– Fans can enjoy access to WUBS 2023 front-row action from SM Cinema live viewing parties, available across 12 locations and 21 screens.
– SM Cinema will host live viewing parties of the Ateneo Blue Eagles’ WUBS 2023 matches

Tokyo, August 1, 2023 – Rakuten Sports, a Rakuten Group service focused on creating partnerships built on shared values with professional sports teams, athletes, brands and rights-holders around the world, today announced that Sun Chlorella’s World University Basketball Series 2023 (WUBS 2023), a champions league-style tournament for world-class university basketball teams, will be live streamed at leading Filipino cinema chain SM Cinema.

SM Cinema will host the live viewing parties of the Ateneo Blue Eagles’ WUBS 2023 matches in 12 prime locations across the Philippines, featuring a total of 21 screens. This initiative marks the first time SM Cinema is screening live basketball, and they are proud to partner with Rakuten Sports to bring WUBS to an even greater audience. Tickets for the live viewing parties are now available for purchase on SM Cinema’s official website.

WUBS’ vision is to empower the next generation of basketball talent by giving collegiate players and teams a platform to showcase their skills on an international stage. This year’s championship is hosted by the All Japan University Basketball Federation (JUBF), with the operation support of Rakuten Sports, a Rakuten Group business committed to forging partnerships with professional athletes and other sports services. Held again with presenting partner Sun Chlorella, this year’s tournament marks the second in the series following last year’s inaugural WUBS. From August 10 to 13, the Yoyogi National Stadium Second Gymnasium will come alive as eight men’s university basketball teams from seven countries and regions – Australia, Chinese Taipei, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, South Korea, and the United States – gather to compete in this championship.

This year’s competition will feature WUBS 2022 champions Ateneo de Manila University from the Philippines. Local fans of Ateneo de Manila University’s team will be able to enjoy front-row action unfold live on the silver screen, all from the convenience of their preferred SM Cinema location. SM Cinema’s state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology promise a larger-than-life experience, ensuring every dribble, every pass, and every dunk can be seen with clarity and excitement.

Going forward, Rakuten Sports and SM Cinema remain committed to delivering exceptional experiences to basketball fans throughout the Philippines.

< About Rakuten Sports >
Rakuten Sports is a Rakuten Group service that focuses on creating partnerships built on shared values with professional sports teams, athletes, brands and rights-holders. For more information, visit https://biz.sports.rakuten.net/

< About SM Cinema >
SM Cinema has always been the first choice for Filipino leisure and entertainment. From the silver screens of the first SM Cinema under the West Avenue Theatres Corporation, to the world’s most innovative screens and thrilling entertainment sites of SM Lifestyle Entertainment Incorporated, Filipinos can enjoy the experience of convenience, fun, and the best lifestyle and entertainment services the world has to offer. Since then, movies have been best seen with families and friends at the SM Cinemas across the country.

Being the country’s leader in movie entertainment, SM Cinema offers the best cinematic experience with its Regular and IMAX Cinemas, Events Screen and Director’s Club for your family to better enjoy movie adventures with its state-of-the-art movie screens and precision sounds. Its laser projectors and huge screens make crystal clear image display with an incredible display of vibrant colors. The Dolby 7.1 surround sound system makes a powerful audio encounter that creates clarity and richness of every movie sound that can put you into the real action and feel every emotion as if you’re part of the film. Equipped with Opus fixed seats with cushioned headrest and a soft foam backrest, the cozy cinema seats invite the moviegoers to have total relaxation and comfort while watching their favorite reel. Spacious seats with a bigger leg room, and the delectable snacks and freshly popped popcorn at Snack Time will totally make every movie enthusiast have an extraordinary movie experience at SM Cinema.
http://smcinema.com/