The Philippines is reaching out to a whole new level with their bid to host the 2013 FIBA Asia Championship. One reason, that this bid might just get through, could be the recently built Mall of Asia Arena (MOA Arena) consisting of state-of-the-art facilities suitable for world class competitions such as FIBA Asia.
The new arena boasts a 360-degree LED scoreboard, VIP boxes, and restaurants. Barrios said that Hagop is scheduled to visit the country to conduct an inspection of the arena. – source
MOA Arena is also going to be used as the main avenue for the upcoming UAAP Basketball Season, while some games may still end up at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
What could end up a bit awkward about this is, that as far as I know, Globe used to be a loyal sponsor to the UAAP, and having games played at the “Smart” Araneta Coliseum would be a bit odd on their part.
One thing for sure though is, that we can expect the Mall of Asia Arena set and ready for this years UAAP for all of us to see how well it matches the description and praise being given to it beforehand.
MOA Arena is also said to be used for the Junior and Female games in the morning of the Basketball Men games that’ll take place on the afternoon of the same day.
Philippines bidding for FIBA Asia 2013 with two other nations.
Other countries who are also expressing interest to host FIBA Asia in 2013 include both Qatar and Lebanon.