FIBA qualifiers to be played in 'bubbles'

The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) has decided to play its November 2020 and February 2021 continental qualifiers in "bubbles" instead of a home and away format.

The update was announced Friday, following a recommendation of the basketball body's Medical Commission and the Competitions Commission.

According to FIBA, each "bubble" will have four or eight teams and the host will be selected on a regional level, with the agreement of public health authorities.

FIBA health protocols will be implemented, including PCR testing and "controlled entry into a secure environment" in the chosen competition city.

The Philippines is originally scheduled to play against Korea and Thailand for the November 2020 window. In February 2021, the national team is expected to meet Indonesia and Korea.

READ: PBA selects Clark as Bubble venue, games to start on October 9

FIBA earlier suspended all competitions due to the coronavirus pandemic. Gilas Pilipinas' game against Thailand in February was among the games postponed by the federation. —Justin Kenneth Carandang/MGP, GMA News