Sotto, Gilas Pilipinas Stamp Authority in 2025 FIBA Asia Qualifiers

Photo: FIBA

Gilas Pilipinas continued to dominate in the 2025 FIBA Asia Qualifiers, clinching their spot in the tournament with a commanding 93-54 victory over Hong Kong on Sunday, November 24, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The win capped off an impressive window for the national team, which also included a statement victory against New Zealand just days prior.

Kai Sotto Dominates the Paint

Kai Sotto was unstoppable against Hong Kong, finishing with 12 points, 15 rebounds, and a +23 efficiency rating in just over 23 minutes of play. His towering presence was too much for Hong Kong to handle, as he controlled the boards and provided a defensive anchor for Gilas.

Reflecting on the victory, Sotto highlighted the team’s hard work and the fans’ unwavering support.

“I think it’s a good feeling pero lahat ‘yan nagsisimula sa hard work. Lahat ‘yan pinaghirapan ko, lahat ‘yan pinaghirapan ng team. So, very happy ako na this window, we got both wins. Marami kaming natutunan and marami kami na-improve as a team.”

He also dedicated the win to the Filipino fans, saying,

“Napakalaking bagay ng fans at ng mga kababayan natin na sumusuporta sa game. Itong dalawang panalo namin, para sa inyo ‘to.”

Carl Tamayo Shines with Consistency

Carl Tamayo added a steady 16 points and 5 rebounds, showcasing his maturity and adaptability. His development under head coach Tim Cone has been evident, and he credited Cone’s mentorship for helping him stay composed in critical moments.

“Malaking bagay na magkakasama kami as same group of players coming out sa mga windows. Malaking bagay kasi ‘yung adjustment kahit papaano hindi gano’n kalaki,” Tamayo shared.

The 22-year-old also praised Cone’s guidance:

“He always talks to me, what I should adjust sa game ko. Especially being more matured, being relaxed sa game. I’m very blessed to have Coach Tim as my coach sa national team.”

Kevin Quiambao Makes His Mark

Kevin Quiambao contributed across the board with 8 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. The young forward has embraced his role with humility, crediting his readiness and the support of veteran mentors like LA Tenorio for his performance.

“Unang-una si Coach LA Tenorio. Since nung hindi ako nakakuha ng minutes sa New Zealand, lagi niya ako pinapaalalahanan na stay ready lang. Naging professional lang ako na basketball is basketball, walang personalan. Ready naman ako palagi,” Quiambao said.

He also expressed gratitude for Coach Tim Cone’s trust:

“Thank you kay Coach na binigyan niya ako ng tiwala. Tinake advantage ko lang ‘yon.”

Fans as the X-Factor

All three players emphasized the importance of the fans’ support in their victories. Tamayo summed it up best:

“Malaking bagay po sa amin na nakikita naming kayo na sumusuporta sa amin. Every game, sobrang nagbibigay kayo ng boost sa amin to play hard and to defend our home court.”

A Bright Future for Gilas Pilipinas

With a perfect 4-0 record in the qualifiers, Gilas Pilipinas has not only secured a spot in the 2025 FIBA Asia tournament but has also shown glimpses of the potential this team has under the leadership of Coach Tim Cone. Their chemistry, resilience, and hunger to improve make the nationals a team to watch as the competition progresses.

For now, the players and coaching staff can take pride in their achievements while preparing for even bigger challenges ahead. This journey is as much for the country as it is for the players, as Sotto put it:

“Itong dalawang panalo namin, para sa inyo ‘to.”