FIBA World Cup 2023 co-hosts make their initial picks

Fans have a slight idea on which team is headed where in the 2023 iteration of the FIBA Basketball World Cup, with the co-hosts picking preferred teams to be in their respective domains.

The decision of Central Board illustrates that the United States will be in one of four groups playing in the Philippines, once they lock in their spot after the final window of qualifying. It is a move done based on commercial reasons, with neither impact on the tournament's integrity or the process for the draw.

The corresponding move by fellow co-hosts Japan and Indonesia will see Slovenia headed to Okinawa to be a part of one of two groups, with Canada off to Jakarta, also as part of one of two groups. Both countries have already locked in their spot in the competition.

Once the final window of qualifying has been completed in the end of February, the complete Draw Principles for the World Cup will be established. One aspect of the draw, which will take place in Manila on April 29, has already been confirmed, as the Philippines is already assured in a spot in Pot 1 alongside the top teams in the FIBA rankings. In the process, it ensures Gilas Pilipinas will not be in the same group as the defending Olympics 5x5 champions.

Once the groups have been determined, Day Passes and single-game tickets will be made available for purchase.