Gilas Pilipinas vs. Iran (Photo courtesy of FIBA)
MANILA — Gilas Pilipinas Men's campaign in the FIBA World Cup ended on a sour note as they fell to Iran, 75-95, at the Wukesong Sports Center in Beijing on Sunday night.
However, the win was a big push to the Iranians as China lost to Nigeria, 73-86, in Guangzhou, meaning Iran, due to a better point differential, will qualify outright for the Olympics as part of Asia.
After exploding for 30 points in the first quarter, Iran held Gilas Men to just 10 points in the second quarter to set up the blowout.
Hamed Haddadi showed that he still has something left as a national team player, leading Iran with 19 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two blocks, and one steal.
Nikkhah Bahrami added 17 points, two rebounds, and four assists.
Robert Bolick put up 15 points and two rebounds for Gilas Men, who will go home winless after five games. (PNA)
