PH a ‘David’ in Fiba World Hosting bid

FILE PHOTO

The Philippines will be facing a Goliath in China for the hosting bid of the 2019 Fiba World Cup.

But the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas won’t back down from the challenge.

“Do you know the story of David and Goliath? Call the Philippines David,’’ said SBP executive director Sonny Barrios on Tuesday at the Philippine Sportswriters Association at Shakey’s Malate.

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Barrios said SBP president Manny V. Pangilinan has led the pitch of the country to bring the world championship on local turf.

“No less than Mr. (Manuel) Pangilinan and two foreign consultants are overseeing it.”

SBP knows that it’s going to be hard to outshine China, but Barrios is confident that the country is ready with their presentation.

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“We are prepared to put our best foot forward. I cannot reveal the details (of our proposal) but I’m sure they (Chinese) will come up with something that will surprise us,’’ said Barrios.

The final presentation will be on Aug. 7 where the Fiba Central Board is set to announce its choice between China and the Philippines.

Barrios, however, said everything will depend on how the powerful Fiba Central Board will view both presentations.

“At the end of the day, all that matters is the vote of the central board,” said Barrios. “But I’m confident that we will have a commendable bid presentation.”

Two of the several venues to be tapped for the Philippine hosting are the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan, and Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Also included as possible venues are Smart Araneta Coliseum and two stadiums that have yet to be constructed by the SM group in Cebu and Solaire in Pasay City. Randolph Leongson, INQUIRER.net/CFC