National colors and design evoke love of country and passion for the game
Nike
unveiled the Philippines National Basketball Team uniform for the
2014/2015 season today with members of the Gilas Pilipinas team and
Coach Vincent “Chot” Reyes before media, the Basketball Federation of
the Philippines, and associates of Nike and the federation. The team
will debut the uniform on-court at the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup in
Spain in August this year.
The
new uniforms made of Nike Sphere fabric are more lightweight,
breathable, and durable. Sphere flocks the interior for sweat
management; articulated armholes provide a better and easier range of
motion; and laser cut perforations provide ventilation throughout the
kit.
“The
new uniforms are lighter in weight, which is an advantage for us when
we play. Together with the heat management, the uniforms will keep us
comfortable through the games,” said LA Tenorio, point guard for the
Gilas.
The
new uniform is as bold and daring as the players are when they take to
the court. Aside from “Pilipinas” emblazoned in thick, vibrant letters
on the front, the latest uniforms portray an aerographic design on the
back that shows an image of the eight-rayed golden sun found on the
Philippine flag.
“We
will wear this uniform proudly,” said Marc Pingris, forward for the
Gilas. “With the sun on the backs of all players, it’s a gentle reminder
to each player of its symbolic meaning of unity and sovereignty for our
country.”
The
graphic element from the Philippine flag was included to provide an
inspirational and motivational point for the team who are going to
battle it out against the best basketball teams in the world in Spain, a
country that the Philippines has had a long history with.
Coincidentally, the eight rays around the sun represent the first eight
provinces that started the Philippine revolution in 1896, which was
against the Spaniards. There could be no greater coat-of-arms than this
eight-rayed sun for this year’s World Cup as it symbolizes the rich and
proud history of the Philippines and Spain.
“Basketball
is more than a sport for Filipinos. It is in our blood, our DNA, woven
into the Filipino culture. The new uniforms will be worn with pride, on
the world stage in Spain as we show the world what Filipino basketball
is all about and bring pride to the Philippines” said Coach Chot.
Tonal
shades of bold red and blue are the final touches tailored to bring
spirit and vigor to the uniforms, as the Gilas Pilipinas continue to
work their way to the top of the basketball world.
“Nike
is inspired by the team and their quest for glory that has brought back
the pride in Philippines Basketball. We hope these uniforms will
likewise inspire the team and help them to do great things in the
upcoming competition,” said Courtney Cole-Faso, Nike Philippines Country
Manager.
The
team was presented with a unique gift of shoelaces with handwritten
messages by a selection of youth fans fromMetro Manila. The youths hope
that by carrying these messages, the team will feel the support of the
nation during their time in Spain.
The
new Philippines National Basketball Team uniforms will be available at
retail in both Home and Away versions from July 1 at all Nike only
stores and select locations of the following:
Athletic Club
Toby’s
1 United
Prostar
Planet Sports
Titan
Landmark
Lee Super Plaza
Royal Sporting house
Sports Central
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