The Story
The 2023 FIBA Intercontinental Cup, the 33rd edition of the prestigious basketball tournament, marked a significant milestone in its history. This event, hosted at the Singapore Indoor Stadium from September 21 to September 24, 2023, not only brought together the champions of six club leagues for a thrilling competition, but also represented a ground-breaking moment as it was the first time the tournament was held in Asia. The competition featured six esteemed club leagues, vying for the coveted championship trophy. KIN, an integrated experiential agency, was appointed to assist the organisers in understanding the requirements and successfully executing the event.
As the Event Delivery and Management Company, KIN was responsible for sourcing and delivering essential sports logistics, ensuring that the competition ran seamlessly. The agency handled the setup of event logistics and overlay, which included the arrangement of furniture, power distribution, and other vital infrastructure components. Ensuring that players remained well-hydrated throughout the competition was a priority. KIN managed the hydration operations to provide athletes with the necessary resources to perform at their best. After each match, KIN coordinated the Field of Play (FOP) turnover, making sure that the court was prepared for the next game. Various team-related services that were looked into included airport transfers, hotel operations, and daily transport, ensuring that athletes and their teams were well-supported throughout their stay. Logistics related to the training courts, providing an optimal environment for teams to prepare for their matches were organised and managed. Special attention was given to VIPs, with KIN managing their transportation needs to provide a comfortable and exclusive experience.
The agency oversaw the event accreditation process, ensuring that attendees, players, and staff had the appropriate access to the tournament. It was also responsible for producing the medals and awards, contributing to the recognition and celebration of the tournament’s outstanding performances. Overall comprehensive logistical support was provided, ensuring that all aspects of the event were efficiently managed.
KIN played a significant role in transforming the Field of Play with court branding, backstop dressings, and backboard branding, contributing to the visual appeal of the tournament. The court side atmosphere was enhanced by designing and implementing visually engaging elements. Attractive backdrops for media interviews were designed and produced, creating a professional and visually appealing setting for press interactions. KIN was instrumental in planning and deploying event signage, enhancing the tournament’s branding and visibility.
Some of the resolved challenges the team was confronted with included situations like inadequate changing rooms at the Singapore Indoor Stadium; which was resolved by converting conference rooms into makeshift changing rooms. These temporary rooms were equipped with lockers for players and sports flooring, ensuring a comfortable environment for all teams. FIBA-approved court stickers had to be sourced from overseas and shipped to Singapore. KIN’s partnership with a trusted specialist to print and install the stickers enabled them to be deployed on time. The event branding was produced and installed for the Jumbo Tron although the request was made at the very last minute. The makeshift training halls did not permit basketball backstops to be bolted down. Hence, 450KG weights for each backstop, creating a sturdy solution without compromising safety or stability were brought in.
The 2023 FIBA Intercontinental Cup was not only a thrilling basketball competition but also a testament to KIN’s expertise and agility in sports event management. KIN’s creative problem-solving skills, efficient processes, dedication and comprehensive services contributed significantly to the success of this historic tournament, ensuring a seamless experience for the organisers, participants and spectators, marking a memorable chapter in the history of the FIBA Intercontinental Cup.
