Philippine Basketball Team Withdraws From Asian Games 2018

Philippines national team basketball boys retreat from the 2018 Asian Games. The aftermath of the World Championship Qualification.

Staying 22 days ahead of the 2018 Asian Games, the Philippines basketball federation made a surprising decision. They declared withdraw from the Asian Games on Friday (27/07/2018).

The resignation was taken after ten Filipino players, who were members of Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) were punished by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA). Sanctions are also given to two coaches. Among the players are punished there are players pillar national team, Terrence Romeo, Troy Rosario, Jayson Castro and Roger Pogoy.

The punishment was awarded by FIBA to Australia and the Philippines in a fight in Bulacan on July 2 in the 2019 Basketball World Cup qualification. FIBA also penalized the SBP fine, which appeared in the game, worth USD 250 thousand.

SBP said that the Philippine basketball team and federation needed time to build teams and appeal to FIBA.

"We conclude, based on consideration and consultation with the basketball community, with the remaining time then the chance to perform at the 2018 Asian Games will not be optimal." Such is the statement of SBP as quoted by Reuters.

"We apologize to the organizing committee of the Asian Games, to the Philippine national team fans and the Asian basketball community with this resignation.

Based on the Asian Games basketball draw, the Philippines are in Group B with Iran, Syria and the United Arab Emirates