FIBA World Cup: Gilas beats Congo by 22 in preparation game

Gilas Pilipinas dropped 31 points in the 3rd quarter en route to a 102-80 blowout win of African side Congo for a successful 1st tune-up game at the Palacio Multiusos de Guadalajara in Spain as the nationals continue to prepare for the 2019 FIBA World Cup in China.

The Philippines outscored Congo, 31-16 in the penultimate quarter to pull away and establish an 84-60 cushion heading into the final frame.

The twin tower combination of Andray Blatche and Japeth Aguilar led Gilas. Blatche topscored with 25 points while Aguilar activated FIBA mode once again, adding 22 markers.

Veteran point guard Mark Barroca chipped in 16 markers. Gabe Norwood and Matthew Wright added 8 points apiece.

All 10 players who were fielded in were able to score. Kiefer Ravena, whose suspension won’t officially be over until late August, did not play.

Gilas started strong, taking a 32-19 advantage after the opening quarter. They never looked back for the convincing win.

The team will next face another FIBA AfroBasket squad in Ivory Coast, before heading to Malaga for a 4-nation pocket tourney which involves host country Spain.
(Photo from Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Facebook)