When Jordan takes on Gilas Pilipinas later tonight to open the second round of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, it will do so with confidence—having already beaten the Philippines in this very setting: the second round, on the latter’s home floor, and with plenty at stake.
What Happened?
In their February clash during the final window of that qualifying cycle, Jordan entered with a 5‑4 record and badly needed a win, while Gilas Pilipinas stood at 6‑3. The Philippines, as one of the hosts of the 2023 FIBA World Cup, was already assured of a slot, but still wanted to deliver for the home crowd.
Jordan came out firing, exploding for a 33‑14 first quarter that stunned Gilas. The hosts found some rhythm in the second with 27 points, but the Jordanians matched them shot for shot, taking a 60‑41 lead into halftime.
The second half saw Justin Brownlee ignite a furious rally. Gilas outscored Jordan, 23‑10, in the third to cut the deficit to 70‑64 heading into the final frame. The Philippines kept pushing and had a chance to take the lead late, but Scottie Thompson missed two crucial free throws. Ray Parks Jr. then misfired on a potential game‑winning three at the buzzer, allowing Jordan to escape.
A Few Holdovers From That Game
Much has changed since that epic contest at the Philippine Arena three years ago, but several familiar faces remain. Thompson returns with a chance to redeem himself, while Dwight Ramos, June Mar Fajardo, Cjay Perez, and Kevin Quiambao are also back. Ramos logged 31 minutes in that 2023 game, scoring 7 points on 2‑for‑8 shooting. Quiambao, then one of the youngest players, did not play, while Perez and Fajardo saw limited action.
For Jordan, Freddy Ibrahim is the most notable returnee, having tallied 19 points and 8 assists in that game. Amin Abu Hawwas and Ahmad Alhamarsheh, who each scored 8 points, are also back. This time, center Ahmad Al Dwairi—who did not play in 2023—will anchor the middle.
No Justin Brownlee
One glaring absence tonight is Justin Brownlee. Despite Gilas’ loss in 2023, Brownlee was the undisputed star, finishing with a game‑high 41 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 assists. He almost single‑handedly carried the Philippines’ offense in the second half.
Brownlee remains Gilas Pilipinas’ primary naturalized reinforcement, but he will not suit up tonight. His counterpart from that game, Dar Tucker, also won’t be playing for Jordan. Tucker wasn’t too bad in that game himself, as he tallied a team-high 22 points to go along with 12 rebounds. However, while Tucker won’t be suiting up, the Jordanian squad will still have the services of a naturalized player in Jalen Harris, and he could be even better and pose bigger headaches for the Philippines.
Gilas Pilipinas will face their Middle Eastern rivals later at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
