FIBA Asia Cup Trophy Tour Set To Inspire Fans Across The Philippines From June 16 – 18, 2025
(Press Release)
Women’s Basketball fever is set to soar as the FIBA Asia Cup Trophy Tour makes its highly anticipated stop in the Philippines from June 16 to 18, 2025 — bringing fans closer to the continent's most prestigious basketball prize and celebrating the growing legacy of women’s basketball in the country. The trophy will be personally hand-carried by FIBA Asia’s Head of Communications, Magesh Saba.
The Philippine leg of the tour kicks off on June 16 with an exclusive press conference hosted by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) at Buffalo’s Wings ‘N Things, located in the MAAX Building, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City. The event, which began at 10:00 AM, was an invite-only gathering where members of the media, the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s team, and select guests were in attendance. It will set the tone for a trophy tour that highlights not just basketball excellence, but also local pride and community roots.
Malolos Homecoming: June 17
On June 17, the trophy heads to the vibrant city of Malolos, Bulacan, the hometown of Gilas Pilipinas standout Jack Animam. A celebratory motorcade will weave through the streets of Malolos, passing through the City Hall and culminating at the historic Barasoain Church — a fitting tribute to both heritage and athletic pride. Fans can expect a festive atmosphere as the community comes together to honor their local basketball heroine and the honor of hosting the FIBA trophy.
Campus Recognition Tour: June 18
The tour continues on June 18 with a showcase across key university campuses that have played a vital role in shaping the future of women’s basketball in the Philippines.
• The first stop will be at De La Salle University (DLSU) along Taft Avenue, where the trophy will be displayed in front of the iconic St. La Salle Building. DLSU is the alma mater of Gilas sharpshooter Khate Castillo, a key contributor to the national team.
• From there, the trophy heads to Jocson Street, home of the NU Lady Bulldogs, a powerhouse program that has won eight championships in the past decade. NU has been a cornerstone of Gilas Women's basketball, producing talents like Afril Bernardino, Jack Animam, Angel Surada, Stef Berbarabe, Cielo Pagdulagan and Monique del Carmen.
• The tour then moves to España, with a stop at the Arch of the Centuries in UST, where Gilas skipper Kent Pastrana continues to hone her competitive spirit.
• Next is Blue Eagle Gym at Ateneo de Manila University, the home court of rising star Kacey Dela Rosa, one of the brightest young prospects in the Gilas lineup. SEA Games multi-medalist Katrina Guytingco also bleeds blue and white.
• The final leg of the tour brings the trophy to UP Diliman, where it will be displayed beside the iconic Oblation statue — a nod to Camille Nolasco and Louna Ozar, key Gilas players who proudly represents the maroon and green.
The three-day event is a celebration of the country's deep basketball culture and the powerful rise of women’s basketball, highlighting the contributions of homegrown stars who are making waves on the international stage. As the countdown to the FIBA Asia Cup continues, this tour aims to ignite excitement, encourage grassroots support, and honor the athletes who are inspiring a new generation.
Fans are encouraged to follow SBP’s official channels for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and opportunities to join in the festivities as the FIBA Asia Cup Trophy makes its journey through the heart of Philippine basketball.
The SBP and the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s Basketball Team is supported by Smart Sports, San Miguel Beer, adidas, and the MVP Sports Foundation. Buffalo’s Wings ‘N Things is an official partner of the SBP for the three-day event.
The SBP and the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s Basketball Team is supported by Smart Sports, San Miguel Beer, adidas, and the MVP Sports Foundation. Buffalo’s Wings ‘N Things is an official partner of the SBP for the three-day event.