By WAYLON GALVEZ
As expected, Gilas Pilipinas cruised to 93-69 win over Thailand, completing a two-game sweep of Window 2 in the FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers Monday held in a bubble in Manama, Bahrain.
Javi Gomez de Liano led Gilas’ balanced attack with 19 points off the bench while his brother Juan Gomez de Liano contributed 14 points as the Philippines improved to 3-0 in Group A.
The win was a fitting follow-up to its 93-61 win last week.
Dwight Ramos, who had a team-high 20 points in the first win, finished with 13 points. Matt Nieto added 12 points also off the bench for the Philippines.
The national team’s bench outscored Thailand, 53-0.
Also, the Filipinos controlled the rebounding department, 52-41, as Justin Baltazar collared 11 boards, while Isaac Go added 10, seven of them offensively.
The next qualifying meet is set February 2021 with Samahang Basketbol Pilipinas (SBP) President Al Panlilio expressing the association’s willingness host the event similar to Bahrain.
Meantime, Panlilio lauded the effort of the team composed of collegiate standouts which was given a month to prepare under coach Jong Uichico and project director Tab Baldwin.
“Even with the challenges the situation presented, you gave no excuses and gave us two performances that the entire country is proud of,” said Panlilio, who also heads the MVP Sports Foundation.
“Having young players come together at such a short time and still perform tremendously gives me so much excitement for what the future holds for Philippine basketball.”
“You played great team basketball, with sportsmanship, and with poise beyond your years as you showed the best that Philippine basketball has to offer. We’re so proud of you,” he added.
PHILIPPINES 93 – De Liano J.J. 19, De Liano J.G. 14, Ramos 13, Nieto 12, Oftana 9, Go 9, Ildefonso 5, Paras 4, Suerte 4, Baltazar 2, Carino 2, Tungcab 0.
THAILAND 69 – Jakrawan 34, Suttisin 13, Muangboon 9, Jaisanuk 8, Chungyampin 5, Wongsawangtham 0, Langsui 0, Klaewnarong 0, Lakhan 0, Ghogar 0.
Quarters: 27-19; 53-34; 75-52; 93-69.
