One Sports photojournalist RM Chua earned international recognition as his work “Eyes of the World” was featured in the 2024 FIBA Photo Book, as the 2025 Photo Contest opens.
One Sports photojournalist RM Chua's photo “Eyes of the World” was recognized as one of the top 100 entries in the 2024 FIBA Photo Contest, published as part of the 2024 edition of the FIBA Photo Book.
The photo caption read: “Even when moments of joy are few, this ball and this game feel like the greatest treasure of the world.”
Chua recalled how the award-winning photograph almost didn’t happen.
On a photowalk with a friend from UST to Quiapo and Divisoria, they were about to call it a day as the light was fading. Then, in a narrow alley near UST, he spotted a group of kids playing basketball.
One player, who seemed to be the youngest, appeared full of energy despite not being able to reach the ring or sink a shot.
“It was getting dark, almost our last chance to find something. Then I saw this kid, the youngest among those playing in the alley. I asked permission if I could take his portrait while holding the ball with a smile. He looked so happy just to be playing, even if he couldn’t reach the ring or make a shot,” Chua shared.
The contest, which ran from October 21 to December 21, drew a record 1,504 photos from 806 photographers representing 126 countries. This makes the 2024 edition the most successful to date since the 2017 launch. The results were announced on February 2025.
Last year’s theme, “Emotions,” challenged photographers to capture the raw and genuine feelings that define the sport, whether it’s the thrill of picking up a ball for the first time, the rush of game day, the sting of defeat, the joy of victory, or even the quiet peace of an empty court.
Now in its ninth edition, the FIBA Photo Contest has become a global platform showcasing how basketball is more than just a game.
The 2025 edition of the FIBA Photo Contest, featuring the theme "Dream Team", is now open and will last until November 21, 2025.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.