MANILA – Gilas Pilipinas failed to close out a tune-up game on Wednesday night as China came back within the last minute of the match to force a 79-all draw at the Angeles University Foundation Sports and Cultural Center.
Gilas had control for the most part of the game and held a seven-point cushion, 78-71, with 1:07 left in the tune-up.
However, China rallied with back-to-back baskets to cut the lead down to three, 78-75.
Jordan Heading gave Gilas some breathing room after a split from the free-throw line to up the lead back to four, 79-75.
China slightly capitalized on SJ Belangel's fifth foul as it also scored a split from the line, and had a chance for redemption after Gilas turned the ball over in the next play.
Gilas tried to play some mind games as Geo Chiu gave up a foul with 1.2 seconds left that would force China to go for the intentional second free throw miss.
Luckily for China, the team really scored on a tip-in off the intentional miss just before the final buzzer sounded.
Both teams agreed not to play an overtime session.
Kai Sotto led Gilas with 13 points, 11 in the first half, while Heading and Ange Kouame each added 12.
Both teams are preparing for the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournaments next week.
Gilas coach Tab Baldwin said the team would be flying to Belgrade on Thursday night.
Meanwhile, China heads to Victoria, Canada later this week. (PNA)
