SBP chief Al Panlilio elected vice president of FIBA Asia Board

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Al Panlilio has been elected the second vice president of the FIBA Asia Board during the Zone Assembly held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia recently.

Dr. K Govindraj was elected president as he succeeded outgoing FIBA Asia president Sheikh Saud Ali Al Thani while Chinese basketball legend Yao Ming was elected chairman. Akram Halabi, meanwhile, will serve as the first vice president.

Panlilio said being part of the FIBA Asia Board will allow him to help the basketball body promote the game of basketball in the region.

"It is an honor to be elected in the board of members of FIBA Asia to help the federation continue promoting the game of basketball and camaraderie in the region and the world."

But he said that his new position comes with a great responsibility in nurturing the sport not only in the Philippines but in Asia as well.

"I believe SBP also needs to strengthen its basketball development programs especially for the youth in anticipation and preparation for forthcoming competitions in the region in the next 2-3 years."

—Bea Micaller/MGP, GMA Integrated News