'Runs deep in the blood': Why Filipinos stay passionate about basketball even after migrating

Action photo one day league.jpg

The Filipino Ballers Club (FBC) is a Filipino-Australian basketball club that runs two major leagues annually, alongside a One Day League and 3x3 tournaments. Credit: Angelito VALDEZ Jr

Basketball is more than a game for Filipinos. It runs through their blood, a deep part of their identity and a way to stay connected to culture and community. The Filipino Ballers Club in Melbourne brings this passion to life, creating a home away from home.


KEY POINTS
  • Filipino Ballers Club started in 2021 during Melbourne’s lockdown as a casual basketball meet-up. It has since grown into a formal league with 19 teams and over 300 members, providing structure, excitement, and community for Filipino-Australians.
  • Basketball gives Filipinos in Melbourne a space to connect, support one another, and keep the culture alive. FBC’s leagues, youth programs, and charity work help maintain community pride and unity.
  • For many Filipinos living overseas, basketball is more than a game. It is a vital link to their heritage and identity shares FBC players.
Ever since in the Philippines, basketball has been part of the family. It is part of your roots, it runs deep in your blood. You grow up wanting to be like your uncle or father who plays basketball. We grew up watching basketball games. It is not just a sport; it is a lifestyle and an outlet.
Filipino Ballers Club
FBC
(L-R) Loreniel Tequin – Founder FBC, Mark Poon – Player from Season 1 to the present, Mark De Castro – Regular FBC player, Luisito Bituin – Senior regular player Credit: SBS FILIPINO
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'Runs deep in the blood': Why Filipinos stay passionate about basketball even after migrating | SBS Filipino