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| The Iranians can only look after Kai Sotto got free for the slam. LA Arcin |
PASAY—Gilas Pilipinas banked on a stifling defense to tear Iran apart with a 68-56 win in the fourth window of the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday night.
Two nights after overcoming a slow start to beat Jordan in overtime, Gilas had to grind it out again in the last three quarter to outclass Iran.
Gilas did so by defense, holding Iran, which led 18-7 after one period, to just 36 points in the final half-hour while dropping 61.
Dwight Ramos and Juan Gomez De Liaño each scored 16 points for Gilas, which moved up to 4-4 in Group E.
Kai Sotto added 13 points, 16 rebounds, and three assists.
Mobin Sheikhi will Iran, which dropped to a tie with Jordan in third place at 5-3, with 21 points on 8 of 13 shooting including 5 of 8 from deep, two rebounds, and one assist.
