In an exciting game at the Philippine Arena, Gilas Pilipinas delivered a stunning performance to defeat Lebanon, 107-96 in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Asian Qualifiers. The Philippines dominated the game from start to finish, taking an early lead and never letting it go. The win was a sweet revenge for Gilas, who had suffered a defeat to the Cedars back in Window 4, 85-81.
The Filipino team came out firing on all cylinders, with all but one player getting on the scoreboard. The Philippines had six players scoring in double-digits, including Justin Brownlee, who made his debut with 17 points. Brownlee had an impressive game, shooting 50 percent from the field and contributing 4 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals. Another debutant, Mason Amos, was equally impressive, putting up 13 points without a single miss, including three three-pointers.
Lebanon fought hard and had a very efficient game offensively, shooting 50.7 percent from the field and 50 percent from beyond the three-point line. However, the Philippines were able to keep their lead with more volume, and Lebanon eventually succumbed to Gilas’ relentless pressure.
The turning point of the game was a 13-0 run by the Philippines in the second quarter, which created a gap that Lebanon could not bridge. Gilas Pilipinas are now on a four-game winning streak, heading into their final game of the Asian Qualifiers against Jordan on 27 February. This game will also be played at the Philippine Arena, which is the venue for the Final Phase of the World Cup later this year.
Jamie Malonzo was the hero of the game for Gilas, as he did a little bit of everything and was all over the floor. Malonzo had 15 points on 6-9 shooting, made three three-pointers, grabbed 5 rebounds, and dished out 3 assists. He also got 1 steal and two blocks and threw down one of the best dunks of the window.
It was the highest scoring game for Gilas in the Asian Qualifiers so far, with 107 points, which came off of 17 three-pointers – tied for most in a single World Cup 2023 Asian Qualifiers game with Japan, Australia, and Kazakhstan. Nine of the Gilas players dropped at least one of those 17 threes, and they all moved the ball around with 31 assists.
Overall, it was an outstanding performance by Gilas Pilipinas, who showed that they are a force to be reckoned with in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Asian Qualifiers. With their eyes set on the Final Phase of the World Cup, the Philippines will be looking to maintain their momentum and continue their winning streak against Jordan.
