Scottie vs Arakji Part II is going to be something.
Only three days to go before Gilas takes on Lebanon in the sixth window of the FIBA Asia qualifiers and the excitement is at a fever pitch. And who wouldn’t get excited given the possible matchups in that game, everyone of each could be fascinating in its own right—and potentially explosive.
Of course, the official lineups haven’t been announced just yet, but based on the two teams’ last four games in windows 4 and 5, we have a pretty solid idea on who will likely be playing on February 24. With that said, here are five matchups which we think will define the Gilas vs Lebanon showdown three days from now:
Wael Arakji vs Scottie Thompson
The last time Gilas and the Cedars played, Arakji took over late. Best believe the FIBA Asia Cup MVP will be looking to do the same in enemy territory, which means Thompson better be ready. The reigning PBA MVP was outclassed by Arakji the last time around, and he will have to do a better job on the 24th of February if the Philippines will avenge last year’s defeat.
Amir Saoud vs Dwight Ramos
The veteran Saoud is one of the Cedars’ primary gunners, and he will likely be matched up with one of Gilas’ own main weapons in Ramos. The 32-year-old Lebanese isn’t exactly as gifted physically as the 24-year-old Filipino, but he is as savvy and as solid as they come. Meaning, the B.League cager can’t take his counterpart lightly.
Ali Haidar vs June Mar Fajardo
Haidar has been a pillar of strength in the paint for Lebanon, and he will be up against the hulking Fajardo this time around. The Kraken seems better equipped to neutralize Haidar inside, but the Lebanese big has a feathery touch from the perimeter that can potentially force Fajardo to extend his defense—something he is not comfortable with.
Hayk Gyokchyan vs Justin Brownlee
Kabayan will likely be matched up against different Cedars in his Gilas debut, but Gyokchyan will probably start on him—and be his primary defender because of his size and mobility. Brownlee, though, can win this matchup, and he better do so to give Gilas a fighting chance.
Jonathan Arledge vs Jamie Malonzo
Gilas’ dearth of big men means Malonzo will probably play out of position at the four—and maybe even at the five. That sets him up against Arledge, who is, like Malonzo, an incredible athlete. The Lebanese big man though is much taller, so Malonzo will have his work cut out for him.