MANILA, Philippines When Gilas Pilipinas plays Hong Kong at the Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday night, they hope to complete a perfect sweep in the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers. The game, which is slated to start at 7:30 p.m., is very important since a win would guarantee the national team’s place in the Saudi Arabia-hosted 2025 FIBA Asia Cup.

Following their dramatic 93-89 victory over world no. 22 New Zealand on Thursday, the Filipinos are coming into the game with a lot of enthusiasm. Teenage big man Kai Sotto’s extraordinary skills were on display during the game; he dabbled in a triple-double performance and was crucial to the team’s victory. As a result of the victory, Gilas secured the sole top spot in Group B with a 3-0 record, demoting New Zealand to second place with a 2-1 slate.

Hong Kong, on the other hand, is in a difficult spot after losing to Chinese Taipei 85-55 and currently sits at the bottom of Group B with a 0-3 record. In spite of their difficulties, Gilas coach Tim Cone has emphasized that the team must approach the match with the same amount of concentration and vigor as everyone else in order to avoid underestimating their opponent.

In addition to securing a spot in the esteemed continental event, a victory on Sunday would further cement Gilas’ supremacy in the group stage and offer them a chance to improve team dynamics and sustain their winning streak.

As the Gilas get ready to play Hong Kong in their upcoming encounter, national coach Tim Cone stressed the value of staying disciplined and focused. Cone stated that his side will not undervalue their opponents, even though the visiting club is ranked lower. He emphasized that Gilas would prepare and play the game with the same ferocity as they did against teams with better rankings.

Regardless of the opponent’s seeming power, Cone thinks that victory depends on mental and tactical constancy. As they try to establish their spot in the tournament, the coach emphasized that treating any team lightly could result in complacency, which is a risk they must afford.

Coach Tim Cone is still dedicated to helping Gilas Pilipinas establish a respectful and professional culture, viewing every game as a vital chance for improvement. The team is committed to successfully implementing their strategies and maintaining their momentum during the FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers by giving each game equal weight.

Leading Gilas’ offensive and defensive efforts again are anticipated to be Kai Sotto and Justine Brownlee, who were crucial in the victory over New Zealand. With a nearly triple-double of 19 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists, 7-foot-3 Sotto demonstrated his flexibility. Brownlee, meanwhile, showed off his ability to lead and score, ending with a game-high 26 points and 11 rebounds.

Gilas’ incredible 16-0 third-quarter run, which was aided by Scottie Thompson, was crucial to the team’s victory over the Tall Blacks. In addition to eliminating New Zealand’s advantage, their combined effort demonstrated the team’s versatility and resiliency.

Cone and the coaching staff stress how crucial it is to continue performing and working as a team at this level. Under the direction of Sotto, Brownlee, and Thompson, Gilas is still committed to improving their synergy and producing reliable, excellent play as they get ready for their upcoming game.

As the Gilas get ready to play Hong Kong in their upcoming encounter, national coach Tim Cone stressed the value of staying disciplined and focused. Cone stated that his side will not undervalue their opponents, even though the visiting club is ranked lower. He emphasized that Gilas would prepare and play the game with the same ferocity as they did against teams with better rankings.

Regardless of the opponent’s seeming power, Cone thinks that victory depends on mental and tactical constancy. As they try to establish their spot in the tournament, the coach emphasized that treating any team lightly could result in complacency, which is a risk they must afford.

Cone hopes to foster a respectful and professional culture within the team by giving each game similar weight. Gilas is still dedicated to giving their best effort, emphasizing both execution and sustaining their winning streak.