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BANGKOK (Thailand) – By the time you read this, the Thai national team will already be in Bahrain. They embarked on this journey in search of their first win in the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, after suffering a loss to Korea in the first window. Getting a win in Bahrain would greatly improve your chances of qualifying for the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup, which could be an inspiration to the young generation of Thai ballers.
However, just by traveling from Bangkok to Bahrain, the team is already blazing a unique path by being the first sports team in Thailand to compete overseas since the COVID-19 pandemic. The Basketball Sports Association of Thailand (BSAT) had its initial concerns, but has also proceeded carefully through the entire process to make sure the team is safe and sound.
“I am happy that our basketball team can compete in what is the most important competition in Asia and use this opportunity as a model for other sports to follow”, -Nipondh Chavalitmontien (President of BSAT
“For Thailand to have to travel abroad for the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers in Bahrain format, even with the strict protocols, we had our concerns at the beginning,” said Nipondh Chavalitmontien, President of BSAT. “We were the first team sport in Thailand to apply for permission to go ahead and compete abroad from the government and the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT).”
“Ultimately, the government gave us permission to move on, which led us to be the model for other sports that might be considering participating in international competitions.”
This will not be the first time that basketball has paved the way for sports in light of the current COVID-19 situation. At the beginning of the year, basketball was also one of the first sports to resume action in organized competitions.
“From the beginning of the COVID-19 situation, basketball was one of the first sports in Thailand to start playing. There were no fans in the stands according to the strict regulations and protocols set by the government and SAT, but it was done successfully for the benefit of basketball in Thailand. “
Now that the first hurdle of traveling to the competition site has been cleared, Thailand’s attention is focused on its performance on the court.
| Thailand’s roster for Window 2 of the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers | |||
| Wattana Suttisin | Nakorn Jaisanuk | Bandit Lakhan | Anasawee Klaewnarong |
| Chatpol Chungyampin | Anucha Langsui | Sukhdave Ghogar | Montien Wongsawangtham |
| Chanatip jakrawan | Nattakarn muangboon | ||
“Our players are ready to a certain level,” said Chavalitmontien.
Thailand is scheduled to play rivals Indonesia on November 28 and the Philippines on November 30.
“Indonesia is very strong, especially with the new additions to its team,” assessed Chavalitmontien. “The Philippines is always strong too, no matter who they put in the lineup.”
Winning in this window is Thailand’s primary goal, but there is also much more to achieve in the bigger picture.
“I am happy that our basketball team can compete in what is the most important competition in Asia and use this opportunity as a model for other sports to follow, whether it is studying or receiving suggestions and advice, to compete in internationals. competitions abroad, ”said Chavalitmontien.
“Finally, it has been a pleasure to fight this COVID-19 situation with the FIBA family and we hope everyone is healthy and happy.”
FIBA
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