Gilas advances to Asian Games 3X3 hoops quarters

Sports

GILAS Pilipinas sustained its hot run, beating Kazakhstan, 21-15, to advance to the quarterfinal round of the men’s 3x3 basketball event of the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026 at the Kinjo Futo Station Square Venue on Wednesday, Sept. 23.

The Nationals improved to 3-0 (win-loss) to claim the top seeding in Group A.

Gilas’ opponent in the quarterfinals will be known on Thursday, Sept. 24. Also expected to compete in the Final 8 are defending champion Chinese Taipei, silver winner Qatar, and bronze medalist Mongolia.

Gilas’ quarterfinal-clinching came after it scored two big wins the other day. The Nationals started their campaign with a 19-12 tripping of Mongolia. Gilas then came up with a stronger performance in its next assignment as it pulled off a dominant 21-12 victory over Sri Lanka.

Gilas had to survive a very physical Kazakhstan to keep its unbeaten run going.

The match was close early but Nic Cabañero sparked a crucial 13-7 run that allowed Gilas to break free from an 8-all standoff.

Kazakhstan rallied within 14-15 but Gilas responded with another run with Doy Dungo making the game-sealing free throw.

Cabañero paced the Philippines with seven points and three rebounds. Dungo added six points, Luis Pablo had five markers and Koji Buenaflor chipped in three points.(CCM)