Gilas edges KBL’s Changwon in lone tuneup ahead of Asian Games

Justin Brownlee during an exhibition game against KBL club Changwon at PhilSports Arena in Pasig.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines–Gilas Pilipinas held off visiting Changwon LG Sakers, 86-81, making the most out of its lone preparatory friendly prior to the 19th Asian Games.

Justin Brownlee starred with 19 points while June Mar Fajardo added 16 for the hastily-assembled Gilas that will try to shoot for no less than a gold medal in the Hangzhou, China showcase that unfurls this weekend.

Calvin Oftana chipped in a double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Scottie Thompson contributed 11 in the contest at PhilSports Arena in Pasig City that was opened to the public.

Gilas Pilipinas during a tuneup game against the Changwon LG Sakers.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

Chris Ross, Arvin Tolentino, Kevin Alas, CJ Perez—four PBA standouts tapped as contingency measures for Terrence Romeo, Calvin Abueva, Mo Taututaa, and Jason Perkins—saw action against the Korean Basketball League semifinalists.

Dante Cunningham had 18 points and eight rebounds for the visitors while Egyptian standout Assem Marei, who played in the recent Fiba World Cup pumped in 13 points for the visitors who made a last-ditch effort for a comeback in the final frame.

Gilas leaves for Hangzhou this Sunday and plays Bahrain on Tuesday.