Where Is the FIBA World Cup 2023 Being Played?

The sports world is buzzing with anticipation as the FIBA World 2023 draws near. Like every other world cup edition, this year is set for an exciting spectacle for basketball fans worldwide. But where exactly will this grand tournament take place? 

It turns out for the first time in the history of the tournament, it will be co-hosted by three countries. After prep games and pre-qualifying matches, the tournament will officially begin on the 25th of August. 

Three nations to host the FIBA 

The FIBA World Cup 2023 will take place in the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia. It is the first time in the tournament history that three countries are participating. The Philippines will host the most games of the tournament, with 16 teams playing in three cities: Manila, Angeles City, and Bulacan. Mall of Asia Arena will host the final, as well as the quarter-finals and semi-finals. The national team “Gilas Pilipinas” has qualified for the World Cup four times, most recently in 2019.

Japan will host eight teams in two cities, Okinawa and Saitama. The Okinawa Arena will host preliminary round and second round games, while the Saitama Super Arena will host the round of 16. The Japanese national team “Akatsuki Five.” has qualified for the World Cup three times, the last time in 2006. 

And, Indonesia will host eight teams in two cities. The Istora Senayan in Jakarta will host preliminary-round and second-round games. And, the Gelora Bung Karno Arena in Surabaya will host the group stage. Indonesia is still a developing basketball nation, their national team “Garuda.” has qualified for the World Cup only once back in 1978. 

The showdown is going to be a spectacle 

Originally known as the FIBA World Championship until 2012, this quadrennial event has seen teams from Yugoslavia and the USA clinching the world champions title five times each. The current champions are Spain, who defeated Argentina in the final of the 2019 tournament.

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With a record 32 national teams set to compete in 92 games over 16 days, fans can look forward to a thrilling display of basketball moments. The tournament will culminate in a grand finale on September 10 and one team will take home the Naismith Trophy. Set against the backdrop of three vibrant Asian countries, the event promises to be a tournament like no other. 

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