MANILA, Philippines — A clash with Japan kicks off Smart Gilas Pilipinas’ second round campaign in 27th Fiba Asia men’s Championships starting on Monday.
The Filipinos, who wound up second after the opening round, are set to face the Japanese at 8:30 p.m. at the Mall of Asia Arena as the tournament resumes after a one-day break.
The Philippines, meanwhile, tangles with Qatar on August 6 also at 8:30 p.m., then against Hong Kong on August 7 at the same time and venue.
Smart Gilas Pilipinas fell to Taiwan 79-84 on Saturday night as the Taiwanese assumed top spot in group A.
“Second place in our group doesn’t mean anything; the important thing is the placing after the second round,” said Philippine head coach Chot Reyes.
Pairings for dreaded knockout quarterfinals will be determined after the second round.
2011 finalist Jordan faces Qatar at 10:30 p.m. in the opening day of the second round before Taiwan takes on lowly Hong Kong at 3 p.m. in other group E action.
In group F, defending titlist China will have its mettle tested right away as it squares off against Kazakhstan on Monday at 5:45 p.m.
Iran, meanwhile, takes on India at 12:45 p.m. then South Korea and Bahrain are scheduled to cap the day with a 10:30 p.m. tussle.