NBA superstar guard Ja Morant capped the Philippines leg of his global Nike “Make Them Watch” tour with a spectacular visit to Manila, inspiring fans and elevating the city’s spirited basketball culture. 

His final stop in the Philippines, after going around the world from Atlanta, New York, China, and Japan, was a showcase at The Courtyard in Bonifacio Global City. Morant delivered unforgettable moments for fans, community engagement, and true superstar power like a rock star.

Arriving to cheers from hundreds of fans, Morant interacted with local hoopers, posed for photos, and even broke into his iconic “griddy” dance. The tour featured an exhibition game featuring Filipino basketball talents like Jeron Teng, Ricci Rivero, Rhenz Abando, CJ Cansino, and Jack Animam. 

Morant finished the game with two powerful two-handed dunks, including a crowd-thundering alley delivered by one of his crew.

Beyond game action, Morant signed a lucky youth’s gear, as he celebrated his birthday on-court with Morant surprising them with a signed pair of Nike Ja 3s. Filipino hoopers, many sporting Morant jerseys and even tattoos, visualized their dreams in real time.

Reflecting on the visit, Morant said, “It’s been good. Everybody has been very welcoming and loving to me and my family. I am super excited to be here.” Filipino fans returned the love, packing the venue and treating the NBA star like a hometown hero. 

Morant’s Manila stop served as a powerful cultural moment, showcasing basketball’s unifying impact in one of Asia’s most passionate hoops markets. For Nike, it marked the capstone of an international tour also including stops in the U.S., China, and Japan, underscoring Morant’s rising global brand presence. 

Ja Morant’s Manila engagement was more than a visit – it was a celebration of hoops culture. From high-flying dunks to giving back, his presence left an indelible mark: a moment Filipino fans, local athletes, and global basketball-watchers won’t soon forget.

Check this thread out here for Ja’s “Make Them Watch” Nike tour PH:

MAKE THEM WATCH Ja Morant Nike Tour PH

Everything that happened during Ja’s visit in Manila, Philippines; a thread // @basketbllnews pic.twitter.com/CZ3fsXd18w

— Mon Anthony Valmoria (@MorvalNBA) August 2, 2025