Gilas Pilipinas to face Macau Black Bears in FIBA Asia Cup sendoff

From the SBP

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas has set up an official send-off for Gilas Pilipinas onto their FIBA Asia Cup aspirations.

Taking place on July 28, The Gilas Men will face off against the Macau Black Bears at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum for a friendly.

Tip-off is estimated to be at 730pm.

SBP President Al Panlilio says about the upcoming friendly, "Playing tuneup games before Gilas dives into the FIBA Asia Cup will only help the team out."

He adds, "While the team gets good competition, it’s also an opportunity for our Gilas fans to band together and send their team off before they fly out to Saudi Arabia. It’s a short preparation window as many of our players saw action in the semifinals of the Philippine Cup, which was another reason why the SBP wanted Gilas to have a tuneup game here."

Macau has had previous experience in helping nations with their preparations, having faced off against China last year. 

Founded in 2017 as Chong Son Kung Fu, they made their continental debut in the ASEAN Basketball League, and was one of two new teams in the East Asia Super League this past season. In addition, they are part of roster of sides involved in The Asian Tournament. Their combination of natives, diaspora, and reinforcements under the leadership of Garrett Kelly will provide a good test.

As noted by head coach Tim Cone, "They beat the Chinese national team. They are really strong. They’ve got good imports. It could be a very interesting friendly for us."

The Philippines is hoping to improve its ninth-place finish from the last edition of the FIBA Asia Cup, and will be battling against New Zealand, Chinese-Taipei, and Iraq in first round action at Jeddah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Gilas is expected to be in full strength, save for Kai Sotto, who is still recovering from an ACL injury.

Tickets are now available via https://www.ticketnet.com.ph/