SHOW
When legends and local stars unite for hoop glory
Blending sports, music, fashion and entertainment, the event proved just how deeply basketball is woven into the fabric of Filipino culture.
For one weekend in Makati, basketball was everywhere — but its reach extended far beyond the hardcourt. Transformed into a massive 2,700-square-meter hub, SPACE at One Ayala hosted the NBA House Philippines presented by Gatorade, welcoming over 8,000 fans for a free, two-day immersive celebration. Blending sports, music, fashion and entertainment, the event proved just how deeply the sport is woven into the fabric of Filipino culture.
The weekend featured interactive experiences, exclusive merchandise, and live exhibitions, all elevated by the presence of international basketball royalty. Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famers Jason Kidd and Tony Parker, WNBA legend Lauren Jackson and the Sacramento Kings Dancers brought serious star power to Manila, seamlessly complemented by the local flavor of Filipino athletes and entertainers.
Visiting the Philippines for the first time, Kidd was struck by the local fervor. “The energy’s been great,” he shared. “Talking about the Philippine passion for basketball, for me seeing it up close, it’s been an incredible experience. I can’t wait to come back.”
That vibrant energy spilled directly onto the court during the Prime Video Celebrity Showcase, where Kidd and Parker coached opposing teams of Filipino celebrities and influencers. Featuring familiar faces like LA Aguinaldo, RK Bagatsing, JM Ibarra, Fred Moser, Khalil Ramos, Mikee Reyes and members of P-pop powerhouse SB19, the exhibition concluded with Team Parker claiming the victory.
For Ramos, the opportunity was a dream realized. “I’ve seen the NBA Houses across the world, and it’s so nice to finally have it in the Philippines,” the actor noted. “To see and to be able to be coached by an NBA legend was not on my 2026 bingo card. It still feels surreal.”
The basketball spotlight continued to shine with the “Don’t Sleep” Nike All-Star Game, a high-octane exhibition of professional and collegiate talent. Standouts Thirdy Ravena, Harold Alarcon, Ricci Rivero, Jared Bahay and Reinhard Jumamoy hit the floor alongside Philippine women’s national team players Kacey Dela Rosa and Jhaz Joson. Team Kidd ultimately secured the win after Rivero delivered a decisive, game-clinching dunk.
When the sneakers stopped squeaking, the music took over. KAIA and SB19 headlined the opening day, with the latter delivering explosive performances of “Gento,” “LAWLESS” and “Dungka.” Day two kept the momentum alive with sets from Waiian, Nicole Anjela and Bad Indie Eye, before Lola Amour closed out the weekend with crowd-favorites “Fallen,” “Lambing” and “Raining in Manila.”
Beyond the spectacle, NBA House grounded its weekend in grassroots development, offering young players the chance to learn directly from the legends through Jr. NBA, Jr. WNBA and Her Time To Play clinics. With stars on the court, music on the stage and fans filling every corner, NBA House Philippines proved that local basketball culture is about much more than the final score — it is a shared, unforgettable experience.