SPORTS
Advocates Philippines
Gilas Pilipinas Shocks The World With Thrilling Upset Over New Zealand
Photo credit: SBP
The energy at the Mall of Asia Arena was absolutely electric on Thursday night as Gilas Pilipinas pulled off one of the biggest upsets in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers. With 11,686 screaming fans rallying behind them, the Filipinos flipped the script and outlasted the heavily favored New Zealand Tall Blacks, 93-89.
This historic win not only ended an eight-year drought against the 22nd-ranked team in the world but also cemented Gilas’ undefeated streak at 3-0 across two qualification windows. And the best part? It all went down at the same venue where the heartbreaks began years ago.
Heroes on the Hardwood
As always, Gilas’ “PUSO” was on full display, with multiple players stepping up to deliver the win. Justin Brownlee put on a masterclass, finishing with 26 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. Kai Sotto wasn’t far behind, flirting with a triple-double with 19 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists. Together, they formed a formidable duo that sealed the game in the dying moments.
Brownlee coolly sank clutch free throws with 11.1 seconds left, while Sotto’s emphatic block on Taylor Britt’s layup attempt was the final nail in the Tall Blacks’ coffin.
Scottie Thompson (12 points, 6 assists), Chris Newsome (11 points, 2 steals), and Dwight Ramos (11 points, 6 rebounds) also brought their A-game, with Newsome nailing a crucial three-pointer in the final minute to give Gilas breathing room.
Turning the Tide
The game’s momentum shifted in the third quarter when Gilas unleashed a blistering 16-0 run, flipping a deficit into a 72-60 lead. That pivotal stretch energized the crowd and set the tone for the thrilling finish.
For the visitors, Corey Webster (25 points), Tom Vodanovich (19 points), and Sam Waardenburg (19 points) fought valiantly but couldn’t overcome the fired-up Filipinos.
What’s Next for Gilas?
With this win, Gilas Pilipinas holds firm atop Group B and edges closer to clinching a spot in the FIBA Asia Cup. Their next challenge? A showdown against winless Hong Kong, China, on Sunday, November 24, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Hong Kong is coming off a tough 85-55 loss to Chinese Taipei, while Gilas is riding high on momentum. Fans can expect another fiery performance from the home team as they look to keep their perfect record intact.
One for the Books
This victory over New Zealand is more than just a win—it’s a statement. It’s a testament to the heart and skill of this Gilas squad, proving that when the Filipino crowd and players unite, anything is possible.
This historic win not only ended an eight-year drought against the 22nd-ranked team in the world but also cemented Gilas’ undefeated streak at 3-0 across two qualification windows. And the best part? It all went down at the same venue where the heartbreaks began years ago.
Heroes on the Hardwood
As always, Gilas’ “PUSO” was on full display, with multiple players stepping up to deliver the win. Justin Brownlee put on a masterclass, finishing with 26 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. Kai Sotto wasn’t far behind, flirting with a triple-double with 19 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists. Together, they formed a formidable duo that sealed the game in the dying moments.
Brownlee coolly sank clutch free throws with 11.1 seconds left, while Sotto’s emphatic block on Taylor Britt’s layup attempt was the final nail in the Tall Blacks’ coffin.
Scottie Thompson (12 points, 6 assists), Chris Newsome (11 points, 2 steals), and Dwight Ramos (11 points, 6 rebounds) also brought their A-game, with Newsome nailing a crucial three-pointer in the final minute to give Gilas breathing room.
Turning the Tide
The game’s momentum shifted in the third quarter when Gilas unleashed a blistering 16-0 run, flipping a deficit into a 72-60 lead. That pivotal stretch energized the crowd and set the tone for the thrilling finish.
For the visitors, Corey Webster (25 points), Tom Vodanovich (19 points), and Sam Waardenburg (19 points) fought valiantly but couldn’t overcome the fired-up Filipinos.
What’s Next for Gilas?
With this win, Gilas Pilipinas holds firm atop Group B and edges closer to clinching a spot in the FIBA Asia Cup. Their next challenge? A showdown against winless Hong Kong, China, on Sunday, November 24, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Hong Kong is coming off a tough 85-55 loss to Chinese Taipei, while Gilas is riding high on momentum. Fans can expect another fiery performance from the home team as they look to keep their perfect record intact.
One for the Books
This victory over New Zealand is more than just a win—it’s a statement. It’s a testament to the heart and skill of this Gilas squad, proving that when the Filipino crowd and players unite, anything is possible.
Nov 22, 2024
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