MANILA, Philippines — The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas announced that Ateneo’s Blue Eagle Gym in Quezon City will host the Dec. 1 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers game between Gilas Pilipinas and Guam.
The move departs from the usual venues such as Smart Araneta Coliseum and Mall of Asia Arena and places the qualifying match in a more intimate collegiate setting. The Manila game follows the first leg of the home-and-home series scheduled in Guam on November 28, 2023, under the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.
Gilas Pilipinas will attempt to secure a key win after its recent FIBA Asia Cup campaign, with strong home support expected.
Blue Eagle Gym routinely stages university basketball and other sports events, and organizers are preparing security and logistics for spectators subject to health and safety rules.
The result of the match will factor into the standings for the Asian Qualifiers. Both teams are finalizing rosters and strategies, and media coverage is expected to focus on key performances and implications for the Philippines’ World Cup bid. Details on tickets and viewing arrangements will be released ahead of the game.