Gilas Pilipinas falls to Bahrain in 2026 Asian Games campaign opener - GMA Network

Gilas Pilipinas fell to Bahrain, 89-85, in its gold medal defense campaign opener at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan on Friday.

The Philippines had an impressive showing in the second quarter, briefly taking a 43-41 lead with 1:38 remaining before halftime. It was an uphill climb prior to that as Bahrain started strong and took a 29-21 lead in the first quarter.

That proved to be the only time the Philippines led as Bahrain stepped up the pressure against Gilas Pilipinas and pulled away, 76-61, at the end of the third period after taking a 49-43 lead into halftime.

The Philippines still tried to mount a comeback, cutting Bahrain’s lead to four, 89-85, with 11.2 seconds left. However, it was not enough as Bahrain held on for the win.

Calvin Oftana, who was the last to join the team, led the team in scoring with 31 points, two rebounds, and an assist, while Adrian Nocum had 14 points, seven rebounds, five assists. Justine Baltazar, meanwhile, had 10 points, six rebounds, and two assists.

Gilas Pilipinas will face Kazakhstan next on Saturday.

Philippines 85 — Oftana 31, Nocum 14, Baltazar 10, Trollano 9, Arana 8, Ganuelas-Rosser 5, Lucero 4, Abarrientos 4, Bolick 0, Barefield 0, Ahanmisi 0, Bates 0.

Bahrain 89 — Sampson 24, Thomas 20, Rashed M. 20, Alhaddad 7, Buallay 5, Alderezi 5, Ilic 3, Juma 2, Ajukwa 0.