Gilas gets back at Lebanon behind hot shooting

Jamie Malonzo skies over Hayk Gyokchyan for the dunk. Kennelf Monteza

By Ivan Saldajeno

BOCAUE—Gilas Pilipinas blasted off from long range to avenge its tough FIBA World Cup Qualifiers fourth window loss to Lebanon with a 107-96 win at the start of their campaign in the sixth window on Friday night at the Philippine Arena.

Despite lacking size, Gilas made up for it by firing from 22 feet out and beyond, making 17 threes in total to set up the blowout.

June Mar Fajardo, the only legitimate center in Gilas' lineup, even made one triple late in the first quarter.

Justin Brownlee led Gilas with 17 points, four rebounds, five assists, and two steals, while Jamie Malonzo added 15 points on 6-of-9 shooting, five rebounds, three assists, one steal, and two blocks.

Mason Amos also had an impressive Gilas debut, making all of his five field-goal attempts including three treys for 13 points with two rebounds.

Amir Saoud led Lebanon with 27 points, three rebounds, two assists, and one steal, while Hayk Gyokchyan added 21 points, four rebounds, and one assist.

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