'Good fight all the way': SBP reacts after Gilas loss to Lebanon
By Carlo Anolin
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) believes that Gilas Pilipinas showed a "good fight all the way" despite the national team absorbing an 85-81 loss against Lebanon in the fourth window of the 2023 World Cup Asian qualifiers at the Nouhad Nawfal Sports Complex in Zouk Mikael early Friday morning, Aug. 26.

Not even the 27-point explosion of NBA star Jordan Clarkson could stop Lebanon as Wael Arakji, FIBA Asia Cup Most Valuable Player, called it a "night-night" and drained clutch baskets to frustrate the Filipinos.
Still, SBP commended Gilas, bannered by the likes of Clarkson, Kai Sotto, and Dwight Ramos, for its "strong showing" against a fierce Lebanon side.
"They (Gilas) played at a higher level, displaying talent, aggressiveness, an improved defensive mindset, and a lot of heart in never giving up until the very end against one of FIBA’s toughest teams," wrote SBP in a social media post Friday, Aug. 26. "The team’s chemistry and cohesiveness will only continue to improve the more they play together."
READ: Chot Reyes rues costly turnovers in Gilas loss
Fighting until the end, and absorbing a painful defeat by just a close margin, will prove to be instrumental for Gilas come the 2023 FIBA World Cup which the country will co-host alongside Japan and Indonesia, said the SBP.
"We believe our team will use this experience to compete even more fiercely come the 2023 World Cup. We remain committed to supporting and harnessing the potential of this team so we can win against the best."
Clarkson and Sotto, at the very least though, showed great combination and formed a threatening 1-2 punch on Gilas' offensive end while Ramos remained consistent with his scoring touch.
That said, the national basketball federation urged fans and the public to continue the support as the Philippines takes on Saudi Arabia on Monday, Aug. 29, here at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
READ: Jordan Clarkson heaps praise on Sotto, Ramos