Village Connect
Basketball continues to command a passionate following in the Philippines, and SM’s major arena venues are preparing to welcome another wave of sporting events, collegiate rivalries, celebrity games, and international competitions in the months ahead.
At the center of the action is the SM Mall of Asia Arena, which has established itself as one of the country’s leading venues for sports and live entertainment. Since opening in 2012, the arena has staged more than 2,400 shows. In 2025 alone, it welcomed more than 1.1 million attendees.
Beyond concerts by international artists such as Taylor Swift, BTS, BLACKPINK, Lady Gaga, Maroon 5, and Madonna, the venue has also hosted major global sporting competitions, including the FIBA Basketball World Cup and the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
Basketball, however, remains one of the strongest attractions for Filipino audiences.
On August 28 and 30, more than 34,000 spectators gathered at the Mall of Asia Arena to support Gilas Pilipinas during the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers. Fans dressed in blue and waved Philippine flags as the national team recorded victories over Iran and Jordan, once again demonstrating the country’s deep connection with the sport.
The arena also welcomed the Star Magic All-Star Games 2026 on August 23, bringing together Star Magic personalities and actors from Thailand’s GMMTV. Team Star Magic emerged victorious, but the event went beyond competition by highlighting sportsmanship and strengthening the connection between Filipino and Thai fans.
More basketball action is expected as the collegiate season returns with UAAP Season 89. University teams will once again compete for school pride and championship honors, giving fans another opportunity to watch established players and emerging talents.
International club basketball is also part of the upcoming calendar. Teams from Japan’s professional basketball league are expected to play in Manila, giving local audiences an opportunity to see high-level competition that includes Filipino players such as Dwight Ramos.
Meanwhile, Cebu is preparing for its own share of regional basketball action. The East Asia Super League is scheduled to arrive at SM Seaside Cebu Arena on October 3. The competition brings together leading professional clubs from markets including the Philippines, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau.
Celebrity basketball will also make its way to Cebu, with Gerald Anderson leading Team The Th3rd Floor against David Licauco and Team Sparkle in another entertainment-driven matchup.
With international competitions, collegiate basketball, national-team games, and celebrity events filling the calendar, SM’s arena venues continue to provide spaces where Filipino fans can experience the sport they love while strengthening the Philippines’ reputation as one of Asia’s most enthusiastic basketball nations.
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