Gilas wards off India, braces for Asiad clash with Iran

MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas got the job done against a determined India side, 85-76, to jumpstart its campaign in the 17th Asian Games at the Hwaseong Gymnasium in Hwaseong City, South Korea on Tuesday.

The Filipinos demonstrated a fluid offense early on that resulted in a balanced scoring output, with four Nationals scoring in double digits. Jeff Chan knocked down four triples and finished with 14 points, tying naturalized center Marcus Douthit’s contribution to lead the team.

Gary David and June Mar Fajardo chipped in 13 and 12 markers, respectively for the Filipinos, who kept India at bay throughout the game.

The Filipinos had an easier this time against the Indians, whom they escaped 70-66, in the quarterfinals of the FIBA Asia Cup in Wuhan, China earlier this year.

Gilas faces Iran – the 2013 FIBA Asia Champions – on Thursday and must beat the Middle Eastern powerhouse to get themselves in a good position to make the medal round.