Gilas Men escape Thailand to begin SEAG bid
Published on May 16, 2022

Gilas Pilipinas Men survived a gritty effort from Thailand and carved out a 76-73 win to open their campaign in the 31st Southeast Asian Games Monday at the Thanh Tri Gymnasium in Hanoi, Vietnam. 

June Mar Fajardo led the Philippines with 28 points on an efficient 12-for-15 shooting clip on top of 12 rebounds and four blocks. Thirdy Ravena added 17 points, six boards, and five assists. 

The two squads figured in a fierce battle down the stretch as Gilas tried to vigorously put the Thais away. Fajardo delivered a clutch basket with 1:13 remaining to give the Philippines a 75-68 lead. Nakorn Jaisanuk, who drilled a 3-pointer in the previous possession, again knocked down a shot from deep to cut the deficit to four points with 24 seconds left. 

Thirdy had a chance to extend the lead but missed two shots at the charity stripe, which led to a quick coast-to-coast drive from Antonio Price to make it 75-73 with 13 ticks left on the clock. The Thais immediately fouled Kiefer Ravena, who went 1-of-2 at the line. Thailand came close to sending the game into overtime but Jaisanuk missed a triple at the buzzer.

Kiefer was instrumental off the bench with five points, three rebounds, nine assists, and three steals. Moala Tautuaa chipped in nine points and five rebounds. 

The Philippines shot 50 percent from the field as a team and had the edge in rebounding, 42-36. Unfortunately, they committed 19 turnovers which led to 22 additional points for their opponent. 

For Thailand, Price finished with a team-high 18 points alongside nine rebounds and a steal. Moses Morgan added 15 points, while Nattakarn Muangboon scored 12. 

Thailand raced to a 21-13 opening quarter, setting an ominous tone for Gilas. But the Philippine team responded with a sense of urgency and immediately amended their poor start with a 25-13 second period. Gilas tried to shake off their opponent but Thailand kept the game within reach, which led to the thrilling fourth quarter. 

The 5×5 men’s basketball tournament follows a single-round format. The team with the best record wins the gold.

The Philippines will take on Cambodia on Tuesday at 6:00 PM (Manila time).