FIBA Asia Cup 2014: Philippines negate late Indian resurgence to win 70-66 and reach the semifinals

Paul Lee was instrumental in Philippines success (File photo)

Philippines hold off India

The Philippines reached the semifinals of the 5th FIBA Asia Cup after overcoming India 70-66 in the quarterfinals at the Wuhan Sports Center.

The Philippines dominated a good portion of the game before India managed to stage a fightback late in the fourth quarter. India trailed by 16 points with five minutes left in the game. But the Indians scored 12 consecutive points to narrow down the lead to just four. Philippines eventually prevailed 70-66 and will take on Iran in the semifinals.

Philippines had a lead of 12 points at halftime. Paul John Dalistan and Marcus Douthit had tremendous games and outmaneuvered India at both ends of the court.

India started positively in the second half, but their opponents did not let them take control of the game. India utilized their opportunities in the latter stages of the game as they scored off three-point chances and free throws. It was too little, too late as Philippines held onto their nerves to seal the win.

Amritpal Singh had a good game with 20 points and 10 rebounds. India had recorded an historic win against China earlier in the tournament and fought hard against the Asian Champions Iran in their last match.

Flemming reflects on the tournament

Indian coach Scott Flemming felt that the match was over by the first half.

“I know we lost this game in the first half, because we played a heck of a game in the fourth quarter. We weren’t playing with enough effort, with enough intensity, and so we talked about that at halftime. I thought we came out pretty good in the second half. And when our backs got against the wall we had to play… We started pressing… We had some players who knew that it was now or never.”

He was happy with the way India progressed in the tournament.

“We’ve made some strides. We’re now a competitive team with the best teams in Asia. But I’m greedy, and if you get that close, why not win? But,I know, I’m pleased with them. Overall, we’ve made some strides. We’re a new team, and we’re a team everybody has to worry about now.”

India will now feature in the 5th to 8th place matches, starting with a game against Jordan tomorrow. China will take on Chinese Taipei in the other semifinal.

The scores:Philippines 70: Lee 15, Douthit 14, De Ocampo 13, Washington 7, David 6, Alas 5, Dilliner 4, Tenorio 2, Aguilar 2, Fajardo 2, Lanete 0, Belga 0.India 66: Amritpal Singh 10, Pratham Singh 10, Bhriguvanshi 10, Joginder Singh 9, Amjyot Singh 7, Mishra 6, Yadwinder Singh 2, Pethani 1.Quarters: 20-17, 45-33, 60-47, 70-66.