MAKATI CITY — Makati became the center of Filipino basketball excitement as the first-ever NBA House Philippines presented by Gatorade concluded its two-day run on August 30, 2026, at SPACE at One Ayala. The free fan event transformed a 2,700-square-meter venue into an immersive celebration of basketball, entertainment, and community. Naismith Basketball Hall of Famers Jason Kidd and Tony Parker, alongside WNBA legend Lauren Jackson, drew thousands of fans who braved the rainy weather for a chance to experience the NBA atmosphere up close.
Legends Take the Court
One of the weekend’s biggest attractions was the Prime Video Celebrity Showcase, featuring Kidd and Parker as coaches of opposing teams made up of Filipino celebrities and personalities. Team Tony Parker claimed the win, defeating Team Jason Kidd, 97-76, after four competitive quarters. The exhibition featured personalities from SB19, Kapuso Entertainment, Pinoy Big Brother, and other local circles, adding a distinctly Filipino touch to the NBA-inspired celebration. Fans also had opportunities to experience basketball beyond the exhibition game through interactive challenges, NBA 2K27 gaming areas, and a special display of the Larry O’Brien Trophy. The Sacramento Kings Dancers further energized the venue with their performances throughout the event.
Basketball Meets Music and Youth Development
The NBA House experience extended beyond the court, featuring performances from P-pop acts KAIA and SB19 and OPM band Lola Amour. The weekend also highlighted youth development through a Jr. NBA and Jr. WNBA basketball clinic, where Parker and Jackson worked with aspiring young players and shared lessons on the fundamentals of the sport.
Parker encouraged the young participants to continue pursuing their basketball dreams, expressing optimism that a future Filipino star could emerge from the country. The successful debut of NBA House Philippines not only gave fans a closer connection to the sport but also highlighted Makati’s ability to host major international sporting and entertainment experiences.
