Gary Payton on the Game Beyond the Court

MANILA, Philippines — Gary Payton, known as The Glove, is regarded as one of the best defenders in the history of the National Basketball Association (NBA). His lockdown defense embodied his nickname: opponents caught in his grip “like a baseball in a glove.”  

Having been a defensive stalwart in the NBA and now a mentor to younger players, the basketball icon has witnessed firsthand how the pressures of competition can take a toll on the mind. 

Through its partnership with the NBA, AXA Philippines supports efforts to raise awareness on the importance of mental well-being alongside physical health. In line with this advocacy, NBA legend Gary Payton visited the country to help spark conversations on the importance of mental fitness.  

He opened up about staying resilient, balanced, and ready to face challenges beyond just the game. 

For Payton, mental resilience has always been a crucial skill. Looking back at his active playing days, he recalled how athletes were expected to push through without much support. At that time, mental struggles were often left unspoken. Payton explained that players had to respond to tough coaching with grit. He emphasized how challenges are opportunities to prove people wrong and to get better. “First, they got to get through taking stuff in a positive way, not a negative way. If I’m screaming at you, that means I’m caring about you. If I’m not screaming at you, you should be worried about it.” 

Now, as a coach and mentor, Payton recognized how important communication has become. “You want somebody to talk to you…You need somebody on your shoulder to cry on. You need to release it,” he shared, recalling moments when players would open up about personal struggles. For him, checking in on athletes’ body language or mindset can make all the difference. 

When asked how he wants to inspire conversations on mental health, Gary is clear about the NBA’s role but also acknowledges the importance of seeking professional help. He emphasized that professional athletes carry a unique responsibility because of the influence they hold over young people. As he explained, “If LeBron James has a problem and he comes out and say it… how many kids do you think will follow him?” 

For Payton, this is proof that athletes are not only competitors but also role models whose words and actions ripple far beyond the court. By using their platforms to speak openly, they can shift cultural attitudes and show that there is no issue with talking to others about mental health. He believes that when fans see their idols normalize seeking help, they are more likely to follow suit. “They will do it because these guys hold a lot of power over them,” Payton stressed. 

AXA and the NBA’s shared mission 

The partnership leverages inspiring stories from NBA legends like Payton to reach communities, normalize conversations about mental health, and encourages Filipinos to prioritize it, just as they do with their physical and financial protection. 

“Gary Payton proves that true strength lies in acknowledging challenges and seeking support, because caring for the mind is the foundation of lasting success. In the same way, AXA Philippines is a partner in this wellness journey, empowering Filipinos to prioritize their overall well-being so they can face each day with confidence, knowing they can focus on what matters in the present, while building a secure future,” says AXA Philippines’ chief executive officer, Ayman Kandil. 

For more information about AXA Philippines' commitment to mental health for all, visit https://www.axa.com.ph. 

ABOUT AXA PHILIPPINES  

Established in 1999, AXA Philippines is one of the largest insurance companies in the country. It offers financial security to over a million individuals through its group and individual life insurance as well as general insurance products.  

AXA Philippines is one of the first to introduce bancassurance operations in the country and is among the pioneers in the investment-linked insurance sector.  

AXA Philippines is a joint venture between the AXA Group, headquartered in France, GT Capital Holdings, Inc. (GT Capital), a leading listed conglomerate in the Philippines, and Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company (Metrobank), one of the Philippines’ largest financial institutions. It is duly recognized by the Insurance Commission and has license to operate and engage in life and general insurance business under License No. 2025/14-R.  

For more information on AXA Philippines and their products, visit their website at www.axa.com.ph. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION:  

Media Relations:                                             

Rochelle Rivera                          
rochelle.rivera@axa.com.ph   

Abbie Remo 
abbie.remo@axa.com.ph