Having watched my fair share of intense sporting events, I’ll never forget the raw energy of that recent PBA Commissioner’s Cup game between NLEX and Meralco. When coach Jong Uichico and import Mike Watkins got into that shouting match mid-game, it wasn’t just drama—it was a powerful reminder of the sheer athleticism and emotional control demanded in high-stakes sports. That moment got me thinking: if people still question whether motocross qualifies as a sport, they need to look closer. Let’s break down five athletic elements that place motocross firmly in the realm of professional sports, drawing parallels from that intense basketball showdown.

First off, physical endurance in motocross is staggering. Riders maintain heart rates at around 180 bpm for up to 35 minutes per race, burning roughly 500-600 calories in a single moto. Compare that to a basketball player like Watkins, who might cover 2.5 miles in a 48-minute game. Both require incredible stamina, but motocross riders do it while battling G-forces and extreme temperatures. I’ve spoken with riders who describe the fatigue as a full-body assault—something that shouting match between Uichico and Watkins hinted at, where emotional and physical exhaustion can boil over. It’s not just about holding on; it’s about performing under duress, much like how Watkins had to refocus after that heated exchange to contribute to his team.

Next, consider the technical skill and coordination. Motocross involves split-second decisions—jumping 70-foot gaps, navigating whoops at 30 mph, and adjusting body position mid-air. That’s akin to a basketball player executing a pick-and-roll or sinking a three-pointer under pressure. In my view, the precision required to control a 250-pound bike over rough terrain is on par with any team sport maneuver. When Uichico and Watkins clashed, it was partly about execution under stress; similarly, motocross riders can’t afford mental lapses without risking serious injury. I’ve always admired how riders make it look effortless, but trust me, it’s a dance of finesse and brute force.

Mental toughness is another huge factor. In motocross, riders face constant danger—concussions, fractures, and worse—yet they push through fear. Studies show that top riders experience anxiety levels comparable to elite athletes in sports like basketball, where high-pressure moments define outcomes. That shouting match in the PBA game? It underscored how emotions can derail performance if not managed. From my experience attending races, I’ve seen riders wipe out and get back up, their focus unshaken. It’s a mindset thing; you need the resilience of a champion, whether you’re on a dirt bike or a court.

Strategic thinking also plays a key role. In motocross, riders analyze tracks, adjust lines, and conserve energy—much like a coach devising plays. Uichico’s mid-game argument with Watkins likely involved strategic disagreements, highlighting how sports are mental chess matches. I recall a chat with a pro rider who explained how he studies competitors’ patterns, similar to how basketball teams review footage. It’s not just about speed; it’s about outsmarting opponents, and that intellectual layer is what separates amateurs from pros.

Lastly, the element of teamwork, though less obvious in motocross, is vital. Riders rely on spotters, mechanics, and coaches—a support system that mirrors the dynamics in team sports. After that PBA incident, Uichico and Watkins reportedly resolved things, showing how collaboration fuels success. In motocross, I’ve seen how a well-tuned bike or a coach’s advice can make or break a race. It’s a solo sport on the surface, but behind the scenes, it’s a collective effort.

So, when people argue whether motocross is a sport, I point to these elements: endurance, skill, mental grit, strategy, and teamwork. That PBA game reminded us that sports are about pushing human limits, and motocross does just that. Whether you’re dodging tackles or landing jumps, it’s all part of the same athletic tapestry. Let’s give these riders the credit they deserve—they’re athletes through and through.