Gilas Pilipinas is entering the final stretch of its preparations with intensity and focus as it braces for a high-stakes exhibition match against Jordan on August 2—just three days before the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup officially tips off in Saudi Arabia.
The tune-up game will be more than a friendly scrimmage. According to head coach Tim Cone, the clash is expected to be physical and revealing, especially considering the last time these two teams met was in the gold medal match of the 19th Asian Games, where the Philippines stunned Jordan, 70-60, to win the title.
“Every time we face Jordan, it’s a battle,” Cone said. “This game is about fine-tuning our chemistry and sharpening our execution. It’s our final chance to iron things out.”
Interestingly, Jordan will be without one of its key figures—former NBA player and PBA import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson. Though he remains on Jordan’s final 12-man lineup for the Asia Cup, the versatile forward will sit out the exhibition, giving Gilas a slight edge going into the showdown.
While Jordan is grouped in a tough Group C alongside China, India, and hosts Saudi Arabia, Gilas Pilipinas will compete in Group D, which includes New Zealand, Chinese Taipei, and Iraq.
After a 10-hour flight from Manila, Gilas wasted no time settling into Jeddah. The team held a light training session shortly after arrival, with particular focus on integrating June Mar Fajardo back into the system. The six-time PBA MVP had taken a break after a grueling Philippine Cup Finals series but is now rejoining the squad to bring much-needed size and experience in the paint.
“I want to get June Mar some reps immediately. His presence changes a lot of what we do, so it’s important we recalibrate quickly,” Cone emphasized.
Also making a return is Calvin Oftana, who received medical clearance just in time to join the final lineup. Still recovering from dual ankle sprains suffered during the PBA playoffs, Oftana is expected to play limited minutes for now, with his workload managed carefully.
Despite these challenges, the team remains optimistic. Led by naturalized star Justin Brownlee and supported by a strong core that includes Scottie Thompson, CJ Perez, Dwight Ramos, Carl Tamayo, and rising collegiate star Kevin Quiambao, Gilas appears ready to push for another deep run in continental play.
With a valuable final test against a familiar foe and renewed energy from its returning stars, Gilas Pilipinas aims to enter the Asia Cup not just prepared—but battle-hardened.