FIBA OQT Semifinal - Manila Leg (Photo : FIBA)
Gilas Pilipinas might be already out of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying tournament, but the world class basketball action continues at the Mall of Asia Arena with the semifinal underway.
France, who topped Group B after beating the Philippines and New Zealand, will face Turkey at 9:00 p.m (8 a.m US ET), while Canada and New Zealand lock horns in the first game at 6:30 p.m (6:30 a.m US ET).
Canada vs. New Zealand Prediction:
What's on the line: the Canadians clinched the top spot of Group A with tough wins over Turkey and Senegal. With Tristan Thompson and Cory Joseph leading the charge, Team Canada is looking like a team bound to compete for that Rio Olympic spot in the finals.
However, the Kiwis proved to be an imposing force as well with the Webster brothers in the backcourt and Isaac Fotu and Robert Loe in the middle. Remember, this is the team that gave tourney favorite, France, a run for their money in the Group B battle, 59-66.
This game is going to be interesting, especially with Thompson going head to head with another energy player in Fotu. In fact, I give New Zealand a puncher's chance of upsetting the Canadian if they continue to stick with their style of play. But in the end, my money is on Canada with a single digit victory.
France vs. Turkey Prediction:
The showdown between Europe's finest, France and Turkey will contest for a spot in the finals, moving them one step away from clinching a berth in Rio Olympics. France, who played two games without the service of Nic Batum, will now be reinforced by the Charlotte Hornets swingman in the knockout match with Turkey.
On the other hand, the Turkish will try to pull off a huge upset against their European rival in the final game of Saturday's double header. Sameh Erden, Omer Asik and naturalized guard Bobby Dixon, Ali Muhammad, will be in full force against this loaded France team that remains the favorite to win it all here in Manila. France in another tight battle to the finish.
Broadcast Details:
Canada vs. New Zealand will tip off at 6:30 a.m US ET, while France vs. Turkey will begin at 9 a.m US ET. The games can be watched on TV5, Sports5.ph, FIBA OQT Streaming and SportsStream, while scores, stats and updates are available on FIBA OQT stats page.
