DESPITE the Philippines’ heartbreaking 81-87 defeat to Dominican Republic on opening day of the FIBA World Cup 2023, Filipino basketball fans have enough reason to celebrate.

That’s because a staggering total of 38,115 fans attended the opening-day games pitting Italy against Angola and Dominican Republic against host Philippines at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan on Friday (Aug.25)

The phenomenal new attendance record easily surpassed the previous record for a FIBA Basketball World Cup game in an indoor arena of 32,616 spectators who witnessed the victory of the United States over Russia during the 1994 World Cup final at the SkyDome in Toronto, Canada.

Philippine President Ferdinand “BongBong” Marcos Jr, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and FIBA President Hamane Niang were in attendance to witness the historic moment.

“While the number of spectators was measurable in the venue, the breathtaking levels of passion and intensity shown by supporters were simply off the charts, according to FIBA in its official social media page.

“We all knew the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 was going to be special and within the first day we already have evidence of this, having witnessed this historic moment,” said FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Chairman, Richard Carrion in a statement

“Everyone inside the Philippine Arena will never forget the amazing levels of love for both basketball and the Philippines national team that was cascading around the venue.

“This is just the start for what will be the most memorable event in FIBA’s history and we’re all excited for what lies ahead – both on and off the court. Not only in the Philippines, but also in Japan and Indonesia.”

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) Chairman Emeritus Manny V. Pangilinan was also clearly very happy.

“Ever since we put in the bid to host the World Cup in 2015, the mission was to showcase the Filipino people’s love for basketball”, said Pangilinan.

“We often say we’re the best fans in the world, but beating the old FIBA attendance record has proven what we have believed all along. ”

“To the 38,115 fans at the Philippine Arena, thank you. The world definitely heard us.”

The FIBA World Cup 2023, which is being co-hosted by Japan and Indonesia, will continue until Sept. 10.