MANILA — After a three-day training camp to reconnect with coach Tim Cone’s system, Gilas Pilipinas returns to action today, Thursday, November 21, 2024, against Oceania powerhouse New Zealand for the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Tip-off is slated at 7:30 p.m., with a “sea of blue” expected to fill the arena as passionate Filipino fans support the national team.
Both teams are tied atop Group B with 2-0 records. In the first window, the Philippines dominated Hong Kong 94-64 and crushed Taiwan 106-53.
Similarly, New Zealand triumphed over Taiwan (89-69) and Hong Kong (88-49).
A win for the Philippines would give them a strong chance at securing one of the two direct spots for the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from August 5-17.
Cone anticipates a tough battle, as the Tall Blacks are known for their rugged, rugby-influenced style of play.
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