The 1xBet team met with Chris to get acquainted and discuss future plans.
Chris, could you share a bit about your journey in basketball? What have been the major milestones, and who has inspired you along the way?
My basketball journey began in the 5th grade, playing in grade school and later throughout high school, where I helped secure our school’s first State Championship. I received a college scholarship, which paved the way to joining the professional league shortly after graduation. In my rookie year, I earned the Rookie of the Year honors for the class of 2015. In June 2024, I won my first PBA Title, marking the first title in Meralco Bolts franchise history, and was named the All-Philippine Cup Finals MVP. I officially became a member of Gilas in 2022 and have since received two SEA Games Gold Medals, one Asian Games Gold Medal, and participated in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
What do you think was the pivotal moment in your career that really defined your success in professional basketball?
The pivotal moment in my career was playing in the 2023 Asian Games with Gilas Pilipinas and winning the first Asian Games Gold Medal for the Philippines in 61 years.
What challenges have you had to overcome to reach where you are today in professional sports?
Being a professional athlete comes with many challenges such as injuries, mental stress, fatigue, and financial stress. These can accumulate and impact performance significantly. The greatest challenge I’ve faced is the mental aspect—being persistent through both good and bad days and making sacrifices early on to benefit later in life.
Do you have any special traditions or rituals before important games?
Before important games, I usually get a massage to relax and play video games to distract myself from basketball momentarily. This helps me focus entirely on the game when it’s time to play.
What do you enjoy doing in your downtime? What interests do you have outside of basketball?
In my downtime, I enjoy playing video games, watching movies, listening to music, and constantly learning new things, especially through YouTube.
In your opinion, what makes basketball in the Philippines unique compared to other countries?
Basketball in the Philippines is a universally loved and passionately played game. It transcends civil status, age, gender, and geographic location, providing comfort during tough times and a means for many to fully express themselves.
What changes have you observed in the Philippine basketball industry over the years?
Players are becoming smarter and more skilled, likely due to better internet access and more advanced training tools available to newer generations.
What factors do you believe are currently most influencing the development of basketball in the Philippines?
Access to good venues and the ability to watch quality basketball games are crucial for learning and observing top-level skills. Hosting the 2024 FIBA World Cup was an incredible opportunity for the country to see the world’s best talent.
Congratulations on your engagement, Chris! Could you share a bit about how you and your fiancée met and the story behind the proposal?
Thank you! Cam and I met in college around 2011 and supported each other through our academic and professional journeys. We reconnected online after college, which led to in-person dates and our relationship blossoming. We believe in the significance of numerology and, without her knowing, I planned a special proposal for 11/11/24 at 11:11 am, which she joyfully accepted. We are excited about our future together.
As you look forward to your wedding, are there any special traditions or personal touches you both are planning to incorporate into the ceremony?
We are simple people who value the company of family and friends over the grandeur of the event. Ensuring our loved ones are present is our top priority, making the day memorable for everyone involved.
How did your partnership with 1xBet begin, and what do you value most about it?
Our partnership began after the Olympic qualifying tournament in Riga and my first PBA championship and Finals MVP title. What I value most is how 1xBet appreciates my traits and professionalism off the court as much as my abilities on it.
How do you engage with fans through your partnership with 1xBet?
Most of my engagement with fans is through social media, with plans for more in-person interactions soon. Creating memorable experiences for fans is something I deeply value, a sentiment shared by 1xBet.
What are your future prospects and plans within your partnership with 1xBet?
I aim to reach more communities and create opportunities for young, skilled basketball players from smaller communities to showcase their talents, potentially leading to scholarships and professional careers. I was once that kid who needed just one chance, and I hope to provide that for others.
