Packed crowd at Ninoy Aquino Stadium for a PBA Commissioner’s Cup double header. –PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines — The PBA gave fans a treat on Wednesday, handing out free tickets to Ninoy Aquino Stadium for Commissioner’s Cup motion.
The result: a packed arena filled with cheers, jeers, and energy from start to complete.
Rain or Shine’s Jhonard Clarito was actually a fan of the atmosphere.
WATCH: One in every of the most important PBA crowds at Ninoy Aquino Stadium after the league offered free tickets on the eve of its 51st anniversary. | @jonasterradoINQ pic.twitter.com/rEf37tGYrx
— INQUIRER Sports (@inquirersports) April 8, 2026
“I feel that was our greatest game against San Miguel and it happened in front of an enormous crowd,” he told the Inquirer in Filipino after the Elasto Painters’ 116-112 win over San Miguel Beer.
“At the least, we gave t rejoice. I would like to shout them out and hopefully, they keep watching our games, we’ll keep giving them a show.”
Clarito played with none lack of motivation, dropping 16 points and eight rebounds within the win.
Rain or Shine Elasto Painters’ Jaylen Johnson during a game against San Miguel Beermen within the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup. –PBA IMAGES
Rain or Shine import Jaylen Johnson also felt the gang’s electricity in Rain or Shine’s fifth straight win within the import-laden conference.
“That crowd was lit,” a beaming Johnson said after registering 24 points within the win. “It was an amazing atmosphere to be in. I’m grateful to be here. I wish it’s like that each game. It will not be like that all the time but hopefully so much comes out and support.”
While the Beermen lost to the Elasto Painters and dropped to a 3-3 card, Marcio Lassiter also felt the love within the league’s 51st anniversary.
In turn, Lassiter gave the fans a blistering 27-point outing highlighted by seven threes.
“It was rocking. It was good to feel the roar back. It’s all the time great to see the fans come out and support and it was a special night,” he said.
“For me, I wanted to provide back to the gang, I do know all of us do, I all the time attempt to be sure that to try this,” Lassiter added.