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The Philippines launched a pitch to FIBA to host the February window of the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers in Clark, senior Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) officials confirmed Thursday afternoon.
Like the PBA bubble, which has been successful so far, Gilas Pilipinas Men and between five and seven other teams will be isolated within the Clark Freeport area of Pampanga.
SBP president Al Panlilio cited the continued success of the PBA bubble, whose model can be used in similar basketball competitions in the future.
“It is something we can be proud of. It is a model that we can now really offer to FIBA so that the next bubble is what they expect in February. The Philippines is one of the areas that we are offering.” Panlilio, who is also the governor of the Meralco Bolts team, said at a news conference.
Aside from the amenities, crews could land directly within the perimeter of the bubble at Clark International Airport and stay at a nearby hotel. Medical City Clark is also close by, which has treated the various injuries of PBA players. If a player tests positive, they can be sent to the New Clark City isolation facility.
According to SBP Chairman Emeritus Manny V. Pangilinan, FIBA has been closely monitoring the PBA bubble, and has even been broadcasting select PBA matches several times a week.
“It is a tribute to what we have done here. We want to return as soon as possible as soon as possible, as close to a normal schedule as possible. As possible, to the extent that we can do it here and internationally.” We are not going to be incarcerated for this virus, “said Pangilinan.
“We will face it. I think we have the full support of FIBA, who have asked us to participate [in the November window]. So this is where we are. It is a great tribute to the players at the PBA level and to this new Gilas team, the young players who responded without hesitation to our call to service, “added the member of the FIBA Central Board.
