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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Basketball devider Gilas takes litmus test vs visiting Chinese Taipei

Gilas takes litmus test vs visiting Chinese Taipei

Published Feb 25, 2024 05:37 am

At A Glance

  • Gilas Pilipinas is set to face its first real litmus test against Chinese Taipei when it tries to go for a sweep of the first window of the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers before its home crowd at the PhilSports Arena on Sunday, Feb. 25.

Gilas Pilipinas is set to face its first real litmus test against Chinese Taipei when it tries to go for a sweep of the first window of the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers before its home crowd at the PhilSports Arena on Sunday, Feb. 25.


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Riding the crest of their smashing 94-64 debut over Hong Kong in their first game, the Nationals are facing a more formidable opponent in the Taiwanese in the 7:30 p.m. encounter.

Gilas head coach Tim Cone is particularly wary of the Chinese Taipei team which has been playing together for quite some time now.

That chemistry was very much evident in Chinese Taipei’s first game in the window when it stood tooth and nail against New Zealand in the first half before losing steam in the last two frames.

Gilas’ defense should be focused on veteran wingman Cheng Liu who exploded for 20 points against the Tall Blacks and anchored Chinese Taipei’s offense centered on the signature three-point shooting.

The Nationals also need to shadow Chun Chi Lin and Cheng Lin who also proved to be formidable offensive threats for the Taiwanese.

Gilas, on the other hand, cannot afford to play sloppy basketball as it did against Hong Kong where it needed a big third quarter showing to overcome a lethargic start.

Justin Brownlee is expected to finally get his rhythm after finally getting the first taste of competitive action in the game against Hong Kong.

He finished with 16 points, seven rebounds and seven assists while leading the way for the Gilas' young guns who also made their presence felt in the first game.

Towering big man Kai Sotto remains the crew’s biggest two-way weapon and should carry more load against the Taiwanese. 

The A-games of the likes of Dwight Ramos, Kevin Quiambao and  PBA stars Scottie Thompson and CJ Perez should also be in full display if Gilas wishes to avoid any upset at home.

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