GAMES THURSDAY (May 11)
(Morodok Techo Elephant Hall 2)
3 p.m. local time / 4 p.m. Manila time – Singapore vs. Philippines (women)
5 p.m. local time / 6 p.m. Manila time – Philippines vs. Cambodia (men)

PHNOM Penh, Cambodia — Gilas Pilipinas is gearing up for a challenging test as they seek redemption in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games men’s basketball competition. Their upcoming battle against Cambodia on Thursday at the Morodok Techo Elephant Hall 2 is expected to be a rigorous encounter.

Both teams enter the match with confidence, having begun their campaigns on a positive note. Gilas dominated Malaysia with a commanding 94-49 victory on Tuesday, while Cambodia, fresh off a gold medal win in the 3×3 event the previous Sunday, convincingly defeated Singapore 85-60 on Wednesday.

Thusly, the stage is set for an exciting clash as Gilas Pilipinas looks to continue its winning momentum and demonstrate its determination to excel in the tournament.

Cambodia has strengthened its team with naturalized players Sayeed Pridgett, Brandon Peterson, and Darrin Dorsey, members of the 3×3 squad that beat the Philippines in the men’s finals.

Three more naturalized players are also in the Cambodian team, according to Gilas coach Chot Reyes.

“They are a tough team,” Reyes said. “You saw the three guys in the 3×3. They have another three. They have six naturalized players. They are going to be a handful.
“We have to be able to adjust and pivot during the game. We have very little knowledge about their games as a team. We have some information as individuals, but as a team, very little. It’s really a matter of how we can adapt. Our adaptability is going to be tested,” said Reyes.

On Wednesday, Gilas was forced to look for another venue for practice after organizers set a morning practice at an outdoor court.

Reyes has also expressed concern over the basketball playing surface, which is usually used in volleyball and badminton games.

“We shouldn’t be playing on a surface like this. This is the situation that we are dealing with. We just have to embrace and accept it,” said Reyes.

Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser top-scored against Malaysia with 15 points and Justin Brownlee added 11 points. Michael Phillips was also impressive with nine points and 15 rebounds.