Gilas Pilipinas aims for victory over New Zealand in FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers

The Philippines' national basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, aims to break their losing streak against New Zealand in the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers on Thursday, November 21.

Gilas, coached by Tim Cone and bolstered by recent performances in the Paris Olympics Qualifying Tournament and Asian Games success, seeks a breakthrough victory after losing their last four encounters with an average margin of 24.3 points.

New Zealand's team is currently in transition under new head coach Judd Flavell, who takes over from Pero Cameron, featuring veterans Corey Webster and Tom Vodanovich.

In a press conference on November 13, Cone expressed optimism about Gilas' chances against New Zealand, noting that the Tall Blacks may not have seen a team like the one assembled by the Philippines before.

Gilas Pilipinas will rely on their size advantage with players like Kai Sotto and June Mar Fajardo to match up against New Zealand's strong forwards while protecting their home court advantage at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Despite recent injuries to Jamie Malonzo and AJ Edu, Gilas remains confident in its ability to secure a win against world-ranked 22nd New Zealand, with Cone highlighting the importance of showing their best performance to fans around the country.