Reactions to Gilas Pilipinas win vs Latvia in FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament

It was past midnight but many fans were awake on Thursday as Gilas Pilipinas took on Latvia and eventually pulled off an upset, 89-80, in the 2024 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament. 

As of writing, 'Gilas' is the no. 1 trending topic on X (formerly Twitter) in the Philippines with more than 18000 posts.

Jordan Clarkson, who was part of the Philippine squad in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, showed his support online to the national team.

letsss goooo ?????? https://t.co/u6JnvV1ZQm

— Jordan Clarkson (@JordanClarksons) July 3, 2024

While the game was ongoing, the FIBA X account posted a meme as Gilas was leading in the match.

????????????????#FIBAOQT pic.twitter.com/laWdXeRBd4

— FIBA (@FIBA) July 3, 2024

Kim Kianna Dy, the girlfriend of Gilas star Dwight Ramos, was ever-supportive, even online.

sheeeesh 24 ng gilas ????

— Kim Kianna Dy (@KiannaDy) July 3, 2024

Even the NBA G League highlighted alumni and naturalized player Justin Brownlee's performance.

26 PTS ???????? 9 REB ???????? 9 AST#GLeagueAlum Justin Brownlee WENT OFF to lead the Philippines over Latvia in the @fiba Olympic Qualifying Tournament! #FIBAOQT pic.twitter.com/FuxLcZGCpI

— NBA G League (@nbagleague) July 3, 2024

With the historic win as it was the first time the Philippines defeated a European foe in a FIBA competition since 1960, Gilas also moved closed to a ticket to the Paris Olympics.

However, it still needs to play Georgia and a win against them, or a loss by 18 points or less will assure the Philippines a slot in the next round of the FIBA Olympic qualifiers.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News