FIBA WC: Gilas falls to Congo in Malaga pocket tourney opener

Gilas Pilipinas failed to sustain the momentum from their tune-up games, falling to Congo, 82-71 in the 4-nation invitational pocket tournament in Malaga, Spain Friday.

Congo pulled away in the payoff period behind their 3-pointers, with an 8-0 run giving them a sizable 76-61 lead.

With the loss, the Philippines will battle Ivory Coast anew for the battle for 3rd, as the African side lost to Spain, 79-62.

Gilas led 28-20 at one point, but had to settle for a 33-32 halftime lead.

Unable to follow up their good opening half, Congo pounced on the 9-man Gilas squad and pulled away.

Robert Bolick had a team-high 21 points for the nationals, and grabbed 5 rebounds. Andray Blatche added 16 markers.

C.J. Perez also finished in double-digit scoring with 11.

Gilas beat Congo, 102-80 in an exhibition match earlier this week.

(Photo from Paolo Del Rosario/Twitter)