By El Amigo
MANILA, Philippines — Gilas Pilipinas regained its footing in the Asian Games with a convincing 109-78 demolition of Kazakhstan, but the defending champions now face a much bigger challenge in unbeaten China.
The Philippines improved to 1-1 in Group C after recovering from its 89-85 opening-game defeat to Bahrain, with the victory also providing a valuable boost to its point differential ahead of Monday’s crucial showdown with China.
Robert Bolick led the revival with 20 points, including 13 in the second quarter, overcoming a knee concern that had made him a game-time decision.
Jerrick Ahanmisi delivered the biggest offensive spark, connecting on seven three-pointers to finish with 22 points as Gilas gradually turned the game into a rout.
Calvin Oftana followed his 31-point explosion against Bahrain with 12 points, while Sedrick Barefield contributed 11 points, four rebounds and five assists. Zavier Lucero added 10 points and nine rebounds.
The victory was exactly what Gilas needed after its disappointing start, but China represents an entirely different level of opposition.
China moved to 2-0 after demolishing Bahrain, 105-59, and has already beaten Kazakhstan, 99-61. The Chinese side currently leads Group C and will enter Monday’s meeting with considerable momentum.
For Gilas, the stakes are high.
A victory would put the Philippines at 2-1 and strengthen its position for a quarterfinal berth. Even with a loss, however, Gilas could still advance as one of the best third-place teams, making the margin of defeat potentially significant.
The Philippines’ 31-point victory over Kazakhstan has given it some breathing room in the point-differential race.
But against China, Gilas will need more than hot shooting.
Tim Cone’s charges must match China’s physicality, protect the boards and limit turnovers while continuing to get production from Bolick, Ahanmisi and Oftana.
The Kazakhstan victory restored confidence. The China game will determine whether that confidence can translate into another deep Asian Games run.
