SBP makes announcement on new Gilas structure, hints possible overseas campaigns

The Philippine team will be sporting the new logo in the upcoming 2019 FIBA World Cup starting August 31 in China. (Photo: Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas – SBP/Facebook)

It’s a fresh new start for Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) after unveiling their new logo for national team Gilas Pilipinas during a press conference last Wednesday, May 8.

SBP President Al Panlilio shared, “We felt that after 10 years of SBP, we wanted a refresh not only cosmetically, but also as a structure,” referring to the Philippine Eagle in the symbol, which represents the new endeavors of the organization. Panlilio elaborated, “The rationale behind this is to signify the strength, discipline, and the direction the federation is taking. We wanted to show motion in attacking our goals and programs very aggressively. We wanted to change the font, make it a bit younger.”

The federation, which was established back in 2007, said that “with the help of Cignal, what came out of the research is that the Gilas name is the most powerful,” adding, “What we really do is use the branding of Gilas across all the pillars.”

The Philippine team will be sporting the new logo in the upcoming 2019 FIBA World Cup starting August 31 in China.

During the event, Panlilio also explained the national team’s possible travels to Spain and Russia to compete prior to the Nationals of the FIBA World Cup, explaining, “We’ve actually gotten many invitations but right now we’re looking at Spain and Russia,” targeting the Gilas cagers to be sent to Khabarovsk, Russia at the beginning of August.

“The plan is to have a friendly in Spain at the front end of August, then coach Yeng (Guiao) will assess where we are, do some adjustments then go to the last friendlies in Russia towards the end of August to really get prepared for the World Cup,” Panlilio concluded.

This is in preparation for the type of competition that the Filipino players will meet in China, facing Serbia, Italy, and Angola in Group D.