PUMA, the renowned global sports brand, has introduced the Melo x MNL Tee, an exclusive shirt tailored specifically for the Philippines. This unique garment showcases iconic Filipino vehicles alongside the 2021 NBA Rookie of the Year, LaMelo Ball.
In a tribute to the distinct basketball culture flourishing in the Philippines, the Filipinos’ deep-seated affection for the sport, and Ball’s remarkable playmaking prowess and flamboyant fashion sense, the shirt prominently features PUMA’s global ambassador and NBA All-Star Game participant. Within the design, Ball is depicted navigating the cityscape while riding two iconic Filipino vehicles: the jeepney and tricycle. Beyond their role as mere modes of transportation, these vehicles hold a special place as symbols of the nation’s rich cultural heritage and the bustling energy of its streets. The presence of palm trees in the background serves as a nod to the Philippines’ tropical climate and its breathtaking beaches, rounding out the design with a touch of natural beauty.
The Melo x MNL Tee seamlessly weaves PUMA’s iconic elements with subtle nods to the core attributes of PUMA Hoops, resulting in a visually captivating design.
Basketball courts are ubiquitous in every nook and cranny of the Philippines, serving as a living testament to the nation’s deep-seated adoration for the sport. This exclusive shirt encapsulates that fervor and transforms it into a striking garment that proudly represents the urban culture of Manila in a distinctive and fashionable manner. The shirt’s creator, Joshua Pichardo, explained, “The chosen fonts, bold and purposeful, mirror the determination of basketball enthusiasts and the spirit of adventure. For PUMA and PUMA Hoops, this collection is more than just clothing; it’s a narrative of passion, sport, and the interconnected tapestry of global cultures.”
The Melo x MNL Tee is offered in three color options: black, gray, and white, with a retail price of PHP 2,500. It is currently in stock at chosen retail locations, including PUMA stores at 2F Glorietta 3, L2 Main Wing Shangri-La Plaza, GF Eastwood Mall, and L1 Ayala Center Cebu. Additionally, you can find the shirt at PUMA outlets in SM North EDSA and Foot Locker branches in Glorietta, Manila Bay, and Gateway. For added convenience, the shirt is available for online purchase through PUMA’s official website at PUMA.com.