Gilas Pilipinas Celebrates Comeback Victory Ahead of FIBA Asia Cup

MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas, the national basketball team of the Philippines, is heading to the FIBA Asia Cup brimming with confidence following a thrilling 103-98 comeback victory against the Macau Black Bears on July 28, 2025, at the Araneta Coliseum. The team, despite missing key players June Mar Fajardo and Calvin Oftana, demonstrated resilience by overcoming a daunting 21-point deficit.

In a remarkable performance, Justin Brownlee emerged as the star of the game, scoring 32 points, with 15 of those coming in a decisive fourth quarter. Brownlee's sharpshooting included hitting 4 of 5 three-pointers, complemented by 15 rebounds and 5 assists, showcasing his all-around contribution to the team's success. His performance not only uplifted the team spirit but also served as a vital boost ahead of their upcoming continental challenges in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Dwight Ramos added depth to the scoring with 19 points, along with 6 assists and 4 rebounds, while AJ Edu contributed 15 points. The balanced scoring from Kevin Quiambao and Scottie Thompson, who added 15 and 10 points respectively, highlighted the team's capability to adapt and perform effectively despite the absence of some of their best players.

The match served as a crucial send-off for the Gilas Pilipinas squad as they prepare for the FIBA Asia Cup, which is set to commence on August 5, 2025. This tournament is significant for the Philippines as it aims for redemption and improved performance following their previous outings in international competitions.

Gilas Pilipinas, under the guidance of their coaching staff, appears to be honing their strategies and building team chemistry, essential components for navigating the competitive landscape of Asian basketball. The team's ability to rally back from a significant deficit demonstrates their potential and determination in the face of adversity.

As the team embarks on their journey to Jeddah, the expectations from fans and analysts alike remain high. They will face formidable opponents in a quest not just for victory but also for national pride. The upcoming tournament will be a test of their skills, resilience, and adaptability against some of the best teams in Asia.

In conclusion, the victory against the Macau Black Bears not only serves as a morale booster for Gilas Pilipinas but also sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting and challenging FIBA Asia Cup. The team's performance will be closely monitored, as they aim to make a significant impact in international basketball.