Danilo Gallinari - Philippine vs Italy Live Stream (Photo : FIBA Tuneup)
The Philippine men's basketball team enters the crucial stage of preparation for the FIBA Olympic qualifier as head coach Tab Baldwin is about to unveil the final 12 members of his lineup.
But before he makes the final cut, every member of that Gilas Pilipinas squad will be given opportunity to make their case in yet another daunting tune-up match with European powerhouse Italy on Saturday 2:00 p.m US ET / 2:00 a, PHT (Sunday),
What's on the line:
Philippines: For the RP team, making this game competitive from tip-off to the final buzzer, regardless of the result, would be a great improvement for them, considering the beat down they suffered against Turkey three days ago.
If the Philippines somehow pull off a win over Turkey, they will be given the opportunity to test one of the favorites in the upcoming FIBA Olympic qualifier in Manila, Canada, which remains formidable despite missing the service of NBA Rookie of the Year Andrew Wiggins.
Italy: As for the Italians, their goal heading into this match is to annihilate Smart Gilas throughout the 40-minute ballgame. With Marco Belinelli and Danilo Gallinari on board, the Italian no doubt have the firepower to accomplish the task.
Like the Philippines, Italy holds homecourt advantage in the tournament that includes Greece, Mexico, Iran, Tunisia and Croatia.
Keys to Victory:
Philippines: Gilas Pilipinas cannot afford to miss tons of open shots from the three-point area like they did in the game against Turkey. With the driving lane expected to be manned by agile 7-footers, it's an understatement that the Philippine team will live and die outside the rainbow territory.
Italy: This team's outside shooting is already potent, but the key for them to have an easy day will be their inside play. A team consists of talented big man, this ball game should not be a problem as long as their inside scoring clicks.
Broadcast Details:
Philippines vs. Italy FIBA Olympic qualifier tune-up game will be aired online at 2:00 a.m US ET on Sports Stream, Highlights of the match can be watched on Sports5.ph Youtube page. Play by play and Live Score update on Sportando Twitter
