TNT basketball clinic sparks growth, gratitude, community spirit

IN barangay courts and local gyms where kids and young athletes usually play and dream big, RHJ on Tour brought the magic of professional basketball closer than ever. Over the course of nine weekends, TNT Tropang 5G’s grassroots initiative reached more than 500 children and youth across the Philippines—transforming everyday venues and community spaces into arenas of hope, hustle, and heart.

Leading the charge was former NBA player and three-time PBA Best Import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (RHJ) of TNT Tropang 5G, whose warmth and intensity turned every drill into a moment of connection, and every high five into a spark of confidence.

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RHJ on Tour made its mark in nine areas across the country—Quezon City, Batangas, Cavite, Manila, Vigan City, Cebu, Bacolod City, Iloilo City, and Baguio City. Young athletes arrived with hopeful eyes and boundless energy, eager to learn from the best. Whether under the heat of the sun or the glow of indoor lights, the atmosphere was electric.

At every stop, the tour became a celebration—not just of sport, but of community. Parents and guardians joined fitness sessions, fans lined up for autographs during PLDT and Smart store visits. In Lapu-Lapu City and Cebu City, RHJ on Tour also became a platform to strengthen ties with local government leaders, who embraced the program as a boost to their youth, sports, and community development efforts.

Young participants shared how the experience changed their perspective. “I am very happy that I got to showcase my basketball skills and win the Most Valuable Player award for this basketball clinic. Thank you to RHJ and TNT Tropang 5G for this opportunity to interact and learn from them,” said 14-year old Jeanena Duane Verkianz Berdon from Lapu-Lapu City.

Parents also recognized the value of the program, with many expressing gratitude for the positive impact on their children. Rose Dimaymay, whose child participated in the clinic, shared her enthusiasm. “This activity is a great way to keep our kids healthy while reducing their screen time. I’m grateful to TNT Tropang 5G for bringing this to Cebu and we hope to see more training sessions like this in the future.”

Joining RHJ in various stops were TNT Tropang 5G players, coaches, and PBA legends Jayson Castro, Rey Nambatac, Ranidel de Ocampo, Bong Ravena, and team manager Jojo Lastimosa, along with Coach Austin Huettl, Ralph Penuela, Andre Moore, Ruben Lanot, and Claudia Ledesma of the Puerto Rico National Team. Together, they offered hands-on training, mentorship, and life lessons that went beyond basketball.

“RHJ on Tour demonstrates how sports unite communities, local governments, and private sector partners to promote wellbeing and inspire our youth to pursue their dreams. Beyond teaching basketball skills, the tour emphasizes the importance of hard work, teamwork, resilience, and personal growth and empowerment,” said TNT Tropang 5G Governor and PLDT Chief Leadership Transition Officer Ricky Vargas. 

Smart Communications, Inc.-backed TNT Tropang 5G further cemented its commitment to basketball development in the country by donating basketball equipment to Dasmariñas East National High School, partnering with the University of Northern Philippines in Vigan City and Toyota Iloilo for the free use of basketball courts, as well as the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Region 6 for access to proper facilities for local youth.

“We’ve always believed that technology is most powerful when it uplifts lives and strengthens communities. RHJ on Tour is a reflection of that belief—where digital innovation meets grassroots impact. By supporting TNT Tropang 5G’s basketball clinics, we’re not just enabling access to world-class training; we’re helping build confidence, character, and connection among the youth. This is how we go beyond tech—by turning our network into a platform for growth, inclusion, and shared dreams. Basketball is just one of the many sports we champion at Smart, because we recognize the power of athletics to inspire, unite, and nurture the next generation,” said Anastacio “Boy” R. Martirez, Chief Operating Officer at Smart. 

Reflecting on the journey, Hollis-Jefferson shared, “This experience has been unforgettable. The energy, the love, the passion of the Filipino youth—I’ll carry these memories with me for the rest of my life.”

To celebrate and reflect on this inspiring journey, Smart and TNT proudly present Kwentong Tropa—a nine-part mini-documentary series that follows RHJ as he travels across the Philippines to host basketball clinics and discover the rich culture of Filipinos. Through this series, the story delves into the heart of Filipino resilience, highlighting the struggles and dreams of young athletes and their families. Follow TNT Tropang 5G‘s official social media accounts, Smart Sports, and Puso Pilipinas and watch the teaser.

From jump shots to shared moments, RHJ on Tour showed how basketball can bring people together and spark real change. It wasn’t just about playing—it was about building confidence, friendships, and community. “I hope to see more young athletes join future events, keep training, and keep dreaming. With heart, hustle, and support, every Filipino kid has a shot at greatness,” said Hollis-Jefferson.

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