Gilas needs big win over Italy to advance

Gilas Pilipinas needs a significant victory over Italy by at least 12 points to advance to the second round of the FIBA World Cup after Dominican Republic secured its spot with a win over Angola.

Angola defeated Gilas in their previous match, leaving Gilas with a 0-2 record and requiring them to beat Italy by more than 13 points to force a three-way tie for the second spot.

Coach Chot Reyes emphasized focusing on preparations for the upcoming game against Italy rather than other teams' results.

Gilas players expressed disappointment in their loss to Angola, with Kiefer Ravena noting it was an opportunity missed to repay national team legends who watched the match.