Chot Reyes commends Gilas Pilipinas players for valiant effort vs world no. 10 Italy

Gilas Pilipinas head coach Chot Reyes said he couldn't ask for more from his players, who put up a good fight in a tough 90-83 loss to Italy on Tuesday in the 2023 FIBA World Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Competing on home soil, Gilas made sure to give the Italians a run for their own money, even leading by four points early in the second quarter on a Kiefer Ravena triple, 26-22. But the Italians proved why they are the 10th ranked team in the world, punishing the Philippines with 17 three-pointers to complete the win.

Still, Reyes said their effort was something to be proud of, even if it went for naught.

Gilas formally bowed out of contention as they fell 0-3 in Group A while Italy advanced to the second round.

"I'm very proud of the effort of our players," Reyes said in the post-game press conference.

Reyes also praised his team for fighting despite coming off two tight losses to the Dominican Republic and Angola. The hosts fell to Karl-Anthony Towns-led Dominicans, 87-82, before bowing to the Angolans, 80-70. 

"What a way to fight coming off those two painful losses and to still show up tonight and to give it their all against a top ten team in the world," Reyes added.

"I couldn't ask for more. We just came up short but you know, we continue to fight and that's all we can do."

Jordan Clarkson once again led the way for the Philippines, churning out an all-around outing of 23 points, seven rebounds, six assists, and one steal while Dwight Ramos starred with 14 markers, two boards, and three dimes.

"Tough game, but I think we competed. I think we've competed in all three games. We came out here and gave our best efforts," Clarkson said.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News