The UC Irvine men’s basketball team will participate in the 5th Asia-Pacific University Basketball Challenge Aug. 5-12 at the Student’s Gymnasium in Seoul, Korea.
Joining the Anteaters are teams from Chinese Taipei, Japan, Philippines and Russia as well as a team from Korea.
“We think the competition is going to be at a good level, playing university level national teams from other countries,” head coach Russell Turner said.
“We will get an early look at next year’s team through practices and competitions in Korea which is exciting since we are now a veteran team and we are adding additional talented players. We hope this can be both a great basketball experience as well as a bonding opportunity that can propel our team forward into a successful season.”
The six teams will play a round robin format.
The tournament, which is hosted by the Korea Basketball Association, has been played since 2014.
“I am thrilled for my players to have the opportunity to travel abroad. This will be an educational and cultural experience that they will never forget,” Turner continued. “Seoul is one of the best cities in the world to visit and travel. The Korean people are excited that we are coming and we are thrilled to represent the United States.”
The entire 2018-19 UCI squad will participate except incoming players Dawson Baker and Aiden Krause. Baker will begin his two year Mormon mission, while Krause will be representing Australia at the FIBA Under-18 Asian Championships in Thailand from Aug. 5-11.
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