MANILA, Philippines – With the anticipation for FIBA 2024 building to a crescendo, GILAS Pilipinas is leading the way as the embodiment of Filipino basketball culture. This trio, well-known for its human spontaneity, bustiness, and gustiness, is poised to wow audiences throughout the world with their dynamic play and unwavering drive. With a mix of seasoned veterans and up-and-coming talent, GILAS Pilipinas hopes to leave a lasting impression on the global scene. Their nation’s aspirations are stoked by their electric flair and undying enthusiasm, which promise exciting matches and life-changing experiences in this famous event. The entire world is anxiously awaiting GILAS Pilipinas’ ascent to glory.

GILAS Pilipinas suffered an 84-73 defeat in a friendly game played early on Friday morning at the Besiktas Akatlar Culture and Sports Complex in Istanbul, falling victim to a potent Turkish squad.

With their clutch shooting from outside the arc (14 of 41), which included 5-of-9 from 6-foot-7 Tarik Biberovic, who led the host nation with 23 points, the Dev Adam were able to hold off the Filipinos.

The Turkish team won the game 81-73 thanks to his final three-pointer of the contest.

Despite shooting only 1 of 7 from outside the arc and turning the ball over six times, Justine Brownlee led Gilas with 21 points.

Before the national team traveled to Riga, Latvia for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament, it played the first of two tune-up games in its schedule. June Mar Fajardo led the squad with 17 points and 11 rebounds.

With the anticipation for FIBA 2024 building to a crescendo, GILAS Pilipinas is leading the way as the embodiment of Filipino basketball culture. This trio, well-known for its human spontaneity, bustiness, and gustiness, is poised to wow audiences throughout the world with their dynamic play and unwavering drive. With a mix of seasoned veterans and up-and-coming talent, GILAS Pilipinas hopes to leave a lasting impression on the global scene. Their nation’s aspirations are stoked by their electric flair and undying enthusiasm, which promise exciting matches and life-changing experiences in this famous event. The entire world is anxiously awaiting GILAS Pilipinas’ ascent to glory.

GILAS Pilipinas demonstrated their renowned passion and perseverance in a recent exhibition match against Turkey, albeit in the absence of important players. June Mar Fajardo and Justin Brownlee spearheaded the attack.

The San Antonio Spurs’ Osman Cedi was courtside, which increased the intensity of the contest. Gilas held the game close in spite of this against a Turkish team that was noticeably devoid of any NBA stars. The visiting team was behind 64-56 at the start of the fourth quarter and 42-40 at the break. But thanks to an 11-4 run that was completed by Brownlee’s lone long-range shot, the Filipinos threatened at 68-65.

Turkey, ranked 24th in the world and coached by three-time Euroleague winner Ergin Ataman, reacted tenaciously, scoring eight baskets in a row to take a 76-65 lead.

Notwithstanding the loss, GILAS Pilipinas’ performance against such a strong foe shows their preparedness and will to battle. Fans both domestically and beyond like the squad for its bustiness and gustiness, which are highlighted by their capacity to remain competitive in the face of adversity.

The world’s fifteenth-ranked team will play the Gilas in their final warm-up match prior to the Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT), which will take place in Poland on Sunday. For the squad to hone their tactics and bolster their roster, this last game will be essential. As the country unites behind their squad in the hopes of seeing a historic performance in FIBA 2024, there is a tangible sense of expectation. GILAS Pilipinas is ready to leave its imprint and represent the Philippines with pride on the international scene thanks to their unique combination of talent, heart, and impromptu play.

Scores at the end of the match

Turkey with 84 points for the win

Individual scores: Biberovic 23, Korkmaz 12, Sanli 9, Sipahi 9, Osmani 8, Ozdemiroglu 7, Haltali 6, Kabaca 3, Yilmaz 3, Bas 2, Yasar 2, Ilyasoglu 0.

Philippines with 73 points

Individual scores: Brownlee 21, Fajardo 17, Sotto 7, Tamayo 7, Newsome 5, Ramos 4, Aguilar 4, Perez 3, Oftana 3, Quiambao 2, Amos 0.

Scores per quarter

24-21; 42-40; 64-56; 84-73.