Gilas Pilipinas Men will face off with the Macau Black Bears in a much-anticipated tune-up match on July 28 at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum, giving fans a final chance to rally behind the national team before it flies to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia for the FIBA Asia Cup 2025.

This exhibition clash will serve both as a crucial part of their preparation and an official send-off match for coach Tim Cone’s squad, which is grouped with New Zealand, Chinese Taipei, and Iraq in the group stage.

“Playing tuneup games before Gilas dives into the FIBA Asia Cup will only help the team out,” said SBP President Al Panlilio.

Facing a Tested Club Team

The Macau Black Bears, known for their solid mix of Macau locals, heritage players, and imports, are no strangers to high-level competition. Last year, they defeated China’s national team, 83-78, in a friendly—something Cone says makes them a formidable foe.

“They beat the Chinese national team. They are really strong. They’ve got good imports. It could be a very interesting friendly for us,” Cone noted.

Founded in 2017 under the name Chong Son Kung Fu, the Black Bears currently compete in the East Asia Super League and The Asian Tournament under head coach Garrett Kelly.

Preparation Before Saudi Arabia

Coach Tim Cone will be fielding Gilas’ full lineup for the friendly, with the exception of Kai Sotto, who remains sidelined due to an ACL injury.

The match also helps compensate for the short preparation window of the squad, many of whom just finished playing in the Philippine Cup semifinals. It offers a valuable opportunity for the team to fine-tune plays, build chemistry, and face quality competition before heading into official international games.

“It’s also an opportunity for our Gilas fans to band together and send their team off,” added Panlilio. “The SBP wanted to make sure Gilas gets at least one competitive run before flying out.”

Gilas will be aiming for a better finish after ending in ninth place in the 2022 edition of the FIBA Asia Cup.