Gilas Pilipinas routed the host New Zealand professional club Manawatu Jets, 90-61, in an exhibition game on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Palmy Arena in New Zealand. The game was part of Gilas' preparation for the upcoming Window 3 of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
Key Players Step Up Without Justin Brownlee
Gilas secured the dominant victory even without naturalized player Justin Brownlee, who was given rest by team management after his successful stint leading Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings to the championship in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner's Cup. With Brownlee sidelined, Kevin Quiambao, Carl Tamayo, and Troy Rosario stepped up to lead the team.
Quiambao scored 13 points, Tamayo added 12 points, and Rosario contributed 11 points. According to the SBP photo report, Rosario was among the best players for Gilas in the match.
Second Quarter Surge Seals the Win
Gilas began to control the game in the second quarter and never looked back, maintaining the lead until the final buzzer. The quarter scores were 25-12, 45-33, 67-45, and 90-61.
Scoring Breakdown
- Gilas (90): Quiambao 13, Tamayo 12, Rosario 11, Gomez de Liaño 9, Ramos 8, Newsome 7, AJ Edu 7, Philips 6, Abarrientos 6, Fajardo 4, Baltazar 3.
- Jets (61): Evans 11, Reed 10, Essahary 9, Richards 8, Small 7, Poplar 6, Collins 5, Zahran 3, Makoii 2.
The exhibition game provides valuable experience for Gilas as they continue their preparations for the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, where they aim to secure a spot in the World Cup.
