In a nail-biting matchup, Gilas Pilipinas emerged victorious against Iraq with a final score of 66-57 in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This win secures their spot in the qualification for the quarterfinals, boosting their confidence and morale.
The Game Highlights
The Philippines started strong, with AJ Edu scoring crucial points and Dwight Ramos leading the team with 19 points. Calvin Oftana also made a significant impact with a clutch three-pointer that helped douse Iraq’s comeback bid in the fourth quarter. Despite struggling with injuries, Oftana’s performance was a testament to the team’s resilience.
Injury Update
Calvin Oftana’s injury raised concerns, but coach Tim Cone’s post-game comments suggested that the team is cautiously optimistic about his condition. Oftana had to be helped back to the bench with over three minutes left in the game after entangling with an Iraqi player.
Coach Tim Cone’s Insights
Coach Tim Cone attributed the win to the team’s mental adjustments and ability to adapt to the challenging circumstances. “Any win at this point is a big win for us because we need it to rekindle our confidence,” Cone said, emphasizing the importance of this victory for the team’s morale.
Player Performances
• Dwight Ramos: Led the team with 19 points and played a crucial role in the fourth quarter.
• AJ Edu: Contributed significantly with his scoring and rebounding prowess.
• Calvin Oftana: Made a crucial three-pointer despite struggling with injuries.
Gilas Pilipinas’ Journey in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025
After starting the tournament with back-to-back losses to Chinese Taipei and New Zealand, Gilas Pilipinas faced a must-win situation against Iraq. The team’s determination and teamwork ultimately paid off, securing their spot in the quarterfinals.
What’s Next?
Gilas Pilipinas will face either host Saudi Arabia or Jordan for a spot in the quarterfinals on Monday. With their newfound momentum, the team is poised to make a deep run in the tournament.
Conclusion
Gilas Pilipinas’ thrilling win over Iraq marks a significant milestone in their FIBA Asia Cup 2025 journey. With their sights set on the quarterfinals, the team is determined to make a lasting impression in the tournament. The Philippines’ efficient offense and teamwork have been key to their success, and fans are eagerly awaiting their next match .
