Gilas Pilipinas star Justin Brownlee against Guam in the first window of the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers. Photo from FIBA Basketball.MANILA — Gilas Pilipinas is bracing for a tall order as it squares off anew with New Zealand in the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
The Nationals will look to preserve their unbeaten record in Group A after sweeping Guam in their pair of meetings in late 2025. However, they will be up against a hungry Kiwi side still searching for its first win after two games.
Tim Cone’s wards will aim to replicate their 93-89 victory over New Zealand in the 2024 Asia Cup Qualifiers, as what’s at stake is an outright berth in the second round of the World Cup Qualifiers should Gilas extend its record to 3-0 on Thursday.
However, leading the way in that November 21, 2024 triumph was Kai Sotto, who tallied 17 points, 10 rebounds, two blocks, and a steal, and he will be absent this time around.
Still, the Philippines will parade a relatively young frontline, with AJ Edu, Quentin Millora-Brown, and Carl Tamayo expected to man the paint.
READ: Quentin Millora-Brown set to join Gilas for upcoming FIBA qualifying window
June Mar Fajardo remains with the team, providing a veteran presence following Japeth Aguilar’s retirement from national team duty.
Meanwhile, Juan Gomez de Liaño is looking to re-establish himself in the men’s program to provide much-needed playmaking, while also available at the guard spots are Scottie Thompson and Chris Newsome.
Rounding out the current roster are Justin Brownlee, Dwight Ramos, Kevin Quiambao, Calvin Oftana, and CJ Perez.
Tip-off between Gilas and New Zealand is set for 7:30 p.m. at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
Dwight Ramos on Quentin Millora-Brown rejoining Gilas: 'I’m glad he’s able to come'