Gilas failed against mighty Serbia
By J.Lo
EIGHT -point run by NBA player Boban Marjanovic would banish the upset-seeking Filipinos in the final four minutes of the game.
Tough and gritty fight from all-cadet Gilas Pilipinas failed to overcome World No. 5 Serbia, 83-76, in their opening game at the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Belgrade, Serbia.
Despite going in the game as heavy underdogs, the young Gilas team played at pace with seasoned veterans.
Gilas remained breathing down necks of the Serbians until late in the fourth quarter.
The Nationals even took lead with 3:50 left in the fourth quarter, 74-73 off of an RJ Abarrientos bucket.
Marjanovic’s run would help home team come away with the win.
Ange Kouame led all scorers for Gilas Pilipinas with 17 points while Jordan Heading scattered 13 points off of four three pointers.
Marjanovic led Serbia with 25 markers and 10 rebounds.
Gilas plays their second game in OQT against Dominican Republic.
This is must-win game for Gilas if they want to move on to the knockout stage of the tournament.
Should they win, they will face the winner of the Italy-Puerto Rico game in the knockout semifinals.
ISKUP! 