Perfect Gilas goes for SEA Games gold, sweep in 3×3 men’s basketball

The Philippines’ Jason Perkins reacts after scoring against Thailand in the semifinals. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Gilas Pilipinas Men eased past Thailand, 21-11, to enter the gold medal round in 3×3 basketball of the 30th Southeast Asian Games Monday at Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.

Big men Jason Perkins and Mo Tautuaa again had a field day in the shaded area, muscling their way to a combined 13 points.

The Philippines raced to an early 10-2 lead after a basket by Tautuaa and never letup.

Perkins stretched the gap to 11, 18-7 before Tautuaa scored Gilas’ last three points, including a deuce with 35 seconds left to end the game.

Gilas, which improved to 7-0, plays for the gold medal and an eight-game sweep against the winner between Indonesia and Vietnam later in the day.

Perkins topscored with seven points, Tautuaa finished with six while CJ Perez chipped in five points.