Pilipinas-Smart Gilas took it as a challenge when they found out, at the last minute, that defending champion Iran will be their opening day opponent in the 33rd R. William Jones Cup.
Gilas relied on Marcus Douthit's steady shooting while JV Casio helped stabilize the team in posting a 73-59 win over two-time Jones Cup titlist Iran on Saturday at the Sinjhuang Stadium in New Taipei City.
Jordan was supposed to be Gilas' original opening day opponent, but organizers changed the schedule of the entire tournament when South Africa pulled out at the last minute.
Douthit scattered 24 points while Casio tallied 11 markers and more importantly, became Gilas' stabilizing force when Iran cut their once double-digit lead to eight (62-54) in the final four minutes of the fourth quarter.
Casio's two free throws plus a basket each by Douthit and team captain Chris Tiu pushed the lead back to 14, 68-54, with two minutes and 51 seconds left in the match.
Mark Barroca scored 13 and his timely baskets kept Iran at bay. — Jon Perez, GMA News
The Scores:
Philippines 73 - Douthit 24, Barroca 13, Casio 11, Baracael 8, Aguilar 6, Tiu 4, Lassiter 3, Hontiveros 2, Taulava 2, Lutz 0.
Iran 59 - Ehadadi 25, Kamrani 18, Davarpanahfard 7, Sohrabnejad 3, Kardoust 2, Veisi 2, Nabipoor 2, Davoudichegani 0, Davari 0, Sahakian.
Quarters: 17-12, 37-30, 54-38, 73-59
goob job gilas!
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