The Filipino blood is strong in this.
Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra and tennis sensation Alex Eala reunited in South Beach ahead of their return to action at the Miami Open.
Ella visited Spoelstra at the Kasia Center on Monday, three years after they first met. Ella first saw the NBA in person when the Miami Heat defeated the New York Knicks in 2023. It was extra special because Spoelstra recorded his 700th career win during that game.
Since then, it seems as if there has been an osmosis of talent, as 20-year-old Ella has steadily risen through the ranks, including a decisive win over world No. 2 Iga Swiatek in the quarterfinals of last year’s Miami Open.
The Heat posted the reunion between Spoelstra and Ella, now ranked No. 29 in the world, on Instagram.
The caption read, “Just two powerhouses taking the Philippines to the highest level. Good luck at the Miami Open, @alex.eala.”
Fans were thrilled to see the legendary coach and the tennis star bond over their shared lineage.
@britannycarandang said, “When two of our favorite Filipino sports figures meet, it’s so heartwarming 🌸❤️.”
“And they meet again. Coach Spo owes you, Alex. 🔥 He said if you come back next year, he’ll watch you play,” @albertclydeandia said.
“Pinoy Pride!” Added @miacorsiga.
“Wow! Flying so high, Alex!” Posted by @kitty_jandi.
“Elite link-up,” @danielscales1 commented.
“This is my brand! 🔥,” @jge_____ wrote.
Apart from Swiatek, Ella also defeated Madison Keys and Jelena Ostapenko at the Miami Open last year, marking her breakthrough on the WTA Tour.
She also made history by becoming the first Filipino to win a main draw match at a Grand Slam by defeating Clara Toson at the US Open in 2025.
Spoelstra, meanwhile, has led the Heat to three championships. They are 7-3 in their last 10 games and will face the Charlotte Hornets on Tuesday.
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