A close game by Gilas. Not bad against one of the top teams in Asia. Lebanon even said that the game was so tough and the Philippines gives them a competitive match. Jordan Clarkson slows down in the second half after becoming a scoring machine in the first half. He exceeded his usual playing time in the NBA. He played the entire second half of this game aside from more minutes he played in the half. Although he can, that is exhausting.
At least, they now see how their chemistry works. Hoping for an adjustment next game.
Lebanon is the one who fought Australia in the Fiba Asia Cup Finals 2022 so they are at the top right now so seeing Gilas losing by only 4 points to them is a net positive already.
Lack of preparation might be one of the reason why they lost because preparing for the big stage is very helpful for that chemistry to build up. Let's also add the fact that Clarkson really lose his hot shooting in the final minutes of the game. If he only maintained that one then the Gilas has a chance. Turnovers is also a big factor as well because they got 21 turnovers against 9 from Lebanon. We know that the team who is turning the ball over many times tend to lose most of the time and that's what happened to Gilas.
Overall, it's a good game for the Gilas team and let's move on and focus on their next opponent which is Saudi Arabia which the Gilas is heavily favored. I'm expecting adjustments as well especially in their turnovers.
You observe well and that's true JC got exhausted I guess playing the whole 2nd half together with Kai, It's a great help from Aguilar and Ramos but ain't enough in terms of rotations, Just an opinion, Fajardo, Perez, Poguy and Erram if PBA only being considerate that might change the outcome of this game.
Though just like what the coach said, no need to win but to learn and hope that they will see this lapses and they will find ways to improve, I'm hoping for the best as having JC and Kai brings our National back to the respect of Asian basketball fans.
Almost a win. Those who watched the game don't have to say anything against our squad. They do everything at their best, but
Lebanese really fought and defend their home-court pride!