Arenas joins Iverson in charity game

MANILA, Philippines - Six years since his first visit to the country, former NBA star Gilbert Arenas will be joining a fellow icon in a charity basketball event as he makes his way to Manila for the second time in November.

Arenas, a three-time All-Star, will join former NBA MVP Allen Iverson for the “All In,” a basketball fund-raiser for the benefit of Gawad Kalinga, on Nov. 5 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Dubbed as “Agent Zero,” Arenas will be teaming up with another former NBA star, Eddie Curry, and a local selection composed of players from the NCAA, UAAP, and the PBA, against the Ball Up Streetball All-Stars to be coached by Iverson.

“I’m excited to come back and see everyone in the Philippines,” said Arenas, who starred for the Washington Wizards in 2003-10, in a text message to his local agent, Sheryl Reyes. “It’s been six years, but I can still remember the warmth and love I received from my Filipino fans. I’m so honored and blessed to be a part of this event and help build homes for the poor.”

For her part, Reyes said she is happy that a player of Arenas’ stature has agreed to pitch in for the noble cause.

“I’m very happy and thankful that Ball Up has helped me tap Gilbert for this event and that he agreed to join us. He has always been involved in charity work anywhere in the world, and we’re grateful that he will be coming with the other guys to help less privileged Filipinos,” stated Reyes.

Presented by PcWorx, tickets to the “All In” are now available at all SM Tickets outlets, PcWorx branches, and online at www.smtickets.com. Ticket prices are at P6,500 (VIP), P5,500 (Patron), P4,000 (Lower Box), P2,000 (Upper Box), and P600 (General Admission).