Sabrina Ionescu kicks off Asian tour in Manila, inspiring Filipino basketball fans

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WNBA and Olympic champion Sabrina Ionescu has arrived in Manila for the first stop of her highly anticipated Asian tour. The New York Liberty star immediately felt the passion of Filipino basketball fans as she was welcomed with open arms.

Walking past the 5th Avenue 3D Billboard in BGC, she was surprised to see a massive announcement of her tour, which will take her from Manila to Guangzhou, China, and Hong Kong.

Her first day was filled with inspiring moments, including an interaction with young talents, coaches, and Nike community members at the House of Sabrina in Nike Fort, where she shared her philosophy on basketball and life.

Sabrina Ionescu arrives in Manila for the first leg of her Asian tour.

A message of passion and growth

During a panel discussion with Gilas Youth head coach LA Tenorio, national team mainstay Camille Clarin, and collegiate coach Cholo Villanueva, Ionescu emphasized the importance of balance, passion, and personal growth.

“I think it’s crucial to learn how to prioritize and understand what’s really important to you. Never let the ball stop bouncing, but also understand there’s so much more to you than just being a basketball player. Stay open-minded and do what you enjoy—just be true to yourself.”

Filipino basketball fans get a chance to witness Ionescu’s elite skills up close.

Following the panel talk, Ionescu visited the Nike Courtyard at BGC, a 2,182-square-meter basketball facility designed to provide a safe and inclusive space for players of all levels.

There, she led a skills camp with the Her Hoops community, showcasing her dynamic, all-around game and sharing valuable lessons with the next generation of female ballers.

Exciting showcase game at Araneta Coliseum

On March 11, Ionescu will continue her tour with the launch of the local Nike Sabrina 2 collaboration before stepping onto the hardwood for the highly anticipated Show Her Love basketball showcase at Araneta Coliseum.

The event will see Ionescu playing alongside local collegiate and pro basketball stars, including:

Kacey de la Rosa
Rhenz Abando
Ricci Rivero
Kieffer Alas
Camille Nolasco
Louna Ozar
Afril Bernardino
Kaye Pesquera
Dave Ildefonso
Paul Lee
Japeth Aguilar
Harold Alarcon

The WNBA star engages with young Filipino athletes at the Her Hoops skills camp.

A three-point shootout featuring Ionescu and the best local sharpshooters will also be one of the highlights of the event.

As a trailblazer in women’s basketball, Ionescu continues to break barriers and inspire the next generation—proving once again that the game has no boundaries.