Pinoys named Fiba MVF – WC most valuable fan

MANILA, Philippines - Gilas Pilipinas failed to make the knockout stage of the 2014 FIBA World Cup but the Filipinos made the world feel their tremendous passion for the game, earning them the Basketball World Cup Most Valuable Fan (MVF) country category announced during halftime of the US-Serbia finale.

As a tribute to the Philippines, a video of Gilas Pilipinas and its fans in their most passionate moment in the World Cup was shown during the final’s halftime break.

According to Fiba.com, the concept of MVF was directly inspired by the Most Valuable Player award, the ultimate honor given to the best player in a basketball competition.

Through MVF, FIBA used the full spectrum of digital and social media tools to maximize the awareness of its flagship event prior to tip-off.

This ultimate and innovative digital experience provided basketball fans from around the world with a platform on which they could express their passion for their national team and where they made history while competing against other fans.

The campaign was a part of FIBA’s commitment to developing state-of-the-art entertainment campaigns where fans are at the heart of all activities.

Meanwhile, 23-year-old Barcelona native Ismael Terron Panadero won the individual category of the MVF campaign.

His reward was the opportunity of a lifetime, watching the finale from the best seat in the house, courtside at the center line.

“It’s an amazing experience. This is the most memorable moment of my life. I’m really thankful to FIBA and the Basketball World Cup for this opportunity,” said Panadero in a Fiba.com news.

“At the beginning (of the FIBA Basketball World Cup), I supported the Spanish national team, but after they lost I started to support the USA.

“I’m a big fan of Pau Gasol. For me, he’s a legendary player. From among others my guy is Derrick Rose (of the USA). I love how he overcame the injuries to come here and gave us (fans) joy.”