Hoops team shoots for outright quarters berth

THE Philippine Basketball Association-powered national team shoots for direct entry into the quarterfinals of the 18th Asian Games in its game today against China at the Gelora Bung Karno Basketball Hall in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Set for 5 p.m. (Manila time), the Philippines looks to build on its big 96-59 victory over Kazakhstan in their preliminary Group D match on Thursday to book its place in the next round.

Despite having limited time to prepare for the Games in the lead-up, the Yeng Guiaocoached squad of PBA players showed up well in its opener, leading from wire-to-wire to run away with the victory over Kazakhstan.

Guard Stanley Pringle of NorthPort Batang Pier was impressive on his 5-on-5 debut for the national team, finishing with 18 points to lead a balanced attack by the Philippines.

Christian Standhardinger finished with 15 points while James Yap and Paul Lee added 12 and 10 points, respectively.

For today’s game against China, the Philippines will welcome Filipino-American National Basketball Association player Jordan Clarkson of the Cleveland Cavaliers to the fold.

Got a last-minute approval from the NBA to play for the Philippines, Mr. Clarkson, who served as the flag-bearer of the country in the opening ceremonies on Saturday, is expected to soup up the Philippine basketball team against China, itself featuring NBA players in Houston Rockets center Zhou Qi and Dallas Mavericks forward Ding Yanyuhang.

Mr. Clarkson tried to make it to the Philippines’ game against Kazakhstan on Aug. 16 but arrived in Indonesia with the game about under way, postponing his debut to today.

He said he is excited to play with the Philippine team with its fast-paced style of play.

For Mr. Guiao, the arrival of Mr. Clarkson should provided added dimension to their team.

“I think we have a better chance against China with him

[Clarkson] around. China is still the favorite but Clarkson with his skills can help in drawing the defense to him and freeing up opportunities for his teammates,” Mr. Guiao was quoted as saying during their preparation for today’s game against China.

In the event the Philippines wins today, it avoids an early encounter with the top team in Group A, which could be Korea, in the quarterfinals.

The Philippines-China match will be broadcast live over ESPN5.