Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 28) — The Philippine men’s 5×5 basketball team survived a late rally by Thailand to pick up its second win, 87-72, in the 19th Asian Games Thursday in China.
Justin Brownlee showed the way for Gilas Pilipinas with 19 points and 11 rebounds.
It was a close encounter in the first half with the Philippines only leading by six points.
Gilas then pulled away in the third quarter, establishing an 18-point advantage going into the final frame.
A gritty Thailand side was able to trim the deficit to just five points midway in the fourth period.
Brownlee and Ange Kouame took over on the offensive end as they helped the Philippines maintain the distance and secure the victory.
CJ Perez finished with 16 points and seven rebounds, while Kouame added five points for Gilas.
Tyler Lamb paced Thailand with 29 markers and two boards.
The Philippines, which is already guaranteed of moving to the next phase of the tournament, will next face Jordan featuring TNT Tropang Giga import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson on Sept. 30.
