San Antonio Spurs forward Jeremy Sochan recently enjoyed a different kind of court-side action—not as a player, but as a broadcaster. Sochan was in attendance and even joined the broadcast panel as boys’ and girls’ basketball teams from National University-Nazareth School (NUNS) competed for a spot in the NBA Rising Philippines qualifiers.
The tournament, held at the Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, marks the first-ever regional high school basketball championship organized under the NBA’s Asia-Pacific initiative. The event brings together top youth teams from 11 countries and territories across the region, with the finals set to take place in Singapore from June 25 to 29.
“This past week has been great. Watching kids play basketball is something I love—it’s where the passion and real competition thrive,” said Sochan, reflecting on the event.
Currently in the Philippines during the NBA offseason, the 21-year-old Sochan took time away from offseason training to engage with the local basketball scene. The Spurs are reportedly evaluating a potential contract extension for the 2022 first-round draft pick, who will be eligible to sign a new deal starting July 1 until the day before the 2025–26 season begins. Peter Atencio
However, during Saturday’s games, Sochan wasn’t thinking about contracts—he was focused on the energy and dedication he saw from the young Filipino athletes.
“One thing I’ve realized on this trip is the overwhelming passion and love people here have for basketball. Whether you’re playing, coaching, or just watching—it’s everywhere,” he said.
Sochan joined respected sportscaster Boom Gonzales and analyst Isaac Go on Cignal’s coverage of the boys’ finals.
In the boys’ division, NUNS Bullpups dominated the University of Santo Tomas Tiger Cubs with a 101–75 win. Shaun Lucido earned MVP honors after a standout performance with 25 points, four rebounds, four assists, and a steal. Teammate Moussa Diakite also impressed, posting a double-double of 14 points and 12 rebounds.
Head coach Kevin de Castro expressed pride in the Bullpups’ success and emphasized the significance of representing the school on an international stage.
“I told the team this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent our school in Singapore. It’s a dream for every player and coach. Personally, coaching internationally has always been a dream, and this is such an honor,” said de Castro.
On the girls’ side, the Lady Bullpups cruised past La Salle College Antipolo with a commanding 107–49 victory. Zuzzane Singson was named MVP after recording an impressive 16 points and 18 rebounds.
Sochan, who averaged 11.4 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in the 2024–25 NBA season, reiterated his admiration for the local basketball community.
“There’s so much heart in the game here. I have a lot of respect for that,” he said.