Newsome keys Gilas Pilipinas win over New Zealand

Chris Newsome proved to be a valuable asset for Gilas Pilipinas coming off the bench, playing a crucial role in their 93-89 victory against New Zealand in the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.

National team head coach Tim Cone views Newsome's ability to contribute effectively from a sixth-man role as a significant advantage for the team.

Newsome, who previously started as point guard in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament, accepted a bench role following the return of Scottie Thompson.

Newsome's task was to observe the New Zealand players from the bench initially and then devise strategies to counter them upon entering the game.

He was instrumental in getting Gilas back into the game after a slow start and limiting New Zealand's Corey Webster.

Newsome finished with 11 points, including a crucial three-pointer with 1:09 remaining that helped secure the 93-89 win and preserve Gilas' unbeaten streak.