Mies (Switzerland), Jun 13 (IANS): International Basketball Federation (FIBA) has announced the launch of FIBA Esports Open 2020, its first-ever international esports competition for national teams.

The inaugural series of exhibition e-basketball games will take place from June 19 to 21. The national teams participating include Argentina, Australia, Austria, Brazil, Cyprus, Indonesia, Italy, Latvia, Lebanon, Lithuania, New Zealand, the Philippines, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Switzerland and Ukraine.

Each team will consist of seven players, five on the court and two reserves. Games will be played remotely on NBA 2K using the Pro-AM mode and allowing full customisation of player avatars, uniforms and arena designs.

"FIBA is extremely proud and excited to start its esports journey with the FIBA Esports Open 2020, a pilot project of exhibition games between national teams in collaboration with NBA 2K," said Frank Leenders, FIBA Media and Marketing Services Director General.

"NBA 2K is honored to partner with FIBA in creating the FIBA Esports Open 2020, " stated Jason Argent, Senior Vice President of Basketball Operations at 2K. "Through these matches, we're excited to be able to celebrate the global appeal of basketball."