Gilas Pilipinas put up a valiant effort in its debut game at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, but ultimately suffered defeat to the Dominican Republic with a score of 87-81. The intense matchup took place in front of a historic crowd at the Philippine Arena.
Despite their strong determination, Gilas Pilipinas faced a challenging opponent in the Dominican Republic, led by NBA standout Karl-Anthony Towns. Towns played a pivotal role, contributing crucial baskets that ultimately dealt a devastating blow to the home team's chances of securing a victory. The game remained highly competitive throughout, with the outcome hanging in the balance until the final moments.
Jordan Clarkson showcased his scoring prowess, delivering an impressive 28 points for Gilas Pilipinas. However, his early exit from the game due to fouls with 3:32 remaining in the fourth quarter proved to be a turning point that worked in favor of the Dominican Republic. With a record-setting attendance of 38,115 fans, including the presence of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the atmosphere was electric, despite the heartbreak for the home team.
Notably, Towns emerged as the leading scorer for the Dominican Republic, contributing 26 points. His pivotal contributions during the critical phase of the game, including crucial free throws and a pivotal hook shot after Clarkson fouled out, secured the Dominican Republic's victory and dashed the hopes of the home crowd.
We believed that it was a great overall performance by the team. But as expected, Filipinos are looking for a scapegoat and coach Chot Reyes is still the favorite.
I think the coaching staff did well in the game. But, there are still three big questions that linger in my mind.
#3. Where are the creative plays?
Watch again the game and focus on the offense of Dominican Republic. You will be amazed that majority of their points in the paint was a product of play-design instead of individual prowess of their players. Beautiful cuts, roll and passing were shown by them.
Watch again the game and focus on the offense of Dominican Republic. You will be amazed that majority of their points in the paint was a product of play-design instead of individual prowess of their players. Beautiful cuts, roll and passing were shown by them.
On our end, the plays were as simple as those that are run in Barangay competitions. Give the ball to Clarkson and go out of the way. The same treatment was given to Scottie Thompson and Thompson struggled.
#2. Why didn't you let Kiefer Ravena play in the second half?
Kiefer's presence in the 1st half were game changing because he was that legit playmaking point guard. And fans were so disappointed with the decision to not play him that majority of them are willing to question the decision even though they themselves hated Kiefer for getting a spot in the line-up! Even with the struggles of Scottie, Kiefer's number was never called.
Kiefer's presence in the 1st half were game changing because he was that legit playmaking point guard. And fans were so disappointed with the decision to not play him that majority of them are willing to question the decision even though they themselves hated Kiefer for getting a spot in the line-up! Even with the struggles of Scottie, Kiefer's number was never called.
#1. Where is CJ Perez?
This one is the biggest for us. Perez was the perfect guard to play against Dominican because he has the athleticism to go toe-to-toe with their guards. Maybe, CJ is injured? I just can't find a basketball reason for not giving him a single minute.
This one is the biggest for us. Perez was the perfect guard to play against Dominican because he has the athleticism to go toe-to-toe with their guards. Maybe, CJ is injured? I just can't find a basketball reason for not giving him a single minute.
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