
Gilas Pilipinas during its first practice in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia ahead of the 2025 Fiba Asia Cup. –SBP PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines–Gilas Pilipinas came up with a 75-61 victory over Jordan on Saturday in a tune-up match before the Fiba Asia Cup in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Little details were provided by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas as the game was held behind closed doors but Gilas was able to stay in control after a 40-29 halftime lead to win all two of its exhibition games.
READ: Gilas Pilipinas at 2025 Fiba Asia Cup: what to know
The Philippines came back from 21 down to beat the Macau Black Bears, 103-98, on Monday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Calvin Oftana, according to a report from the PBA website, saw action for Gilas despite playing through an ankle injury during the recent Philippine Cup Finals for TNT.
He along with Scottie Thompson, Dwight Ramos and Kevin Quiambao were said to have connected crucial three-point shots that kept Gilas in front until the end.
The exhibition at Al Ahli Sports Club came three days before Gilas opens its Asia Cup Group D campaign against Chinese-Taipei.
READ: June Mar Fajardo’s health could be key as Gilas eyes Asia Cup gold
Jordan also used the contest to beef up for the Asia Cup, led by Dar Tucker as its naturalized player.
Both the SBP and the Jordan Basketball Federation, which posted photos of the game on social media, didn’t reveal if June Mar Fajardo was able to see action for Gilas.
Fajardo had been dealing with a calf injury since the Philippine Cup semis and his participation in practices since arriving in Jeddah has been limited.