Isaiah Joe, sharpshooting guard for the recently crowned 2025 NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder, made his visit in the Philippines, stopping by an NBA Store in Metro Manila and sprinkling joy across Philippine hoops culture. 

The 49th pick of the 2020 NBA Draft averaged 10.2 points and 41.2% from three for the Thunder and emerged as a key role player in last season’s Finals run.

LOOK: 2025 NBA Champion and OKC Thunder Isaiah Joe (@zai_joe1) visits the Philippines along with the Larry O’Brien trophy // @basketbllnews@NBA @okcthunder pic.twitter.com/MA2ngMj7wV

— Mon Anthony Valmoria (@MorvalNBA) August 1, 2025

Speaking to local media, Joe said: “You definitely have to see it to believe it. It exceeds what people are saying. Once you live through it, it’s like wow, this is real.”

He also shared his mindset ahead of the next season: “We have to be hungry, even more hungry than last season… nobody wants us to repeat. Everything’s new, it’s a new slate.”

Joe had his Manila moments, including fan connections where dozens of Thunder supporters, many donning Oklahoma City jerseys, greeted Joe at the NBA Store. Joe also had a media availability session, took photos with local fans, signed basketballs, and posed with the Larry O’Brien trophy. 

His warmth and humility endeared him instantly, as for context, he rose from spectacularly as a player. Joe averaged 6.4 points per game during the playoffs, shooting 41% from deep across 21 games, including a clutch 14-point outing in 17 minutes during a pivotal Game 2 win over Denver. 

Isaiah Joe’s Manila visit allowed the Filipino Thunder fans to resonate through him after their team’s first-ever NBA title. His genuine connection with Filipino supporters was well documented, and he shared that he loved and appreciated his short stay in the country. For Joe, it was yet another incredible chapter in what has been an unforgettable year for him and the OKC Thunder.