Streetball has been gaining popularity in Indonesia in recent years, with more and more young people taking up the sport and competing in tournaments across the country. However, despite the growing interest in streetball, many fans are still curious as to why Indonesia cannot replicate the success of basketball in the Philippines.
One person who has some insights into this question is the chairman of The Jakmania, the largest and most passionate supporters’ group of Persija Jakarta, one of the most successful football clubs in Indonesia. According to him, the key difference between the two sports lies in the infrastructure and support system that basketball has in the Philippines.
In the Philippines, basketball is not just a sport, it is a way of life. The country has a strong basketball culture with a well-developed grassroots system that allows young players to hone their skills from a very young age. The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is also a professional league that attracts top talent from around the world, providing local players with the opportunity to compete at a high level and gain international exposure.
On the other hand, Indonesia’s football infrastructure is still in its infancy compared to the Philippines. While football is the most popular sport in the country, there is a lack of investment in grassroots development and a shortage of quality training facilities. This has hindered the growth of the sport and made it difficult for Indonesian footballers to compete on the global stage.
The chairman of The Jakmania believes that in order for Indonesia to replicate the success of basketball in the Philippines, there needs to be a concerted effort to invest in grassroots development and provide young players with the support and resources they need to succeed. He also emphasizes the importance of creating a strong fan base and building a sense of community around the sport, as seen in the passionate support for basketball in the Philippines.
While it may take time for Indonesia to catch up to the Philippines in terms of basketball success, there is no doubt that the passion and enthusiasm for streetball in the country are growing. With the right support and investment, there is no reason why Indonesia cannot become a powerhouse in the sport and compete on the global stage.
