Bangkok: The Philippines proved its supremacy in basketball at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games after beating host Thailand in the men's and women's divisions at the Nimibutr Stadium in Bangkok Friday night. Gilas Pilipinas relied on a 13-0 run in the fourth quarter, anchored by Jamie Malonzo, to prevail, 70-64, and retain the men's basketball title.
According to Philippines News Agency, coach Norman Black expressed his admiration for the victory, comparing it to his previous titles in the PBA and UAAP, as well as his role in the Philippines' gold medal run in the 2011 Games in Indonesia. Malonzo contributed significantly with 17 points, 12 rebounds, three assists, and five steals.
Thailand's decision to ban naturalized players and those without a passport before the age of 16 led Gilas to include five PBA players-Robert Bolick, Poy Erram, Dalph Panopio, Abu Tratter, and Von Pessumal-alongside Adamson center Cedrick Manzano and free agents Jamie Malonzo and Justin Chua. Bolick, who scored 10 points, collaborated with Matthew Wright and Malonzo to turn the game around in the third quarter, overcoming a halftime deficit to lead 41-38.
Thailand, led by Chanato Jakwaran and Emmanuel Chinedu Ejesu, briefly regained the lead at 55-54 in the fourth quarter. However, Gilas fought back, establishing a lead of 67-55 with 4:14 remaining. Despite Thailand's late rally, Gilas secured the win after Jainasuk Nakom hit three free throws with 47.8 seconds to go.
In the women's division, the Gilas team was led by veteran skipper Afril Bernardino, who scored 19 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in their 73-70 victory. Kacey Dela Rosa added 17 points and 16 rebounds, while Sophia Dignadice contributed 10 points and two assists. Supavadee Kunchuan led Thailand with 17 points and six rebounds, as they closed in with a 7-0 run.
Chuck Cabinbin's free throw in the final 16.9 seconds ensured the win for the Gilas women's team. Head coach Patrick Aquino praised his players' efforts and thanked Thailand for a challenging game. Aquino highlighted the significance of winning abroad, mentioning their previous victories in Manila (2019) and Hanoi (2022).
