NBA legend and Miami Heat icon Dwyane Wade was courtside at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, October 14, watching a UAAP Season 89 men's basketball game between the University of Santo Tomas (UST) and Far Eastern University (FEU).
Wade is in Manila for his "TADHANA: Make Your Own Way" tour, presented by sportswear brand Li-Ning.
The three-time NBA champion saw UST rally from a 41-28 halftime deficit to defeat FEU, 81-69, in a first-round matchup. He also made a brief appearance at the commentary table and addressed the crowd during halftime.
"I felt that love"
"Thank you guys for the love. It's been a love-fest for a very long time from afar," Wade told fans in the arena. "As soon as the wheels touched down here, I felt that love."
Wade said he was grateful for the chance to "come here, sit and watch a little bit of this game." He also praised FEU for its team play despite the loss. "What I saw about this FEU team is, I watch them play together and as a unit," he said.
A long-time fan favorite
Wade, a 13-time NBA All-Star, has long enjoyed a strong following among Filipino basketball fans. He signed a lifetime shoe deal with Li-Ning, the sponsor of his current tour, in 2018.
