Gilas Pilipinas loses second tune-up game to Türkiye

Türkiye defeated Gilas Pilipinas, 84-73, in their second tune-up game in Istanbul, following an earlier 82-80 loss to Poland.

Justin Brownlee led Gilas with 21 points against Türkiye, while June Mar Fajardo posted a double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds.

Türkiye's Tarik Biberovic led his team with 23 points, making five three-pointers, including one that sealed the game.

The Filipino team struggled with three-point shooting, making only five of 19 attempts against Türkiye, while Türkiye made 14 of 21 from beyond the arc.

Gilas also had limited free throw attempts with only seven against Türkiye, compared to Türkiye's 18 of 22.

Team manager Richard del Rosario acknowledged the tough losses and the need for the team to level up their defense, especially against the three-point shot, and to minimize mistakes as they prepare for the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga, Latvia.

Del Rosario stated that the Nationals have to be at the top of their game against Latvia and Georgia in the OQT.