Village Connect
The SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena earned the prestigious title of 2023 Sports Venue of the Year at the 6th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards. This recognition highlights the arena’s vital role in promoting sports tourism in the Philippines and its ability to host world-class sporting events that attract global attention.
A History of Hosting Iconic Events
Since its grand opening, the SM MOA Arena has become a hub for significant sporting events in the country. In 2013, it gained international acclaim by hosting the NBA Global Games, where fans saw the Indiana Pacers battle the Houston Rockets. The arena has also welcomed global icons like LeBron James and Stephen Curry, solidifying its reputation as a premier venue for basketball enthusiasts.
Expanding Its Sporting Horizon
The arena’s resume includes hosting the FIBA Asia Championships, the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, the International Premier Tennis League, and UFC Fight Night in 2015. Locally, it serves as the home ground for the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), and other prominent leagues. It has also embraced the growing popularity of e-sports, offering a platform for games like Dota 2 and Mobile Legends.
A Milestone Year
The year 2023 marked a pivotal moment for SM MOA Arena as it played a critical role in the FIBA Basketball World Cup, hosting both group and final matches. Earlier in the year, it welcomed the Volleyball Nations League (VNL), showcasing top-tier men’s volleyball teams. These achievements underscore the arena’s growing importance in the international sports scene, culminating in its Sports Venue of the Year award.
Investing in Excellence
The arena has consistently upgraded its facilities to enhance the fan and athlete experience. With a $4.5 million investment over the past four years, improvements include advanced LED mesh displays, enhanced basketball lighting, upgraded player entrances, better seating, and state-of-the-art sound systems. These upgrades align with the arena’s mission to maintain global standards.
Recognizing Hard Work and Innovation
Arnel Gonzales, Senior Assistant Vice President and General Manager of SM MOA Arena, expressed pride in the award, saying, “This honor motivates us to keep innovating and providing fans with unforgettable experiences. Our commitment to sports tourism drives us to remain the country’s leading sports venue.”
Future in the Spotlight
Looking ahead, SM MOA Arena is set to host the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers and the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in 2025. With an exciting lineup of international events, the arena continues to strengthen its reputation as a cornerstone of Philippine sports tourism.
A World-Class Venue
Beyond sports, SM MOA Arena remains a premier venue for entertainment and cultural events. For updates on upcoming shows and tournaments, visit www.mallofasia-arena.com or follow @moaarena on social media. Tickets can be purchased through www.smtickets.com or authorized outlets nationwide.
