Three-time NBA champion and two times MVP of Golden State Warriors, Stephen Curry graced the opening ceremonies of the UAAP 81st season and led the oath of sportsmanship sworn by the various athletes of each UAAP school.
His appearance in the UAAP Season 81 has inspired a lot of student-athletes.
National University board of trustees member Dr. Renato Ermita said, ”In Season 80, we celebrated greatness, but striving for greatness never really ends. It all begins here as we enter a new decade in the UAAP. There’s a new vibrance among our student-athletes. This excellence will be felt by the thousands of new students and new fans.”
The 81st UAAP season is hosted by NU with the theme “It all begins here.”
“Welcome to your new UAAP experience. Beyond the competition, we celebrate the value of sports. Ladies and gentlemen, sports is life. Welcome to the UAAP. It all begins here,”Ermita said.
In closing, Ermita said, “This is beyond competition and we are here to celebrate the value of sports and that sports brings unity and pride to our schools, community, and country.”
NU made an announcement before that the two-time NBA MVP was set to appear for the opening ceremonies, but it was not clear what his role would be. The surprise appearance of Curry in the program was welcomedwith cheers from the fans including the student athletes. The athletes gamely followed Curry as he completed the oath of sportsmanship.
The GSW superstar is currently in the country for a promotional tour of his Curry 5 Under Armour sneakers. He also joined in a media breakfast in Taguig and a 3X3 event in the Mall of Asia Arena last Friday, September 7, before returning to MOA for the UAAP opening.
This is Curry’s second visit in the Philippines, last 2015 was his first visit as part of his Under Armour Asia Tour.