Gilas Pilipinas games are usually blockbuster hits for a host venue. But on Monday evening, there were no fans in attendance.
The 23,000-seater arena had both of its gates locked shut. All of the concessionaires were closed for the evening.
The supposed home court turned into a neutral ground.
But inside the historic venue, the lights still shone bright. Trance music blazed through the sound system of the cavernous venue.
Even in a closed-door game, the International Basketball Federation implemented its usually pageantry for the pre-game.
Only a few were in attendance, however – 80 members of the press, 30 from the Qatar delegation, 30 from Gilas, 30 FIBA officials, and 50 VIPs.
Once the game started, the baritone voice of barker Noel Zarate echoed all around the arena. The calls of the coaches could also be heard loud and clear.
But the lack of the so-called sixth man proved to be the difference, as Gilas faced an early deficit to end the opening frame.
