FIBA Asian Qualifiers a dry run for Philippines' 2023 World Cup hosting

MANILA, Philippines – When the second leg of the first round of the Asian Qualifiers for the 2019 FIBA World Cup gets underway in early 2018, the Philippines will host Japan at the Mall of Asia Arena on February 25.

Gilas Pilipinas earlier turned back Japan, 77-71, behind Jayson Castro William’s 20 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists in the opening match of the home and away series at the Komazawa Olympic Park in Tokyo last November 24. Three days later, the Filipinos returned home and successfully defended the home turf with a 90-83 triumph over Chinese Taipei at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The two wins gave the Philippines a 2-0 record along with Australia, which paces Group B due to points difference and points scored.

Australia garnered 186 points for while surrendering only 124 points for a plus-62 points differential.

In contrast, the Philippines tallied 167 points and gave up 154 for a plus-13 points differential.

Both Japan and Chinese Taipei remain winless with the latter bringing up the rear due to point differential.

Then later in the year, for the third leg, the Philippines will host Australia on 2 July, this time at the Philippine Arena.

“By playing in the three venues — the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Mall of Asia Arena and the Philippine Arena, this will serve as a dry run of our hosting of the 2023 FIBA World Cup,” said Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Executive Director Renauld N. Barrios. “The three venues were presented as part of the country’s 2023 bid and we get to showcase not only our facilities but our capabilities to the world.”

Gilas Pilipinas is set to begin preparations for the matches versus Australia and the Japan match in Manila.