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Tag: Gilas Pilipinas

  • Justin Brownlee sees lessons amid Gilas Pilipinas’ setbacks in harder second window of FIBA Qualifiers 

    Justin Brownlee sees lessons amid Gilas Pilipinas’ setbacks in harder second window of FIBA Qualifiers 

    After Gilas Pilipinas suffered back-to-back defeats to New Zealand and Australia in Window 2 of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, Justin Brownlee opted to reflect rather than dwell on frustration. The Philippines now sits at an even 2-2 record, carrying their first-round results into the second phase.

     

    Coming off a flawless Window 1 with commanding wins over Guam, the setbacks against the Tall Blacks and Boomers reminded the team of the challenge of competing against basketball’s elite.

     

    “I think this window, it definitely gave us a lot of experience in playing teams like New Zealand and Australia. They give you that high level,” Brownlee said after Sunday’s 66-93 loss to Australia at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. “These two are some of the best teams worldwide.”

     

    Gilas kept pace in the first half, with Brownlee and Quentin Millora-Brown combining to keep the hosts within five points at halftime, 33-38. 

     

    The second half, however, exposed the depth and talent of the Boomers. Led by Elijah Pepper, Tanner Krebs, and the returning Mitch Creek, Australia surged ahead, building a 17-point advantage that Gilas could not overcome. 

     

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    For the 37-year-old forward, these contests are not only a test of his own game but a vital experience for Gilas’ younger core, which includes Kevin Quiambao, Carl Tamayo, AJ Edu, and Millora-Brown.

     

    “I appreciate the experience, just like for sure the whole team did, and the coaching staff and the whole program. They appreciate the experience. Hopefully, we just have to get better from this,” Brownlee said.

     

    Individually, Brownlee rebounded from a quiet four-point outing against New Zealand, leading Gilas with 20 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, and a steal against the Boomers. 

     

    Yet he emphasized that personal performance is secondary to team objectives. His focus remains on guiding Gilas to wins in upcoming rematches against both New Zealand and Australia in Window 3.

     

    “It always feels good to get back into the rhythm, but unfortunately, the main goal tonight was to win. Whether I am in rhythm or not, the main goal is just to try to get the win,” Brownlee shared. 

    “Obviously, as a player, you want to try to get into rhythm and get going for your team. We just have to regroup and just come out better next time.” 

     

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  • Quentin Millora-Brown excited to team up with former UAAP rival Mike Phillips for Gilas Pilipinas

    Quentin Millora-Brown excited to team up with former UAAP rival Mike Phillips for Gilas Pilipinas

    What was once a fierce collegiate rivalry may soon become a key partnership for the Philippine national team.

     

    After battling each other in the trenches of the UAAP, Quentin Millora-Brown is now embracing the possibility of sharing the floor with former adversary Mike Phillips as Gilas Pilipinas continues to reshape its identity heading into the next window of international competition.

     

    Millora-Brown anchored the interior for the University of the Philippines during UAAP Season 87, while Phillips served as the defensive engine for De La Salle University. Their matchup became one of the defining frontcourt duels of the season, culminating in a championship run for the Fighting Maroons.

     

    Now, their paths are aligning under a different flag.

     

    Phillips recently received clearance from FIBA to suit up as a local player for Gilas, opening the door for a potential reunion—this time as teammates—when the Philippines returns for Window 3 against familiar opponents New Zealand men’s national basketball team and Australia men’s national basketball team.

     

    For Millora-Brown, the transition from rivalry to brotherhood feels natural.

     

    “His energy is amazing. I think he’ll bring great effort to us — really strong defensive energy, a hard roller, and a great screener. There’s a lot to look forward to,” Millora-Brown told reporters after Sunday’s 66-93 loss to the Boomers at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    While the spotlight has largely focused on Gilas’ recent setbacks, the 6-foot-9 big man is quietly building consistency in his role. Across four international appearances, Millora-Brown has averaged 8.3 points on an efficient 61.9-percent shooting clip while pulling down eight rebounds per game—numbers that reflect his growing comfort in the system.

     

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    Still, he believes his impact goes beyond scoring.

     

    “I still need to feel the system. In the last three games, I’ve started figuring out where I fit, where I can score. Defensively, that’s always about energy, effort, and giving 100 percent,” Millora-Brown shared.

     

    “For me, it’s also about helping our guys — finding ways to get Justin open, get him comfortable, and give our other shooters confidence. We never really found a confident flow throughout the game; they were taking us out of our spots more than we wanted.”

     

    That mindset underscores a broader shift within Gilas Pilipinas, where roles are evolving and chemistry remains a work in progress. With established contributors like Justin Brownlee, Dwight Ramos, and CJ Perez carrying significant responsibilities, the arrival of Phillips could inject additional defensive intensity and rebounding presence.

     

    Despite back-to-back losses in Window 2, the Philippines has already secured passage to the next round of qualifiers, giving the team valuable time to recalibrate. For Millora-Brown, the focus now shifts toward physicality, execution, and turning lessons into results when Gilas faces the same opponents again.

     

    “Just breaking their physicality, getting downhill with our guards, relieving pressure, and finding ways to get passes down the elbow,” he said.

     

    “That’s what we need to do to win in the next games.”

     

    If Phillips officially joins the rotation, Gilas may soon feature a frontcourt built not on rivalry—but on reinforcement.

     

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  • Tim Cone expresses relief as Gilas advances to the next round despite setback

    Tim Cone expresses relief as Gilas advances to the next round despite setback

    Advancement is secured, but comfort is nowhere to be found for Gilas Pilipinas. After suffering a 93-66 defeat to world Australia at the Mall of Asia Arena, a loss that capped a winless second window.

     

    The Philippines remained safely through to the next phase of the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.

     

    Gilas’ early surge against the Boomers briefly ignited the home crowd, signaling belief against one of the powerhouses. But as the game went on, Australia’s depth and discipline took control, handing the Philippines a second straight defeat and leaving them at 2-2 in Group A.

     

    A sweep of Guam in the first window last year built enough cushion to guarantee progression. The losses to Australia and New Zealand dented momentum.

     

    “We’re not going to lose our berth in losing to New Zealand and Australia,” Gilas coach Tim Cone said.

     

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    The numbers back him up. Australia tops Group A at 4-0 and has already sealed its place in the next round. The Philippines and New Zealand are tied for second, while Guam sits winless at 0-4. With only the third and final window remaining in July, advancement is no longer the question.

     

    Unlike most tournaments where teams reset in the next stage, this format carries over results against fellow qualifiers. That technical detail transforms past losses into future pressure.

     

    “But these games are carry over. They’re still very, very important. We carry over with a bad record, it’s going to be much tougher for us. There should be no margin for error (in the second round).” Cone later pointed out.

     

    That margin may define the Philippines’ World Cup fate. A weaker carry-over record could force Gilas into near-perfection mode in the second round.

     

    Where Group A teams are expected to be bracketed into Group E alongside Middle Eastern contenders such as Jordan, Iran, and Syria. A strong foundation now could mean breathing room later.

     

    “So we need to at least get one win from the four games we played against Australia and New Zealand so that we can have a bigger margin for error,” said Cone. “If we don’t, we may have to do something like sweep the second round against the Middle Eastern teams.”

     

    For Gilas, advancement is secured — but advantage is not, and in a qualification campaign where every result lingers, the next window won’t just be about survival. It will be about shaping the road ahead.

     

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  • Gilas Pilipinas falters late against Australia after second-half collapse in World Cup Qualifiers

    Gilas Pilipinas falters late against Australia after second-half collapse in World Cup Qualifiers

    Gilas Pilipinas found itself locked in a competitive battle early, but a third-quarter explosion led by Elijah Pepper turned the tide as the Australia men’s national basketball team pulled away for a commanding 93-66 victory in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    For much of the first half, the hosts stayed within striking distance, trailing by only five at the break. But Australia’s depth and perimeter firepower eventually took control, unleashing a dominant second-half run that exposed Gilas’ struggles on both ends of the floor.

     

    Pepper spearheaded the decisive stretch, catching fire from deep and finishing with a game-high 28 points built on five three-pointers. His scoring burst fueled a momentum swing that quickly transformed a manageable deficit into a runaway lead, keeping the Boomers unbeaten in Group A.

     

    The Philippines struggled to generate consistent offense despite a strong all-around effort from Justin Brownlee, who bounced back with 20 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists after a quiet outing in the previous game. 

     

    Quentin Millora-Brown also provided support inside with 11 points, but offensive rhythm remained elusive for the rest of the squad.

     

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    Outside shooting became a major issue for Gilas, which converted just eight of 31 attempts from beyond the arc while finishing under 35 percent overall from the field. The rebounding battle further tilted the game toward Australia, as the Boomers capitalized on 18 offensive boards that repeatedly extended possessions and punished defensive lapses.

     

    Australia’s balance complemented Pepper’s scoring eruption. Tanner Krebs delivered early momentum and finished with 18 points, while veteran leader Mitch Creek added 13 points and six rebounds to stabilize the Boomers’ attack.

     

    Meanwhile, Gilas guard Dwight Ramos—fresh off leading the team in scoring against the New Zealand men’s national basketball team—was limited to nine points on a tough shooting night.

     

    Despite the lopsided defeat, the Philippines still secured passage to the next phase of the qualifiers after Guam men’s national basketball team absorbed a heavy loss to New Zealand earlier in the day, allowing Gilas to advance alongside the Tall Blacks.

     

    The result, however, underscored the growing challenge facing Gilas: translating competitive stretches into full-game execution against deeper and more physical international opponents.

     

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  • FIBA World Cup Qualifiers: Gilas Pilipinas vs. Australia — Game Preview, Predictions & Betting Odds

    FIBA World Cup Qualifiers: Gilas Pilipinas vs. Australia — Game Preview, Predictions & Betting Odds

    Gilas Pilipinas comes into Sunday’s clash with Australia holding a 2-1 record in Pool A, thanks to commanding back-to-back victories over Guam in the first window (87-46 and 95-71) and a narrow 69-66 loss to New Zealand at home. Those wins over Guam showcased Gilas’ balanced scoring, defensive discipline, and depth, with contributors like Justin Brownlee, Dwight Ramos, and Kevin Quiambao stepping up early in the qualifying campaign.

     

    Australia enters the matchup unbeaten in the qualifiers and as one of the highest-ranked teams in Asia, combining physicality with consistent execution. The Boomers’ rotation boasts experienced frontcourt players such as Nick Kay and Sam Froling—whose rebounding and inside presence have helped Australia control games so far. 

     

    Match: Gilas Pilipinas vs. Australia
     Event: FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers — Group A
     Date & Time: Sunday, March 1, 2026
     Venue: SM Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay City

     

    Head-to-Head Context

     

    Historically, Australia has held a decisive edge over the Philippines, leading the all-time series and winning previous FIBA encounters by comfortable margins. In the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup, the Boomers handed Gilas an 84-60 quarterfinal loss, underscoring the challenge the Filipinos face.

     

    Key Matchups & Storylines

    • Frontcourt Battle: June Mar Fajardo, AJ Edu, Quentin Millora-Brown, and Kevin Quiambao will be tasked with combating Australia’s size inside.

       

    • Scoring & Perimeter Play: Gilas needs balanced production beyond Brownlee, who struggled in the New Zealand game, with Ramos, CJ Perez, and Juan Gomez de Liaño expected to buoy the offense.

       

    • Defense & Rebounding: Limiting Australia’s second-chance points and controlling the boards will be crucial for Gilas to stay competitive.

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    Predictions & Betting Odds

     

    Most sportsbooks list Australia as the favorite to win:

    • Moneyline Odds: Australia around 1.24 vs. Philippines around 3.73 (OKBet) — indicating a strong edge for the Boomers based on rankings and form.

       

    • Probability Estimates: Some bookmakers give Australia roughly 70–71% chance to win this matchup, reflecting the team’s recent success and depth.

       

     

    Given Australia’s unbeaten qualifying run, head-to-head dominance, and higher FIBA ranking, most predictions lean toward the Boomers controlling from the outset. However, Gilas’ homecourt advantage and improved collective play could make it closer than many expect, especially if perimeter shooting and execution improve.

     

    What’s at Stake

     

    A Gilas victory would bolster its chances of finishing in the top three of Pool A, advancing to the next qualifying round with momentum. Even a competitive showing against one of Asia’s basketball powerhouses would build confidence heading into the final window. Conversely, a loss would deepen the challenge for the Philippines, placing more emphasis on consistency and execution in the campaign’s final phase.

     

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  • Gilas sticks with same lineup, eyes redemption against Australia

    Gilas sticks with same lineup, eyes redemption against Australia

    Continuity will be the approach for Gilas Pilipinas as it heads into another high-stakes test in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, with head coach Tim Cone opting to keep the same 12-man lineup for Sunday’s showdown against Australia men’s national basketball team at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    The decision comes after a heartbreaking 69-66 loss to the New Zealand men’s national basketball team, a game that showed both the promise and the growing pains of the current Gilas core.

     

    Now sitting at 2-1, the Philippines faces an uphill climb against an unbeaten Australian side that recently handled Guam, 93-80. Rather than overhaul the rotation, Cone is leaning on familiarity—believing that experience against elite competition will ultimately sharpen the team.

     

    “that we get by playing these guys more and more. I think it just helps us to come up with ways to be successful,” Cone said of the upcoming matchup against Australia, referencing their previous 84-60 defeat in continental play.

     

    One of the biggest storylines entering the matchup is the expected bounce-back performance of naturalized star Justin Brownlee, who struggled mightily against New Zealand with just four points on 2-of-10 shooting while missing all four attempts from beyond the arc.

     

    Brownlee will again anchor a deep frontline rotation alongside AJ Edu, Quentin Millora-Brown, Kevin Quiambao, Carl Tamayo, and June Mar Fajardo—a group that reflects the program’s continued shift toward length and versatility.

     

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    Despite Brownlee’s off night, Gilas showed flashes of offensive balance, particularly from Dwight Ramos, who led the team with 16 points, and CJ Perez, who added 15 markers in an aggressive scoring effort.

     

    Juan Gomez de Liaño also provided a spark with 10 points, including two triples, marking a strong first appearance for the national team since the 2023 qualifiers.

     

    Completing the backcourt rotation are Calvin Oftana, Chris Newsome, and Scottie Thompson, forming a defensive-minded guard group tasked with containing Australia’s perimeter attack.

    Australia enters the contest with a balanced roster led by veteran wing Mitch Creek, along with a mix of international league standouts including Nick Kay, Jack White, and Sam Froling—continuing the program’s tradition of depth and physicality.

     

    Their structured system and size present another major challenge for Gilas, which has struggled in recent meetings against Oceania powerhouses.

     

    Despite the narrow defeat to New Zealand, the Philippine side showed improved defensive discipline and late-game resilience—signs Cone hopes will translate into a stronger performance in the rematch against a higher-ranked opponent.

     

    The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas has also called on fans to wear blue for the home game, aiming to recreate the electric atmosphere that nearly fueled a comeback in the previous outing.

    For Gilas, the approach is clear: stay the course, trust the chemistry being built, and turn lessons from close losses into momentum.

     

    Against Australia, continuity will once again be put to the test.

     

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  •  Is It Time for Gilas Pilipinas to Move On From Justin Brownlee?

     Is It Time for Gilas Pilipinas to Move On From Justin Brownlee?

    For nearly a decade, Justin Brownlee has been more than just a naturalized player for Gilas Pilipinas—he has been a cultural touchstone and the backbone of some of the program’s biggest successes in modern history. From helping the Philippines capture its first Asian Games basketball gold in over 60 years to leading scoring in FIBA qualifiers, Brownlee’s impact has been undeniable. But after his worst performance yet in the recent loss to New Zealand Tall Blacks and with age rapidly becoming a factor, it’s worth asking: Is it finally time for Gilas to begin moving on from Brownlee? 

     

    Brownlee’s Legacy and Recent Struggles

     

    Statistically, Brownlee has been nothing short of dominant when healthy and integrated into the national team. In the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers, he averaged a remarkable 21.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, leading Gilas in scoring and efficiency through the group stages. Across multiple FIBA events, his overall national team averages sit around 22.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists, showing just how pivotal he has been for the Philippines.

     

    Yet despite those strong numbers, his production is no longer as reliable as it once was. In the recent World Cup Asian Qualifier against New Zealand—one of Gilas’ most critical games—Brownlee’s impact was muted relative to his past performances. While official game stats for that specific contest are still being digested, analysts and fans alike noted it was arguably his poorest showing in a qualifier, underlining a growing concern that he may not be the same game-changer he was earlier in his Gilas tenure. 

     

    The multiple time PBA Best Import has had games where he was limited to single digits like the previous game against the Tall Blacks, where he was held to just eight points in their FIBA Asia Cup game against Iraq where he shot only 3-for-11 from the field. 

     

    Age is an unavoidable factor. At 38 years old, Brownlee is playing well past what is traditionally considered a basketball prime, especially in the physically demanding environment of international competition. Opposing teams have scouted him relentlessly, and defenses increasingly key in on limiting his touches—forcing Gilas’ offense into predictable patterns.

     

    A New Era: The Case for Bennie Boatwright

     

    Enter Bennie Boatwright, a 27-year-old big man who has agreed to start the naturalization process to play for the Philippines. Boatwright brings a different profile: younger, taller, and with the versatility to play multiple frontcourt positions. Standing at 6-foot-10 with solid shooting and mobility, he represents a more long-term solution for Gilas’ naturalized slot as the program builds toward the 2027 FIBA World Cup and even the 2028 Olympics.

     

    Unlike Brownlee—whose best years behind him are offset by high basketball IQ and clutch play—Boatwright offers the chance to build around a player whose athletic timeline aligns with Gilas’ future core. He doesn’t yet have a long international resume for the Philippines, but his potential upside is already turning heads among fans and analysts. 

     

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    Why Gilas Can’t Always Rely on One Man

     

    There’s no question Brownlee has contributed in monumental ways. His ability to create off the dribble, score in bulk, and shoulder offensive loads helped Gilas punch above its weight in multiple tournaments. But basketball, particularly at the international level, thrives on sustainable depth and evolving team identity—not dependence on a single veteran, no matter how legendary.

     

    Gilas’ recent struggles against New Zealand showed what happens when Brownlee isn’t at his best: the team’s offense became stagnant, and the burden shifted to younger role players who are still finding their footing. The Philippines cannot afford to lean on one import who may understandably slow with age, especially when the rest of the roster is trying to develop its own international confidence.

     

    The presence of guards like Kevin Quiambao, Dwight Ramos, and emerging bigs like AJ Edu and Carl Tamayo means the foundation for a more balanced Gilas is already being laid. What Gilas needs now is a naturalized player whose physical prime coincides with the growth trajectory of the local core—a role Boatwright is primed to fill.

     

    Conclusion: Respect the Past, Plan for the Future

     

    Brownlee’s contributions to Gilas will be remembered as pivotal chapters in Filipino basketball history. But the landscape is shifting. The team’s results, his age, and the arrival of a younger naturalized option like Boatwright suggest it may be time to transition rather than abruptly replace. Gilas doesn’t need to cast Brownlee aside—it needs to evolve beyond the era in which one man was the team’s heartbeat.  

     

    It’s no doubt that “Magic” Brownlee will always be hailed as the best naturalized player to ever play for Gilas, a figure who captivated fans with his clutch performances, scoring bursts, and veteran leadership whenever the stakes were high. From unforgettable runs in FIBA Asia Cups to spearheading historic victories, Brownlee’s influence extended beyond points and rebounds—he elevated team confidence and helped redefine what Filipino basketball could achieve on the international stage.

     

    If the national program wants sustainable success on the biggest stages, the question isn’t if Gilas should move on from Brownlee—it’s how they manage that transition with respect, strategy, and a focus on the next generation.

     

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  • Old rivals meet again as Australia returns to face Gilas

    Old rivals meet again as Australia returns to face Gilas

    The eyes of Filipino basketball fans are once again fixed on the court, but this time, anticipation comes with a sense of cautious optimism. 


    Gilas Pilipinas will host Australia on Sunday in the second window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers — a matchup steeped in history, rivalry, and redemption.

     

    Memories of July 2018 remain vivid. That infamous clash at the Philippine Arena, left a lasting mark on both nations’ basketball programs. 

     

    The game erupted into a massive brawl, leading to suspensions, fines, and an unprecedented one‑game fanless stadium. 

     

    Calvin Abueva bore the brunt with a six-game ban, while teammates Roger Pogoy, Carl Cruz, and Jio Jalalon faced five-game suspensions. Even Chot Reyes temporarily stepped away from his coaching duties as Gilas sought to regain composure.

     

    Financial repercussions were equally severe. The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas paid over P13 million for “unsportsmanlike behavior of its delegation members and of its public, as well as for insufficient organization of the game,” while Basketball Australia was fined over P5 million for the misconduct of its players and for tampering with equipment prior to the game.

     

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    But time has a way of healing old wounds. When the two sides met again last August in the FIBA Asia Cup quarterfinals in Saudi Arabia, Australia dominated on the scoreboard with an 84‑60 win, yet there were no signs of lingering animosity. 

     

    “We’ve moved on,” remarked then-SBP president Al Panlilio, reflecting the evolved relationship between the federations.

     

    Sunday’s matchup carries a different weight. Beyond points, wins, or standings, it represents a chance for redemption, composure, and sportsmanship. 

     

    After a tough loss to New Zealand, Gilas Pilipinas is expected to come out faster, sharper, and more disciplined, focusing on speed, perimeter shooting, and lockdown defense to counter Australia’s powerful inside game and sharpshooters. 

     

    Current Gilas coach Tim Cone is likely to rotate his lineup strategically, blending veteran experience with youthful energy as he looks to guide the team to a strong bounce-back performance.

     

    Gilas fans remember the chaos of 2018, but they are eager to witness a clean, competitive contest that showcases the skill, strategy, and heart of their team without the shadow of controversy.

     

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  • Dwight Ramos vows bounce-back game as Gilas falls short vs New Zealand

    Dwight Ramos vows bounce-back game as Gilas falls short vs New Zealand

    A late surge sparked by Dwight Ramos nearly rescued Gilas Pilipinas from the brink, but the comeback ran out of time as the Nationals absorbed a heartbreaking 69-66 loss to the New Zealand Tall Blacks in the FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers Thursday night at Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    In a game defined by defensive grit and missed opportunities, Ramos emerged as the focal point of Gilas’ late push—but also its most honest critic afterward.

     

    Trailing by nine with just over three minutes left, the Philippines looked headed for a decisive defeat. Instead, Ramos ignited a final rally, scoring five straight points in the closing minute to cut the deficit to two. His deep triple brought the crowd back to life, and his second-chance layup kept Gilas within striking distance after a defensive stop.

     

    When New Zealand missed a crucial free throw in the final seconds, the door briefly opened. Ramos pushed the ball upcourt and launched a long attempt from near the logo, hoping to force overtime—but the shot bounced off the backboard and rim as the buzzer sounded.

    Despite leading Gilas with 16 points, Ramos struggled with efficiency, finishing 6-of-21 from the field—a stat line that weighed heavily on him after the game.

     

    “It’s kind of tough because I missed a lot of shots. Obviously, I missed the last shot. I feel bad. I wish I was better today,” said Ramos, who led the team with 16 points, although he shot on a 6-of-21 clip.

     

    The loss wasn’t defined by the final possession alone. Ramos acknowledged that the outcome was shaped by missed chances throughout the contest.

     

    “Hopefully, we all learn. It’s a close game. Every possession counts. I’m just trying to be better,” he said.

     

    Currently playing for Levanga Hokkaido, Ramos emphasized that stepping up offensively was part of sharing the load with naturalized star Justin Brownlee, who drew heavy defensive attention all night. 

     

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    “I mean, I just try to stay aggressive because obviously, a lot of the focus was on JB [Justin Brownlee]. If you just watch him and expect him to do everything, it’s a lot of load on him. Everyone has to be aggressive and play their part. I just try to do mine. I was not the best today, and I’ll just try to be better moving forward.”

     

    “I was trying to bank it in, and it just didn’t fall. But it’s not just about that shot, you know? I missed a lot of other shots, and I just have to be better in the future,” Ramos told reporters after finishing with 16 points on 6-of-21 shooting, along with eight rebounds, two steals, and one assist.

     

    For Ramos, the narrow defeat quickly shifts from frustration to urgency. Gilas faces another major test against the Australia men’s national basketball team, a matchup that leaves little time for the team to dwell on mistakes.

     

    “Right now, all I can think about is my mistakes. I feel bad, but I gotta move on to the next game,” the Levanga Hokkado baller added.

     

    The upcoming clash also marks a renewed chapter in the Philippines-Australia rivalry, with veteran guard Mitch Creek returning to the Boomers’ lineup. Ramos believes the lessons from the New Zealand game—and a productive training camp—can help Gilas respond.

     

    “I think so. The coaches had a great game plan today, and the training camp was great. I think the game was this close because of the players’ effort and also the coaches’ game plan. We did a great job, and we’re all learning at the same time to try to be better,” Ramos shared.

     

    “We’re gonna try and learn from this game. It was a close game; obviously, there’s a lot to learn because every possession counts. We’re gonna check over the mistakes and learn from this.”

    While the loss stung, Ramos’ late-game charge highlighted a growing leadership role—one that Gilas will need as it attempts to regroup quickly and defend home floor in its next outing. 

     

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  • Tim Cone hails Juan Gomez de Liaño as a bright spot for Gilas despite loss to New Zealand

    Tim Cone hails Juan Gomez de Liaño as a bright spot for Gilas despite loss to New Zealand

    Even in defeat, Gilas Pilipinas found a promising storyline moving forward.

     

    Head coach Tim Cone singled out Juan Gomez de Liaño as one of the biggest positives from Thursday night’s narrow 69-66 loss to the New Zealand men’s national basketball team at the Mall of Asia Arena in the FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

     

    While the result slowed the Philippines’ momentum in the tournament, Gomez de Liaño’s performance offered a glimpse of the national team’s evolving guard rotation.

     

    Inserted early in the first quarter in place of CJ Perez, the Converge playmaker wasted little time making an impact. He scored five quick points in just over three minutes, immediately injecting pace and confidence into the offense. By the end of the night, he tallied 10 points and two assists, highlighted by a pair of triples that kept Gilas within striking distance.

     

    Cone revealed that the performance did not come as a surprise. “He has been playing, you know, he was playing maybe one of our best, if not the best player in our whole practice camp that we had in preparation. So we’re not surprised by what he came out and did,” Cone said of Gomez de Liaño during the post-game press conference.

     

    For Gomez de Liaño, the outing marked a significant step in his return to the national setup. Though he was part of the training pool during the first window, he fell short of making the final roster. This time, his opportunity translated into immediate production—and potentially a longer stay.

     

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    “You know, he’s going to be a mainstay on this team, he’s going to be, he’s going to get a lot more, remember this was his first game in front of a big crowd and, you know, a lot of pressure,” Cone said.

     

    “He’s going to get comfortable and he’s going to do a lot more than he just did today and he did a lot today but he’s even going to do a lot more going forward, he’s a special talent,” he added.

    Cone emphasized that familiarity with the system will only strengthen Gomez de Liaño’s role as the campaign progresses.

     

    That projection aligns with the guard’s recent rise at the professional level. Playing for the Converge FiberXers, the former UP Fighting Maroons star delivered an impressive run in the last PBA Philippine Cup, averaging 19 points, 7.23 assists, and 6.7 rebounds per game. His breakout stretch included three triple-doubles—most notably in his debut—and a career-high 32-point performance against the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel that earned him Player of the Week honors.

     

    Those numbers reflect the all-around skill set that Gilas hopes can translate consistently to the international stage.

     

    Despite the setback against New Zealand, Gomez de Liaño’s emergence gives the coaching staff another reliable option heading into the team’s next test against the Australia men’s national basketball team on March 1, again at the Mall of Asia Arena—where Gilas will look to turn a tough loss into momentum for the rest of the qualifiers.

     

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