Momentum is building for Gilas Pilipinas after two promising wins in tune-up games ahead of the FIBA Asia Cup 2025.
With the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 fast approaching, Gilas Pilipinas are looking to make some noise by returning to playoff contention.
Based on the latest Asia Cup Power Rankings, FIBA now lists Gilas as no. 6 in the 16-team field, up two spots from the initial no. 8 spot.
The Asia Cup Power Rankings cite Gilas’ growing momentum heading into the tournament, as evidenced by the national team’s twin victories in preparatory games.
Last week, Gilas Pilipinas staged a 21-point comeback to beat the Macau Black Bears in their send-off game. Once in Jeddah, the Philippines then beat Jordan in another tune-up.
The win over Jordan, who made the semis in the last FIBA Asia Cup in 2022, helped steer Gilas in the right direction.
“Their athleticism and ball movement looked crisp, and the recent warm-up win over the Falcons hints that they might be rounding into shape just in time. Even without Kai Sotto, their athleticism still makes them a dangerous side,” the rankings said of Gilas.
[Related: SCHEDULE, RESULTS | Gilas Pilipinas compete at 2025 FIBA Asia Cup]
Australia and Japan continue to top the rankings and no. 1 and no. 2, respectively. Meanwhile, Lebanon also improved from 6th to 5th, boosted by the confirmed presence of reigning Asia Cup MVP Wael Arakji.
Gilas Pilipinas will open the FIBA Asia Cup against Chinese Taipei on Wednesday (PH time).