(CNN Philippines, May 16) — Gilas Pilipinas reclaimed its throne in men’s 5×5 basketball at the 32nd Southeast Asian Games.
Gilas defeated Cambodia, 80-69, in the finals Tuesday at the Morodok Techo Stadium in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Justin Brownlee played his heart out for the Philippines as he poured in 23 points.
Cambodia was off to a good start as it established a 22-21 edge at the conclusion of the first quarter.
Gilas heated up in the second period with a 9-2 run to establish a 44-33 advantage at the halftime break.
Cambodia took a more aggressive approach in the shaded area as it trimmed the deficit to seven points, but the Philippines regained its composure
The naturalized players-laden Cambodia squad went on a 6-0 blitz to start the final quarter, but Gilas responded with its own 6-0 rally to keep the host nation at bay.
Chris Newsome added 13 points for the Philippines, which captured its 19th men’s 5×5 basketball title in the regional meet.
The Philippines now has 56 gold medals in the 32nd SEA Games.
