FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers: Philippines vs Kazakhstan

 I was asked by my editor to apply for accreditation for the incoming FIBA World Cup Qualifiers that will be held here in Manila. There are two games, the first one is against Kazakhstan and the second game is against the mighty Iran. Fortunately, I was approved by FIBA media.

The game was held at the Mall of Asia Arena on Friday, November 30.

I am always excited to cover international events like this because the level of the game is really different compare to the collegiate level. The first game is against Kazakhstan which didn't turn out well as Kazakhstan shocks the hometown crowd by defeating the Gilas Pilipinas team 92-88.

Alexander Zhigulin finished the game with 30 points and 18 of them from beyond the arc.

Stanley Pringle also had a monster game finishing with 29 points, 4 assist and 3 rebounds for Gilas Pilipinas.

June Mar Fajardo added 14 points and 13 rebounds while Marcio Lassiter chipped in 13 points.

On my opinion, we do have a chance against the visitors but their hot shooting killed us. Also our big man was defended well by their bigs. I am hoping and wishing that Gilas can bounce back and beat Iran on the next game.

It is also nice to see Marcio Lassiter playing in the Gilas team again. Stanley Pringle also had a monster game killing the defense of the Kazakhstan team with his speed.

Photos taken using Nikon D750 for ABS-CBN Sports