After successfully overcoming three games, it was time for the Philippine team to come man-to-man with the unbeaten Iranian team. But instead of yielding to the powerhouse team, Gilas pushed to break Iran’s winning streak, ending the game with a massive 14-point lead, 87-73.
Photo Credit to: Peter Baltazar and Mike Romero
The first half session was slow for the Philippine team. Gilas was trailing behind the Iranian team for the first two quarters, finishing the half with six points behind Iran at 37-43.
But the winds changed for Gilas at the third quarter. As though an entirely different team entering the hardwood, The Philippine team let loose to steal the lead from the Iranian team.
It was a revitalized Terrence Romeo that pushed a 60-57 leap for the Gilas after unleashing an eight-point shooting streak with two and a half minutes left in the quarter.
Photo Credit to: Peter Baltazar and Mike Romero
Entering the final quarter with a five-point lead, 65-60, it was a strong battle for possession for both teams. But Gilas forced a lead of 14 points, 84-70, with only a minute left on the clock.
With a seemingly huge gap to overtake, the Iranian team accepted their defeat, only scoring 3 points throughout the final minute of the game; finally closing at 87-73 for the Gilas.
Photo Credit to: Peter Baltazar and Mike Romero
Jayson Castro once again bagged the most with 26 points, while Andray Blatche scored a fantastic 18 points. Shooting guard Terrence Romeo’s tactfulness proved vital in this game, helping Gilas sustain their lead through the final quarter.
Gilas will be facing off with India before moving into the quarterfinals. If they score another win against India, they will emerge as the top team of group E.
What can you say about Gilas’ sounding victory against Iran? What are you expecting to see in the FIBA quarter finals? Comment your thoughts below!
