U21 Press Release:
Cubs bow to Hong Kong, 82-71
Atrocious shooting and foul trouble led to the Pilipinas Cubs dropping a crucial game against Hong Kong, 82-71.
The Cubs could not get their rhythm throughout the game, having been limited to 30% field goal shooting, and finished the game with 20 fouls. “We did not execute when we were supposed to. This is on me,” shooting guard Freddy Villaprudente said during the post-game press conference. He finished the game with 20 points, but also had to attempt 20 shots to get there.
The Cubs are on ‘Win or go home’ mode next week, facing 12th seed Australia this coming Monday. A win will make the Cubs advance to the next phase of the tournament, while a loss would eliminate the team, and the Australians advance. “We have to be prepared next week. The Australians have home court advantage, so we will definitely give it our all,” Coach Jorge said in a phone interview.
It does not help that the practice facility the Cubs were assigned to is a Bowls Australia venue. “As you can see, this is not the right venue to practice our shooting. We are now coordinating with the local authorities, so they can help us find a basketball court, and proceed with our scrimmages,” a team official said, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. it does not help that the song "Under Pressure" by Queen was played by the town the Cubs are staying in. Vans with loudspeakers were reportedly roaming the streets.