FIBA WC 'test games' pit collegiate squads

The Smart Araneta Coliseum, along with the SM Mall of Asia Arena, will host collegiate teams in a test event ahead of the FIBA World Cup. Dennis Acosta (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

TAGUIG—To further test how prepared the organization is in terms of hosting the FIBA World Cup, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas will hold "test games" inside the event's two Metro Manila arenas later this month.

According to deputy event director Erika Dy, some meticulous details like following the scheduled tip-off time, broadcasting, and transportation protocols will be practiced during the said test event.

"We have a test event on June 27-28, where we will hold games following the FIBA times," Dy said during the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum on Tuesday at the PSC Conference Hall inside the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila.

Games at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City will start at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. respectively, while games at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay will have 4:45 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. tip-offs.

Dy added that some teams from the NCAA and the UAAP have confirmed to participate in the test event and that the games are open to a live audience with a national television broadcast.

In effect, the matches would be part of the squads' preseason buildup for their respective mother leagues.

Dy also said that the test run has already been planned beforehand.

"Nakalatag na lahat ng plano. It's just all-around execution when it comes to August," Dy further said.

According to her, the SBP is now 80 percent prepared for the FIBA World Cup, which will run from Aug. 25-Sept. 10.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno