New Zealand

Gilas Pilipinas Shocks Tall Blacks: A Victory for the Ages!

Gilas Pilipinas makes history by defeating New Zealand for the first time in a thrilling 93-89 game! What a moment for basketball in the Philippines! 🏀🇵🇭

In an electrifying match that had fans on the edge of their seats, Gilas Pilipinas achieved a historic milestone by defeating New Zealand’s Tall Blacks for the very first time in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 qualifiers. With a final score of 93-89, this game marked a significant breakthrough for the Philippine men's basketball team, breaking a streak of losses against New Zealand after four prior encounters. Justin Brownlee and Kai Sotto emerged as standout players, each recording a double-double that propelled the team to victory during a thrilling third-quarter rally, sending the crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena into a frenzy.

The nail-biting game showcased the skill and resilience of the Gilas squad, as they faced down a determined New Zealand team that made a valiant comeback effort in the final minutes. The celebrated performance of Scottie Thompson also added to the momentum, helping the team to secure their place in the next round of qualifiers. Fans couldn’t contain their excitement as every shot missed and every point earned truly felt like part of a bigger story being written on the court – that of a basketball nation finally finding its footing against a formidable opponent.

But it wasn’t just basketball taking the spotlight this week! Beyond the thrilling court action, the Philippines and New Zealand announced a joint declaration aimed at fostering climate cooperation. They plan to develop a pioneering climate framework focusing on sustainable innovations to tackle environmental challenges. This partnership showcases both nations' commitment to not only sporting excellence but also a more sustainable future, proving that collaboration is key, whether on the court or in addressing global issues.

As Gilas Pilipinas celebrates this groundbreaking win, the team and its fans look ahead with optimism. Not only did they mark a new chapter in their basketball journey, but they also demonstrated unity and resilience, reminding us of the power of teamwork. Fun fact: did you know that the Philippines has a deep-rooted passion for basketball? It's often referred to as the country's 'national game'! And speaking of history-making events, did you know that the Māori, indigenous to New Zealand, have a rich cultural heritage and have been advocating for their rights and recognition in various aspects of society? From the court to the climate, history is being made everywhere!