Gilas Pilipinas routs Guam 87-46 in FIBA World Cup qualifiers opener

Gilas Pilipinas commenced their 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers campaign with a decisive 87-46 away victory against Guam.

The two teams are set to meet again on Monday, December 1, at the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagle Gym, with Gilas aiming for a sweep.

Naturalized player Justin Brownlee was the top scorer for Gilas with 22 points in the first game.

Dwight Ramos contributed 10 points, while June Mar Fajardo, Quentin Millora-Brown, and AJ Edu combined for 27 rebounds.

Scottie Thompson and Chris Newsome provided backcourt pressure and hustle plays, with Thompson recording three steals.

Kevin Quiambao added seven points off the bench, including five during Gilas' second-quarter breakaway.

Jericho Cruz was the top scorer for Guam with 17 points.

In other Group A games, Australia defeated New Zealand 84-79, placing the Philippines and Australia at the top of the group with 1-0 records.

Gilas head coach Tim Cone expressed respect for Guam despite their lower ranking and knowledge of Guam being shorthanded.

Gilas Pilipinas is looking to build on their 41-point rout from Friday and sweep the window at the Blue Eagle Gym.