A Gilas Pilipinas repeat over New Zealand would not only mean that the Philippines will take the top spot in Group B, it would also give the country a chance of a better matchup in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025.
One last game to decide who will get the top seed in Group B.
That's what at stake for Gilas Pilipinas entering a much-awaited rematch against New Zealand in their final game of FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers on Sunday, February 23.
Both teams are holding identical 4-1 win-loss records.
The Philippines absorbed its first loss in the tournament at the hands of the revamped Chinese Taipei squad, 84-91.
[ALSO READ: Chinese Taipei stuns Gilas Pilipinas in Window 3 of FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers]
Justin Brownlee’s 39-point explosion was put to naught as the Filipinos' last-gasp comeback fell short.
Afterwards, head coach Tim Cone even gave credit to their Taiwanese counterparts, who hit timely baskets late to score their first win over the Philippines since 2013 and locked in the third spot in the group.
[ALSO READ: Gilas coach Cone tips hat to 'very impressive' Chinese Taipei: 'They were well-deserving']
That also meant that Chinese Taipei (2-3) still has a chance to secure a FIBA Asia Cup slot by competing in the Qualifying Tournament for third-place teams.
Meanwhile, the Tall Blacks handled business against Hong Kong via a masterful 92-51 romp.
Jordan Ngatai topscored New Zealand with 20 points built on six threes, while Reuben Te Rangi added 18 points to complete a two-window sweep of the world no. 11 squad.
With another loss and a Chinese Taipei win, Hong Kong bowed out in the competition with one game left against the Taiwanese.
New Zealand vs Philippines will be aired on Sunday, February 23, at 10 a.m. LIVE on One Sports, One Sports+, RPTV, PBA Rush, and the Pilipinas Live app.
(With reports from Pao Ambat)
—
[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]