A team of NBA legends were introduced to the press and their fans on Tuesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, setting the stage for the PLDT All-Star Basketball Challenge against the Philippine Basketball Association's own line-up of legends.

"To see legends from the NBA play against our local legends is a dream come true for the Mall of Asia Arena and the entire Philippines," said Allan Florendo, the head of marketing and sponsorships for the SM MOA Arena.

"It feels great," said Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen. "We're excited and looking forward to putting on a great show. We're looking forward to display our game... again," he added with a laugh.

A star-studded lineup featuring luminaries Horace Grant, Mitch Richmond, Jason Williams, Dennis Rodman and Scottie Pippen were introduced to the press at the event, matched by an equally legendary head coach, Oscar Robertson.

The NBA players are slated to play against a squad of former PBA players, namely Noli Locsin, Jerry Codinera, Vincent Hizon, Jojo Lastimosa, Bong Hawkins, Marlou Aquino, Bal David, Nelson Asaytono, EJ Feihl and Kenneth Duremdes.

The atmosphere was very cordial and friendly, as the players put more emphasis on delivering a memorable matchup for basketball fans. "Actually we just practiced two days ago and had one scrimmage," said Codinera. "We're pretty much on our own when it comes to conditioning."

On the other hand, the NBA players have been touring other Southeast Asian countries. "We've been together for a month, hit the track, ran in the hills," joked Richmond, "But we're gonna need a lot of ice tomorrow."

After their game on July 18, the NBA legends will depart for Taiwan for the next leg of their tour. - AMD, GMA News