ArenaPlus Powers Gilas Pilipinas’ New Quest to 2027

Gilas Pilipinas is entering a new era of determination and national pride as ArenaPlus officially renewed its sponsorship with the men’s national basketball team, signaling a strengthened partnership ahead of the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup. The renewed commitment was celebrated during a private send-off event in Pasig on November 24—an intimate gathering that underscored the shared mission of elevating Philippine basketball on the global stage.

The send-off brought together key figures who have shaped the national basketball landscape. Mr. Rafael Jasper Vicencio, official representative of Total Gamezone Xtreme Inc., expressed ArenaPlus’ steadfast belief in the team’s potential, emphasizing the company’s long-standing dedication to pushing Filipino athletes toward excellence. Joining him was Ms. Erika Dy, Executive Director of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), who extended heartfelt gratitude to ArenaPlus for consistently supporting the Gilas Pilipinas program and helping strengthen the country’s basketball development system. PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial and Gilas Program Director Alfrancis Chua also graced the event, with Chua rallying Filipinos to show their full support: “On December 1st, at Ateneo, all Filipinos, please support Gilas, our nation’s basketball team.”

Gilas Pilipinas Head Coach Tim Cone shared an inspiring message about the mindset of the team heading into the qualifiers. He emphasized how the players are tapping into both past struggles and hard-earned growth to prepare for a tougher, more disciplined journey ahead. “These players have been through failures and they’ve learned from those failures,” he said. “We understand we’re not taking anything for granted, so we expect a stronger team coming up.”

The national squad is set to fly to Guam on November 25 for their first battle in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers. Gilas is part of Group A alongside Australia, New Zealand, and Guam—three formidable teams standing between the Philippines and its hoped-for 8th World Cup appearance in Qatar. Their first match will take place at the Calvo Fieldhouse in Guam on November 28, followed by a highly anticipated home game at the Blue Eagle Gym in Quezon City on December 1.

With ArenaPlus backing their every step, Gilas Pilipinas begins its long road to 2027 fueled by unity, resilience, and the unwavering support of the Filipino nation.