A historic feat by Gilas Pilipinas from the first quarter to the 4th quarter in the realm of basketball at the ongoing 19th Asian Games. The Philippines prevailed with a score of 70-60 against Jordan, the only team that had defeated them in the elimination round. Nearly all players of the team made significant contributions to the victory.
At one point, Jordan managed to establish a two-point lead in the ongoing battle, but it was once again snatched back by the players, led by Justin Brownlee and Scottie Thompson, and through the strategic game movements crafted by Head Coach Tim Cone.
There was an outpouring of joy from all the players and coaching staff as well as the Filipino fans after the significant victory, ending a nearly 61-year drought in the history of the Asian Games, which the country’s basketball team endured.
The Philippines is one of the countries that places great importance on basketball, alongside boxing. With the Philippines’ win, it is expected to provide momentum for future competitions, including Olympic qualifiers. Filipinos celebrated Gilas’ victory and rejoiced alongside it, all happening right in China. China and the Philippines have been subjects of global discussions due to the territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea.
Before reaching the finals, Gilas had two controversial games with narrow victories against Iran and China, but they managed to come out on top.
The roster for the Philippines in this campaign included: Justin Brownlee, Ange Kouame, June Mar Fajardo, Scottie Thompson, Japeth Aguilar, Chris Newsome, Calvin Oftana, CJ Perez, Chris Ross, Arvin Tolentino, Kevin Alas, and Marcio Lassiter.
Head Coach: Tim Cone | Assistant Coaches: Jong Uichico, Richard del Rosario, LA Tenorio, and Josh Reyes | Team Manager: Alfrancis Chua | Deputy Team Manager: Willie Marcial
(Ferdz M. Brizo/Bicol Peryodiko/Radyo Peryodiko newsteam)
