Henry G. Doble

Sorry miss

The Philippines’ 82-80 loss to China in the ongoing 2018 Asian Games was not a “sorry defeat.” For a national team with more than a week to practice, the feat is more than a bonus. It was exciting to see the ragtag squad, coached by Joseller ‘Yeng’ Guiao; an underdog compared to the Asian giants of basketball and the Philippines gave them a fight – imagine how Yao Ming would have looked if his team lost last Tuesday.

The Philippines lost in the final 1:12 after John Paul Erram missed a shot that would have given his team a five-point lead. Stanley Pringle was like a rocket, attacking the lanky Chinese, and knocking it in; however, his last one was blocked and the Chinese managed to equalize on the return play. The Filipino-American point guard was both hero and goat when he bungled a pass that led to China’s advantage.

Guiao called his last time out to freeze a Chinese free throw attempt, which was partially successful. While a limping Jordan Clarkson returned, he missed a jumper and was called for a reach in foul. What was supposed to be a winning shot, Paul Lee hit the rim hard. The Chinese rejoiced after surviving the scariest game of their lives.

The good news is, since it would be virtually impossible for Kazakhstan to defeat China by 36 points, the Philippines is in the quarterfinals. The bad news is the Philippines next faces South Korea, deadlier than the Chinese from the three-point area. However, Clarkson is a threat for the South Koreans with a 4-on-4 from the arc in the second half, but missing on his fifth try. Plus, by then, the NBA star should have his legs back.

We are winners regardless of the outcome. Any Philippines basketball team can compete internationally as long as Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas does not send lemons./WDJ