Philippines officially named Seaba host

Gilas coach Chot Reyes confirmed recently the Philippines’ hosting of the Southeast Asia Basketball Association (Seaba) Men’s Championship this year.

“We just received confirmation that Seaba has awarded the men’s senior and U16 hosting to Manila, April 23-30,” the former multi-titled PBA coach said, also baring the date of the event as well as the confirmation of the country’s hosting right to the youth basketball tourney.

The said development put into formality a verbal agreement between SBP president emeritus Manny Pangilinan and Seaba president Erick Thohir.

This will be the first time the Philippines will host Southeast Asia’s most prestigious basketball tournament since 2001, when a Filipino team made up of MBA stars romped its opponents by huge margins en route to the championship.

The Philippines has been known as a Southeast Asian hoop powerhouse, winning seven Seaba titles since its inception in 1994. PNA