Opening night for the Sacramento Kings and the Utah Jazz in the NBA had plenty of Filipino flavor on both sides, and Pinoy pride swelled online with the sighting of Jimmy Alapag on the purple bench.
The Gilas Pilipinas and PBA legend got Filipinos giddy on Thursday with his first appearance in the NBA as the Kings' player development coach.
"It has not been easy, and there have been many challenges, but we're here now. It's been a true test of faith, but God's timing is perfect. Incredibly grateful for this opportunity! Proud to represent the 🇵🇭 in the NBA!! Year 1 begins tonight!" Alapag posted on Facebook.
And it was especially sweet as he went up against the Jazz, who, of course, feature Filipino-American Jordan Clarkson.
Fans couldn't help but get excited.
They were especially awed after Malik Monk's throwdown and seeing Alapag's reaction.
The Kings ran away with the victory, 130-114, prompting the Mighty Mouse to share an Instagram post of Sacramento lighting The Beam.
Alapag started out with the Kings' Summer League team in 2019 and their G League affiliate, the Stockton Kings, in 2021.
Keep winning, Coach Jimmy!
(PM)