“We want them to see that it’s not only about the game. It’s about the chemistry, the love for the game. Basically, I tell everybody, in the Philippines, basketball is like a religion. Everybody plays it, and everybody loves it. And to represent that, it’s a very good thing.” ~Fubara Whyte from JSKILLS
With a 10-minute game clock, a 12-second shot clock, the famous "Own the Court" bonus, and Three-Point Shots from designated spots on the floor, Red Bull Half Court's fast-paced 3on-3 format kept fans on the edge of their seats. The "Own the Court" bonus delivers six points to the team with the highest cumulative score, while the Three-Point Shots rule gives three points for shots taken from specified scoring zones.
High Stakes and High Intensity at the National Finals
“We just came in a lot more focused, this being our last chance to win. We all were ready to give our 110% to win, even more so than our qualifier games because everything was on the line.” ~Elizabeth Means of Pilipinas Aguilas
“This matchup was super tough because we lost to them before. We really just focused on switching hard and locking them down on defense.” ~added teammate Camille Malagar
Uratex Tibay (Women’s Team), Lady Maroons (Women’s Team), SGF Kings (Men’s Team), and Filipino Mixtape (Men’s Team) of Manila; Gimcuad-Ninz (Women’s Team) and Team BOKKI (Men’s Team) of Cebu, and three-time winner Coaches Corner and two-time winner Davao Agilas of Davao electrified the courts with intense battles.
Courtside Energy Before Tip-Off
Before the National Finals tipped off, the venue already felt like a celebration of Philippine streetball culture through a series of pre-game activities that set the tone for the day.
The Last Man Standing audience activation opened the action as guests showcased their shooting skills in front of a lively crowd. Meanwhile, players from the men's and women's teams battled it out in the Two-Point Shootout, while Air David, Joe Gomez De Liano, and Shawn Jackson thrilled spectators during the Dunk Contest, bringing high-flying energy and excitement to the National Finals.
The Hoop Trike, the latest addition to HoopJeepney's lineup of mobile basketball experiences, took the game off the court with a specially designed tricycle fitted with a hoop. It emphasized streetball's grassroots spirit and accessibility by converting public spaces into playable courts.
Together, these activities produced an immersive streetball experience that celebrated skill, friendship, and a shared passion for basketball throughout the National Finals.
Philippine Basketball Headed to the Global Stage
The Red Bull Half Court 2026 Philippines National Finals showed the passion that continues to propel the country's basketball culture outside of the game. From teammates encouraging one another to courtside spectators making every possession a historic occasion, the competition exemplified the friendship, pride, and energy that define the Philippines as the Capital of Streetball.
Pilipinas Aguilas is headed to the World Finals motivated, especially since the game is happening on their home turf.
“There is pressure because we want to show up for the Philippines and represent the Philippines well. But also, it’s motivating because all our family and friends are gonna be here to support us, and we’ll have all the extra support and encouragement.” ~Trina Guytingco
JSKILLS is fueled with the same drive as they prepare for the World Championship.
“We are much more motivated now, knowing that the entire country is rooting for us at the World Finals. We will prepare, and we’ll give our best to make sure we are representing the Philippines as best as we can.” ~TH Tumalip
With JSKILLS and Pilipinas Aguilas earning their spots
at the Red Bull Half Court 2026 World Finals in Manila this December, the
Philippines now prepares to bring its unique brand of streetball energy onto
the global stage.
About Red Bull
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