IN PHOTOS: Palestine rejoices in upset win over Gilas Pilipinas

MANILA, Philippines – The road to the Olympics was already long and bumpy in the first place for Philippine national men’s basketball team Gilas Pilipinas. But after a shock defeat at the hands of unranked Palestine, Gilas will suddenly look up to find the road also grew much steeper.

The debuting Palestine stunned the Philippines, 75-73, in the opener of the 2015 FIBA Asia Championship on Wednesday, September 23 at the Changsha Social World College Gymnasium in Changsha, China.

(HIGHLIGHTS: Gilas vs Palestine – 2015 FIBA Asia Championship)

Gilas, ranked 31 in the world by FIBA, was off to a good start and led by as much as 15 points in the first half. But sloppy execution on both ends of the floor during the second half forced by Palestine’s zone defense spelled their demise.

(IN PHOTOS: Gilas Pilipinas in wacky mood at photo shoot)

Gilas will have a chance to redeem themselves when they play Hong Kong on Thursday, September 23 at 9:30 am, and Kuwait on Friday as they try to advance past the group stage.

Hong Kong opened up group stage play with an 87-50 win over Kuwait.

See the photos of the Philippines’ painful first loss below.

Gilas' own Andray Blatche listens closely during the huddle. His potential game-winning triple was blocked as time expired. Photo from FIBA

Sighs of relief as Palestine overcomes the Philippines. Only 4 players scored for Palestine and 3 of them played the full 40-minute game without sitting down. Photo from FIBA