Filipino basketball fans in Dubai are in for a thrilling night as La Tres Bar & Lounge is hosting a free watch party for the high-stakes FIBA Asia Cup 2025 clash between Gilas Pilipinas and New Zealand.
The event will take place on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at the Sun and Sands Downtown Hotel, located on the ground floor in Al Rigga, Dubai. Doors will open at 6 PM, with the game scheduled to air live from 7 PM to 10 PM.
Organizers of the watch party said entry is completely free, inviting all Filipinos and basketball enthusiasts in the UAE to unite and cheer for the national team in what has been described as a must-win battle.
Gilas Pilipinas is coming off a tough loss against Taiwan (95-87) and is eyeing redemption against a powerful New Zealand team that crushed Iraq in their opening match. With quarterfinal hopes hanging in the balance, fans can expect an emotionally charged and electric atmosphere as the Filipino community rallies behind their team.
The Tall Blacks defeated the Philippines 87-70 in their last meeting, but Gilas previously pulled off an impressive 92-88 win over them during the second window of the qualifiers—thanks in part to a dominant performance by Kai Sotto, who is now recovering from an ACL injury and won’t be in action.
Despite Sotto’s absence, New Zealand coach Judd Flavell acknowledged the Filipinos’ intensity: “They will help prepare us for the next stage as well.”
Coach Tim Cone’s squad will need to limit turnovers—after committing 16 in their previous match—and bounce back with a stronger performance to keep their quarterfinal hopes alive.
The venue promises a lively Pinoy crowd, cold drinks, and a sense of community for OFWs who want to enjoy the game together. Interested attendees can contact 054-7236432 or 056-4997897 via call or WhatsApp for more information.
