More than just chasing the gold in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, Filipino-American Coach Eric Spoelstra has his sights set on a mouthwatering goal for his homecoming in Manila: indulging in the delicious flavors of lumpia, a beloved Filipino dish.
The head coach of the Miami Heat and assistant coach for Team USA, Spoelstra, who proudly boasts Filipino heritage through his mother, revealed his excitement about reconnecting with relatives in San Pablo, Laguna, in an article featured on the official FIBA website.
“I have great pride in being an American, and I have great pride in my heritage, being Filipino as well,” said Spoelstra of his dual identity. “It’s a very surreal experience,” added the US team assistant coach.
A reconnection to his Filipino 🇵🇠roots.
Are you excited to see Erik Spoelstra during #FIBAWC 2023? đź’¬
— FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 🏆 (@FIBAWC) August 22, 2023
And foremost on Spoelstra’s agenda during his Manila visit is relishing his uncle’s lumpia and treating his fellow US national basketball team members to the iconic Filipino delicacy.
“I’ll try to steer some of the group and the players to try some Filipino cuisine. My uncle Tony makes a great Lumpia, so maybe I’ll have the guys try that,” said Spoelstra.
Lumpia, a staple in Filipino cuisine, is a type of spring roll enveloped in a thin, paper-like wrapper. It can be filled with savory or sweet ingredients and is enjoyed both deep-fried and fresh, making it a versatile treat often served as an appetizer or snack.
Beyond the culinary adventures, Coach Spoelstra is also enthusiastic about showcasing the vibrant passion the Philippines holds for basketball.
“I’m just really excited that the entire program will be able to see the enthusiasm, the spirit, and fan base for the game in Manila,” said Spoelstra.
As the 2023 FIBA World Cup commences across the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia, with the Philippine Arena in Bulacan hosting its opening matches, Spoelstra’s US team is set to play at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
