Gilas Pilipinas improves to 4-0 after 39-point rout of Hong Kong
It didn’t matter whether Gilas Pilipinas played at home or on the road; the result against Hong Kong remained unchanged.
The Philippines delivered another commanding performance, trouncing visiting Hong Kong 93-54 to sweep their two-game homestand in the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers at the Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday, November 24.
Kai Sotto and June Mar Fajardo reigned supreme in the paint, helping the Filipinos maintain their unbeaten streak in four games as they edge closer to becoming the first team from Group B to secure a berth in the Asia Cup.
To officially clinch their spot, the Philippines needs New Zealand (2-1) to defeat Chinese Taipei (1-2) on Monday, November 25.
After dominating Hong Kong by 30 points in their previous matchup, the Nationals delivered yet another resounding victory, showcasing their relentless pursuit of excellence.
Sotto, who was a standout in the thrilling win against New Zealand just three days prior, shined once again, contributing 12 points, 15 rebounds, and 2 blocks. Fajardo added 14 points and 8 rebounds, igniting the Philippines’ fiery start.
The imposing duo combined for 8 points each during a 25-13 opening run before Justin Brownlee and Scottie Thompson took the reins in the decisive third quarter.
Leading 45-35 at halftime, the Philippines turned up the heat and surged ahead, outscoring Hong Kong 22-8 in the third period to establish a 67-43 advantage. Brownlee and Thompson each scored 8 points during that dominant stretch.
As the game entered its final minutes, it evolved into a comprehensive demolition, marking the third time in this qualifiers that the Philippines won by at least 30 points.
Brownlee finished with 13 points, along with 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals, while Thompson contributed 8 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals. Carl Tamayo led all scorers with a game-high 16 points, adding 5 rebounds in just 17 minutes of action.
Notably, Gilas Pilipinas stalwart Dwight Ramos, who scored 11 points in the previous encounter against New Zealand, sat out this game due to a calf injury, underscoring the resilience of the team in his absence.
