Metro Manila, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas fell short in its comeback bid, absorbing a devastating 69-66 loss to New Zealand in the second window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian qualifiers on Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Dwight Ramos did everything he could do to help Gilas. He finished the contest with 16 points and eight rebounds.
With New Zealand threatening to pull away in the first half, Gilas went on a 10-0 run late in the second period to tie the score at 37 during the halftime break.
New Zealand capitalized on Gilas’ cold shooting (only had a nine-point output) and built a double-digit edge at the end of the third quarter.
Ramos sank a triple from the wing then made a crucial putback to cut New Zealand’s lead, 68-66, with 8.1 seconds remaining in the final frame.
Reuben Te Rangi split his charities to give Gilas some hope but Ramos’ long heave was far from falling in.
CJ Perez tallied 15 points, three rebounds, three assists, and two steals, while Juan Gomez de Liano delivered a fine performance in his Gilas return with 10 points and two assists.
Gilas fell to 2-1 for second place in Group A, while New Zealand improved to 1-2 for the third spot.
The Philippines will host top seed Australia on March 1 at the same venue.
