SBP holds send-off for Gilas Pilipinas bound for World Cup

A send-off celebration was held for Gilas Pilipinas last Wednesday as they will soon embark on their campaign in the FIBA Basketball World Cup.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas officials led by chairman emeritus Manny V. Pangilinan and president Al Panlilio joined the entire team for lunch at the Meralco Multi-Purpose Hall.

Pangilinan wished the team the best after Gilas Pilipinas made it to the World Cup for the second straight time.

“We are starting another journey with a new coach. We wish the team all the best. The president will watch the first game against Italy. We received word that if we win against Italy, he stays for your game in Serbia. All the best for the team on behalf of the SBP,” said Pangilinan.

In his message to the team, Panlilio urged Gilas Pilipinas to play their very best as they compete against the best in the world in the team’s second straight World Cup appearance.

“As MVP said, the World Cup is in 10 days. We are playing our second straight World Cup and we are assured of a third because we are hosting the 2023 World Cup. We want the team to play hard, compete, and show the world the kind of basketball that Filipinos play,” said Panlilio.

Panlilio also assured Gilas Pilipinas fans that the team will be playing their hearts out as they battle against Italy, Serbia, and Angola in the group stage of the competition.

“We know it’s a tough road for the team. We know the competition is at the very high level but we assure the fans that with the whole nation support and through our battle cry, ‘Para sa Bayan, Puso’, come August 31st, we will fight for the flag and country and make the whole nation proud,” said Panlilio.