Gilas Pilipinas guard Scottie Thompson celebrated his 30th birthday on Wednesday that coincided with local betting site ArenaPlus' signing of a partnership with FIBA for the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup next month.

The signing took place at Novotel Manila Araneta City in Quezon City as joint management committee head John Lucas, DigiPlus President Andy Tsui, Total Gamezone Xtreme Incorporated president Rafael Vicencio and MediaQuest Holdings Inc and Cignal TV president and chief executive officer Jane Basas in attendance for the signing of contracts.

It is for the World Cup that the Philippines will be hosting 25 August to 10 September.

Apart from Thompson, Gilas players Kiefer Ravena, Ange Kouame, Chris Newsome, Roger Pogoy and JP Erram were also in attendance at the event.

"It's very special, being the first ambassador of ArenaPlus. Even on my birthday, I'm blessed to be here on my special day," said Thompson, who has suffered a metacarpal fracture in the Gilas training camp in Lithuania.

"Our kababayans will enjoy this partnership with Arena Plus since they have supported me and Gilas."

Tsui said this partnership with FIBA will give excitement for the Filipinos as they cheer on for Gilas Pilipinas in the World Cup.

"We are firm to provide entertainment for all. We want to make sure our products and services will be affordable and accessible regardless of your social status," Tsui said.

"I truly believe that basketball is indeed loved by Filipinos. FIBA along with ArenaPlus will surely upgrade your sports appreciation and entertainment."