Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Gilas Pilipinas showed off their title credentials in the 87-73 victory over Asian basketball giants Iran in the FIBA Asia Championship on Monday (September 28) in Changsha, China.
Jayson Castro blazed the way for the Philippines with 26 points, while Andray Blatche chipped in with 18 of his own.
After a lackadaisical first half, which saw them trail 37-43 heading into the break, Gilas Pilipinas broke loose in the third to steal the lead from the Iranians.
A Terrence Romeo inspired eight-point run by the Philippines gave them the 60-57 advantage and the momentum with 2:30 left in the third.
After being down by eight early in the final period, Iran found a way to cut the lead down 68-64 as they attempted to mount a comeback of their own with 8:39 left on the clock.
That was the closest Iran would get, as the Philippines would go on to dominate the fourth quarter and take the 87-73 scalp.
Iran was paced by Nik Khahbahrami with 21 markers.
Gilas Pilipinas will contest their final assignment of the second round against India on Tuesday (September 29).
