Fiba Asia execs send SBP kudos

FIBA Asia’s top two officials yesterday sent their congratulations to the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas for being named as a co-winner of the Philippine Sportswriters Association’s National Sports Association of the Year award.

The SBP will receive the special citation today in the media group’s gala event tonight.

Fiba Asia president Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al-Thani of Qatar and executive director Hagop Khajiran of Lebanon were the first two international basketball officials to send their kudos to the SBP.

“It is indeed heartening and exciting to note that a member National Federation has been recognized as an overachieving NSA,” Khajirian said. “More importantly, as a basketball fan, I am excited that a basketball organization has been accorded such a national honor.”

The SBP and the National Golf Association of the Philippines tied for the honor after the PSA put into account the achievements of both groups last year.

“Under your leadership at Fiba Asia and your show of trust and confidence in SBP under the presidency of Mr. (Manny V.) Pangilinan, we are inspired even more to do well as a basketball federation and as a member of good standing of Fiba Asia,” SBP executive director Sonny Barrios said in reply.

Sheikh Saud gave special mention to the Filipinos’ love for the game.

“The passion for basketball in the Philippines is common knowledge,” he said. “And this award comes as a recognition for the National Federation of its effort in consolidating and promoting the popularity of basketball.

The 2012 PSA Awards will be held tonight at the Manila Hotel.