By el Amigo
MANILA, Philippines — Kai Sotto returned to the Gilas Pilipinas lineup with a performance to remember, delivering the decisive defensive play as the Philippines escaped Jordan, 82-81, in overtime Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Sotto’s game-saving block on Abdullah Olajuwon in the dying seconds capped a remarkable comeback that saw Gilas erase an 18-point deficit and end a four-game losing streak in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.
Jordan controlled the opening minutes and surged to a 26-8 lead. But Gilas refused to fold.
The Philippines gradually worked its way back, taking a 44-39 lead at halftime after a strong second quarter. The advantage changed hands again in the second half, with Jordan eventually entering the fourth quarter ahead, 58-54.
Neither team could gain separation in the final period. Gilas had a chance to settle the game in regulation, but the attempt fell short, leaving the score tied at 72-all and forcing overtime.
The extra five minutes were just as tense.
Kevin Quiambao came up with the go-ahead three-pointer late in overtime, giving the Philippines an 82-81 lead. Jordan rushed to create a final scoring opportunity, but Sotto was waiting.
The 7-foot-3 center rejected Olajuwon’s shot as the final buzzer sounded, triggering a wild celebration inside the arena.
Sotto finished with a monster double-double of 18 points and 14 rebounds, along with two blocks. Perez added 16 points, while Quiambao and Dwight Ramos each scored 14.
The win lifted Gilas to 3-4 in Group E and kept its World Cup hopes alive.
More importantly, it showed the Philippines could overcome a disastrous start and remain composed when the game reached its most critical moments.
Gilas will try to build on the victory when it faces Iran on Sunday at 8 p.m. over at the same venue.
elamigo/xf
