Gilas Pilipinas unleashed a huge third-quarter run then knocked down clutch shots in the endgame to take down world No. 22 New Zealand, 93-89, last 21 November in a FIBA Asia Cup 2025 qualifier at the packed Mall of Asia Arena.
The Nationals went on a critical 16-0 run that turned a four-point deficit into a 72-60 lead late in the third quarter in front of an animated home crowd that filled the Pasay venue to the brim.
Justin Brownlee, Kai Sotto, and Scottie Thompson were responsible for the game-changing run as Gilas finally ended the Tall Blacks’ unbeaten slate over the Philippines in FIBA competitions, based on the record by the international federation.
Gilas also showed composure to stave off an uprising by the Tall Blacks in the fourth quarter, knocking down clutch shots that included Chris Newsome's three off a timeout with 1:09 left to give Gilas a 91-84 advantage.
Gilas Pilipinas showed early that they have the advantage in familiarity and continuity as New Zealand is currently a team in transition.
Gilas also stayed undefeated in the qualifiers with a 3-0 win-loss record in Group B, moving closer to booking a spot in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025.
The Philippines can book a ticket to Asia Cup next year to be played in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in August with a victory over Hong Kong on 23 November at the Mall of Asia Arena.
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