The Philippine men's national basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, has taken a significant step forward in the global basketball hierarchy. According to the latest FIBA World Rankings presented by Nike, released on December 4, 2025, the Philippines has moved up one spot to 36th in the world.
Dominant Performance Drives Rankings Climb
This upward movement follows Gilas Pilipinas' commanding performance in the first window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers. The team secured a clean sweep against newcomer Guam in back-to-back games. The most emphatic victory came on November 28 at the Calvo Fieldhouse in Yigo Village, where the Philippines delivered an 87-46 win.
That game was historic for its rebounding dominance. Gilas hauled down an astonishing 61 total rebounds, shattering the previous Asian Qualifiers record of 59, which was jointly held by Lebanon and Iran. This remarkable effort now ranks as the second-highest single-game rebounding total in the entire history of the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers, trailing only the records set by DR Congo and Angola.
New Standing and Global Ranking Shifts
With 348.8 ranking points, the Philippines now sits ahead of European squad Estonia (37th) and Asian rival Jordan (38th). FIBA's game-based ranking system, which factors in game results, the strength of opponents, and the level of competition, validated the team's strong start.
Gilas will have its next chance to improve its position in February 2026, during the second window of the Asian Qualifiers. Meanwhile, the top of the rankings saw little change: Team USA retained the No. 1 spot after sweeping Nicaragua, while reigning world and European champion Germany held firm at No. 2.
Notable Movers Around the Basketball World
The latest update saw significant activity beyond the Philippines. Canada is closing in on fourth-ranked France, while Türkiye jumped to 11th, overtaking Latvia. Jamaica made a huge leap, rising eight places to No. 87 after a stunning victory over Puerto Rico.
In Asia, host nation Qatar climbed five spots to No. 78 following a historic win against Lebanon. African qualifiers were also active, with Rwanda jumping nine places to No. 81 and Libya moving up five to 91st. Four new teams entered the rankings after the FIBA Melanesian Cup 2025, led by Papua New Guinea at No. 157.
With a record-setting performance and an undefeated start to their qualifying campaign, Gilas Pilipinas has built strong momentum. The team is now strategically positioned to continue its ascent in the FIBA World Rankings as the road to the 2027 World Cup continues.
