Former Philippine Basketball Association superstars Ronnie Magsanoc, Benjie Paras, and Jerry Codiñera were in Brgy. Taloc, Bago City yesterday to lead the unveiling of the “Court of Inspiration” constructed by local folk in partnership with a corporate sponsor.

The three PBA legends also played a three-on-three game with the selected players in the area in the newly-constructed half court facility.

Magsanoc, now assistant coach to the Meralco Bolts in the PBA and head coach of the San Beda Red Lions in the NCAA, said he accepted the invitation to be part of the “Court of Inspiration” project of Alaxan FR as he sees it as an opportunity to motivate young players to achieve their dream.

“Believe in your dreams, trust and have faith in God, and cooperate with worthwhile endeavors in your community,” Magsanoc told the people at Purok Langka in Brgy. Taloc.

Recalling his humble beginnings before he was given the chance to play in professional basketball, Magsanoc said the challenge to every athlete is to overcome the pain and never to stop improving their craft.

Paras, the only PBA player to receive the Rookie of the Year award and the Most Valuable Player honor in a single season in 1989, said every basketball player started learning the game in the streets or makeshift courts with the ultimate goal of playing in the hardcourt someday.

Sacrifice, discipline, and constant practice will eventually lead those who are determined to pursue a career in basketball, he said. Paras also reminded the crowd that the court in Purok Langka was built through their cooperation and they should stay that way as a community.

Codiñera, known in the PBA as the “Defense Minister”, has been recently named as Sports Consultant of the University of the East after serving as head coach of the Red Warriors in last year's UAAP season.

He said the “Court of Inspiration” project of Alaxan FR will help motivate young players to become successful athletes someday.

Codiñera stressed that there is no shortcut to success and those who wishes to follow in their footsteps should be willing to make a lot of sacrifices and are willing to absorb physical pain as injuries are part of playing basketball.

Meanwhile, Sheila Roño, of Alaxan FR said the basketball court in Brgy. Taloc is the 4 th out of the 10 “Court of Inspiration” their company is building all over the country.

Through the project, she said they hope to inspire local folk to push themselves to greatness.*NAB

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