NBL transforms game in Philippines

It was at a fundraiser in the Philippines where Larry Kestelman leapt at an opportunity to make a significant difference.

The NBL Owner and Executive Chairman threw his hand up for a unique auction item at the FIBA Foundation’s Fundraising Gala dinner - the chance to fund the refurbishment of a tired and rundown community basketball court, and support Basketball Australia and FIBA in the global giving of basketball. 

“I have always been a strong believer in basketball serving as a driver for positive social change,” Kestelman said.

The Gawad Kalinga Covered Court is located in Pasig City, home to about 2,000 families, and was specifically chosen after an extensive consultative period with FIBA and local council members. 

“The court is used by hundreds of kids each day but was clearly in desperate need of repair,” Kestelman explained.

“I felt that we, at the NBL, could help and we offered to pay for the repainting of the court flooring and walls, changing the backboards and rings, and put in some additional lighting so it can be used after dark too.

“I hope this small gesture can grow the game of basketball and provide more access for all those passionate about the sport. By helping to provide better facilities, we are encouraging these children to dream big and chase their dreams of playing basketball.”

The FIBA Foundation Basketball for Good court is an initiative by the FIBA (International Basketball Federation) Foundation to use basketball as a tool for social development, education, and community engagement. 

“The FIBA Foundation does an incredible job helping and empowering communities in need, and we at the NBL are so proud to be supporting their Basketball For Good initiatives, starting with the Kalinga Covered Court in the Philippines,” Kestelman added. 

Kestelman has a strong tie to the Philippine community, with his business Acquire BPO employing around 7,000 staff in the region.

Her Excellency HK Yu, Australia’s Ambassador to the Philippines, is excited to see the newly redeveloped court.  

“Both Australia and the Philippines share a love for the sport of basketball,” she said. 

“It is fantastic to see the NBL, in partnership with Basketball Australia and FIBA supporting the redevelopment of new basketball facilities in Manila, especially so close to Christmas.   

“I know that this court will bring together the community, and will be enjoyed by basketball-lovers across generations, including girls and women athletes, for many years.”

As part of its mission of promoting health and wellbeing, the FIBA Foundation has recently begun refurbishing courts in underprivileged or underserved areas, with the aim of creating safe spaces where children and youth can enjoy basketball. The Foundation works closely with local partners and communities to ensure that the courts also serve as hubs for social programs, focusing on topics like health, education, and gender equality.

Basketball for Good courts aim to:
- Provide access to sports facilities for communities in need.
- Promote life skills, teamwork, and positive values through basketball.
- Foster social inclusion, resilience, and positive behavioural change among young people.

Each court is often paired with local programs or FIBA's Basketball For Good initiatives that encourage not only basketball training but also other developmental activities, making these courts valuable community assets beyond sports alone.