Kevin Quiambao hit the decisive three-pointer in overtime as Gilas Pilipinas stunned Jordan 82-81 in the FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers at the Mall of Asia Arena on Friday.
The Philippines trailed by as many as 18 points but fought back in the closing stages. The comeback levelled the score at 79-79 before Quiambao delivered the game-winning shot.
The victory improved the Philippines’ record to 3-4. It also ended a four-game losing streak in the qualifiers.
Gritty Gilas
The home crowd erupted when Quiambao knocked down the winning three-pointer.
Jordan refused to give up and quickly reduced the Philippines’ lead to one point. CJ Perez committed a foul, sending Freddy Ibrahim to the free-throw line.
Ibrahim converted both attempts to make it 82-81.
The Philippines then faced a tense final possession. Scottie Thompson committed a five-second inbound violation, giving Jordan one final chance to win the game.
Abdullah Olajuwon drove forward for the visitors, but Kai Sotto made a crucial block to preserve the Philippines’ narrow lead.
The defensive play completed a dramatic finish for Gilas Pilipinas.
Morale-boosting win
Sotto led the Philippines with 18 points and 14 rebounds for a double-double. His performance came after a long absence from national team duty following a major injury.
Perez added 16 points and five rebounds. His late layup with 43.7 seconds remaining helped send the game into overtime.
Quiambao finished with 14 points, including the three-pointer that decided the contest.
The win moved the Philippines to within two games of Jordan, Iran and New Zealand, who sit at 5-2 in Group E.
The result also gives Gilas Pilipinas renewed confidence heading into their next qualifier.
The Philippines will face Iran on Sunday as they look to build on their dramatic victory over Jordan.
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