This Is Why He Plays: Kristaps Porzingis

Continuing to develop throughout the season, the NBA’ “Player Stories” series in conjunction of the league’s “This Is Why We Play” global campaign shares the personal and emotionally filled journeys of remarkable players in the league. As they reach new heights in their careers, the ads highlight experiences that drive the players and demonstrate the ways in which basketball is a microcosm of life.

The newest installment in this series is Kristaps Porzingis: Dream.  In this spot, Porzingis tells the story of his journey that started in a small village in Latvia and lent to his unprecedented work ethic and dedication to the game. This inevitably fulfilled his childhood dream of becoming an NBA star . There is great power in having dreams to strive for, and if you are willing to take on the challenges that come with your dreams, you can be a BEAST!

Previous spots of this touching campaign include “29,” featuring Cleveland Cavaliers and NBA Champion Kyrie Irving, “The Show” starring Damian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers and “Isaiah Thomas: Possible,” showcasing Isaiah Thomas of the Boston Celtics.

In anticipation of the weekend’s primetime matchup, viewers can tune in the very next day to watch the New York Knicks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers onSat. (2/4) at 8:30 pm ET on ABC.