The Philippines has the privilege of hosting this year’s Federation International Basketball Association (Fiba) Asia tournament.

Opening last Aug. 1 and continuing till the 11th, Gilas-Pilipinas and 15 other teams will battle it out for the distinction of becoming Asia’s best and a chance to be part of the Fiba World Cup. During this time, collegiate leagues take a break. Here is a list of what a UAAP or NCAA fan may want to do in the meantime.

Being a fan means watching most (if not all) of the UAAP and NCAA games. This takes up a lot of time and may even affect one’s academics. The break would be a good time to review past lessons, and study in advance. Getting to watch the collegiate leagues is a privilege, not a responsibility.

During UAAP and NCAA season, most of us focus on watching the games. But everyone eats before, after and even during the matches. One might gain some unwanted pounds in the process. The break is a good time to lace up your shoes and run a bit. Lift some weights. Maybe this habit will carry on well beyond the end of the basketball season.

Is life spent watching the games becoming monotonous? Spice it up by trying new things during the break. Try a new sport; watch “Game of Thrones” if you’ve never seen it before. Step out of your comfort zone.

Watching college basketball takes up much time, such that other important activities are taken for granted. The break might be a good opportunity to get your life back. Go out with friends. Watch a good movie. Catch up on reading that book you’ve been wanting to finish. It would be a nice change of scenery.

The whole point of the break is to focus our attention on the national team. Forget school colors for a while. Watch the Fiba games and cheer the team to victory.

Laban Pilipinas!