“FIBA Asia Board has carefully assessed the planning and organization of its upcoming Asia events in consultation with the FIBA Asia Board as well as key stakeholders and partners,” said in the letter. 

“This evaluation has taken into consideration multiple aspects such as current travel restrictions, the well-being of the participants, fan access and experience, and the objective of ensuring the highest quality of events,” it added.

While Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Al S. Panlilio, who also serves as the Second Vice President of the FIBA Asia Central Board, averred that the decision was also for the ‘safety of everyone.’

Nevertheless, the work still continues for Gilas and planning to go all out for the squad’s King Abdullah Cup stint.

“Gilas Pilipinas Men flew to Jordan yesterday to play a series of games that were supposed to be in preparation for the FIBA Asia Cup but we definitely understand the decision from FIBA,” said Panlilio.

 “Our young squad will still greatly benefit from the games they will play against Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan and they will surely put that experience to good use come July of 2022.”

Gilas will be bannered by San-En guard Thirdy Ravena, the returning team captain Rey Suerte, Matt Nieto, and Dave Ildefonso. And also players from the third window FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers have also been included—RJ Abarrientos, Justine Baltazar, SJ Belangel, Geo Chiu, Isaac Go, Jordan Heading, Ange Kouame, William Navarro, Mike Nieto, Dwight Ramos, and Carl Tamayo.