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Gilas Pilipinas in the Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifier game vs Lebanon. – FIBA BASKETBALL
In a game that was mainly used as a test for the combination of the roster and the hosting of the World Cup, the Philippines played the most unselfish and decisive game and found remarkable results.
Playing small due to the absence of big players, Gilas Pilipinas used a good collective effort on both sides to pick off Lebanon, 107-96, in the International Basketball Federation World Cup Asia Qualifiers at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.
Justin Brownlee finally played his first game as a Filipino and Mason Amos answered all questions about inclusion in spades as the spearheaded duo of Gilas attack.
Brownlee, naturalized a few months ago, had 17 points while 18-year-old Amos added 13 to lead a balanced attack that impressed both national coach Chot Reyes and Cedars mentor Jad El Hajj.
“We talked about it, knowing that there were some pieces missing and that we didn’t have our own talent like our previous lineup,” Reyes said.
“I say in a situation like this, the best way to deal with it is to come together and rely on each other. And I’m very happy that the players paid attention. And I felt that today — the players played for each other, ran for each other, it doesn’t matter who scores as long as the ball moves well.
“It’s special because it’s so small. It’s just Juni Mar and the kids [Amos] as our big man,” Brownlee said on national television. “It’s been a long time coming here [to get to play for Gilas] and I’ll keep playing my heart out.”
Admire the enemy
The Lebanese coach couldn’t help but express his happiness for the team that conquered him.
“He played as a team. He had more than 20 assists,” said El Hajj, as the Filipinos got 31. “Last time, he played as an individual, but tonight he played as a team, so he deserved to win.”
Jamie Malonzo finished with 15 points while Japanese campaigners Dwight Ramos, Ray Parks Jr., and back gunner Jordan Heading all chipped in 10 that has the Nationals up to 6-3 and with great momentum heading into the showdown with Jordan on Saturday.
Without top gun Wael Arajki and Ali Haidar, Lebanon leaned on veteran Amir Saoud’s 27, Hayk Gyokchyan 21 points, and Sergio El Darwich 19. Karim Zeinoun added 14 more as the Cedars dropped to 7-2.
It turned out to be a fitting holiday for the spectators who entered the cavernous arena as the new World Cup ambassador, Carmelo Anthony, visited and watched the game until the final buzzer.
But Reyes, cautious as ever, knows this is just one of many games Gilas can win—and use—as it continues to build its global presence in August.
“Like I said, I’m very happy with the result, but we also know that this is it [just one game,” he said.
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