Gilas Pilipinas rallies past Thailand to retain SEA Games men’s basketball gold

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Gilas Pilipinas staged a dramatic comeback to topple host Thailand 70-64 and retain the men’s basketball gold at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games on Friday, December 19, in Bangkok. Facing a 13-point deficit and a raucous home crowd, Gilas unleashed a decisive 13-0 run in the fourth quarter, with Jamie Malonzo leading the charge, to seize control and hold off Thailand’s late rally.

The victory marked the Philippines’ 20th men’s basketball gold in 23 SEA Games editions, extending their historic dominance. Coach Norman Black praised the performance, calling it one of his most memorable titles, alongside his championships in the PBA, UAAP, and the 2011 SEA Games in Indonesia.

Heart-stopping finish as Bolick seals the win and sparks celebrations at center court [POC Media Pool]

Overcoming roster challenges and adversity

Gilas’ triumph came despite a roster cobbled together at the last minute due to Thailand’s restrictions on naturalized players and those who did not secure a passport before age 16. The squad featured PBA talents Robert Bolick, Poy Erram, Dalph Panopio, Abu Tratter, Von Pessumal, free agents Jamie Malonzo and Justin Chua, and Adamson center Cedrick Manzano.

Bolick, who finished with 10 points, reflected on the unusual circumstances. “We hoped to see Remy Martin, Mike Phillips, and Brownlee play, but it didn’t happen. Thailand thought they could overwhelm us, but we were ready,” he said. His sharp shooting, along with contributions from Matthew Wright and Malonzo, helped Gilas trim the deficit to 38-29 at halftime and take the lead 41-38 in the third quarter.

Key moments seal the victory

Thailand, led by Chanato Jakwaran and Emmanuel Chinedu Ejesu, briefly surged to a 55-54 lead early in the fourth. But Gilas responded with a dominant run capped by Malonzo’s three-pointer and layup, stretching the lead to 67-55 with just over four minutes remaining. Thailand threatened late, narrowing the gap to 68-64 after Jainasuk Nakom converted three free throws.

Crucially, Thailand’s Freddie Lish missed two free throws in the final seconds. Bolick then sank his foul shot before celebrating with the iconic “Night! Night” gesture, igniting jubilant cheers at center court. Malonzo finished with 17 points, 12 rebounds, three assists, and five steals, helping solidify Gilas’ gold-medal performance.