The Courtyard by Nike is much more than just another basketball court. It is built for the community; it’s a stop for female ballers on their journey to greatness.
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Few things bring Filipinos together better than the basketball court. This neighborhood energy hub can be found in nearly every corner of the Philippine landscape — schools, high-rise buildings, gated communities, barangays, street corners, sandlots and more. A basketball court in any area guarantees that basketball-crazy kids show up for some b-ball.
With the Philippines hosting the FIBA World Cup in August and September, the hype about hoops has never been more intense.
But as popular as basketball may be in the country, there’s no denying that it is still a male-dominated sport. The talent of female basketball players is real, as seen by the success of the new generation of Filipinas who play the sport. Female ballers have shown that they deserve support and the space that matches their grit, passion, and determination. But women’s basketball still has a long way to go when it comes to matching the success, attention, and fervor that male players receive. That is what Nike aims to do with the recent launch of The Courtyard.
FOR THE COMMUNITY
Located in the heart of BGC, Nike’s Courtyard is made up of two FIBA regulation-sized courts, a half-court, and other amenities that make it an exciting go-to spot for ballers in the Metro. Designed to be more than just a place to shoot hoops, The Courtyard is Nike’s latest endeavor to help create a better future for the world and to nurture the next generation of women athletes. For starters, the court is sustainable.
Jino Ferrer, Country Marketing Manager for Nike Philippines, shared that the two full-sized courts at The Courtyard are made with Nike Grind rubber from the outsoles of about 30,000 pairs of recycled shoes. “Nike Grind is our commitment to the sport, to the communities who will play here and to the planet. It is our pledge to the next generation of players and to lead with purpose.”
The space is also hyperlocal. When you step into The Courtyard, you’re greeted by a kaleidoscope of bright colors and murals designed by local artist and creative director KiefSix (Kiefer Indiongco) that pay homage to the colorful world of Philippine culture and heritage. Traditional patterns are woven together with basketball symbols to celebrate the everyday baller in Manila. “The hope is that every baller who steps onto the court will feel a sense of identity, and will feel proud to be a Filipino baller,” Kiefer said.
Athletes who have played in The Courtyard feel the joy of its local flavor and love the welcoming feeling it extends to individuals and communities alike. “I love the colors. The court really represents Manila and all the people who have a passion for basketball,” says decorated NU Lady Bulldogs guard Camille Clarin. CJ Cansino of the UP Fighting Maroons says he loves that he meets people in The Courtyard who share the deep love that he has for the sport. “Nakakameet ako [dito] ng ibang tao na gustong-gusto yung sport na mahal ko.”
More than just another basketball court, The Courtyard is a vibrant invitation to the local basketball community – women especially — to unleash their passion and follow their dreams.
GRIT AND GLORY
Young accomplished female athletes like Jack Animam and Marga Jimenez have already solidified their status as some of the best ballers in the game. Trailblazing Mau Belen is the first-ever female head coach in the history of the Philippine Basketball Association. She is mentor of 3X3 champion team TNT Triple Giga.
The Courtyard inspires more women to grow and thrive in this new safe space. The Courtyard has a dedicated Girls-Only time for female ballers to play, join programs, play weekly pickup games, and more. Nike has partnered with local non-profit group GirlsGotGame Philippines, so young girls can feel safe here as they develop their skills and grow their wings in the sport that they love.
The best part about The Courtyard is that all of it is free.
Camille Clarin loves this best about The Courtyard. “There are time slots that are[just for women] so it gives them a space to be comfortable in, [where they can] play with other girls. I think that’s super special,” gushed Camille. “My dream is that someday the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup will be played here.”
They say it takes a village to raise a child. It takes the same to nurture young female ballers to achieve greatness. The Courtyard inspires the local basketball community to give their very best in the sport. It also encourages support for young women to be seen, heard, and validated in a sport that they want to excel in.
The Courtyard is a new hub for people to celebrate their love for basketball.
Continue Reading: These Filipina Athletes Are Breaking Barriers For Women In Sports
