After suffering two blow-out losses at the hands of much superior European teams, the Philippine men's basketball team faces a familiar foe in China in their final tune-up match before they head back home this coming week.
What's at stake:
For the Philippines: Gilas Pilipinas badly needs at least a victory in their European campaign to keep their heads up ahead of the impending war at the FIBA Olympic Qualifier.
While two blowout losses to Turkey and Italy certainly didn't help their cause, a victory against China - the very same team that denied them of an outright ticket to Rio Olympics - will be a big boost to their sagging morale.
For China: China just learned that they are still lots of works to do for them to match a world power like Canada.
Despite fielding their presumed roster for the Olympics (including Houston Rockets draft pick Zhou Qi and former NBA player Yi Jillian), China had no match against the firepower of the Canadians who are even playing without Andrew Wiggins.
China may have already earned a spot in the Rio Olympics, but another victory over the Philippines in a neutral venue will solidify their claim as Asia's no.1 team.
Players to Watch:
Philippines: Andray Blatche will continue to do heavy lifting for the Philippines on both ends of the floor. After chipping in 10 points each in the match against Italy, Terrence Romeo and Troy Rosario could very well secure a spot in the final 12 with another solid performance against this Chinese squad.
China: As expected, all eyes will be on Qi and Jillian to deliver for China. Jillian racked up 22 points against Canada last night and is expected to provide more than that against an inferior Philippine frontline.
Broadcast Details:
Philippines vs. China match will start at 12:00 midnight Phil time (12 noon US Time) in Paladozza in Bologna Italy. There's no TV coverage of the match or probably link to a streaming site, but you can still follow the game on Sportando (Play-by-play and live score update) and Carlo Pamintuan (Sports5.ph Twitter account).
Periscope/ FB video of the Philippines-China match will be posted once available.
Replay of the Philippines vs, Italy match has been posted below.