PHL takes on tough Tall Blacks in FIBA qualifiers in Auckland

THE national men’s team takes on a tough New Zealand side on Thursday in the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Asia Cup World Cup Qualifiers’ third window at the Finda Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand.

The team, coached by Serbiannew Zealander Nenad Vucinic, is composed of young players and bereft of pros from the Philippine Basketball Association. Naturalized player Ange Kouame is also missing from the roster because of a partial right anterior cruciate ligament injury.

“We’re doing okay despite the odds and we’re confident the players will give their best,” Assistant Coach Jong Uichico told Businessmirror through internet call on Wednesday. “We’ll do the best we can against a new New Zealand team.”

The Philippines brings a 1-1 winloss record in Group A into the 3:30 p.m. game. Regardless of the result of the qualifiers, the Philippines is seeded in next year’s World Cup as co-host.

Without Kouame—who will also miss the team’s game against India on July 3 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City—uichico said 6-foot-8 Geo Chiu and Carl Tamayo and debuting Kevin Quiambao, both 6-foot-7, will have to step up.

Also on the team are Kiefer Ravena, Dwight Ramos, Dave Ildefonso, RJ Abarrientos, SJ Belangel, William Navarro, Francis Lopez and Rhenz Abando.

Asked if the Filipinos have a chance of getting even against the Kiwis, Uichico said yes.

New Zealand will be led by Shea Ili and returning Corey Webster leads the Kiwis, who beat the nationals, 88-63, last February 27 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.