MANILA, Philippines – Finally, Gilas Pilipinas defeated New Zealand in FIBA!
Gilas ended the long drought against the Tall Blacks, 93-89, in the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers Thursday, November 21, 2024 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
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| Curse broken as Gilas finally defeated New Zealand to go 3-0. Photo courtesy: FIBA |
Justin Brownlee sank pressure-packed free throws with 11.1 seconds left for the eventual scoreline, before Kai Sotto blocked Taylor Britt on the other end to help the men's team end a four-game, eight-year losing skid against the world no. 22.
With the victory, the Nationals clinched solo lead in Group B action with a 3-0 record while dealing erstwhile co-leader New Zealand its first loss at 2-1.
The two teams first faced off in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in 2016.
Gilas is hoping to wrap up the second window with a perfect record and a ticket to the FIBA Asia Cup 2025, to be held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in August. They will then face Hong Kong on Sunday, November 24, at the same venue.
— The Summit Express
