Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra, of Filipino descent, expressed pride in young tennis star Alex Eala's recent success at the Miami Open. Eala, 19, who entered the tournament ranked 140th and was little-known before her impressive upsets, first met Spoelstra two years ago when she attended a Heat game. Acknowledging Eala's determination and the excitement surrounding her achievements, Spoelstra emphasized the significance of her journey for the Philippines and the inspiration she provides.
"I mean, the country is exploding over her story. I think it's one of the most inspiring things ever that a world-ranked tennis player comes out of a small place in the Philippines."
"I had the fortune of meeting her here two years ago. She came to one of our games, nobody knew who she was. She was just a fan, and it was her first time in the Miami Open."
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