SBP official: PH to pick weakest Fiba Asia bracket

National team head coach Chot Reyes.

An official of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas said the country will make full use of a key privilege given to hosts of the Fiba Asia Championship: Choosing its own bracket.

SBP deputy executive director Bernie Atienza yesterday said that Gilas-Pilipinas would be bracketed in a group that draws the weaker teams so the national squad will have a better chance of making the quarterfinals.

The Fiba Asia Championship is scheduled Aug. 1 to 11 with the draw for the groupings of the teams tentatively set on June 6 at Manila Hotel.

“The draw is always crucial on how teams will fare in the tournament,” said Atienza.