The president of the Philippine basketball federation aspired ten days ago: that the 2023 World Cup be the scene of the record number of spectators for a basketball match, previously established at 32,616 spectators in 1994 in Toronto for a meeting between Dream Team II and Russia.
This Friday, for the entry into the competition of the Philippines, one of the three host countries, the wish of Al S. Panlilio has therefore indeed come true: the match between the Philippine formation of Jordan Clarkson and the Dominican Republic of Karl-Anthony Towns drew 38,115 spectators to the Philippin Arena in Manila! Among them are President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and FIBA boss Hamane Niang.
A historic record but… defeat at the end
A record, unfortunately for the locals, spoiled by the defeat at the end of the suspense of the Philippines (87-81) despite the efforts of Jordan Clarkson, who was comforted by savoring this enormous enthusiasm of the Filipino people for his national team. “I’m glad everyone came out to support us. I’m disappointed that we didn’t win…”declared the back of the Jazz after the meeting.
On the FIBA side, we were obviously delighted with this historic evening.
” We knew this World Cup was going to be special, and the first day of the competition gave us confirmation of that. », indeed said Richard Carrion, the director of the World Cup. ” Everyone inside the Philippin Arena will never forget the incredible level of passion for basketball and the Philippines national team that cascaded around the venue. This is just the start of what will be the most memorable event in FIBA history and we are all excited to see what lies ahead, both on and off the pitch. »
Photo credit: Jerome Ascano
