MANILA, Philippines – Sweet-shooting big man Matt Bonner of the San Antonio Spurs is in town to take part in the NBA Cares and Fit programs.
Bonner, who is entering his eight season with the Spurs, conducted a clinic with the kids from Virlanie Foundation and Children’s Garden at the Ronac Art Center in Ortigas Friday afternoon that kicked-off the partnership between the NBA and Sun Life Financial.
“The first thing you have to learn if you want to become a good basketball player is to listen and follow your coaches,†Bonner told the kids.
The 10-year NBA veteran was assisted by Jr. NBA head coach Sefu Bernard and Alaska Basketball Power Camp director and PBA legend Jojo Lastimosa.
The kids went through some drills named after ‘Earth, sea, land and mountain’ as Bonner gamely ran and train with them.
The event also marked the first of series of events that will be presented by NBA’s new partner Sun Life Financial, a leading international insurance company.
Sun Life Financial President and CEO Riza Mantaring said the partnership with the world’s best basketball league is a privilege.
“We welcome this partnership with great excitement and are privileged to host a series of NBA events here in Manila,†Mantaring said. “It will not only allow us to bring excitement closer to NBA fans in the Philippines but also allows us to make lives brighter through sports and wellness.â€
NBA Vice President of Business Development and Marketing Partnerships Francesco Suarez welcomed the partnership.
“The NBA’s partnership with Sun Life will allow us to reach a wider group of individuals across Asia Pacific and help strengthen the league’s efforts in the region,†Suarez said. “The NBA shares Sun Life’s firm commitment to the communities we work in and we look forward to a rewarding venture together.
Bonner, who is nicknamed Red Rocket and Red Mamba in the NBA, will also be conducting another clinic on Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena at 12:30 p.m.