth sports development, saying, “Together with the NBA, we are committed to growing the game at the grassroots level.” NBA Asia’s Ed Winkle added, “The first Philippines Qualifiers reflect our commitment to supporting the Philippine basketball ecosystem and the development of aspiring Filipino players.”
Sochan, who was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team last season and selected as a Rising Star at NBA All-Star 2023 and 2024, expressed excitement about his upcoming visit. “One of my best friends is Filipino, and I know how much passion for basketball there is,” he said.
Gatorade will serve as the presenting partner, with Energen Champion and vivo as official partners. Cignal will broadcast the boys’ and girls’ finals on NBA TV Philippines and Pilipinas Live.
