It took five games — and eight years — for Gilas Pilipinas to beat New Zealand as they upset the Tall Blacks in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers Thursday.
Gilas Pilipinas finally defeated New Zealand, 93-89, in the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Thursday, Nov. 21.
After four losses in as many games against the Tall Blacks, the Nationals finally broke through to take solo lead in Group B action with a 3-0 record while dealing erstwhile co-leader New Zealand its first loss at 2-1.
Gilas Pilipinas checks a winless spell against the New Zealand Tall Blacks in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers second window on Thursday, Nov. 21. | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports
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The two teams first squared off in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in 2016.
Gilas looks to wrap up the second window with a perfect record - and a ticket to the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 — when it takes on Hong Kong on Sunday, Nov. 24, at the same venue.