FIBA WC: Gilas Pilipinas repeats over Ivory Coast, claims 3rd in Malaga tourney

Gilas Pilipinas used a strong 2nd quarter to repeat over African side Ivory Coast, 73-63 and settle for the 3rd spot in the recently-concluded Torneo de Malaga in Spain Sunday.

Robert Bolick continued his inspired play, scoring a team-high 19 points including 8/8 from the free throw line while Andray Blatche chipped in a strong double-double performance of 18 markers and 18 boards for the Philippines.

Gilas used a 7-0 run in the 2nd frame to establish a 36-25 lead and control of the game.

Ivory Coast got the nearest at 49-55 in the 3rd quarter but the Philippines was able to close out strong.

Japeth Aguilar added 9 points and 3 blocks in the win. Gilas Pilipinas will now head home and continue preparing for the 2019 FIBA World Cup.

The team is in Group D with Serbia, Italy, and Angola.

In the championship game, Willy Hernangomez topscored with 24 points and added 5 rebounds to lead Spain to a 96-64 rout of Congo for the gold.