Gilas Pilipinas got their second round of the FIBA Asia Championships off to the perfect start by crushing Japan 90-71 at the MOA Arena this evening.
Both teams battled toe-to-toe in the early stages and two free-throws by Japan’s JR Sakuragi trimmed Gilas’ lead to 32-29 early in the second quarter, but the Philippines scored 14 points in a three minute span, including two free throws by LA Tenorio, to take a 46-36 advantage at the break.
Standout performances from Jeff Chan, Gabe Norwood and Marcus Douthit put the home team in control heading into the fourth quarter 75-51.
Gilas held on in the fourth quarter, something they failed to do in their last match against Taiwan, with Jimmy Alapag hitting a three pointer and the out of form Gary David scoring his first three-pointer of the tournament to help seal the win for Gilas.
“I think this is the first game where we led after the first quarter and we kept the lead all throughout and hopefully it’s a sign that we’re getting better and we’re improving. Those are the two things that were important for us” said coach Chot Reyes.
Quarter scoring: 17-14, 46-36, 75-51, 90-71
Gilas will play Qatar on Tuesday at 8.30pm.
Photo: FIBAAsia
