MANILA – The Philippines landed on fifth place in the 18th Asian Games men’s basketball after decidedly beating Syria 109-55 at the Gelora Bung Karno-Istora in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jordan Clarkson made 29 points, including five 3-point conversions, to go along with six assists Friday night – allowing the Philippines to make its best finish in 16 years.
Christian Standhardinger added double-double 27 points and 15 rebounds. Asi Taulava had 11 markers, including three triples, while James Yap returned from a two-game absence to chip in 10 points.
“We were really happy to be able to close out the tournament on a winning note and I’m really thankful for the opportunity. The guys made a commitment to really play their best not only tonight for the whole tournament,” said head coach Yeng Guiao.
The Philippines had a strong start with Taulava converting three triples and Clarkson, John Paul Erram and Stanley Pringle sniping from the outside for a 26-7 lead. The gap grew further 38-16 on an inside hit by Standhardinger.
It was all Philippines since then with Yap, Standhardinger, Beau Belga, and Chris Tiu making their contributions on the offense for their largest lead in the game at 54 points.
“It’s an honor representing my country in the Asian Games,” the Filipino-American Clarkson told the press after the match. “This is an unforgettable experience for me. Hope to be back soon.”
Tarek Aljabi was the lone bright spot for the Syrians with 23 points and five rebounds while Anthouny Bakar contributed 9 markers./PN
