Gilas 3x3 earn FIBA 3x3 U23 World Cup berth

c/o Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas

Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 Men capped off a remarkable campaign in the 2026 FIBA 3x3 Nations League Asia 2 competitions by securing a berth in the 2026 FIBA 3x3 U23 World Cup after a dominant run in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.

Competing against fellow Under-21 teams from Japan, New Zealand, Belarus, Singapore, and Malaysia, the Philippines reached the finals in five of the six stops, winning three en route to the first-place finish.

Gilas started their campaign with back-to-back wins, but they suffered a tight loss to Belarus in the Stop 1 Finals. After missing out on a podium finish for Stop 2, Gilas bounced back big time by beating Japan to win Stop 3. The young Filipino ballers made sure there was no doubt about who the best team was as they defeated New Zealand and Japan to win Stops 4 and 5 via game-winning two-point baskets.

The Philippines finished with 520 points in the tournament, 50 points clear of second-place Japan, to earn a spot in the FIBA 3x3 U23 World Cup, marking another significant milestone for the SBP’s rapidly growing 3x3 program.

SBP Executive Director Erika Dy emphasized that the accomplishment reflects the federation's continued investment in the 3x3 discipline and the willingness of stakeholders across Philippine basketball to work together in developing national teams.

“Earlier this year, our Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 Women ended an eight-year drought to make it back to the FIBA 3x3 World Cup. Now Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 Men will also end their own eight-year drought to make it back to the FIBA 3x3 U23 World Cup,” said Dy. “This achievement is further proof that Filipinos are world-class not just in basketball but also in 3x3. With the support of our sponsors and the commitment of stakeholders, the SBP will continue to put our athletes in positions to succeed.”

Back in 2018, the group composed of RJ Abarrientos, Ricci Rivero, Rhayyan Amsali, and Jeepy Faundo finished with a 2-2 record in the pool stage to finish ninth overall out of 20 teams.

"On behalf of the SBP 3x3 program, I would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the schools, coaches, and team officials who supported Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 by allowing their players to represent the country,” added Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 Program Director Ryan Gregorio.

“We are especially thankful to FEU Athletic Director Mark Molina and Coach Sean Chambers, who deliberately rescheduled their team’s USA training so that Cabs Cabonilas and Jedric Daa could compete in this tournament. Our sincere appreciation also goes to Boss Alfrancis Chua and Coach Pido Jarencio for generously loaning UST big man Koji Buenaflor, to Adamson head coach Nash Racela for immediately allowing Earl Medina to join the national team, and to team manager Jude Roque and Coach Yuri Escueta for permitting Jhun Dela Rama to represent Gilas even while he is in residency. Their trust, cooperation, and shared commitment to Philippine basketball embody the spirit of ‘one team, one country.’ We truly appreciate their invaluable support.”

Program partner Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation and NLEX also lauded the team's achievement, highlighting the value of supporting the country's rising basketball talents on the international stage.

“We at MPTC and NLEX send our congratulations to the Gilas 3x3 Men after their successful campaign in Malaysia,” said NLEX Governor Ronald Dulatre. “We’re happy to support the SBP’s 3x3 Program from the youth teams all the way to the elite because the goal remains to be an Olympic slot for the Philippines, and investing in our young talent will pay more dividends in the future.”

With a place in the FIBA 3x3 U23 World Cup now secured, Gilas Pilipinas turns its attention toward competing against the world's best from September 15–19 in Wuhan, China, and continuing the country’s upward trajectory in international 3x3 basketball.

SBP reveals Gilas quintet

In a statement on Thursday, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas revealed its 5x5 squad for the 33rd edition of the Southeast Asian Games, which will take place in Thailand.

Under the head coaching duties of Norman Black, Gilas Men will be composed of the following players:

• Jamie Malonzo
• Dalph Panopio
• Thirdy Ravena
• Matthew Wright
• Ray Parks
• Cedric Manzano
• Justin Chua
• Robert Bolick
• Von Pessumal
• Allen Liwag
• Abu Tratter
• VJ Pre.

The statement also highlights the efforts put in by the SBP to finalize the lineups. They say, "After a tedious back and forth due to initially unclear and constantly changing rules in player eligibility, we at the SBP have submitted this list to the local organizing committee and it has been vetted and has undergone pre-approvals."

In addition, they also thanked the players and the institutions involved for their role in the formation of the team.

"We extend our deepest appreciation to all the players for dropping everything to compete for Gilas.

We thank our partners from the PBA, UAAP, and NCAA and our friends from the Japanese B-League for allowing their players to compete for flag and country."

Statement concludes with the federation wishing the entire Team Philippines in the SEA Games the best of luck.

Gilas Men is slotted in Group B alongside Malaysia (December 14 1130am) and Vietnam (December 15 1130am). The Quarterfinals is schedule to take place on the 17th, with the semifinals on the 18th and the medal matches on the 19th. 

Gilas Pilipinas to face Macau Black Bears in FIBA Asia Cup sendoff

From the SBP

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas has set up an official send-off for Gilas Pilipinas onto their FIBA Asia Cup aspirations.

Taking place on July 28, The Gilas Men will face off against the Macau Black Bears at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum for a friendly.

Tip-off is estimated to be at 730pm.

SBP President Al Panlilio says about the upcoming friendly, "Playing tuneup games before Gilas dives into the FIBA Asia Cup will only help the team out."

He adds, "While the team gets good competition, it’s also an opportunity for our Gilas fans to band together and send their team off before they fly out to Saudi Arabia. It’s a short preparation window as many of our players saw action in the semifinals of the Philippine Cup, which was another reason why the SBP wanted Gilas to have a tuneup game here."

Macau has had previous experience in helping nations with their preparations, having faced off against China last year. 

Founded in 2017 as Chong Son Kung Fu, they made their continental debut in the ASEAN Basketball League, and was one of two new teams in the East Asia Super League this past season. In addition, they are part of roster of sides involved in The Asian Tournament. Their combination of natives, diaspora, and reinforcements under the leadership of Garrett Kelly will provide a good test.

As noted by head coach Tim Cone, "They beat the Chinese national team. They are really strong. They’ve got good imports. It could be a very interesting friendly for us."

The Philippines is hoping to improve its ninth-place finish from the last edition of the FIBA Asia Cup, and will be battling against New Zealand, Chinese-Taipei, and Iraq in first round action at Jeddah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Gilas is expected to be in full strength, save for Kai Sotto, who is still recovering from an ACL injury.

Tickets are now available via https://www.ticketnet.com.ph/

Gilas Pilipinas falls short against Türkiye in OQT prep

c/o TBF

Gilas Pilipinas fell short in  tuneup game against Türkiye in Istanbul, 84-73, as the squad continued their preparations for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

Justin Brownlee paced the Filipinos with 21 points, while June Mar Fajardo backed him up with a double-double of seventeen points and eleven rebounds. 

No other Gilas player scored in double figures, with youngsters Carl Tamayo and Kai Sotto each chipping in seven points. Dwight Ramos, who has been given a bigger responsibility in setting up the offense due to the absence of Scottie Thompson, had a good all around performance with eight rebounds and seven assists, although he struggled with his scoring with only four points. 

EuroLeague veteran and 2023 NBA Draftee Tarik Biberovic led Türkiye with 23 points on 5 of 9 shooting from the three-point range. His fifth triple broke the game open late, establishing an 81-73 lead after Gilas managed to reduce things to a two-possession game.

The hosts were in control for much of the game, although Gilas remained within striking distance, as they managed to be only down by a couple at the half, 40-42.

Unfortunately for the Philippines, Türkiye got hot from deep in securing the victory in front of their home fans.

Behind Biberovic's efforts, they would finish 14/41 from beyond the arc.

In addition, they also feasted on the free throw line, converting 18/22 from the stripe, compared to just seven attempts from the Philippines.

“It was a tough loss against Turkey. We had our first taste of the type of opposition we will be facing in the OQT,” said Gilas team manager Richard Del Rosario. “While others may see it as a satisfying first game, our team mindset is - almost is not enough. We only have one shot at make it to the Olympics and we cannot be satisfied with almost winning. We move on to the next game with a firmer belief that we can hold our own against higher ranked teams with a real chance of reaching our mission of making it to Paris.”

The Philippines is set to travel to Sosnowiec for a friendly against a fellow OQT-bound team in Poland this Saturday.

Cignal ready for FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 coverage

With the highest level of national team basketball about to commence starting August 25, Cignal TV is prepared for the coverage of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 until the final day on September 10.

The media entity is set to bring the most comprehensive multi-platform coverage, whether Pay-Per-View, free-to-air, Pay TV, or even online.

Cignal TV president and CEO Jane Basas shares, "It is a great honor for Cignal TV to be the official broadcaster delivering the most extensive coverage of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 to every Filipino, wherever they are in the country. We are fully committed to utilizing the entire Cignal ecosystem to give nothing but the most seamless, captivating, and memorable FIBA World Cup viewing experience to all basketball fans who want to be part of this historic global tournament."

Both Cignal and SatLite will be offering Pay-Per-View specific channels for the tournament, while games will be shown on free-to-air channels TV5 and One Sports, as well as Pay TV counterparts One Sports+ and PBA Rush. Pilipinas Live is the preferred route if you want to watch the tournament online or on mobile.

For our very own Gilas Pilipinas, matches will be shown LIVE on One Sports, with same-day telecast on TV5 and next-day catch-up on PBA Rush. If Team USA is one's preference, games will be on Pilipinas LIVE and Cignal PPV. Cignal will also have select games aired either catch-up or next day airing on One Sports or One Sports+. All 92 World Cup games will be shown LIVE on Cignal Pay-Per-View and Pilipinas Live, with the latter also offering on-demand telecast, as well as multiple viewing options, exclusive content and interactive features with certain matchups.

Initial SEAG pool for Gilas, Gilas Women, 3x3 revealed

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas submitted its initial pool of players for participation at the upcoming 32nd edition of the SEA Games this coming May in Cambodia.

SBP President Al Panlilio shares, "That moment is upon us, and we’re not leaving any stone unturned in our overall bid to regain basketball glory in our region."

He adds, "“What we’ve gone through after that fateful day in Hanoi, both the wins and the losses in the
various tournaments that followed, are, in effect, geared also toward bringing the SEA Games
gold medal back to our shores. And once Gilas assembles and starts practice for the competition in Cambodia, I expect nothing else but 100 percent effort and serious resolve in sending the most competitive national team possible to do the job of winning back the Gold. That is our commitment to our basketball-loving countrymen."

Leading the 28 players called up for 5x5 action with Gilas Pilipinas are six-time PBA Most Valuable Player JuneMar Fajardo, and recent national team debutant Justin Brownlee.

Japeth Aguilar (Barangay Ginebra)
Kevin Louie Alas (NLEX)
Raymond Almazan (Meralco)
Mason Francis Amos (incoming Ateneo)
Norman Aaron Black (Meralco)
Justin Brownlee (Ginebra)
Ariel John Edu (Toledo)
John Paul Erram (TNT)
June Mar Fajardo (San Miguel)
Jeremiah Gray (Ginebra)
Marcio Lassiter (San Miguel)
Jerom Lastimosa (Adamson)
Jamie Malonzo (Ginebra)
Chris Newsome (Meralco)
Calvin John Oftana (TNT)
CJ Perez (San Miguel)
Benjamin Phillips III (La Salle)
Michael Phillips (La Salle)
Roger Pogoy (TNT)
Stanley Pringle Jr (Ginebra)
Karl Kevin Quiambao (La Salle)
Chris Ross (San Miguel)
Brandon Rosser (NLEX)
Christian Standhardinger (Ginebra)
Earl Scottie Thompson (Ginebra)
Arvin Tolentino (Northport)
Michael Williams (TNT)
Deschon Winston (unattached)

Notable new additions include the Philips brothers of DLSU and AJ Edu of Toledo.

Seeking a third straight gold medal, 25 names comprise the initial pool that head coach Pat Aquino will select for the Gilas Women, led by a group of National University Lady Bulldogs, both current and alumnae, including the likes of Afril Bernardino, Jack Animam, Mikka Cacho, and Camille Clarin.

Jack Danielle Animam
Afril Bernardino
Stefanie Ann Berberabe
Katelyn Bobadilla
France Mae Cabinbin
Mikka Cacho
Ana Alicia Katrina Castillo
Clare Castro
Kristine Cayabyab
Camille Izabel Clarin
Monique Del Carmen
Kacey Dela Rosa
Ella Patrice Fajardo
Aurea Day Marie Gingras
Katrina Guytingco
Mai Loni Lashae’ Henson
Jhazmin Joson
Kennan Elizabeth Ka
Louna Ozar
Karl Ann Pingol
Janine Pontejos
Sofia Isabella Roman
Angelica Marie Surada
Marizze Andrea Tongco
Kristan Geyl Yumul

In addition, there is also an inclusion of youth standouts, led by Fairleigh Dickinson reserve Ella Fajardo, Long Beach State's Kennan Ka, and George Washington's Aurea Gingras, as well as recent U18 callups Kate Bobadilla, Louna Ozar, and Kristan Yumul.

As for 3x3, Ange Kouame returns to the scene to be the lone callup not currently playing in the PBA 3x3 scene. The Ateneo big man has 3x3 experience after helping Ateneo win the competition in UAAP Season 81 back in 2019.

The cast includes the quartet set for participation in the upcoming FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup slated this week in Singapore: Brandon Bates, Samboy de Leon, Jorey Napoles, and Almond Vosotros.

Brandon Matthew Bates
Alfred Ryan Batino
Rodel Samboy De Leon
Joseph Emmanuel Eriobu
Lervin Flores
Kakou Ange Frank Kouame
Jeffrey Manday
Jorey Napoles
Joseph Sedurifa
Almond Vosotros

The men's 3x3 team will be helmed by Lester del Rosario, and is seeking to reclaim the gold after settling for bronze last year.

Aquino opted to go within the 5x5 pool for the women's 3x3 field, which also includes the quartet set for FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup participation in Bernardino, Castillo, Castro, and Pontejos. They are looking to secure another medal after falling short last time.

Jack Danielle Animam
Afril Bernardino
Ana Alicia Katrina Castillo
Clare Castro
Kristine Cayabyab
Quinn Kacey Dela Rosa
Mai Loni Leshae’ Henson
Janine Pontejos

Castllo, dela Rosa, and Pontejos comprised three members of the Lady Macbeth Riots that claimed the inaugural Manila Hustle 3x3 competition held back in February at Robinson's Magnolia, alongside Guytingco.

Free shuttle rides available for Gilas-Lebanon ticketholders

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas is encouraging fans to be make themselves prevalent for today's 6pm FIBA World Cup Qualifying matchup against Lebanon.

With the match taking place at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, the federation has arranged for free shuttle rides emanating from SM Grand Central at Caloocan as well as SM North EDSA in Quezon City.

Shuttle rides start at 2pm on a first-come, first-served basis.

Those who took advantage of the ride to the arena can also use it to head back to their origin.

If unable to make it to the venue, fans can still watch the game through Cignal's platforms, as well as SMART LiveStream.

SBP reveals Gilas squad versus Lebanon

Para sa Bayan

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas officially revealed the team it will field against Lebanon on Friday morning (Manila time), the first of its two games scheduled in the fourth window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

From the the thirteen that flew to Beirut, Roosevelt Adams was the odd man out as Chot Reyes opts for a team led by Utah Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson and Adelaide 36ers big man Kai Sotto.

B-League players Kiefer and Thirdy Ravena, as well as Bobby Ray Parks and Dwight Ramos join in, with Carl Tamayo of the University of the Philippines being the lone non-professional representative.

Completing the team are the players from the PBA in Japeth Aguilar and Scottie Thompson of Barangay Ginebra, Calvin Oftana of NLEX, Chris Newsome of Meralco, and Jamie Malonzo of NorthPort.

The latter two are making their national team debut after getting clearance from FIBA to be designated as locals.

Executive Director and spokesperson Sonny Barrios shares, "Our GILAS PILIPINAS Men's National Basketball Team is raring to go all out for flag and country." He adds, "Each one, to the last man, is fully committed to give his very best, inspired by the support and prayers of his countrymen. Let us continue to wish them well and cheer them on as they play for all of us away from home.  LABAN PILIPINAS!  PUSO!"

Gilas is currently carrying a 2-2 record into the fourth window, going up against a Lebanese side that is fresh from a runner-up finish at the FIBA Asia Cup last month, a road which included a 95-80 victory for Lebanon.

Wael Arakji scored twenty points for the Cedars in that victory, with Hark Gyokchyan and Jonathan Arledge each netting nineteen markers and combined for fourteen rebounds.

The Philippines is hoping the addition of Clarkson and Sotto would provide a much-needed boost, with the former's offensive capabilities and the latter's rim protection.

Team assistant Tim Cone shared about Sotto during one of the practices, "Kai has been very, very impressive. Maybe in the NBA level, it’s a different thing. But at this level, he’s a real deal. Having Kai protecting the rim for us, it’s making a big, big difference."

As for Clarkson, Cone adds, "JC knows the offense already. He runs dribble-drive in Utah, he’s done it before. He’s very comfortable with it so I don’t think that’s going to be an issue for us. He already understands the principles, so he’s stepping in really easy."

The team will be back in Manila on August 27, in time for their second game in the fourth window against Saudi Arabia on August 29 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Gilas Mondays return

 

Photo c/o Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas

The fabled Gilas Mondays returned on Monday, August 15, at the Meralco Gym.

The closed-doors session featured head coach Chot Reyes and his staff, which includes Tim Cone and Josh Reyes. The staff oversaw some shooting drills and an emphasis on fast ball movement.

Among the notable attendees from the players side are NLEX Road Warriors Kevin Alas and Calvin Oftana, and Northport's Jamie Malonzo. Other players will eventually get to join these sessions, in particular once the semifinals of the ongoing PBA All-Filipino Conference concludes.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Executive Director and spokesperson Sonny Barrios was also present and assured those present of the support and prayers from the whole basketball community.

The team, which is expected to be bannered by Jordan Clarkson and Kai Sotto, will be taking part in two FIBA World Cup Qualifying matches: the first against Lebanon at Beirut in the early morning of the 26th (Manila time), followed by a matchup versus Saudi Arabia at the Mall of Asia Arena on the 29th.

The Qualifiers will help determine which nations will help comprise the Asian delegation for the FIBA World Cup, with the 19th iteration taking place in Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

SBP recommits itself towards FIBA World Cup

Representing the Board of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas

Monday proved to be a hectic day for the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, with the members of its board gathering to recommit themselves towards the 2023 edition of the FIBA World Cup, which the country is co-hosting alongside Japan and Indonesia this coming August 25 to September 10, 2023.

With Chairman Sonny Angara overseeing things, President Al Panlilio presented the plans for the staging and mounting of the quadrennial event, with the latter noting, "Showcasing the Philippines, this will be the biggest basketball event to be hosted in the country. Since 1978, we have not hosted a tournament of this magnitude."

A local organizing committee has been tasked to oversee preparations, with forty games to be played at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum and the SM Mall of Asia Arena in the qualifiers, with twelve games being played at the Philippine Arena.

There will also be activations that will take place in the runup to the World Cup, with the One Year to Go and Tissot Countdown Clock Launch on August 27 and the World Cup Draw this coming April. In addition, there will be a separate activities to unveil the official ball and the Opening Ceremonies.

Gilas Pilipinas head coach and Technical Director Chot Reyes was also present in the meeting and presented his roadmap for the squad heading into the tournament. The TNT Tropang Giga head coach  identified the best players from the various leagues here and abroad, with the idea of showing their readiness to impress in the World Cup.

With the Philippines having lost in the final of the SEA Games, not being able to make the quarterfinals of the FIBA Asia Cup, and only managing two wins in the previous round of qualifying, Gilas seeks to make amends to ensure a better showing as World Cup hosts. Reclaiming the gold in the SEA Games and a better showing in the upcoming windows in qualifying has been pegged by Reyes as an essential element for Gilas' preparations.

Local leagues have also committed to doing their share, led by the Philippine Basketball Association.

The oldest professional league in Asia is deviating from its normal schedule to ensure Gilas Pilipinas' readiness. The league will only have two conferences instead of their customary three, to ensure the national team will have ample time to build chemistry and familiarity

The two most prominent collegiate leagues in the country, the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), have committed to make sure student-athletes called up for national team duty will be made available when needed.

The SBP has also tapped Tim Cone and Goldwin Monteverde to join Reyes alongside Jong Uichico and Nenad Vucinic as assistant coaches.

"We only have 389 days from the actual tip-off and I do appeal to all the stakeholders in basketball to come together and really unify in this effort," said Panlilio.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas seeking unity amongst stakeholders

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas released this statement on Friday, their first Gilas Pilipinas missed out on the quarterfinals of the FIBA Asia Cup for the first time since 2007.

SBP president Al Panlilio yesterday called on the country’s basketball stakeholders to come together in supporting the Gilas national team with the goal of forming a competitive squad for the FIBA World Cup next year.

Panlilio said Gilas’ performance in the FIBA Asia Cup here was a disappointment as the ninth place finish was the Philippines’ worst in 13 years.  He said lack of training time and player availability are issues that must be addressed with three FIBA World Cup Asia qualifying windows lined up for August, November and February, the SEA Games in Cambodia on May 5-16 and the World Cup on Aug. 25-Sept. 10 next year.

Gilas head coach Chot Reyes had no excuses for the dismal showing but said the outcome could’ve been different if top scorer Dwight Ramos and naturalized player Ange Kouame suited up.  He said the team began practice last July 6, a week before the Philippines’ first game against Lebanon and Poy Erram, the only active PBA player on the roster, attended only thrice.  Any coach would’ve backed off from the challenge but Reyes chose to play the cards he was dealt with in keeping his commitment to the country and SBP.

“As FIBA secretary-general Andreas Zagklis mentioned, it’s been nearly 25 years since Greece hosted a world basketball event,” said Panlilio.  “We really have to give it full support from all basketball stakeholders.”  PBA chairman Ricky Vargas said, “The World Cup will never happen again in Manila in our lifetime … it took 45 years to bring the World Cup back to Manila … dapat laban na, all out … we need the best to play and be allowed to play … we call on all stakeholders to unite for flag and country.”

SBP has scheduled a general meeting of stakeholders on Aug. 1 and will lay out the timetable in the run-up to the World Cup.  Panlilio said FIBA will assist in securing clearance for Gilas players from foreign leagues.  The PBA will play only two conferences next year and clear its calendar starting in May up to the end of the World Cup.  Drafting players for the three coming windows, however, is a concern.  Utah Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson is sure to play in the World Cup and will likely join Gilas in the fourth window against Lebanon in Beirut on Aug. 25 and Saudi Arabia at the MOA Arena on Aug. 29 but won’t be available for the two other windows and the SEA Games.  SBP will reach out to Kai Sotto for the three windows, SEA Games and the World Cup.

The PBA Philippine Cup finals will begin on Aug. 21 so players from the 10 eliminated teams may be recruited for Gilas to play in the fourth window with Clarkson.  In the fifth window against Jordan and Saudi Arabia on the road in November, the NBA, PBA, UAAP, NCAA and foreign leagues will be in season, making it difficult to assemble a fighting team.  In the sixth window, players from UAAP and NCAA will be available but not from the PBA.  Panlilio said the time for leagues to sacrifice and adjust schedules with Gilas in mind is now as the World Cup is only a year away.

Philippines retains spot in FIBA 5x5 rankings

 

FIBA this week released its rankings for the senior 5x5 divisions, with the Philippines maintaining its current position after the conclusion of matches in the November window.

In the FIBA World Ranking Men, presented by Nike, Gilas is in 31st place as the sixth-best team in Asia with 340.8 points.

This output is buoyed by their two wins against Thailand in the latest round of Asia Cup qualifying inside the bubble at Manama, Bahrain. They beat them 93-61 last November 27 and 93-69 three days later.

The top twenty nations in the men's division went relatively unchanged, with the United States still at the top spot, followed by Spain, Australia, Argentina, and Serbia. The only changes mainly saw Russia swap spots with Czech Republic at 9th and 11th, while Puerto Rico dropped a couple of spots to 18th, moving both Slovenia and Germany up a slot each.

The Czech Republic dropped both of their matches in EuroBasket qualifying, with Russia managing a split, beating Estonia and losing to Italy.

Slovenia will get a chance to extend their reign as EuroBasket champions as their earned their spot in the Final Round with wins over Ukraine and Austria.

Syria and Saudi Arabia's respective splits in Asia Cup qualifying also reflected their improvements in the rankings, as they each moved up five spots to 90th and 91st overall.

Entering the top 100 nations at 98th overall is South Sudan, whose 2-1 record in AfroBasket qualifying in Rwanda moved them up nine spots. The team is coached its federation president and NBA star Luol Deng.

One spot behind South Sudan is Albania, who moved up seven spots after their results against Portugal and Belarus. A similar rise was seen from Kenya, who are now at 115th overall even with defeats to noted regional powerhouses Angola and Senegal.

Blowout losses to Tunisia, Central African Republic, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo netted a thirty-spot plummet for Madagascar to 124th overall, the biggest drop in the rankings.

Expect more movement on the men's side when action resumes for the upcoming February window.

In the distaff side, the Philippines dropped down a spot to 50th overall as the seventh-best team in Asia with 124.5 points.

Gilas Women recently were in the news with head coach Pat Aquino seeking to bolster the national team pool by adding outstanding young standouts with Filipino ancestry, a group that includes Duke freshman Vanessa de Jesus.

Only teams in Europe seeing action for their Women's EuroBasket qualifying were counted during this window, which makes for relatively minimal movement atop the rankings.

Still keeping their top five spots are the United States, Australia, Spain, Canada, and France.

The only change in the top twenty saw Belgium and Turkey swap spots in sixth and seventh.

Belgium's wins over Ukraine and Portugal moved them up to sixth. The Cats have ensured their spot in the Final Round in the process, becoming the first team to earn a berth for next year's tournament that is set to be co-hosted by France and Spain.

Turkey dropped down a spot due to a double overtime loss to Serbia. At 1-2, they have yet to earn a berth in the final in Group E.

The biggest rise in the women's rankings saw Finland's win over Portugal move the Susiladies up eight spots to 58th, while Bulgaria's win over Iceland moved them up six spots to 44th overall.

FIBA tweaked the algorithm in both rankings as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic forcing the suspension of FIBA competitions this year. Calculations for the rankings have to include two Olympic Games at all times, and with the Tokyo 2020 iteration having been moved to 2021, necessary adjustments had to be made.

Pilipinas takes Group A lead in FIBA Asia Cup Qualifying

Photo c/o FIBA / FIBA-Asia

The Philippines achieved their objectives in the November qualifying window of the FIBA Asia Cup on Monday night, dispatching Thailand once again, 93-69.

Unlike their first meeting on Friday, Gilas Pilipinas decided to put things out of reach from the get-go, scoring the first eleven points of the game. A combination of the trademark unselfishness and steady long-distance shooting did the trick this time, converting ten triples in the first half and ending up with sixteen for the game.

Half of those came from the Gomez de Liano brothers, who finished with a combined 33 points.

Elder brother Javi stood out this time, converting all four of his three-pointers to finish with nineteen points on 7/8 shooting overall.

Younger brother Juan added fourteen markers on 4/6 shooting from beyond the arc, while also adding four rebounds and four assists.

Calvin Oftana impressed in his senior national team debut, as last season's Most Valuable Player stuffed the stat sheet with nine points on 3/5 three-point shooting, four rebounds, four assists, a steal, and a rejection.

The Thais tried to keep pace against the Pinoys, doing so on the shoulders of their workhorse Chanatip Jakrawan, who put up a game-high 34 points and twelve rebounds, a steal and a couple blocks. Wattana Suttisin added thirteen points, five rebounds, and four assists. They have yet to secure a win in Group A after four games, with matchups against Indonesia and Korea still to be played.

Gilas heads into the upcoming February window with a 3-0 record, toting a half-game lead over Korea, whom they still have yet to face in qualifying after the East Asians decided on sitting out this window due to pandemic-related matters.

Pilipinas seeking back-to-back wins in FIBA-Asia Cup Qualifying

Photo c/o FIBA / FIBA-Asia Cup

The Philippines seeks to make it two-for-two against Thailand to close out Group A play in the second window on Monday night at the Khalifa Sports City in Manama, Bahrain.

Gilas Pilipinas delivered a 93-61 victory over the Thais on Friday night, led by Dwight Ramos' 20 points on 7/7 shooting.

The coaching staff led by head coach Jong Uichico made a couple of changes from that group for the upcoming rematch, inserting Calvin Oftana and Jaydee Tungcab for Will Navarro and Mike Nieto.

The staff also made the decision to hold out Allyn Bulanadi after Uichico hinted at a possible call-up during the post-match press conference, basing his availability on the couple of practices Gilas still had before submitting their lineups. The former San Sebastian Golden Stag injured his right shoulder during the preparations for the window and was deactivated for Friday's game.

Even with the impressive victory, Gilas is still looking at finetuning its game. Nieto acknowledged it during the post-match press conference.

He shares, "... we’ll look at our mistakes so that we’ll be more prepared..."

Thailand has yet to secure a win in Group A after three games, and is fresh from a 90-76 defeat to Indonesia on Saturday night. The ten-man squad had no answer to Lester Prosper and Brandon Jawato, with the former notching a double-double with 19 points and 13 rebounds, and the latter nearly producing a triple-double with 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists.

The win allows the 2023 FIBA World Cup co-hosts to secure third place Group A with a 1-2 record, behind the identical 2-0 records of the Philippines and Korea. 

Philippines drubs Thailand in FIBA Asia Cup Qualifying

Juan Gomez de Liano sparked the burst that allowed Gilas to run away with this one. (Photo c/o FIBA)

Still undefeated in FIBA Asia Cup qualifying.

The Philippines drubbed Thailand in their first of two matches against each other late Friday, 93-61, at the Khalifa Sports City in Manama, Bahrain.

A 27-1 run that spanned almost seven minutes in the second quarter doomed the Thais against Gilas Pilipinas, as they had no answer to the Filipino onslaught.

A Juan Gomez de Liano triple with 6:40 remaining in the period broke a 26-all deadlock, with their team defense, it took the Thais seven minutes to finally convert a field goal, which they did with four seconds remaining in the quarter, with the Filipinos already establishing a 53-29 halftime lead.

Gilas then cruised for the final twenty minutes for the impressive 32-point blowout.

Dwight Ramos led all scorers with a flawless performance, netting twenty points on 7/7 shooting. Set to make his debut with the Ateneo de Manila University this coming UAAP Season 83, he also added seven rebounds, three assists, and three steals in just under twenty minutes of action. 

Thailand did have their moments in the first quarter, as Nakorn Jaisanuk kept the team afloat early on with his outside shooting. He would finish with twelve points off four triples. Montien Wongsawangtham led the all-pro unit with seventeen points.

This game was rescheduled from the previous FIBA window earlier this year, in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Philippines and Thailand will face off once again on Monday, November 30 to complete the Group A window in the Manama bubble. Before this, the Thais will face Indonesia on Saturday night, both teams seeking their first win in the group.

SBP, eSNAP express support towards e-Gilas

Lakad Matatag at Laban Pilipinas

With FIBA announcing the establishment of their first-ever international eSports competition, the FIBA eSports Open 2020, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas was able to quickly mobilize a team to represent the country on June 19-21.

"Our participation in the FIBA eSports Open 2020 is an amazing opportunity to show the whole world that Philippine Basketball is a force in any arena that it is played in, digital or otherwise.” said SBP President Al Panlilio. “We are proud to be represented by the best of the best that the country has to offer and have no doubt that Team Pilipinas will show off the intensity, the heart, and the honor that we have when we play this game that we love."

Operations Director Butch Antonio adds, "Our Team Pilipinas is on the cusp of something great here. The great thing about competing in the virtual realm of esports is that there's no size mismatch, no height difference, there's only the dedication and drive to win--something that our sportsmen have always had in spades."

This was made possible with a collaboration with the eSports National Association of the Philippines (eSNAP), which already has team ready to compete. Seven players, all of which tote a 99 rating, will participate.

Answering the call are some of the best professional NBA2K players in the region:

Aljon "Shintarou" Cruzin

Rial "Rial" Polog, Jr. (2-Time NBA 2K Asia Champion)

Custer "Aguila" Galas (NBA 2K17 Asia Champion)

Philippe Alcaraz "Izzo" Herrero IV (NBA 2K18 Asia Champion)

Clark "Clark" Banzon

David John "Alt" Timajo

Rocky "Rak" Braña

Team is coached by Niele "Nite" Alparas.

Team Captain Herrero shares, "I believe Team Pilipinas is a dream team, and I'm just humbled that I'm part of this because I have been playing this game almost half of my life. With exceptional mechanics, good teamwork, and amazing teammates under my leadership, we can make it to the top. I'm just happy and excited to represent our country and make the Filipinos proud."

The FIBA eSports Open 2020 is a series of exhibition games featuring seventeen countries, using the NBA2K Pro-Am game mode. The Philippines is slated to face Indonesia five times in those three days. With experience in the continental NBA2K circuit, the Philippines is considered the favorites against their southern neighbors.

Matches will be done remotely and streamed online, with fans able to check out the action on the SBP's Facebook page. It will also be shown on the social media platforms of FIBA as well, allowing the federation to flex its new eSports facility in Riga, Latvia.

The FIBA World Cup 2019 Draw Procedure

Pot Session.

FIBA on Friday revealed how the World Cup Draw Procedure will take place, the first one involving 32 teams.

To determine the pots, FIBA rankings were used to sort the field, with one exception, as Canada and Iran swapped pots to ensure proper regional distribution of the teams. In addition, hosts China have been allocated a spot in Pot 1, and has been designated to Group A, which is based in Beijing. The LOC has also made the decision to designate the United States, which is also in Pot 1 to Group E, which is based in Shanghai.

The Philippines has been drawn into Pot 6, alongside Canada, Montenegro, and Korea.

The Pots are as follows:

To be drawn into either Group A (Beijing), C (Guangzhou), E (Shanghai), G (Shenzhen):

Pot 1: China, United States, Spain, France (China in Group A. United States in Group E)
Pot 4: Puerto Rico, Turkey, Dominican Republic, Venezuela (Turkey already automatically drawn into Group E as other three nations cannot be in same group as the United States)
Pot 5: Germany, Czech Republic, Poland, Iran (Iran cannot be in same group alongside China)
Pot 8: Japan, Jordan, Tunisia, Cote d'Ivoire (Japan and Jordan cannot be in a group alongside Iran or China)

To be drawn into either Group B (Wuhan), D (Foshan), F (Nanjing), H (Dongguan):

Pot 2: Serbia, Argentina, Lithuania, Greece
Pot 3: Russia, Australia, Brazil, Italy (Brazil cannot be in same group alongside Argentina)
Pot 6: Canada, Montenegro, Pilipinas, Korea (Philippines and Korea cannot be in same group alongside Australia)
Pot 7: Nigeria, Senegal, New Zealand, Angola (New Zealand cannot be in same group alongside Australia, Philippines, or Korea)

After determine which group it will be designated to, the draw will also indicate which position it will occupy in the group, in order to determine the order of matches.

In case you have difficutly trying to figure it out, FIBA put this on their Youtube account:



The draw is scheduled later today, with ESPN5 showing the festivities starting at 7pm on TV5.

Gilas pool for final FIBA World Cup Qualifying matches set

Yeng Guiao and the Philippines have some work to do. (c/o FIBA)

With the stakes higher than usual as they try to earn their qualification for the FIBA World Cup later this year in China, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas has already finalized a set pool for head coach Yeng Guiao to play with.

On Tuesday afternoon, the SBP announced the composition of the 14-man team who will be involved in the remaining two matches in World Cup qualifying, led by naturalized big man Andray Blatche.

Blatche, who was notably left off the pool for the previous window, is joined by Japeth Aguilar, Raymond Almazan, Mark Barroca, Jayson Castro, Poy Erram, JuneMar Fajardo, Marcio Lassiter, Paul Lee, Gabe Norwood, Roger Pogoy, Troy Rosario, Christian Standhardinger, and Scottie Thompson.

Standhardinger has been designated as the reserve naturalized option, while Pogoy still has to observe one more game to complete his five-match suspension before becoming available.

The Philippines is currently toting a 5-5 record, fourth place in Group F behind Australia (9-1), Iran (7-3), and Japan (6-4). To earn qualification, one need to finish in the top three, or finish fourth with the better record against the fourth placer of Group E, currently held by Lebanon (6-4).

After suffering painful losses at home to Kazakhstan (92-88) and Iran (78-70), Gilas will face Qatar at the Al-Gharafa Sports Club in Doha on February 21, before heading to the Republican Velodrome Saryanka in Astana to face Kazakhstan on February 24.

To prepare for these two matches, practices are set to resume starting Monday, January 21. The team will then head to the Middle East in the second week of February for some friendly scrimmages. The PBA has already stated that they will put a pause to league action starting February 14 until the end of the window.

SBP president Al Panlilio had this to say about the lineup revelation, "As this window is critical in our campaign, we would like to thank again the support of the PBA in making this PBA players available." He expressed his gratitude to his fellow members at the Board of Governors, which is led by its chairman Ricky Vargas, as well as to league commissioner Willie Marcial, for approving the release of the players for practices, as well as for the schedule adjustment.

Panlilio adds that Blatche is expected to arrive in the country by the first week of February. He also asked for Filipinos to continue to support the sport, sharing "We are requesting all the Filipino basketball fans to continue supporting our national team, coach Yeng and his staff and the SBP."

Current Pinoy basketball icons meet their elder counterparts

Basketball legends past and present in one photo.

Before their ill-fated results in the recently-concluded window for the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers, the current iteration of the Philippines senior men's basketball team met their elder counterparts for a simple gathering at the Meralco Multi-Purpose Hall, putting together some of the best to have played the hardwood for the country.

According to Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas President Al Panlilio, "When Filipino basketball fans speak of Olympic honor, of Olympic prestige, indeed of Olympic tradition, we cast our eyes to the distant past. We are in the company of 10 great players who know the story of what made our basketball past great."

Representing the illustrious names of the past are these Olympians:

Rafael Hechanova (1952)
Antoino Genato (1952 and 1956)
Caloy Loyzaga (1952 and 1956), represented by his eldest son Chito
Kurt Bachmann (1960), represented by his son Dickie
Edgardo Roque (1960)
Arturo Valenzona (1964)
Jimmy Mariano (1968)
Robert Jaworski (1968)
Marte Samson (1972)
Manny Paner (1972)

Panlilio adds, "The objective today is not to measure the success of one team or one generation over the other, but to share stories and strands of commitment, patriotism, and pride,” added Panlilio. “We are on the eve of a war that may well spell whether the Philippines will advance to the next phase of the Fiba World Cup. Today’s reunion with the basketball legends reinforces our belief in the Gilas Pilipinas team to play at its best to achieve its goals, whatever the odds, whatever the cost."

SBP Executive Director Sonny Barrios shares, "This is a golden opportunity for these Philippine basketball legends to share their experiences and to give inspirational messages to our current Gilas Pilpinas players. Not many people get this opportunity to be with greatness and we hope it rubs off on our players."

Representing the legends, former Senator Jaworski says, "We thank the SBP for the honor of recognition and that they reached out to the past basketball players to offer words of advice to our national players."

Genato then implored, "Make the most of this opportunity I believe you will win."

As for our current group, LA Tenorio shares, "Malaking bagay na mga idol natin nag-pave ng way para sa atin."

Current head coach Yeng Guiao adds, "This is a wonderful send-off for our national team. Meron tayong kasabihan na, ‘ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinangalingan ay hindi makakarating sa pinaroroonan.’ To be in this room with all these basketball legends is a good opportunity to learn from our past to aspire for our future. We should link up with our past to link up with our present to go to our future."

The Philippines still has to wait to secure its ticket to the 2019 FIBA World Cup, which will take place in China, after a disastrous window that saw them lose both of its home games, which were held at the Mall of Asia Arena.

They wrap their Qualifying campaign with a road trip to Doha against Qatar before closing it at Almaty against Kazakhstan.

Philippines lineup vs Iran

From the 16-man pool, the Philippines coaching staff has decided with these twelve players for the upcoming FIBA World Cup Qualifier against Iran tomorrow night.

The statement from the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas is as follows:

The SBP is pleased and proud to announce the final 12 Man lineup of the GILAS PILIPINAS Team against Iran in Iran on September 13, 2018. They are:

1. ALMAZAN, Raymond
2. BELGA, Beau Michael Vincent
3. CABAGNOT, Alexander, Jr.
4. DALISTAN, Paul John
5. ERRAM, John Paul
6. LASSITER, Marcio
7. MALICSI, Allein Gail
8. NORWOOD, Gabriel Daniel
9. SANGALANG, Ian Paul
10. STANDHARDINGER, Christian Karl
11. TAULAVA, Pauliasi
12. THOMPSON, Earl Scottie

We ask everyone to join us in prayer for the continued success of the Team in the FIBA Asia World Cup 2019 Qualifiers.

Left off the pool are Stanley Pringle, Greg Slaughter, Japeth Aguilar, and Matthew Wright. The latter two are definitively out, as they observe their one-match suspension due to their involvement in the fracas against Australia. With only one spot available for the designated naturalized player, the coaching staff chose Christian instead of Stanley. Slaughter had been dealing with an ankle injury that he incurred last week against NorthPort.

The game will be at 830pm (Manila time) at the Azady Gym in Tehran. TV coverage from ESPN5 starts at 8pm.