Gilas Pilipinas moved up a spot in the latest FIBA men’s world ranking following their pair of victories in the 2025 Asia Cup qualifiers.

The Filipino cagers, alongside Korea, were the top nation in Asia to improve, as they are now no. 37 in the world.

Our regional rival, meanwhile, is now at no. 50.

While this was a minimal move for the Tim Cone-led squad — much like their wins against Hong Kong and Chinese Taipei — it is vital in the nationals’ long-term vision.

“This 2-0 start is great, but it’s still a baby step,” said Cone following their 53-point drubbing of Chinese Taipei last February 25 at the PhilSports Arena.

What they are eyeing, bared by the Barangay Ginebra mentor, is to make “bigger strides” as they hope to make some noise in the Olympic qualifying tournament in July.

“We need to make a lot more bigger strides as we go, as the next game we play is Latvia, which is [in the] top eight. We got Latvia and Georgia coming up. So can we get to that level?”

To prepare for these games against the world’s no. 6 and 23, the two-time PBA Grand Slam tactician revealed that they will be up for a set for friendlies against teams from Europe.

“We’ve got some invitations from Lithuania, Slovenia and the Czech Republic. We’re gonna work our way through those, and then see what we can do,” he said.

But for now, Cone as well as his players are doing their responsibilities in their respective squads and leagues.

The team is expected to reunite in late June to start their camp for the July Olympic qualifying tournament. (ABS-CBN News)