Gilas to play ‘very crucial games’ before an expected big home crowd

FILE–Gilas Pilipinas’ Dwight Ramos during the pregame introductions against Australia in the Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers in Perth.–FIBA PHOTO

HONG KONG—Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas expects a big crowd on hand for the country’s hosting of the second round of the 2027 Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers at Mall of Asia Arena.

With less than a month remaining before Gilas Pilipinas plays home games against Jordan and Iran, SBP executive director Erika Dy said that the majority of the tickets have already been sold.

“So far, we’re very happy with the ticket sales since we opened it a week ago,” Dy said recently during the EASL Future Elite Championships that saw the Cebu City All-Stars claim the inaugural 15U crown at the expense of Macau in the final at Kai Tak Sports Hall here.

READ: Gilas Pilipinas without Dwight Ramos, AJ Edu in Asian Games

“We’re hoping that our home crowd helps when we compete. The tickets are almost sold out, we’re holding a few tickets for promotional purposes, but they will also be released soon. Still, there’s also a few left for those. We’re excited because it looks like the fans will be there to support our team.”

Gilas Pilipinas takes on Jordan on August 28 before facing Iran two days later.

Apart from the three countries, New Zealand, which dealt the Philippines a heartbreaking double-overtime loss in the third window in Auckland earlier this month, undefeated Australia and Syria are also seeing action.

The Tall Blacks and Iranians clash also on August 28 while the Boomers look to continue their dominant run against the Syrians on August 30.

READ: Gilas includes Justin Arana, Mike Phillips in Asian Games pool

“We have very crucial games, almost like do-or-die. I say almost because we’re only points behind them, but we have six games remaining left,” said Dy.

“A lot can still happen but it would be good if we can beat them early.”

Gilas, which is expected to have its naturalized forward Justin Brownlee back for the August games, hopes to regain its winning ways after going 0-2 against the Kiwis and Aussies.