Walking into the Mabuhay City Covered Basketball Court for the first time, I felt that familiar rush of excitement—the polished maple flooring stretching out under bright LED lights, the clean lines of the painted key, and the sturdy, well-maintained hoops at each end. As someone who’s played in dozens of courts across the country, I can confidently say this facility stands out—not just for its physical features, but for the culture it fosters among players. It’s the kind of place where serious athletes and weekend warriors alike come to compete, connect, and sometimes clash—which brings me to a recent incident that’s been buzzing in local basketball circles.
You might have heard about TNT team manager Jojo Lastimosa’s recent comments calling out players Jericho Cruz and Chris Ross for their on-court antics. Lastimosa didn’t mince words—he suggested Cruz “has problems” and labeled Ross as “not a nice guy.” Now, as dramatic as that sounds, it highlights something crucial about the game: the environment you play in can either fuel those tensions or help channel them into positive energy. That’s where Mabuhay City’s court really shines. Let me break down why this venue has become my go-to spot for both casual runs and competitive matches.
First off, the playing surface is exceptional. The court uses FIBA-approved maple hardwood, which offers just the right amount of bounce and traction. I’ve played on everything from cracked concrete to overly slick synthetic floors, and the difference here is night and day. The floor’s shock absorption reduces impact on the joints—something I’ve come to appreciate after recovering from a knee injury last year. According to facility records I reviewed, the court underwent a $35,000 resurfacing project just eight months ago, and it shows. There’s no warping, no dead spots—just consistent, reliable performance whether you’re driving to the rim or planting for a jump shot.
Lighting is another standout feature. The ceiling is fitted with 48 high-efficiency LED panels, each emitting around 18,000 lumens. That might sound technical, but in plain terms, it means no shadows, no glare—just crisp, even illumination across the entire court. I remember playing in a semi-pro game years ago where poor lighting caused a turnover at a critical moment. Here, visibility is perfect, day or night, which minimizes errors and, frankly, reduces the kinds of frustrations that can lead to on-court arguments like the ones Lastimosa referenced.
Now, let’s talk about the intangibles—the atmosphere and amenities. The seating capacity is modest—around 500 bleacher-style seats—but that actually works in its favor. It creates an intimate setting where you can hear the squeak of sneakers and the chatter between players. There’s a sense of community here. I’ve seen guys like Cruz and Ross play in larger, more impersonal arenas where showboating and trash-talking sometimes overshadow the game. At Mabuhay, the design encourages accountability. With spectators so close, every move feels public, and that subtle pressure tends to keep players in check.
The covered design is a game-changer, especially in a tropical climate like ours. I’ve lost count of how many games I’ve had canceled or delayed because of rain. Here, the roof structure—made from durable polycarbonate panels—not only shields players from the elements but also enhances acoustics. You can hear plays develop, calls from teammates, even the subtle feedback from coaches on the sidelines. It’s details like these that elevate the experience from just playing ball to understanding the game on a deeper level.
Ventilation is another unsung hero. The court features a cross-ventilation system with 16 industrial-grade fans positioned along the upper walls. On a humid afternoon, that airflow makes all the difference between feeling sluggish and staying sharp. I’ve noticed that player fatigue—and the irritability that comes with it—drops significantly here compared to stuffier indoor courts. Maybe if every league game were held in conditions this optimized, we’d see fewer of the emotional outbursts that made headlines recently.
From a practical standpoint, the court’s scheduling system is a dream. They use an online booking platform that shows real-time availability, and I’ve secured prime-time slots with as little as 12 hours’ notice. The cost is reasonable too—around $40 per hour for full court access, which includes basic maintenance and a dedicated staff member on-site. I’ve rented courts that charge double for far less.
But what really sets Mabuhay apart, in my opinion, is its emphasis on respect and sportsmanship. The management has clear codes of conduct posted—not just rules about fouls, but expectations for behavior. I once saw a player get benched by the refs for excessive complaining, and you know what? It improved the flow of the game for everyone. In light of Lastimosa’s remarks, I can’t help but think that venues like this are part of the solution. When you provide a professional-grade environment, players are more likely to act like professionals.
Of course, no place is perfect. The parking can get tight on weekends, and I wish they had more hydration stations—right now there are only two water fountains near the entrance. But these are minor quibbles in the grand scheme.
So, if you’re looking for a court that balances top-tier facilities with a community-focused vibe, Mabuhay City Covered Basketball Court should be at the top of your list. It’s where the game feels pure, where the little distractions fade away, and where players—whether they’re pros like Cruz and Ross or amateurs like me—can focus on what really matters: the love of the game. And honestly, in today’s basketball culture, that’s something worth preserving.