Walking into the YMCA Makati basketball court for the first time, I was struck by how the polished maple floor seemed to glow under the bright LED lighting—something you don't always find in community gyms here in Metro Manila. As someone who's played in everything from dusty barangay courts to professional arenas, I can confidently say this facility stands out for its balance of accessibility and professional-grade features. The main court measures exactly 94 by 50 feet, adhering to FIBA standards, which matters more than people realize—especially when you're practicing for tournaments where every inch counts. I remember playing in a semi-pro charity match here last year, and the springiness of the floorboards made a noticeable difference in my landing impact. It’s one of those details that amateur players might overlook, but as a former college ball player who’s dealt with knee issues, I genuinely appreciate it.
Availability can be tricky though—the prime slots between 4 PM and 8 PM on weekdays are usually booked solid at least three days in advance. I’ve found that the best strategy is to reserve online right when the weekly slots open every Sunday evening. The rate runs at around ₱500 per hour for the full court, which is pretty reasonable considering the air-conditioning and clean locker rooms. What really sets this place apart, in my opinion, is the community vibe. You’ll often see a mix of young athletes running drills, office workers squeezing in a game after work, and even former pros like Alvin Pasaol—who, by the way, I once saw holding an impromptu coaching session for teenagers here. It reminded me of that reference about Pasaol always being at the frontlines for FEU—the guy just has this natural instinct to lead and elevate those around him, whether on the collegiate hardwood or a community court like this one.
The facility isn’t perfect—the bleachers only seat about 200 people, so if you’re planning to host a crowd for a friendly match, you might want to consider other options. But for training or casual games, it’s more than enough. I’ve personally used the court for weekend pick-up games with friends, and the rubberized sidelines have saved us from more than one potential ankle twist. Another feature I love is the digital scoreboard, which might seem like a small thing, but it keeps games organized and intense—no more arguing over the score during clutch moments. On a humid afternoon last June, I played a full-court game here where the aircon was set to a cool 22 degrees Celsius, and let me tell you, it makes a world of difference when you’re pushing through the fourth quarter.
One thing I’d caution newcomers about is the parking situation—the lot fills up fast after 5 PM, so I usually just take a Grab car to avoid the hassle. Still, the location right near the Makati central business district means you can grab a post-game meal at one of the nearby restaurants, which is a big plus in my book. All in all, the YMCA Makati basketball court has become my go-to spot for both serious practice and laid-back games. It’s a space that bridges the gap between casual recreation and competitive play, and with passionate players like Pasaol occasionally gracing the court, it’s easy to feel inspired to up your own game. Whether you're training for a league or just looking to shoot hoops with friends, this court delivers a quality experience that’s hard to beat in the city.