Philippines men’s basketball team clinches gold at Asian Games, ends 61-year drought
By Ryan General
Gilas Pilipinas secured the gold medal in men’s basketball at the 19th Asian Games, ending a 61-year championship drought with a win over Jordan in Hangzhou, China.
Historic victory: The Philippines clinched the coveted gold medal in men’s basketball at the Asian Games after defeating Jordan with a score of 70-60 in the final match on Friday. The last time the Philippine national team won the Asian Games crown was back in 1962, when it defeated China to secure its fourth straight gold in the tournament.
Grudge match: Gilas faced a formidable opponent in Jordan, which had earlier handed them its only defeat with an 87-62 score in the group stage. After the initial loss to Jordan, they faced a tougher path, including a thrilling 84-83 victory against Iran and an incredible comeback against host China, winning 77-76 in the semifinals.
Led by Justin Brownlee, Ange Kouame and Chris Newsome, Gilas Pilipinas rallied in the final game to outscore Jordan in the third quarter and maintain a significant lead throughout the match.
Another gold: Gilas’ victory provides a much-needed boost to the Philippine delegation’s campaign at the Asian Games, raising the country’s gold tally to three and total medal tally to 14. Aside from men’s basketball, the Philippines have so far won gold in pole vault with EJ Obiena and Brazilian jiu-jitsu with Meggie Ochoa.
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