*report by Monch Palu-ay & Karl Tan
The Philippine Basketball League (PBA) has a new partner in global sportswear giant Anta, the world’s third biggest sports group. The two parties announced the three-year deal in a press conference led by Anta Philippines GM JP Paglinawan and PBA commissioner Willie Marcial.
The partnership opens up big opportunities for both organizations. ANTA Philippines General Manager, JP Paglinawan, declared, “Teaming up with the PBA gives us the opportunity to support these athletes perform at their best at the highest level of basketball locally. Partnering with the PBA comes at a perfect time when ANTA is growing at a very rapid pace across the country. Together, we look forward to further developing the future of both brands and more importantly, Philippine basketball.”
The event was attended by representatives of teams that Anta PH is currently supporting – Coach Jojo Lastimosa of TNT Tropang Giga, Coach Mon Jose of Magnolia Hotshots, and Coach Yeng Guiao of Rain or Shine Elasto Painters. Also in attendance were PBA D League’s Marinerong Pilipino – San Beda University Head Coach Yuri Escueta and PBA Legend Alvin Patrimonio, who is featured in the brand’s new TV commercial.
Anta PH current ambassador and Rain or Shine player, Anton Asistio hailed the partnership and shared how Anta helps him perform well on the court. He said, “I love the comfort and traction… Those are what I’m looking for in selecting shoes for my game”.
Coach Mon Jose pointed out how important it is for a player to wear basketball shoes that are both functional and stylish. Coach Mon stated, “(Because) when you look good, you feel good, you play good”.
Anta was founded in 1991 and has 41 locations in the Philippines with more stores to open in 2024. The brand’s first NBA player ambassador is Luis Scola who signed in 2007. Now, multiple NBA stars like Klay Thompson, Gordon Hayward, and Kyrie Irving have signature lines with the brand.
Anta footwear will be on full display when the Philippine Cup opens on the 28th of Feb, 2024. * * *
