Gilas Pilipinas in the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers. Photo from FIBA Basketball.MANILA — Gilas Pilipinas is still chasing its first win in the second window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, but the Nationals have already secured a spot in the next round.
This came after New Zealand overpowered Guam, 99-67, on Sunday at the University of Guam Field House, handing the host team its fourth loss of the tournament.
At worst, Gilas could finish Round 1 tied with Guam at two wins and four losses. Even in that scenario, the Philippines would still be the third-ranked team in Group A, thanks to their sweep of Guam in Window 1.
Only the top three teams from each group will move on to Round 2.
Still, Gilas will aim to rack up as many wins as possible, as Round 1 records carry over to the next stage.
The Filipino hoopers hope to notch their third win of the tournament when they face Australia tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Mall of Asia Arena. They are looking to bounce back from their 66-69 defeat to the Tall Blacks last Thursday.