Photo by Ezra Acayan/Getty Images
By Joel Reyes
Australia grabbed a commanding 68-53 lead over Gilas Pilipinas after the third quarter of their much-anticipated showdown in the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers on Sunday night at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The Boomers, who led 38-33 at the half, outscored Gilas 30-20 in the third quarter to take control of the contest. Elijah Pepper led Australia’s attack with 21 points, shooting 8-for-19 from the field, including 4-of-12 from beyond the arc. Tanner Krebs and Mitch Creek added 12 and 10 points, respectively.
Justin Brownlee led the scoring for Gilas with 18 points. He was the only player to score in double figures for the Philippines through the first three quarters.