NBA Rising Stars Invitational 2025 Ignites Singapore with Future Hoops Icons
- John Yeong
- Jul 3
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 9
NBA Rising Stars Ambassadors Ryan Dunn, Oso Ighodaro and Keisei Tominaga hope to make impact on the future of basketball talents across Asia
This is a feature article written by SportPlus.sg for Kallang Alive Sports Management. For more sports events, programmes and human stories of Singapore Sports Hub, visit the Singapore Sports Hub's 'Here to Play' website.
The NBA Rising Stars Invitational (RSI) 2025 tipped off in spectacular fashion at the iconic Singapore Sports Hub, bringing with it the energy of the league’s brightest young prospects and a vision to inspire the next generation of basketball athletes across Asia.
Leading the charge this year are three official NBA Rising Stars Ambassadors: Ryan Dunn and Oso Ighodaro from the Phoenix Suns, and Keisei Tominaga, the electric sharpshooter from Levanga Hokkaido in Japan’s B.League.
More than just emerging talents, these athletes are in Singapore with a mission — to grow the game, connect with young fans, and represent what’s next in global basketball.
Ambassadors of the Game: Giving Back and Growing the Sport
Ryan Dunn: Impacting the Next Generation
Fresh off his rookie season with the Phoenix Suns, Ryan Dunn has quickly developed a reputation for elite defense, maturity, and leadership beyond his years. Now, as an RSI ambassador, he's focused on paying it forward to rising players across Asia.
“It means a lot,” said Dunn. “I just want to impact the next generation behind me. Being able to come out here and pour knowledge toward these kids — same as when I was their age and wanted to be where all these great players are — I’m grateful to give that back, and to grow as a player and as a person.”
When asked what young Singaporean and Southeast Asian athletes can learn from his journey to the NBA, Dunn emphasized the importance of sacrifice.
“It takes a lot of sacrifice to get here,” he said. “A lot of hard work, especially at a young age. You need a good support system, and a good balance in life. It all pans out in the end, no matter where you’re from.”
This marks Dunn’s first time in Singapore — and the experience has already left a lasting impression.
“It’s been great,” he said. “The Sports Hub is beautiful. I love how kids of all ages can come out and play basketball, volleyball, tennis — whatever they want. It gives them a good outlet to be who they want to be.”
Oso Ighodaro: Growing Together On and Off the Court
Oso Ighodaro, who also joined the Suns alongside Dunn, shares a bond rooted in hard work and vision — both of which are on display in Singapore.
“It’s great,” said Ighodaro. “Me and Ryan came in together at the same time. We’re very like-minded in our work ethics and values, so to experience all this together has been special.”
As Southeast Asia’s appetite for basketball grows rapidly, Ighodaro believes playing in front of fans here brings a different kind of energy.
“I think it’s just the excitement,” he said. “People out here don’t get to see NBA basketball as often, so there’s that added level of appreciation. Just being out here and seeing the love for the game has been huge.”
Having spent the week training and engaging with fans around the Singapore Sports Hub, Ighodaro was visibly impressed by the venue.
“Just look around — you’ve got beach volleyball courts, the water, the view of the skyline. It’s beautiful,” he said. “A great spot and a great hub for athletic activities.”
Keisei Tominaga: Bringing Asian Firepower to the World Stage
Japan’s Keisei Tominaga has become a fan favorite across Asia, known for his elite shooting and confident swagger. After stints in the G League and now the B.League, he’s on a mission to close the gap between Asian and NBA-level basketball.
“There are a lot of differences between playing in America and Japan,” said Tominaga. “But Japanese basketball is growing so much. I’m excited to bring what I’ve learned back to Japan — and to share that with players there.”
Tominaga returns to Singapore after playing at the FIBA Intercontinental Cup last year — an experience he still treasures.
“It was amazing,” he recalled. “A lot of fans, a lot of support. I felt that love. I’m really happy to be back.”
“I’ll tell them to just have fun, compete, and try to get better,” he said. “You don’t get many opportunities like this.”
But for Tominaga, the bigger picture is what motivates him most.
“That’s one thing I think about when I play — the kids watching, the ones trying to be like me,” he said. “That’s the most special part.”
Singapore Sports Hub: A Home for Global Hoops
The Singapore Sports Hub continues to shine as a premier destination for world-class sporting events. From elite facilities to its scenic waterfront surroundings, it’s more than just a venue — it’s a cultural hub where local dreams meet global stars.
With ambassadors like Dunn, Ighodaro, and Tominaga leading the way, the NBA Rising Stars Invitational 2025 is more than an exhibition — it’s a statement. A celebration of global talent. A beacon for Southeast Asian youth.
And a powerful reminder that the next great basketball story can begin anywhere — even right here in Singapore. #mySgSportsHub #NBARisingStarsInvitational
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