Gilas Pilipinas defeats Jordan in overtime to keep World Cup hopes alive

Gilas Pilipinas secured a crucial 82-81 overtime victory against Jordan in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers at the Mall of Asia Arena. The win snapped a four-game losing streak for the Philippines, bringing their record to 3-4 in Group E and keeping their qualification hopes alive.

After trailing by 18 points early in the game, the Philippines utilized offensive rebounding and a shift to a smaller, quicker lineup to force overtime. Kevin Quiambao provided the decisive moment with a go-ahead three-pointer late in the extra period, while Kai Sotto sealed the win with a game-saving block against Jordan’s Abdullah Olajuwon in the final seconds.

Key performers for the Philippines included Kai Sotto, who recorded 18 points and 14 rebounds, and CJ Perez, who contributed 16 points. Jordan was led by Freddy Ibrahim with 22 points. The Philippines is scheduled to face Iran next in the qualifying window.