The Chot Reyes-coached Gilas Pilipinas Men (world #34, Asia #6) defeated the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (world #80, Asia #13) 84-46 in the fourth window of the 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers on August 29 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Jordan Clarkson, an NBA player who is Filipino-American, scored a game-high 23 points for the Philippines in 28 minutes of action on 8-of-14 shooting, including five 3-pointers. He also added six assists, five rebounds, and five steals. Dwight Ramos had a strong game with 9 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists, while Kai Sotto had a double-double performance with 16 points, a game-high 13 rebounds, and 4 blocks in 22 minutes.
PHL shot 28/66 (42%) from the field, including 9-of-23 shooting from beyond the arc (KSA - 16/68 fg, 5/33 3pts), and Gilas went 19-of-23 from the free throw line (KSA - 9/16 ft). Saudi Arabia had 14 turnovers while Gilas had 15. Lebanon recorded more steals (6-5) although Gilas outrebounded the KSA 55-38 and had more blocks (7-4).
The Philippines will be back in action in the fifth window of the 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers on November 10 against Jordan and will face Saudi Arabia on November 13 at the KSA.
Jordan Clarkson Game Highlights vs. Saudi Arabia (VIDEO)