A NERVE-WRACKING way to secure their first Asian Games semi-finals spot in 21 years, Gilas Pilipinas held off Iran, 84-83, on Tuesday, October 3 at the Zhejiang University Zijingang Gymnasium in China.
Gilas Pilipinas Men survive a late rally from Iran to reach the semifinals of the 19th Asian Games 5-on-5 basketball tournament! pic.twitter.com/iw5yYHtedR
— SBP (@officialSBPinc) October 3, 2023
Gilas Pilipinas, particularly Barangay Ginebra resident import and naturalized player Justin Brownlee, excelled in the first three quarters, leading by as many as 21 points, 62-41, and by 17 at the start of the fourth, 71-54.
But Iran mounted a stunning 22-7 run in the fourth quarter, which trimmed the lead to a single possession, 78-76.
Iran even took the lead 83-82.
Brownlee and Fajardo, the team’s leading scorers, however kept their cool to deliver crucial baskets in the last minute of regulation.
As a result, the team was able to take an 84-83 lead, courtesy of a Brownlee basket.
Brownlee exploded for 36 points, 16 in the first quarter and 15 in the third, along with 5-of-7 three-pointers, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists in their game against Qatar.
The Filipino-naturalized player was well-rested after playing only 8 minutes in their elimination game against Qatar.
June Mar Fajardo had a big game in terms of scoring, finishing with 18 points on 7-of-9 shooting, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists. Scottie Thompson, another PBA MVP, added in 11 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists.
CRUCIAL GAME
Gilas Pilipinas will face China in the semifinals tonight at 8 p.m. for a chance at gold. China defeated South Korea 84-70 in their quarterfinal match.
Gilas Pilipinas Men are aiming for the finals!
— SBP (@officialSBPinc) October 4, 2023
Show your support for our national team as they face China in the 19th Asian Games Men's Basketball 5×5 Semifinals.
Watch the game on One Sports and Pilipinas Live. pic.twitter.com/rd80kTzBCO
The Philippines last advanced to the Asiad semi-finals in 2002 at the Busan Games. The team is now striving higher, with the goal of winning a gold medal for the country.