‘I want it to feel like we belong—this is us.’
Basketball has been a big part of Filipino culture. A testament to that are the courts seen everywhere, not just in Manila, but also in different parts of the Philippines. There, players young and old pass the ball to each other, practice teamwork, and unleash their passion for the game. All that is present in Adidas’ newest line of tees in collaboration with Filipino muralist and illustrator Jappy Agoncillo.
Dubbed “Manila Hoops,” the line, featuring two fresh designs, mirrors Filipinos’ basketball culture with the help of Jappy’s designs. Known for his energetic murals and digital artworks, the artist brought the collection to life by drawing inspiration from iconic city landmarks such as Manila City Skyline, the City Hall, and Roxas Blvd., and even street food like taho, kwek-kwek, and betamax, making it a true ode to Filipinos’ love for the sport.
“The main feeling I want people to feel upon looking at the shirts is the sense of belongingness, empowerment, relatability—for them to see themselves in the designs,” Jappy told Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. “I want people to see the shirts and want to have them because they can say, ‘This is me. This is me playing basketball, going to get a snack, hanging with my friends, spray painting a wall, or flexing my new clothes.’ I want it to feel like we belong—this is us.”
This latest collaboration follows the successful partnership of Adidas with other Filipino artists such as Quiccs and Egg Fiasco. According to the apparel’s brand communications and sports marketing manager JD Cortez, having Filipino artists on board is a proven formula for the label in celebrating local artistry and putting Filipino street heritage at the forefront.
“As a brand that is built on creativity and collaboration, we at Adidas, continuously look for opportunities to work with talented local creators like Jappy,” JD says. “Because we also recognize the impact and importance of basketball in our culture, the City Shop ‘Manila Hoops’' collection is our way of paying homage to the sport loved by our nation, while also showing off the elements of our street culture that are all uniquely Filipino.”
Apart from highlighting Filipino creativity, having artworks on everyday items like clothing is seen by Jappy as a new form of art collecting. “Art is being accepted in all kinds of forms these days,” he muses. “Artwork is becoming valuable, not just for the elites, but for everyday people. It just makes sense to imbue sportswear with artwork because it raises the value of those items.”
Jappy also designed his version of NBA Star Donovan Mitchell’s signature basketball shoe. Called the D.O.N Issue #3 “Origin Story,” the brand’s iconic footwear now comes in a new colorway and features design elements hailed from superhero comics and Filipino street style.
“The concept of the design is about honoring the past and looking towards the future,” Jappy muses. “Taking inspiration from how D.O.N. was named after Donovan Mitchell’s ‘Determination Over Negativity’ mantra, the design pays homage not only to the history of wins and losses of Donovan, but also to the endless possibilities that the future has in store with continuous hard work and determination.”
Pieces of the “Manila Hoops” collection are priced at P1,550 and are now available in Adidas Brand Center Glorietta. While the D.O.N. Issue #3 “Origin Story,” which retails for P5,800, is set to hit the brand’s store in Glorietta and online on June 10.
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