TOKYO: China has won the right to host the 2019 basketball World Cup, beating the Philippines in Friday’s vote in Tokyo.
The sport’s international ruling body FIBA chose basketball-mad China following a presentation by the country’s delegation, helped by former NBA giant Yao Ming.
“I’m very excited to bring the 2019 World Cup to China,” said the one-time Houston Rockets great, who represented China at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
“I’m sure millions of Chinese fans share the same joy. I know the feeling to play in your home country and I’m sure that same feeling will encourage many young athletes to play basketball.
“We have to make sure we deliver on the promises we’ve made,” added Yao, arguably his country’s biggest sporting celebrity.
“We have to develop the level of basketball in China, in the national team, in the professional league, in high school and college.”
The Philippines lost out, meanwhile, despite the support of boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao, himself an avid basketball fan, who was on hand in Tokyo to press his country’s case.
China beats Philippines in vote for FIBA World Cup
China beats Philippines in vote for FIBA World Cup
Dubai Basketball introduce 17-year-old Tomislav Vuckovic as they stay perfect in ABA League
- Winning streak now at 12-0 after the team’s 90-79 victory over Borac Mozzart at Coca-Cola Arena
DUBAI: Dubai Basketball extended their winning streak to 12-0 in the ABA League with a 90-79 victory over Borac Mozzart at Coca-Cola Arena on Monday.
The game also marked a historic moment for the club and basketball development in the UAE. Tomislav Vuckovic, 17, became the first Dubai Basketball Academy player to start for the senior team in official competition.
His inclusion represents a significant milestone in the club’s long-term vision to help young players become professionals, according to a statement from the team.
The opening quarter did not unfold in line with Dubai’s usual standards. Borac Mozzart began with confidence and tempo, capitalizing on early lapses to take a 23-19 lead after the first 10 minutes.
As the former NBA duo McKinley Wright and Dwayne Bacon orchestrated the offence, Dubai gradually took control and went into halftime with a 41-37 advantage.
Dubai’s depth played a key role as the game progressed. Contributions from newcomer Kenan Kamenjas, and Dubai veterans Nemanja Dangubic and Klemen Prepelic, helped sustain the advantage.
Borac’s efforts were largely driven by Marko Josilo and Diante Baldwin. Without consistent support, the visitors were unable to mount a comeback.
Reflecting on the performance, Dubai Basketball Head Coach Jurica Golemac said: “It was not an easy game, especially after such a tight schedule.
“We did not start well, but we found our rhythm in the second half and made the game easier. Everyone shared minutes, nobody got injured, and that is the most important thing for us.”
Dubai managed the final quarter with composure, closing out the contest without allowing the margin to come under threat. Bacon led the scoring with 15 points, while Kamenjas added 13 and seven rebounds.
The team now head into round 22 of the EuroLeague against Virtus Bologna, standing 12th in the league, one position above Dubai.
