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Kai Sotto, Justin Brownlee Lead Gilas Pilipinas to Victory in 2025 FIBA

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November 22, 2024
Kai Sotto, Justin Brownlee Lead Gilas Pilipinas to Victory in 2025 FIBA

Gilas Pilipinas wrote its name on the history books on Thursday, November 21 when it stunned New Zealand 93-89 in the second window of the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers held at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. This win also means the Philippine national team achieves their first-ever win against the Tall Blacks in previous encounters the team was defeated.

This was a true mix of determination as well as tenacity, reinforced with a stellar performance from Justin Brownlee as well as Kai Sotto, both integral for helping Gilas make the much-coveted victory.

A Night to Remember: Key Performances That Shined

Naturalized player of the team Justin Brownlee showed again why he is one of the main reasons for Gilas’ success. In one of the games he scored 26 points 10 rebounds, 4 assists 2 steals, and all these counts he made when the team pressured and in a match with well-set talented players.

Rising star Kai Sotto, the seven-foot-three center, had easily one of the best performances of his stint with the Gilas. He nearly recorded a triple-double with 19 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists. His third-quarter heroics including scoring five straight points on a 16-3 run changed the tide for the Philippines.

Other notable contributors included:

  • Chris Newsome: 11 points, four rebounds, three assists, and two steals.
  • Scottie Thompson: 12 points, six assists, and four rebounds, making an impactful return to the lineup.

“It was a tough one. Man, they are good - they are really good. They are incredibly physical, and I think that was the number one thing we had to battle through,” shared Gilas head coach Tim Cone after the game. “To overcome that and find a way to win was special.”

Breaking the Tall Blacks' Hold Over Gilas

Before this victory, Gilas Pilipinas had faced New Zealand four times and lost each encounter. Two of those defeats were particularly painful, as they came on home soil:

  • 2016 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Gilas fell 89-80.
  • 2022 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers: A humbling 88-63 loss.

The breakthrough win not only exorcised those demons but also established Gilas as a serious contender in the FIBA Asia Cup.

Dominance in the Group A Standings

The win put Gilas Pilipinas in the upper spot of the Group A table with a 3-0 win-loss slate, displacing New Zealand. This puts the Philippines in good stead to make the continental tournament slated in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia next year.

Gilas had already come through in the first window, dominating their opponents Hong Kong and Chinese Taipei. It is now another home match against Hong Kong on Sunday, November 24 which puts the team in a good position to round up the window with 4 out of 4.

“A perfect homestand not only guarantees qualification but also sends a strong message to the rest of Asia about the resurgence of Philippine basketball,” said Cone.

A Battle-Tested Squad Rises to the Occasion

The win against New Zealand was not without its challenges. The Tall Blacks’ physical play tested Gilas’ resolve, particularly in the first half when they struggled to find rhythm.

“They are incredibly physical, and that was the number one thing we had to battle through,” Cone remarked, emphasizing the importance of mental toughness in such high-stakes games.

Despite the pressure, Gilas leaned on its star players and depth. The late addition of Kai Sotto, who cleared concussion protocols just in time, proved pivotal. Meanwhile, Justin Brownlee’s leadership and clutch scoring steadied the team during critical moments.

Opportunities and Challenges

The team’s next match against Hong Kong is another chance to increase the didn’t in Group A safe. In favor of the Philippines though, to keep an undefeated run, the Philippines should stick to hard work and discipline.

Apart from the basic disqualifiers, this historic triumph provides the necessary foundation for Gilas’ buildup for more challenging matches on the international level of competition. The growth of such a team, built on performances such as this, will be paramount to achieving better performances on the international level.

Engage in the Action with OKBet

Everyone is still jubilant from Gilas Pilipinas which achieved history and the fans are now supporting the team as they SGP for FIBA Asia Cup success. OKBet is a great way to engage with your favorite action, especially if you love basketball.

Of course, with OKBet, you can enhance your experience by wagering on Gilas’ games and other basketball games. Used to predict game results, track specific player statistics, and bring an extra element of fun to every single possession.

For the ardent follower of the Gilas team or even a basketball lover who wants to engage himself in an analyzing regime, OKBet has designed an interface where one can revel in every play and forecast every turn. Play responsibly and be part of the action now with OKBet basketball – like you’ve never seen it before!

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

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