Philippines win SEABA Stankovic Cup, secure FIBA Asia Challenge spot

BANGKOK (5^th SEABA Stankovic Cup) - A late fourth quarter surge lifted the Philippines to a 97-80 triumph over Thailand over the weekend in the Final of the 5^th SEABA Stankovic Cup Championship.

Contrary to pre-tournament expectations, the gold did not come easy for the Gilas Cadets, who needed a strong showing in last frame to finish off the resilient Thais.

Just like their previous encounter two days before, Thailand made things hard for the Philippines and cut an 11-point deficit early in the second quarter to just three early in the fourth.

Clutch back-to-back three pointers by Mac Belo triggered a game-winning, 10-0 run for the Philippines.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Manny V. Pangilinan praised the winners in a tweet.

"Well done. You played with character, pride and heart. The future of Philippine basketball in good hands," Pangilinan posted on his Twitter account.

Six Gilas Cadets finished in double figures in scoring, captain Troy Rosario's 17 points leading the way. Jio Jalalon ended up with 16 points while Mike Tolomia and RR Pogoy poured in 12 and 10, respectively.

By finishing in the top two, the Philippines and Thailand qualified for the FIBA Asia Challenge, the first step to qualify for the 2017 FIBA Asia Cup, which will be held in September in Iran.

FIBA