Kai Sotto’s STRENGTH! Gilas Pilipinas CRUSHED Hong Kong China! Kevin Quiambao has been used!
LAKAS ni Kai Sotto! DINUROG ng Gilas Pilipinas ang Hong Kong China! Ginamit na si Kevin Quiambao!
In a thrilling display of skill and teamwork, Gilas Pilipinas dominated Hong Kong China in their second game of the FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers’ second window. Following their historic win over New Zealand, the stakes were high for the Filipino squad, as a victory would secure their spot in the 2025 Asia Cup. And they delivered in resounding fashion.
Kai Sotto’s Dominance
One of the standout performances of the game came from Kai Sotto. The towering center used his height advantage to great effect, especially in the early stages of the game, establishing dominance with powerful offensive rebounds and key baskets. His presence in the paint was overwhelming for Hong Kong, and his ability to control the boards was a major factor in Gilas’ control of the game. Sotto’s strong performance in the first quarter set the tone, making it clear that the Philippines was intent on securing a vital win.
The Contribution of Key Players
While Sotto took charge, he was far from the only player who made a difference. Junmar Fajardo, the veteran center, also showcased his invaluable skills in the paint, providing crucial points and tough interior defense. GMF (Gilas’ new rising star) was another standout, contributing six straight points in the first quarter, giving the team an early cushion.
Justin Brownlee, the naturalized Filipino player, also proved his worth with a spectacular highlight play early on. His leadership and composure in the game helped keep Gilas steady, even when Hong Kong mounted a brief comeback. Chris Newsam’s quick four points at the start helped establish an early rhythm for the team, further solidifying their early dominance.
The Rise of Kevin Quiambao
Another key moment in the game was the inclusion of Kevin Quiambao, who made an immediate impact in the fourth quarter. His timely scoring boosted the team’s momentum and helped seal the deal for Gilas. His performance was a welcome addition to an already potent lineup, as Quiambao showed his ability to deliver under pressure, ensuring the win for the Philippines.
Gilas’ Strong Teamwork and Strategy
While individual performances were critical, it was the strong teamwork and ball movement of Gilas Pilipinas that truly stood out. The team’s cohesion was especially evident in the third quarter when they extended their lead to 24 points, leaving Hong Kong with little chance of a comeback. Carl Tamayo’s nine consecutive points in the second quarter also played a pivotal role in maintaining control over the game.
As the game entered its final minutes, Gilas Pilipinas showed poise and confidence, holding off any efforts by Hong Kong to close the gap. Their unselfish ball movement, combined with sharp shooting, ensured a dominant 14-point victory.
Conclusion: A Crucial Victory
This win over Hong Kong China was more than just a triumph—it was a statement that Gilas Pilipinas is ready for the 2025 Asia Cup. With standout performances from the likes of Kai Sotto, Junmar Fajardo, GMF, Justin Brownlee, Chris Newsam, and Kevin Quiambao, the team showcased the strength, depth, and potential that will serve them well in the upcoming challenges. This victory not only secured their qualification for the Asia Cup but also proved that they are a force to be reckoned with on the international basketball stage.
As the team moves forward, their chemistry, confidence, and talent will continue to grow, making Gilas Pilipinas one of the teams to watch in the 2025 Asia Cup and beyond.
