Fil-Japanese player reunites with Filipino mom at FIBA 3x3 worlds

BOCAUE, Bulacan — For many, basketball is a means to bring food to the table. For some, it’s a springboard to stardom.

For Tatsuhito Noro, though, it’s a means of reuniting with family.

The Japanese cager, who was born to Filipino Alma Miwa, was competing in the FIBA 3x3 World Cup at the Philippine Arena when they were reconnected. It was the first time they have been together since the matriarch underwent therapy for a stroke she suffered last year.

“When he found out the World Cup will be held in the Philippines, he [he made it] his biggest goal — to make it here, to be on the national team,” a translator to Noro shared to the press.

“He made the team at the last moment and he was so happy to play in front of his mother and grandmother,” the translator added.

Noro, 29, was born in Tokyo. He had been separated from his mom for months. He was only able get to know his grandmother Cely Miranda during the event.

The moments during that meeting couldn’t paint a more Pinoy picture:
 

“It’s (my) first time to be here but this is my second home, and it’s good to be here,” Noro said through his translator.”I’m very appreciative of the people’s support and help to meet [my] mother.”

Noro’s 3x3 crew finished 1-3 in the Pool B men’s division action. They finished fourth in the group, but only the top two teams will advance to the next round of the global skirmish.

But it seems the cager won’t be losing sleep over his team’s bid at all.

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