Gilas Pilipinas vs. Mighty Sports ends in draw

FILE: “Such a blessing to play against my idols” (Photo: @wongchuking/Instagram)

Two of the country’s national basketball representative teams, the Gilas Pilipinas and Mighty Sports, battle it out during a tune-up game in preparation for the 2019 FIBA World Cup, agreeing in ending in an 85-all draw last Monday, July 8 at the Meralco Gym in Pasig.

Gilas Pilipinas, the squad being sent to compete in the FIBA World Cup this August 31 in China, struggled in the first half but found momentum in the third quarter through crucial shots by Marcio Lassiter, Japeth Aguilar, and CJ Perez.

Big man June Mar Fajardo also maintained being one of the highest pointers. 

Mighty Sports was led by former Gilas coach Raijko Toroman from Serbia, who is acting as an assistant coach for Charles Tiu – not present during the time. Imports McKenzie Moore and Mikey Williams led the way, while Roger Pogoy was also fired up in the end.

The team is expected to depart for Taipei next Wednesday, July 10 for the Jones Cup.

Coach Yeng Guiao is delighted with the results of the tune-up match, stating, “We just lived off our natural chemistry and it’s really nice to look at. Nobody really was trying to dominate the game, the ball was moving around, they showed good effort on defense.”

Toroman also commented on the Philippines’ bid for the 2019 FIBA World Cup, stating, “They have great shooters. With Blatche who can stretch the floor, that will be a very competitive team,” referring to the anticipated arrival of the former National Basketball Association (NBA) player to the Philippines, which was delayed due to child custody hearings.

Among the audience members included Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner Willie Marcial, head coach of the Meralco Bolts Norman Black, and San Miguel Beermen guard Alex Cabagnot, who was once a member of Gilas Pilipinas. Black was present to support his son Aaron, who plays for Mighty Sports.

Justin Brownlee of Ginebra Knights was also at the venue, watching the progress of this Coach Guiao-led team as he awaits naturalization. For the support they received during the event, Coach Yeng shared, “Alex just visited (and will not be playing for the team). But I appreciate his presence and support and to all those who had been to the Gilas program are always going to be part of the Gilas family actually.”

Only Troy Rosario and Paul Lee of Gilas Pilipinas were not present for the match.