MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas has a few days to fully prepare itself as the team landed in Chinese Taipei to kick off the 3rd window of the Asian Qualifiers for the 2019 FIBA World Cup. 

The 15-man national team, who left Manila Monday morning, June 25, will be facing the Taiwanese squad on Friday, June 29, at the Taipei Heping Basketball Stadium. The match has already sold out of tickets. 

Gilas head coach Chot Reyes announced on Twitter that they have arrived in Chinese Taipei. 

Wheels down

— Chot Reyes (@coachot) June 25, 2018

Twelve players will be chosen for the final lineup against Chinese Taipei as the Philippines, which is at second place in Group B with a 3-1 record, seeks to gain momentum before clashing with juggernauts Australia on July 2 back home. 

Gilas veterans Jayson Castro, Terrence Romeo, June Mar Fajardo, Japeth Aguilar, Gabe Norwood, Calvin Abueva and naturalized player Andray Blatche spearhead the national team against Chinese Taipei, which holds a 1-3 card. 

Matthew Wright, Jio Jalalon, RR Pogoy, Carl Bryan Cruz, Allein Malikisi, Baser Amer and Gilas cadet Troy Rike complete the Gilas pool.

Gilas Pilipinas aims to repeat a win against Chinese Taipei – the Filipino team toppled them, 90-83, in the first window last November. – Rappler.com