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I would argue, however, that overall Americans are not as passionate about the sport.

Some, of course, are, but I doubt there's any country other than the Philippines where such a large and diverse segment of the population nurses a basketball jones, where basketball is part of almost every boy's upbringing, where young women all over the country have their debuts at covered courts, etc.

Would you say our obsession with basketball is unhealthy? Some have tried to tell us that we’d do better in other team sports where height isn’t too important. What do you think will it take for these other sports to be noticed too? Because honestly, that World Cup trophy looks delicious too.
Don't get too hungry for that Cup. Only seven countries in history have ever won it, none outside of Europe or South America.

Just because soccer is played on the ground doesn't mean that the Philippines can start playing it and become a world power.
I think the answer to this question depends on what makes an obsession with any sport healthy for people. If national pride and championship trophies are the answer, than basketball is probably not very healthy for Filipinos.

But I've never believed that was what sports were about. It's about the feeling you get playing the game or cheering for a team, like nothing else matters and you wouldn't want to be anywhere else in the world in that moment.

That's how I've always felt when I play hoops, and I think that's how a majority of Filipinos feel too, when they're playing pickup games on covered courts or buko hoops in the provinces, or when they're screeching "Gi-ne-bra" at the top of their lungs. If basketball lets you feel joy, then it's healthy.

Let’s get a little personal. How would you describe your relationship with basketball?
I've played since I was 8 years old. I was baptised in a gym because my local church burned down. Even though I never played at that high of a level, I've always approached the game as a player.

When I watch the NBA, I'm drawn to teams that have the kinds of players I like, guys who are often talented but a little underachieving and misunderstood.

I wasn't a huge fan of the Lakers this year, but I was really happy to see Ron Artest play well in Game Seven and take center stage for a couple days. I just have a soft spot for players who are a little off-kilter.

And finally, the most important question in the history of Western Civilization: Is Lebron going to NY?
I think it's possible. I think he's going to leave Cleveland. But if we don't get him, I'd still settle for Chris Tiu.