Chetumal, Quintana Roo — In a significant step to position Chetumal as a hub for major sporting events, Jacobo Arzate Hop, head of the Quintana Roo State Sports Commission (CODEQ), announced that the professional basketball team El Calor de Cancún will play an international friendly match against the Belize National Team. The game will take place at the newly renovated Palacio de los Deportes on Sunday, August 24, at 5:00 PM, with free admission for spectators.
A Landmark Event for Chetumal
The match coincides with the grand reopening of the Palacio de los Deportes, which underwent a restoration project costing over 15.9 million pesos. The investment aligns with the New Agreement for Wellbeing and Development, an initiative spearheaded by Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa to provide residents with high-quality sports infrastructure.
Arzate emphasized the importance of bringing elite-level basketball to the state capital, stating, “We will also have special guests, including legends of Chetumal basketball, who will join us for the game. They are part of this history, and it will undoubtedly be a significant moment for families in our capital.”
A Full Professional Experience
The El Calor de Cancún squad, which competes in Mexico’s Liga Caliente.Mx LNBP, will field its entire roster and coaching staff, led by head coach Pepe Pidal. Arzate assured fans that the event would replicate the excitement of a professional league game, complete with entertainment elements.
During the press conference, a commemorative jersey was unveiled, featuring a patch dedicated to the match and designs inspired by Chetumal’s iconic landmarks. Tickets will be distributed through giveaways on CODEQ’s social media platforms.
Belize’s Enthusiasm for the Match
Jacobo Leslie, president of the Belize Basketball Federation, expressed gratitude for the invitation, calling it a long-awaited opportunity. “We are deeply thankful for the invitation. This is something we’ve wanted for a long time. We come to play and provide entertainment with active players from our professional league,” Leslie said.
The friendly marks a milestone in Quintana Roo’s sports development, further solidifying the state’s commitment to fostering athletic excellence and community engagement.
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