Gilas Pilipinas beats Saudi Arabia, advances to quarterfinals vs Australia

Host Saudi Arabia faced off against Gilas Pilipinas during the FIBA Asia Cup on Monday, August 11 (Tuesday, August 12 Manila time), with Gilas securing an overtime victory of 95-88.

The Philippines will face Australia in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, August 13, seven years after their controversial brawl at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan during the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

Coach Tim Cone noted that beating Australia would be a major upset given that they are the number one seed and two-time defending champions in the tournament, with an undefeated record in Asia Cup history.

Gilas Pilipinas secured their second win in four games with Justin Brownlee scoring 29 points, including a critical three-pointer to send the game into overtime, while Kevin Quiambao contributed 17 points, 3 assists, and 3 steals.

AJ Edu also had a standout performance with 17 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 assists as Gilas aims for its first semifinals appearance in the Asia Cup since 2015.