'Puso' takes spotlight as FIBA unveils logo for 2023 World Cup

The International Basketball Federation unveiled the new logo for the 2023 FIBA World Cup to be hosted by the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia.

According to the basketball body, three key elements are present in the said logo: the heart, the Naismith Trophy, and the number 23.

"The sideways heart symbolizes the passion for the game, while the Naismith Trophy is the dream for all participating teams in the World Cup. The "23" represents the year during which the spotlight will shine across three host countries: the Philippines, Japan and Indonesia," FIBA said in a statement.

Heart, or "Puso," is also the mantra of Gilas Pilipinas.

"The Philippines look forward to extending our brand of hospitality to the participating teams, to the world congress delegates, and to the many visitors expected to come - true to the essence of the logo we are launching today - a heart, the puso of the Filipino," said Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas chairman emeritus and FIBA Central Board member Manny V. Pangilinan.

The new logo is also part of the "Don't Miss a Beat" campaign which encourages basketball fans "to have fun with music beats linked to basketball on social media channels such as a dribbling contest, among other highlights."

The FIBA 2023 World Cup is slated for August 25 to September 10, 2023, with the initial group phase staged in Manila, Philippines; Okinawa, Japan; and Jakarta, Indonesia. The Final phase of the tournament will be held in Manila. —Justin Kenneth Carandang/MGP, GMA News