Gilas Pilipinas sweeps FIBA World Cup Qualifiers window

Gilas Pilipinas secured a home sweep in the fourth window of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, defeating Jordan 82-81 and Iran 68-56 at the Mall of Asia Arena. The victories occurred despite the absence of naturalized player Justin Brownlee, who has been sidelined due to hamstring and knee issues.

Kai Sotto made a significant impact in his return to the national team after a two-year absence, averaging 15.5 points and 15 rebounds across the two games. Other key contributors included Dwight Ramos, CJ Perez, and Juan Gomez de Liaño. Sotto noted that playing for the national team provides a sense of pride and helps shape the future of the squad.

Prior to the qualifying window, the team faced challenges in a two-game exhibition series against South Korea, losing both contests, including a 69-42 defeat in Suwon. Coach Tim Cone described the series as a dress rehearsal to prepare the team for upcoming competitions, such as the Asian Games.