Boomers defeat Gilas Pilipinas in FIBA Asia Cup 2025 quarterfinals

Dubai: The Philippines’ dream of a FIBA Asia Cup title ended abruptly on Wednesday as defending champions Australia delivered a dominant 84-60 victory in the quarterfinals at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

The Boomers stormed to an early lead that Gilas Pilipinas could never claw back from. Australia set the tone by hitting 7 of 11 three-pointers in the first quarter, racing to a 29-12 advantage that left the Filipinos struggling to recover.

Australia’s defense also stifled Gilas’ leading scorer, Justin Brownlee, who was held to just 7 field goal attempts and never found his offensive rhythm. Kevin Quiambao led Gilas with 17 points, while Dwight Ramos added 15, but the early deficit proved too much to overcome.

Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone expressed mixed emotions after their loss.

"I really like our team. I liked the way we play, I like the togetherness, they're all good guys and easy to coach but I didn't like our performance tonight," Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone said. 

"I didn't think we stepped up as much as we wanted to. No doubt, the Australians' athleticism and length, even though you see it on videos, when you  get there and start playing, you'll realize they're very superior."

With the win, Australia remains undefeated and advances to the semifinals, where they will face the winner of the Iran vs. Chinese Taipei quarterfinal.