Village Connect
Basketball fans in the Philippines will soon get the rare chance to meet NBA legend Gary Payton Sr., as the Hall of Famer makes a special appearance in Manila on September 12, 2025. The event will be held at SM Megamall, where Payton—nicknamed “The Glove” for his defensive prowess—will meet fans in an intimate gathering at 4:00 PM.
Ten lucky fans will secure exclusive seats at the meet-and-greet through an online promo that requires commenting on a dedicated Facebook post with the phrase “Gary Payton at the vivo Stage!” along with the hashtags #vivoxNBA and #vivoV60. Winners will be announced a day before the event.
The visit marks another milestone for Filipino basketball followers, who have enjoyed increasing opportunities to interact with NBA players in recent months. Earlier this year, San Antonio Spurs forward Jeremy Sochan and Oklahoma City Thunder guard Isaiah Joe also held fan events in Manila, underscoring the country’s deep connection with the sport.
Gary Payton, who played 17 seasons in the NBA, was known as one of the greatest defensive guards in league history. A nine-time All-Star and 2006 NBA Champion, he remains a revered figure in basketball circles worldwide. For many Filipinos, his Manila stop is more than just a meet-and-greet—it’s a celebration of basketball’s enduring influence in the country.
Fans are urged to join the promo and take part in what promises to be a memorable afternoon with one of the game’s all-time greats.
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