Exclusive BLOGS
Stories and Lessons about us & for us.
From 1998 to Forever, A Timeline | How Kobe Bryant Became a Filipino Icon
Explore the timeline of Kobe Bryant’s unforgettable visits to the Philippines and his special bond with Filipino fans. From basketball clinics to heartfelt moments, discover how the Black Mamba became a beloved icon in a basketball-obsessed nation.
How 14-Year-Old BJ Williams Balances His Emerging Basketball Stardom, Giving Back and his Future with Gilas Pilipinas
BJ is the son of Filipino-Canadian, Dr. Annabelle Manalo-Morgan and former NFL player, Roydell Williams. He’s a rising star, an AAU World Champion, and he’s already been tapped to be one of the future players for the Philippines’ men’s national basketball team, Gilas Pilpinas.
There is no such thing as Off-Season | The Year-Round Hustle with Cris Gopez and Fil Nation Select’s Mission to Bring Filipino Athletes Front and Center
Basketball season has come to a close, but for Fil-Nation Select, it’s basketball season all day, every day. In fact, if it has anything to do with sports, Coach Cris Gopez gets no breaks! There is no such thing as an “off season” for him.
A Legacy Continues | FilAM Sebastian Margate's Triumph at the NBTC
Sebastian Margate is the only son of former basketball player Sunny Margate, aka “Mr. Intangible”, who played professional basketball in the Philippines from 1998 to the early 2000’s.
8 Things to know about Kayla Padilla, Filipino sensation of the NCAAW aS she Says Goodbye to USC
The University of Southern California has made history by advancing to the NCAA Women’s Championship Tournament’s Elite Eight for the first time in thirty years. Something about this starting five has looked like a different beast, not only due to freshman phenom Juju Watkins but also senior Filipino starting point guard, Kayla Padilla.
10 Things to Know About FilAm NBA Reporter Cassidy Hubbarth
You’ve probably seen Cassidy Hubbarth on the sidelines of the NBA, interviewing coaches and players of the game. She is a TV host and full-time reporter for ESPN game telecasts throughout the NBA regular season and during playoffs.
Heart over Height, From Basketball to Business | 10 Things to Know about Nikki Mungues
From basketball to business, Nikki Mungues has proven that nothing is impossible for a fearless Filipina. Despite wearing many hats, Nikki has made it her mission to foster confidence in others and empower them to be their best selves on the court, in the business world, and beyond. Here are a few of the many things to know about her and her incredible journey!
Hoops & Heritage | Filipino Canadian Basketball Player Matthew Wright’s Global Journey
From playing on the courts of Canada to conquering arenas across the globe, Matthew Wright has come a long way since the start of pursuing his passion for basketball. The game has taken him to places he never imagined he’d be. Through the ups and downs that come with chasing one's dreams, Matthew continues to rise.
4 Filipinos Represented in the 2023 NBA Summer League
The 2023 National Basketball Association (NBA) Summer League just wrapped in Las Vegas, Nevada. There are plenty of Filipino fans around the world, and many of them were especially excited to see Filipinos representing in the 2023 Summer League: Kai Sotto with the Orlando Magic, Kihei Clark with the Utah Jazz, Kamaka Hepa with the New Orleans Pelicans, and Ron Harper Jr. with the Toronto Raptors.
Countdown to Tip OfF | Unveiling the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup in Manila
The International Basketball Federation, also known as FIBA, is holding its World Cup tournament which occurs every 4 years, making the 2023 tournament its 19th World Cup in tournament history. I say lucky for Filipinos not only because we are some of the biggest basketball fans ever but because we have a lot invested going into this year's World Cup.
Hoops and Heritage | A conversation with Author and former Hoop Nation Host Rafe Bartholomew
Rafe Bartholomew is an author who’s work on Pacific Rims contains generations of basketball history that Filipinos across the globe have enjoyed reading for the past twenty years. Despite not being from the Philippines himself or having any connection to the motherland whatsoever, Rafe embarked on an adventure of a lifetime to immerse himself in our culture and learn about the ins and outs of Philippine Basketball.
10 Things to Know About MIAMI HEAT HEAD Coach Erik Spoelstra
Did you know, Miami Heat head coach, Erik Spolestra, traces his roots to the Philippines from his mother Elisa, a native from San Pablo, Laguna? I know we could never cut ties with our home teams but knowing that a Pinoy is leading the Miami Heat brings joy and pride to my heart, so let’s get to know Erik Spoelstra a little better with 10 facts about one of the most talented coaches in the league.
4 Things to Know About FilAm NBA PLayer Jalen Green
Jalen Green has been making a strong campaign as to why he could be the next big thing in professional basketball. In honor of him wearing #4 on his jersey, let’s get you ready for the rising sun of the NBA with 4 facts that you didn’t know about Jalen Green.
THE PBA Golden Era | 7 Filipino American Basketball Players of the 2000’s
Growing up in the Philippines, my life revolved around the game of basketball. My dad was in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), where he played 18 years professionally alongside some of the most skilled players in Asia. I grew up court-side, watching them in their element, eating boat loads of popcorn, cheering for their wins, and crying for their losses. Here are a few of my Titos that have left a lasting impact on me and many.
Heart Over Hardship | Interview with the Stockton KINGS’ Jimmy Alapag
Most people know Jimmy Alapag as one of the most successful point guards that the Philippines has ever seen. But what many don’t know is that his journey is a tale far from pretty or perfect. Throughout his career, Jimmy has shown that working hard, having the right mindset, and showing up can take you a long way in life.