NBA legend and FIBA central board member Dirk Nowitzki took his time to go on a quick trip and enjoy the scenery in Tagaytay City ahead of the World Cup draw set on Saturday, April 29, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas chairman Sen. Sonny Angara takes a selfie with NBA legend Dirk Nowitzki (Photo from Sen. Angara's Instagram)

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Arriving in the country exactly two days ahead of the event which also marks the start to the country’s hosting of the world meet, Nowitzki had some time to tour around and was seen dining in a restaurant in Tagaytay. He also granted Filipino fans who wished to take pictures with him and was also shown signing some of his NBA collectibles from the fans.

Aside from Nowitzki, also already in the country were fellow legends Yao Ming and Luis Scola. Yao was also a part of the FIBA board member while Scola is the FIBA World Cup Global Ambassador.

The three basketball legends will join FIBA local ambassadors 2018 Miss Universe Catriona Gray and former Gilas Pilipinas member LA Tenorio in the draw which will determine the groupings of the 32 qualified teams in the World Cup. 

Also providing color to the event is the performances from multi-platinum award winning rapper Saweetie who also traces her roots in the Philippines. Pop star royalty Sarah Geronimo and singer-host Billy Crawford are also set to perform.

Local ambassadors from the country’s co-hosts Japan and Indonesia are also gracing the event with Japanese basketball great Takehiko Orimo and Indonesian actor Raffi Ahmad representing the two countries.