Gilas Pilipinas topples Iran 87-73
• 21:55 PM Mon Sep 28, 2015
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By:
Edwin Fernandez from TV5 live coverage
Jason Castro Williams outsmarted Iran's tower Hamed Haddadi in this play. (courtesy of fiba.com/asia)
Gilas Pilipinas today scored an upset against the previously
undefeated Iran, 87-73, in the second round of the FIBA Asia Championship
Monday in Changsha, China.
As expected, Jason Castro, Terrence Romeo, Calvin Abueva, Andre
Blatche provided headaches to the taller and experienced Iranians, led by Hamed
Haddadi who fouled out late in the fourth period.
It was a good start for Gilas but the Iranians, banking on its
outside shooters, had the game in their favour and led by as much as 10 points.
But a furious fight, led by Abueva and Castro, allowed them to
overcome the Iranians.
Today’s victory against Iran was crucial and important because
it avoided the home court favourite China.
Gilas chances of topping Group E are also visible with this victory.
Castro led the Gilas with 26 points followed by Blatche with 18
points, Romeo 15 and Abueva 13.
With Gilas’ victory against Iran, it will no longer play with
powerhouse China.
Gilas coach Tab Baldwin’s winning strategy was fully implemented
and carried out by the Gilas who earlier declared that they can beat defending
champion Iran.
Baldwin's winning strategy included two-man-game defense, control rebound, control foul and attack the Iranias in the paint to solicit fouls.Blatche who limped in Gilas game against Kuwait showed no signs
of injury in today’s game as overpowered Haddadi in the paint.
The Filipino squad just needs to beat India Tuesday to formally
top Group E.