Metro Manila (CNNN Philippines, August 31) — Gilas Pilipinas’ dream of booking an Olympic spot was shut down after losing to South Sudan, 87-68, in the classification round of the 2023 FIBA World Cup Thursday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Jordan Clarkson was Gilas’ leading scorer again with 24 points to go four rebounds and three assists.
The Philippines unleashed a 6-0 run at the start of the final quarter, highlighted by a two-handed Kai Sotto slam off an AJ Edu lob, to cut the deficit to four points.
But a couple of three-pointers by South Sudan’s Nuni Omot put the nail in the coffin as the Central African nation built a commanding edge.
Dwight Ramos registered a double double performance for the winless Gilas with 20 points and 12 rebounds.
Carlik Jones had 17 points and 14 rebounds for South Sudan in 29 minutes of action.
The Philippines is officially out in the race for a Paris 2024 Olympic slot after Japan defeated Venezuela in Okinawa to notch its second win in global showpiece.
Gilas will try to salvage a token victory against China on Sept. 2 at the Big Dome. A loss by the Philippines in that match means it will not qualify for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
