PENANG has now become an attraction for international sporting events as the Asia Conference of International Basketball Federation (FIBA) 3×3 Under 23 Nations League 2022 kicked off yesterday (July 25) at the main atrium of Prangin Mall. It will end on July 31.
State Youth and Sports Committee chairman Soon Lip Chee said he was proud that Penang became the host to the teams from Malaysia, Thailand, Mongolia, Japan, China and Vietnam.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to host the seven-day prestigious event in Penang for the very first time in its history.
“The 3×3 basketball has been rapidly gaining popularity since its official launch as the second basketball discipline in 2010.
“The objective of the 3×3 U23 Nations League is to provide opportunities for future talents to hone their skills in preparation for basketball tournaments such as FIBA 3X3 World Cup and Olympic Games.
“Such internationally renowned competitions can help to spur our local tourism front.
“I hope that with this Nations League taking place in Penang, it will inspire the local players to perform even better and bring glory to Penang,” he said in his speech during the opening ceremony of the event.
Soon said sports can also unite everyone from all walks of life.
“Everyone will get a chance to witness such a remarkable event here,” he said.
Soon also said that pupils from the primary schools, who do not have the chance to expose themselves to basketball, can liaise with the Penang State Sports Council (MSNPP).
“The school authorities can inform us and we can assign a junior coach to guide their pupils.
“They may have their training routines after school hours. This can help them to develop their interest in basketball.
“It is better to train them when they are young,” he said.
Among those present were MSNPP director Harry Chai and Malaysia Basketball Association (MABA) secretary-general Tan Kee Hian.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting