The battle for the last outright berth for the Rio de Janiero Olympics starts today for 16 teams competing at the FIBA Asia Championship in Changsha, China. After two years of wait, Asia's most prestigious basketball competition has arrived and the competition can't get any better as perennial contenders and tournament dark horses loaded up their lineup for the particular event.
The Philippines vs. Palestine - (Live Stream / Box Score / Replay)
Last edition's runner-up and FIBA World Cup qualifier, the Philippines is out to sustain their resurgence as basketball superpowers in Asia. Jason Castro Williams, the continent's no.1 playmaker, is back for another duty with the Philippine team, which will be fielding a far different squad from the one that bagged Silver in Manila in 2013.
The Philippines may have lost its most dominant big man in June Mar Fajardo, but it nevertheless filled the void left by the two-time PBA MVP with athleticism and versatility. Moreover, this Philippine squad will be backstopped by former Washington Wizards and Brooklyn Nets big man Andray Blatche, who is reportedly back in shape after bloating too much during the offseason.
Facing the Philippines on Day 1 is FIBA Asia Championship newcomer Palestine. Although they are going to miss the service of ace point guard Omar Krayem, this Palestine team could provide problems to the Filipinos because of their height and physicality. Game starts at 11:45 (GMT +8) at Changsha Social Work College's gymnasium.
Schedule of Matches for Day 1 (GMT +8):
11:45 A.M Philippines vs. Palestines (Live Stream / Box scores)
2:30 P.M Iran vs. Japan (Live Stream / Box Scores)
4:30 P.M Korea vs. Jordan (Live Stream / Box Scores)
7:30 P.M Singapore vs. China (Live Stream / Box Scores)
9:30 P.M Lebanon vs. Chinese Taipei (Live Stream/ Box Scores)