It’s nearly impossible to imagine the Philippines without basketball. From the densest neighborhoods in the city, to remote islands at the fringes, you’ll find a hoop, a backboard, and a space that’s never too small to play in.
Roughly 40 million Filipinos (nearly 40% of the population) actively follow the sport. Virtually all barangays across the country host their own local games and leagues, too.
Despite its enormous fanbase, there are those who criticize the sport’s popularity because of the physical disadvantages Filipino players have when stacked against larger European opponents. It’s why the belief that heart over height has become a pillar of Pinoy basketball culture.
So, should we just throw in the towel and call it a day if we can’t dominate international tournaments? Nope, says artist-designer duo Charles Salazar and Finney Santos. More than the measure of rankings and medals, they believe basketball still deserves its significant place in our culture.
“Just because hindi tayo nananalo… [hindi na importante?] Eh, integral part siya ng culture natin,” Santos says.
