Gilas Pilipinas relied on its well-oiled offense as the team made it rain from beyond the arc at the Philippine Arena, tying the Asian Qualifiers record for most three-pointers.
The Philippines pummeled Lebanon, 107-96, winning the first of its two-game home stand during the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers on February 24.
The national team knocked down 17 triples and dished out 31 assists in their revenge game after losing in their previous encounter against the visiting team.
"Very good performance on the offensive end. However, there are still a lot to be desired on our defense; we almost gave up 100 points," said head coach Vincent Reyes in a post-game interview.
"Some things to be happy about, some things to continue working on. It's a learning experience for us to be able to play better defense," he added.
Naturalized player Justin Brownlee led the team in his debut with 17 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two steals. Mason Amos also made a strong impression in his first game, suiting up for the country with 13 points.
Jamie Malonzo also chipped in 15 markers and five boards, while Jordan Heading, Dwight Ramos, and Bobby Ray Parks scored in double figures with 10.
Gilas began the second quarter with an 11-0 run courtesy of Parks draining two treys as the Philippines broke the game wide open with a 17-point cushion.
They continued their hot shooting night as they hit the final nail in the coffin after ballooning the lead to 23 early in the final frame.
The Philippines attempts to continue its momentum as it takes on Jordan on Monday at the same venue.
Article: Lourence Angelo Marcellana
Graphics: Cathlyn De Raya
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