MANILA, Philippines – In a dominant display, Gilas Pilipinas defeated Hong Kong 93-54 at the Mall of Asia Arena to finish sweeping the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers. In addition to confirming their supremacy, the win guaranteed them a spot in the FIBA Asia Cup, which will be held in Saudi Arabia the following year.

Playing in front of 11,086 enthusiastic spectators, Gilas was in control from the first whistle. Early dominance was established by veteran big man June Mar Fajardo and 7-foot-3 emerging sensation Kai Sotto, who overwhelmed Hong Kong’s defense and set the tone for the match. The opposition found it difficult to resolve the serious mismatches caused by their inside presence.

The national team’s inside play was crucial in the first half, but when Gilas started to make baskets from beyond the arc in the third quarter, the game really took off. The team’s lead grew considerably as a result of this outside shooting explosion, and they ultimately cruised to a commanding 39-point victory. Gilas’ versatility and depth were emphasized by the combination of his interior domination and perimeter precision.

The triumph came days after Gilas’ exciting 93-89 victory over world No. 22 New Zealand, which demonstrated the team’s tenacity and resolve. The home team secured the top spot in Group B with the back-to-back wins, improving their record to 4-0.

Gilas’ success during this timeframe is a testament to the team’s developing harmony and unity under head coach Tim Cone’s guidance, in addition to the players’ individual talents. Both seasoned veterans and up-and-coming talent contributed to the team’s impressive balance.

As the FIBA Asia Cup draws near, Gilas hopes to keep up its momentum and keep improving its tactics. Their recent performances have made it clear to rivals that they are prepared to compete at the greatest level. With a flawless record and a strong base, the club is ready to have a big effect in Saudi Arabia the next season.

After Gilas Pilipinas’ latest triumph, which confirmed the team’s qualifying for the next round, coach Tim Cone revealed his comments. Although the team has already guaranteed their spot, he underlined that they are now concentrating on securing their position and figuring out their ultimate seeding. Although the accomplishment represents a major turning point in their campaign, Cone emphasized that there is still much more to be done.

Although getting a slot is an accomplishment, he said, the squad is still dedicated to improving their performance and addressing areas that need work. Getting a good seeding is important since it could offer a better route in the next rounds.

Cone said he was certain his team could handle the pressure and stay ahead of the competition. This qualifying keeps Gilas Pilipinas motivated for the next battles by proving that the squad is prepared to play at the highest level.

Before the Gilas young guns Carl Tamayo and Kevin Quiambao took over in the second half, Fajardo finished with 14 points and eight rebounds, while Sotto added 12 and 15 rebounds.

The Filipinos finally pulled away for good, leading 67-43 heading into the fourth quarter after outscoring the visitors 22-8 in the third quarter.

After missing the game against New Zealand, Quiambao finished with eight points, five rebounds, and four assists, while Justine Brownlee had a quiet game with 13 points, three rebounds, and three assists in just 24 minutes of play. Tamayo ultimately led Gilas with 16 points and five rebounds.

However, point guard Dwight Ramos appeared in his playing uniform despite missing action because of a minor calf ailment.

Hong Kong sits at the bottom of Group B and has lost all four of their games.

Scores at the end of the match

Gilas Pilipinas with 93 points for the win

Individual scores: Tamayo 16, Fajardo 14, Brownlee 13, Sotto 12, Perez 10, Newsome 9, Thompson 8, Quiambao 8, Amos 3, Oftana 0, Aguilar 0

Hong Kong with 54 points

Individual scores: Shui 11, Xu 10, Yang 9, Tsai 8, Reid 6, Yip 4, Pok 3, Leung 3, Yeung 0, Hon 0, Ng 0, Tang 0

Scores per quarter

25-16; 45-35; 67-43; 93-54