Gilas Pilipinas came up short in their comeback attempt against New Zealand to absorb their second straight loss in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025.
Gilas Pilipinas rallied in the second half but still faltered to New Zealand, 94-86, to stay winless in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Friday, Aug. 8 (PH time).
The Nationals repeatedly fought back in the last two quarters after trailing by as many as 18 points but just could not get over the line to go 0-2 in Group D action.
The Tall Blacks heated up from the three-point area in the second period to post a 37-55 lead late in the frame but ran into a rejuvenated Gilas side after the break.
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In the end, it was the Kiwis who emerged victorious to join Chinese Taipei on top of the bunch with their identical 2-0 marks.
Gilas still has a chance to advance to the next stage if it keeps Iraq winless.
A victory against the Iraqis will put the Filipinos in the classification for the quarterfinals.