Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Exactly two years ago, an All-Filipino national team finally exorcised the ghost that was South Korea.
Playing sans naturalized Filipino Marcus Douthit from the second quarter, Gilas Pilipinas managed to conquer the Koreans, 86-79, in an epic FIBA Asia Championship semifinal battle before a boisterous crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The victory was indeed a result of a collective effort by the players, coaches, and fans, but it could not be denied that Gilas captain Jimmy Alapag starred for the Filipinos as he nailed the dagger of a triple with under a minute left to put the team on top for good.
With the win, the Philippines advanced to the finals against powerhouse Iran led by Hamed Haddadi.
But the injury-hobbled Gilas succumbed to eventual champions Iran.
Nevertheless, it was still a victory of sorts for the Philippines as it secured a slot in the FIBA World Cup in Spain.
Now, the 2015 edition of FIBA Asia Championship is slated late September.
The Philippines, unlike in 2013, is eyeing no less than the gold this time to make a return trip to the Olympics to be held in Brazil in 2016.
But with a relatively new roster, can Gilas pull through?
Related: Fajardo begs off from Gilas
