MANILA, Philippines — FOR Kyle Kuzma, the 6-foot-9 forward of the Washington Wizards, being able to help another person not only to elevate his game but also to improve himself is a true sign of a great player.

Fulfilling this mission is the underlying objective of the National Basketball Association (NBA) star's "KuzManila" tour which kicked off on Monday.

Several activities were lined-up for the 29-year-old Kuzma during his visit here which of course included a promotional event sponsored by a local coffee shop chain, a press conference and back-to-back media interviews.

But the time he spent at Navitas Learning Haus in Poblacion, Makati on Monday was one of the highlights of his short but memorable stay in the country.

Navitas is a creative space tucked in the middle of a bustling business center that promote immersive learning. It was founded during the pandemic by Elo Coronel-Quiambao, a former preschool teacher, with the goal of "reframing learning beyond traditional boundaries."

Today, it is home for designers, artists, project visionaries, hobbyists, and interest-based clubs.

Coronel-Quiambao personally gave Kuzma, a self-confessed art enthusiast and a known fashion icon, a tour of the renovated 50-year-old house, particularly its renowned spaces such as the common room used for creative meetings and workshops, the kitchen used for small cooking classes, the story room used for storytelling sessions, and the "quriocity" located at the 2nd floor which is used for lectures, and exhibits, among others.

Kuzma was also briefed about the various programs offered by Navitas that includes Math is Not the Villain, Auntie's Artnest and Teacher Jack.

At Navitas, the basketball icon found time to share personal stories, and teach the value of play, community, gratitude, creativity and non-linear thinking which for him are some of the vital foundations of a person's life.

Kuzma also sang praises about the importance of having a place, such as Navitas, where one can learn in earnest.

Naturally, his visit to Manila will not be complete without playing basketball with young athletes and displaying his signature moves on the hardcourt.

At the Belarmino Sports Complex in Project 4, Quezon City, Kuzma led a basketball clinic for 80 future basketball stars. The basketball clinic, co-sponsored by Stradcom Corporation CEO Anthony Quiambao, was graced by Quezon City Vice Mayor Gian Sotto, Quezon City Sports Action Officer Benjamin Afuang, and Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President Councilor Sami Neri.

Pure joy was painted on the face of Kuzma as he assisted and supervised the young athletes as they went through various offensive and defensive.

The activity ended with Kuzma signing some of the starstruck participants' sports items.