Gilas Defeats Iraq, Advances Amid Injury Concern

Gilas Pilipinas secured a crucial 66-57 win over Iraq in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup, advancing to the quarterfinal qualification round despite finishing third in Group D with a 1-2 record. Dwight Ramos led the team with 21 points, fueling a pivotal third-quarter surge that broke the deadlock from a tied first half. Justin Brownlee struggled offensively but contributed in other aspects of the game, while AJ Edu provided strong defense and rebounding. Iraq, after a promising start and a late comeback attempt, was eliminated from the tournament. Iraq's coach Veselin Matic praised the Philippines as a top contender in the competition. Gilas Pilipinas faces concerns over Calvin Oftana's injury after he exited the match late holding his ankle.