The Philippine’s Justine Baltazar tries to get past Serbia’s Aleksa Avramovic during the FIBA Mens Olympic Qualifying Tournament match in Belgrade. | AFP photo
The Gilas Pilipinas put up a gallant stand but still fell short against Serbia, losing, 83-76, in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Belgrade on Wednesday (Thursday, July 1, 2021, Philippine time).
Serbia, bannered by 7-foot-4 Dallas Mavericks center Boban Marjanovic. needed a thrilling finish to withstand the Gilas, who came back from 16 points down and even took the lead early in the fourth period.
The victory made the reigning Olympic silver medalists the first team from Group A to advance to the semifinals.
After leading the for 36 minutes, Serbia allowed the Gilas to take their first and only lead of the game, 74-73. But Serbia closed the game with a 10-2 run for the win.
Marjanovic led Serbia with a double-double of 25 points and 10 rebounds.
Serbia’s Boban Marjnovic battles for the loose ball with Gilas Pilipinas’ Angelo Kouame. | AFP photo
Angelo Kouame paced Gilas with 17 points, seven rebounds, three blocks and two assists.
Gilas will next face the Dominican Republic with a win giving the Philippines a ticket to the semifinals.
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