At the bustling intersection of 25th Street and 7th Avenue in BGC, The Courtyard sprawls across an impressive 2,182 square meters, poised to become the hub of basketball enthusiasts.
With three courts, two of them meeting FIBA standards, and a half-court for practice-shooting, the vibrant space is set to resonate with the rhythmic beats of dribbling and swooshing basketballs.
However, The Courtyard isn’t just your average sports ground; it goes above and beyond in its environmental consciousness. Demonstrating their dedication to sustainability, the surfaces of the two full-size courts are constructed with NIKE GRIND rubber, meticulously recycled from the outsoles of approximately 30,000 pairs of shoes.
This bold move underscores Nike’s mission to protect the planet, ensuring that the future of sports remains firmly rooted in eco-friendly practices.
Taking sustainability a step further, The Courtyard also joins Nike’s prestigious international circuit of courts that serve as re-energized spaces for communities to come together and revel in the spirit of sport. This distinctive approach not only celebrates basketball but also encourages responsible actions to safeguard the environment.
The architectural and artistic elements of The Courtyard reflect its deep connection to the local culture and basketball community. Hoop-inspired artist Kiefsix lends his artistic flair, infusing the space with vivid colors and bold patterns that reflect the unique aesthetics of Manila’s baller community. The result is an authentic, youthful, and invigorating atmosphere where players can revel in the camaraderie of their shared passion.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, The Courtyard is equipped with all the amenities necessary for a memorable basketball experience.
A well-equipped locker facility, male and female restrooms, and shower rooms ensure players can prepare and refresh comfortably. The ingenious design extends to the rooftop of the locker room, which doubles as an observation deck for friends to watch the action from above, while also providing 70 square meters of versatile space for events and workshops.
“The hope is that every baller who steps onto the court will feel a sense of identity, and they will feel proud to be a Filipino baller,” says Kiefsix, emphasizing the court’s significance in fostering a strong sense of belonging and pride in the local basketball community.
Coach Xavy Nunag, renowned as the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Commissioner and mentor to budding ballers, adds his insights, “Having this court in the heart of Metro Manila is huge. It’s different when you play alone in your Barangay. Playing here gives you the primetime feeling, like you’re a part of Filipino basketball culture.”
But The Courtyard’s significance transcends its magnificent structure and artistic touch; it aspires to be an inclusive space that welcomes players of all levels. Embracing diversity, The Courtyard aims to attract more women and girls to the sport, hosting weekly pickup runs, female-only games, and regular basketball camps. These camps, led by Nike athletes and coaches, are poised to deepen the love for basketball among Filipinos and further galvanize the community.
The journey towards sustainability, inclusivity, and community-building doesn’t stop there. Nike has taken a step ahead by enabling aspiring ballers to sign up for free using the Nike app, ensuring that financial constraints don’t deter them from pursuing their passion on this state-of-the-art court.
The Courtyard stands tall, not just as a physical space for basketball, but as a symbol of Nike’s commitment to fostering a love for sports while preserving the planet for generations to come.
It is a testament to the resilience of the Filipino spirit, encapsulating the nation’s profound love for basketball and its unwavering dedication to a greener, more inclusive future.
