NT Press Release:
Pilipinas wins against Thailand, 121-96
The Pilipinas Panthers started its Asia Championship Tournament campaign with a win against Thailand Monday night, 121-96.
The Thais gave the Filipinos a run for their money, keeping the game close by the end of the first half, 57-51. Coach Lord Woody had a closed-door discussion with the team during the break. A team source, who wished to remain anonymous, said Coach Woody was infuriated with the team’s lack of outside defense. The team was encouraged to do well in the second half, or else face the prospect of completing 200 pumps after the game.
Three-point shooting proved to be their most valuable asset, as they converted 12 shots from behind the arc, compared to Team Pilipinas’ three. The Panthers’ rebounding and play making skills, however, proved to be too much for the Thais to handle. “We clearly dominated the boards, and our team play improved in the second half. I am still not satisfied with the overall outcome though. I know we can do better”, Coach Woody said in a text message when asked to comment on the team’s performance.
Newcomer Leorio Lovino led the way for the Panthers, scoring a highly efficient 20 points with an 83% field goal clip, 2 rebounds, 5 assists, and 1 steal. Star guard Panithan Kittichontawat led the Thais with 18 points but had to take 18 shots. Rumor has it Panithan was watching videos of Russell Westbrick before the game.
The Panthers are expected to win against 86th seed Pakistan, while Thailand looks forward to get its first win against heavily favored Australia.