Gilas secures a spot in the quarterfinals after Brownlee's impressive performance
The Philippines' national basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, put up a valiant effort in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025, securing a hard-fought victory against Saudi Arabia in overtime. However, their journey came to an end in the quarterfinals against the undefeated Australia Boomers.
Justin Brownlee led the charge for Gilas, scoring a game-high 29 points, including a crucial triple with 8.4 seconds left in regulation that sent the game into overtime. Brownlee also contributed with five assists and four rebounds. Kevin Quiambao sparked the run in the extra period with a three-pointer, and AJ Edu shone with 17 points and 11 rebounds. Scottie Thompson added 10 rebounds and 4 points.
Despite their impressive performance, Gilas faced challenges in perimeter defense and transition against Australia. The Boomers, who topped Pool A and earned direct entry to the quarterfinals, showcased their strong shooting and defensive pressure. Key Australian players like Jaylin Galloway and Owen Foxwell were instrumental in their victory.
Unfortunately, Gilas was without two of its key players, Calvin Oftana and CJ Perez, who sustained injuries during the Fiba Asia Cup. The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) expressed their appreciation for Oftana and Perez's service, but there is no confirmed report of injuries to these players in the Gilas Pilipinas vs. Australia quarterfinal.
The loss marked the end of Gilas' medal hopes and tournament run. The team will look to regroup and prepare for future competitions, hoping to return stronger and healthier.
- Gilas Pilipinas, despite their impressive performance in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025, failed to secure a spot in the semifinals, losing to the undefeated Australia Boomers in the quarterfinals.
- The Philippines' national basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, showed strong resilience in their quarterfinal match against Australia, with Justin Brownlee scoring a game-high 29 points, including a crucial triple that sent the game into overtime.
- The Manila-based sports-betting enthusiasts had a thrilling quarterfinal match to witness between Gilas Pilipinas and the Australia Boomers, two powerhouse teams in the field of NBA and NCAABasketball.
- The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) faced the loss of key players Calvin Oftana and CJ Perez, who sustained injuries during the Fiba Asia Cup, impacting Gilas Pilipinas' performance in the quarterfinals against Australia.
