Gilas Pilipinas couldn’t get the job performed within the endgame because it fell to Mexico, 84-77, to wrap up a three-game sequence of tuneups in preparation for the 2023 FIBA World Cup on Monday night time on the PhilSports Arena.
The Filipinos closed out the friendlies with one win and two losses as Jordan Clarkson sat out the sport.
Also lacking the sport had been Thirdy Ravena and Ray Parks, who weren’t fielded for a 3rd straight time.
Gilas held the lead, 61-59, late within the third quarter earlier than three triples from Mexico’s Paul Stoll bridging the third and fourth durations allowed the friends to take a 72-63 benefit.
But the Philippines regained some momentum with Dwight Ramos drilling a triple of his personal to chop the deficit to 5, 77-72.
Pako Cruz’s triple on the 1:38 mark gave Mexico a 10-point benefit, 84-74, that ultimately proved sufficient for the victory.
Cruz had 18 factors to steer three different Mexicans who reached double digits scoring.
Scottie Thompson, in the meantime, led Gilas with 14 factors alongside six rebounds and 5 assists whereas Ramos completed with 9 markers, three boards, three dimes, two blocks, and one steal in 24 minutes of motion.
Kai Sotto completed with eight factors however went scoreless within the second half.
Next up for Gilas is their FIBA World Cup opener on Friday towards Dominican Republic on the Philippine Arena.
—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News
Source: www.gmanetwork.com
