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If the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers in Manama, Bahrain were a test, young Gilas Pilipinas definitely overcame it to return home with flying colors.
The national team, made up mainly of college players, twice dominated a fully professional Thailand team as Gilas rose to 3-0 in the playoffs and is now one win away from qualifying for the FIBA Cup Asia next year.
Gilas is now at the Group A stop, which also includes Thailand, Indonesia and South Korea.
The Philippines crushed Thailand, 93-69 on November 27, and repeated over the latter on November 30, 93-61.
“The advantage we had in the first game was so great that we were concerned that they (Gilas) might take the game for granted,” head coach Jong Uichico said in post-game press on Monday. “We really insist on running offense and playing better defense. Thailand played a better game today than in the first game.
Javi Gómez De Liaño starred for the Philippines with 19 points on 7 of 8 shots, while his brother Juan provided support with 14 points, four rebounds and four assists.
In Game 1 against Thailand, it was Dwight Ramos who led Gilas with 20 scores on a perfect 7-for-7 shooting, plus seven rebounds, three assists and three steals.
In the two-game series against the Thais, players like Matt Nieto, Isaac Go, Calvin Oftana, Justin Baltazar, Kenmark Carino and Rey Suerte also played well.
That’s why it’s no surprise that coach Jong Uichico is still considering these young players for the national team in the February window of next year’s playoffs.
“All of them are in contention for a place in the third window in February. Everyone has the same opportunities, ”said Uichico.
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