Clarkson, Fajardo, Edu star as Gilas Pilipinas rips Ivory Coast in tune-up game

Jordan Clarkson, June Mar Fajardo, and AJ Edu took turns as they led the Gilas Pilipinas national team to an 85-62 victory against Ivory Coast in their tune-up game on Friday at the PhilSports Arena in preparation for the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Clarkson finished with 13 points, all of them coming in the first half, alongside six rebounds, one steal, and one assist while big man Fajardo also put up 13 markers.

Edu gave Gilas some quality minutes with 12 points, seven rebounds, and two assists in just 24 minutes of action.

Not fielded in the first three quarters, Rhenz Abando also made his presence felt as he scored five straight points to send the Philippines to a comfortable 74-57 cushion with 4:12 left in the payoff period.

Scottie Thompson, who rejoined the squad following a hand injury last month, then buried a three-pointer for a 79-60 lead as RR Pogoy sealed the victory with back-to-back baskets.

Head coach Chot Reyes listed 13 players for this game as Ray Parks, Calvin Oftana, and Thirdy Ravena sat out.

Gilas will next face Montenegro on August 20 before ending the final buildup for the World Cup on August 21 against Mexico.

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News