Team USA to play in the Philippines for the FIBA World Cup group stage; How and where to buy tickets

Gilas Pilipinas VS Team USA

Filipino fans, this is what you have all been dreaming of! The FIBA World Cup group stage is just a few months away, and along with that is some fantastic news. FIBA announced that the three co-hosts of the 2023 FIBA Basketball WC – Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines – have already chosen which international team will play in their own countries. FIBA confirmed earlier this week that the USA National team would showcase their talents in the pearl of the orient seas, the Philippines.

OTHER NEWS: Why Kai Sotto Went Undrafted in the 2022 NBA Draft

Everybody knows that the Philippines is one of the greatest basketball fans, not just in Asia, but in the whole world. For most Filipinos, basketball is everything. If you have visited this country, you would see a basketball court on almost every block. It just goes to show how much they love this sport. Because of the wonderful news that the American team will be setting foot on the soil of the Philippines, fans are already eager to see which NBA star will be featured in the team. On the other hand, the Luka Doncic-led Slovenian team will fly to Okinawa, Japan while RJ Barrett, Andrew Wiggins, and Australia will be playing in Jakarta, Indonesia.

OTHER NEWS: FIBA EuroBasket 2022: Top 10 European NBA stars to watch

Who will be playing for Team USA?

The United States Men’s national team hasn’t finalized its roster yet. But, according to reports, All-star guards Trae Young and Bradley Beal have shown interest to join the team. Another name that seems to be on the lookout is rising star, Tyrese Maxey.

Team USA will try to regain the crown as the best team in the world after a failed run in the 2019 FIBA World Cup. The former roster comprised Harrison Barnes, Jaylen Brown, Donovan Mitchell, Joe Harris, Brook Lopez, Khris Middleton, Mason Plumlee, Marcus Smart, Jayson Tatum, Myles Turner, Kember Walker, and Derrick White. Even though with a star-studded cast and two of the best coaches – Gregg Popovich and Stever Kerr – leading the way, Team USA failed heavily and only achieved 7th place. Surprisingly so, the USA is ranked 2nd in the world ranking, falling behind Spain.


Tickets, venue, and promos

FIBA World Cup games in the Philippines will be held in three venues: Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City (owned by the official FIBA global partner Smart Communications, Inc.), the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay, and the Philippine Arena in Bulacan. Because of that, Smart subscribers will have an advantage in watching the game either in-person or via live streaming on the Smart LiveStream App. Furthermore, there will be free tickets and some promos exclusive to Smart users so be sure to check their official Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook accounts.

OTHER NEWS: Kyrie Irving is officially a sneaker free-agent; Which shoe brand is he likely signing a new deal?

While there are no reported ticket prices yet, there are already rumors that the price could go up to almost Php 200,000 for Patron/Courtside seats.


Will Team USA play against Gilas Pilipinas?

Unfortunately, that would not happen. Team USA and Gilas Pilipinas will be in different groups thus they will not be meeting each other. The good news is that, since the Philippines is a hosting country for the group and final stage, they will be automatically placed in Pot 1 for the 32-team draw on April 29, 2023, which will be held in Manila.

Team USA to play in the Philippines
Photo Courtesy of NBC Sports

The sixth and final qualifying window for FIBA World Cup will conclude in February. The main event of the FIBA WC will run from August 25 to September 10, 2023.


Are you excited to see the best NBA superstars play in the Philippines? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below. For more content, stay with us, here at Spiel Times.

OTHER NEWS: NBA debate: Who’s the better player, Giannis Antetokounmpo or Anthony Davis?

Make sure you subscribe to our push notifications. Stay posted and never miss an update from video games, cinema, and sports. Follow us on Twitter @spieltimes for the latest PS5 restock and drop. Until next time, Stay Safe and Happy Gaming!

Source: The Athletic, CNN Philippines, Manila Bulletin, NBA.ph

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *