Basketball will always have special place in the heart of millions of Filipinos.
December 21 marks World Basketball Day, a tribute to a sport that transcends borders, cultures, and languages.
Basketball continues to serve as a unifying force, fostering connections, breaking down barriers, and contributing to a sense of community and peace.
Organizations like the NBA and FIBA, along with influential figures have commemorated the day with messages highlighting basketball's ability to unite people from all walks of life.
In the Philippines, basketball is more than just a sport, it’s a way of life—and this day holds a special meaning.
Here’s how basketball continues to bring Filipinos together:
1. Family bonding through basketball
Whether it's a father naming his child after an NBA legend or families watching games together, basketball has a way of strengthening the bond among family members.
[ALSO READ: No pressure for NU’s Steve Nash Enriquez in carrying an NBA legend’s name]
The shared love for teams like Barangay Ginebra or familial ties with the DLSU Green Archers, basketball bridges generational gaps.
DLSU fans and alumni came out to support the Green Archers in Game 3 of the UAAP Season 87 Finals. | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports
2. Unity during international competitions
Case in point: Gilas Pilipinas.
Whenever the national team plays, Filipinos--no matter who they support in the UAAP or PBA--unite as one to cheer on Gilas. This, in turn, has pushed the players to give their best for the country.
This was especially felt when the men's national basketball team defeated New Zealand for the first time in a FIBA competition--and right at home too.
3. Accessible for all
Basketball in the Philippines is as inclusive as it gets. Whether it’s on a paved court, a dirt lot, or a flooded street, all you need is a ball (or something close to it) and a hoop.
The sport has also allowed many hoopers a chance at a better life, not just for themselves, but for their families as well.
[ALSO READ: PBA All-Star: No stopping these fans from seeing their basketball idols in Bacolod]
For some persons with disabilities (PWDs) and senior citizens, basketball events such as the FIBA Basketball World Cup has helped them participate in the sports they loved most.
[ALSO READ: Win for all: Senior citizens fulfill dream of serving country during FIBA World Cup]
4. Breaking language barriers
From street courts to professional leagues, basketball’s universal language fosters camaraderie among people who may not even speak the same dialect.
Imports continue to speak highly about playing in the Philippines—and at this point, we’re no longer surprised.
[ALSO READ: Dwight Howard gets busy with many Philippine side quests]
Just ask former Terrafirma Dyip import Lester Prosper of his love for adobo. Or how former San Miguel reinforcement Chris McCullough discovered how delicious one particular brand of fried chicken was. Or how resident Barangay Ginebra import Justin Brownlee embraced his "Noypi" moniker.
[ALSO READ: Justin Brownlee answers all things PBA, recalls first time in Philippines in Reddit AMA]
5. Sportsmanship and life lessons
Basketball teaches values like teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. These lessons often translate off the court, helping hoopers build meaningful relationships and navigate life with a winning attitude.
[ALSO READ: UAAP: Camille Clarin underscores NU’s struggles after losing eight-peat bid—‘Nobody knows’]
Just look back at this emotional moment between former high school teammates JD Cagulangan (UP Fighting Maroons) and Joshua David (DLSU Green Archers), who found themselves on opposite sides of the court in the UAAP Season 87 men's basketball finals.
How has basketball brought you closer to others?