Jordan secured a quarterfinals spot in Group C with a dominant 87-62 victory over Gilas Pilipinas at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre in China. The game started with Gilas keeping pace in the first quarter, thanks to the efforts of Justin Brownlee and June Mar Fajardo.
However, Jordan found their rhythm in the second quarter, led by Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, who sank several three-pointers to build a substantial lead. Gilas managed to trim the deficit after falling 13 points behind in the first half and even tied the game briefly.
Nonetheless, Jordan pulled ahead with some crucial baskets late in the third quarter, establishing a 7-point lead. In the fourth quarter, Jordan continued to extend their advantage with back-to-back three-pointers, preventing Gilas from mounting a comeback.
Hollis-Jefferson led Jordan with 24 points, 6 rebounds, and 9 assists, while Fadi Mustafa contributed 17 points, 3 rebounds, and 5 assists. Despite Justin Brownlee's 24 points for Gilas, the team struggled to find consistent scoring, with Scottie Thompson as the second-highest scorer with 11 points.
Jordan's victory secured their place in the tournament's quarterfinals, while Gilas will need to compete in a qualifying match against Qatar for a chance to advance to the quarterfinals.
Fans though are quick to point out that losing could be better in terms of positioning in the bracket in the playoffs.
But, I do not think coach Tim Cone was thinking about that. The disappointment was clear during the timeouts. He was so angry.
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