It will be preceded by a production highlighting Filipino culture.
There are more reasons for fans to troop to the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan to witness Gilas Pilipinas take on Dominican Republic in the FIBA World Cup opener.
In a statement sent to media on Wednesday, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) bared Asia’s Popstar Royalty Sarah Geronimo will also take center stage during the curtain-raiser on August 25.
Also performing in the event are popular bands Ben&Ben, which is famous for hit songs Araw-Araw, Pagtingin, and Leaves, and The Dawn.
The performance will happen after the 4 p.m. game between Italy and Angola.
Such performances are hoped to draw more crowd as the SBP eyes a new FIBA attendance record in the 55,000-seater venue which hosted various concerts, including K-Pop sensation Blackpink.
The 1994 FIBA World Championship gold medal match between the USA and Russia in Toronto, Canada, currently holds that record with over 32,000 fans.
Is the SBP shooting for the stars here? Not exactly.
If the Game 7 between Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and guest team Bay Area Dragons in the PBA Commissioner's Cup last season is any indication, it is highly likely the Philippines rewrite record books.
(GM)