Gilas Pilipinas: CJ Perez ‘supposed to drive’ in last play before OT vs Angola

Gilas Pilipinas wing man CJ Perez admitted that he should have taken a drive to the hoop during the last play of regulation in what eventually became a bitter 84-81 defeat for the Philippines against Angola in the 2019 FIBA World Cup.

With the score tied at 73-all and time winding down in the 4th quarter, Perez had possession near mid-court with above 5 ticks left, but was stationary for a while before realizing the time was running out.

Instead of having a chance to give Gilas a win, Perez just released a 30-footer which went off the mark. Gilas lost to overtime, leaving them still winless after 3 outings in Group D.

“I was supposed to drive, but maybe lack of experience. I think I should have (driven in) that (play),” said Perez.

Perez did finish with 17 points, the 3rd time he’s reached double-digits. He was responsible for forcing extension when he hit a triple that tied it at 73 apiece.

“It was a great game for us but we needed that win to have a chance for the Olympics,” added Perez.

“The effort was there, credit to Coach Yeng (Guiao) and the teammates for the effort.”

Gilas Pilipinas will still have 2 more games in the classification phase as they try to go home not empty-handed.