MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Filipino basketball fans experienced a once-in-a-lifetime moment as NBA Hall of Famer Gary Payton, famously known as The Glove, returned to Manila exclusively for vivo Philippines’ 10th anniversary!
Payton, a nine-time NBA All-Star, Defensive Player of the Year, and 2006 NBA Champion, brought the crowd to its feet as he shared personal reflections, relived career-defining highlights, and connected deeply with Filipino fans. The visit also underscored his fondness for the Philippines.
“I told the NBA I always wanted to come back here. They called me four weeks ago, asked if I wanted to go, and I said, I’m glad to be back,” Payton shared.
A champion on and off the court
Payton captivated the audience not only as a legendary point guard but also as a father and mentor. He emphasized that leadership, respect, and discipline are values that extend far beyond the basketball court.
“Basketball made me who I am, but now I’m a father first. Watching my son play and raising him to be a good man is my proudest achievement,” he said.
Reflecting on his career, Payton called every moment in the NBA a highlight, but singled out representing the United States in the Olympics as especially meaningful. Winning an NBA championship in 2006 and later celebrating his son’s own victory in 2022 also stood out as milestones that defined his journey both as an athlete and as a parent.
Missed the live event? You can still relive the excitement by watching it here: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1BhUPj5zJw/
Payton’s dream team
The afternoon reached its peak when Glen Antonio, one of Payton’s most enthusiastic fans in attendance, asked the NBA legend to name his all-time dream team. With the crowd hanging on every word, Payton revealed the players he holds in the highest regard:
- Gary Payton,
- Michael Jordan,
- Kobe Bryant,
- Shawn Kemp, and
- Wilt Chamberlain (whom he praised as the greatest center ever to play the game).
The announcement was met with thunderous applause, as fans witnessed a rare and personal glimpse into the mind of The Glove. It was a defining moment of the celebration, where admiration for the game’s legends resonated powerfully with every fan in the room.
Capturing greatness with vivo V60
The event also shone a spotlight on the vivo V60, vivo’s latest smartphone co-engineered with ZEISS.
Guests experienced firsthand its powerful imaging capabilities, including the 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera, ZEISS Multifocal Portraits, and the AI Four-Season Portrait feature for stunning creativity.
Backed by a 6500mAh BlueVolt battery with 90W FlashCharge, the vivo V60 ensures users are always ready to capture and share unforgettable moments even in court!
Payton joined fans for an iconic group selfie using the vivo V60, underscoring the device’s ability to turn legendary experiences into lasting memories.
The afternoon closed with gratitude from vivo Philippines, thanking its community of fans for a decade of trust and innovation, and Gary Payton for making the celebration truly historic.
The vivo V60 is now available in stores nationwide and online starting at Php 28,999. For updates and exclusive content, follow @vivo_philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Started in 1927, the Philippines Graphic is the longest-running printed magazine of national circulation that provides relevant news and features and promotes Philippine literature.
