Who would have thought a few years back that the Philippines would be able to compete in the FIBA Basketball world cup? Everyone thought that it would take the Philippines a few more years to qualify. But they surprise everyone. For the first time in nearly 4 decades, the Philippines would be able to compete against the top basketball teams around the world. 

When they qualified last year everyone thought they Philippines would be a push over. But we were proven wrong again. Then number 34 seed Philippines faced the world's number 3 Argentina. Argentina has the advantage in size and experience. We thought it would be blow out. We were proven wrong yet again. 

Philippines made sure that they wouldn't go down fighting. The Philippines got a lead as high as 10 points during the first half of the game.In was three beyond the arc for both teams. De Ocampo and Alapag had the most 3 points shot for Gilas. Norwood had a great performance that night. The highlight of his performance for the that game was 2 slam dunk in the face of NBA superstar Luis Escola. 

A few seconds left in the game and the score was 83 to 81 in favor of Argentina. Castro tried to tie the game or get the lead with a three point shot. However he failed to release the ball and was call for the traveling. In the end the Philippines fell short. Final score was 85 to 81 favoring Argentina.

Despite not having won any games in the FIBA Basketball world cup this year, I am very impressed with Philippines' performance. Considering it has been nearly 4 decades since the Philippines last qualified they are doing quite well. What I mean is that I was expecting that could not go head to head with bigger teams in FIBA. But it hasn't been a walk in the park for the opposing team. Crotia only won by 3 points, Greece by 12 points and today Philippines lost by 4 points. That something to be proud of. I was honestly expecting Philippines to lose by 20 or more points each game but I am dead wrong.

Next they face Puerto Rico. I hope they do get their 1st win against Puerto rico