This, as some of the country’s leading basketball stars played in an all-star game, where they received coaching from two legends.
On Sunday, August 30, the inaugural NBA House Philippines 2026 in Makati City proceeded with its second day.
It featured different activities and activations for basketball-loving Pinoys who came down to make their visit to the event set up at the SPACE at One Ayala.
Similar to the day prior’s celebrity showcase of streaming platform Prime Video, the highlight of the succeeding day was an all-star match between the teams of National Basketball Association (NBA) legends Jason Kidd and Lauren Jackson.
Receiving the opportunity of being coached by the icon, who helped Dallas Mavericks’ win their first NBA championship in 2011 and is also part of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team, were Ricci Rivero, Kacey Dela Rosa, Dave Ildefonso, Evan Nelle, Kent Pastrana, Jorick Bautista, and Jake Figueroa.
Meanwhile, Lauren Jackson, who was the 1st overall in the 2001 WNBA Draft by the Seattle Storm and won the WNBA championship in 2004 and 2010, had her team composed of Thirdy Ravena, Camille Clarin, Harold Alarcon, Jhaz Joson, Paul Lee, Kirby Mongcopa, and Reinhard Jumamoy.
While the game had a slightly-adjusted format, it was no less intense—even more for a celebrity match, as there was enough physicality and entertainment for audiences.
At the halftime, the players also did not take a rest, as they joined forces to help a member of the audience win a brand new pair of shoes, with Harold Alarcon scoring a halfcourt shot to win it for him.
As the match proceeded, a special challenge and rule of whichever team who gets to dunk will win the match was formally set in stone. It came a long time coming as players from both sides attempted to secure the win.
However, it was Ricci Rivero, the captain ball of the Jason Kidd-led squad, who was able to do that and win the game.
Meanwhile, during time-outs, Sacramento Kings Dancers led the giveaway of different merchandise items for the fans who were present at the courtside and the bleachers.
