Gilas Pilipinas Put Down Iraq in a Physical Ball Game 84-75

Physicality was on display during the game between Iraq and Philippines at the 6th day of the 39th Jones Cup in Taipei.

Both teams were fighting for possessions and bodies were being sacrificed.  Iraq and the Philippines have 3 wins and 2 losses coming into the game and both teams are determined to grab the critical 4th win as the standing of teams are becoming more crowded. A win can put either of the team in a podium finish.

Iraq started the games very well led by  Dhulfiqar Al-hchaimi who scored 7 points right of the gates but the Iraqis suddenly run dry as they could not find a bucket only scoring 3 points in the second quarter against 21 points of the Philippines.

The Philippines capitalized on the momentum on the second half as they continued to pour in points. Iraq in the fourth tried to mount a comeback and was able to come to as close as 6 points but still fell short as the game ended with the 84-75 score, giving the Philippines its 4 wins in 6 games.

Iraq was carried by Mayfield who scored a total of 29 points followed by Al-Hchaimi with 17 total points.  Although the Iraqis were physical they were out rebounded by the Philippines 43-28.

Five players from the Philippines were in double figures led by Import Mike Myers who got 16 points and also grabbed a whopping 18 rebounds. Kiefer Ravena and Jio Jalolon point guard combo were also clicking tonight as they have a combined 23 points.

Christian Standhardinger wasn't his usual self, he played only 9 minutes, scored 4 points and collected 5 fouls. He was even thrown out by his own coach due to unnecessary actions that resulted into a technical foul.

The next assignment of the Philippines will be Lithuania.

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