Jericho Cruz and Guam picked up their first-ever win in the FIBA Asia Cup after holding off Syria in Group B.
Jericho Cruz put on an MVP performance as Guam nailed its first win in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 at the expense of Syria, 82-73, on Saturday, August 9 (PH time).
The PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup Finals MVP was at the forefront of Guam's attack with 21 big points, built on game-high five triples.
To shake off the Syrians inside the final five minutes, Cruz dropped three straight treys, the last of which gave them a comfortable 82-69 lead with 2:36 left to play.
But it wasn’t just the burly Cruz who carried the load for Guam, with Tai Wesley also contributing 21 points, nine rebounds, eight assists, and a steal.
Earnest Ross Jr. had 17 points, five rebounds, eight assists, and two steals, while Takumi Simon added 15 points, six rebounds, and three steals.
With the win, the quarterfinals remain within reach for the Asia Cup debutants as Guam is at third in Group B with a 1-1 record.
Meanwhile, Keron Melique Deshields paced Syria with 29 points, eight rebounds, six assists, and three steals.