Gilas Pilipinas did play a gallant and concerted effort to bring the world’s No. 5, France, down to its knees. The crowd – Gilas’ sixth man – did its share, too. Too bad, France’s chemistry and experience proved too much to overcome as it dodged Gilas’ upset bid, 93-84, in the Manila leg of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament last night at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. Gilas did push France out of its comfort zone early, leading as much as 10 points on several razzle-dazzle plays but failed to sustain the hot start – no thanks to the dynamics between NBA star Tony Parker and Nando de Colo. Fittingly, the biggest event the country has ever staged in years had President Duterte as the special guest. Showing sports have special place under his administration, Duterte did not only show up but also made the ceremonial toss in [...]
