MANILA, Philippines — A brave fightback from the Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 men’s team just fell short as they dropped an 18-20 decision against Southeast Asian rival Thailand in the semifinals of the 3x3 basketball competition Wednesday at the Sanya Sports Center Gymnasium in Sanya, China.
The Nationals battled back from a huge 13-19 deficit behind the efforts of Nic Cabanero inside the last three minutes but it came a little too late as the time ran out for Gilas.
The Filipinos actually threatened against the Thais, cutting the lead down to just two, 18-20. Gilas, however, came out dry in their last two possessions as the Thais advanced to the gold medal match.
“Sa dulo parang nakahabol kami pero we came short pa rin. Siguro more experience pa para sa amin,” said Manday.
“Siguro yung defense and yung plays namin hindi maitakbo. Credits rin sa Thailand talagang trinabaho rin nila,” he added as Gilas allowed Thailand to pull away from a tight 12-12 count. TMT