JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia — Chinese Taipei rode a fast start and a brilliant performance from Chen Ying-Chun to defeat the Philippines, 95-87, in their Group D opener at the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 on Tuesday, August 5, at King Abdullah Sports City.

Taipei Sets the Tone Early

Chinese Taipei jumped to a quick 10-2 lead and forced the Philippines into the penalty just four minutes into the game. With their outside shooting on point, they extended the lead to 25-8 before Justin Brownlee connected on a halfcourt buzzer-beater to cut the deficit. Still, Taipei led 27-16 after the opening quarter.

“We started with intensity and executed our game plan well,” said Chen, who finished with 34 points on 10-of-17 shooting, including six triples. “The team trusted me and I felt confident with my shots.”

Gilas Responds, But Momentum Holds with Taipei

The Philippines battled back in the second period behind Scottie Thompson and Calvin Oftana, pulling within four, 32-28. But Taipei remained composed. Robert Hinton scored timely baskets late in the half to rebuild a nine-point lead, 43-34, at the break. Chen already had 17 points by halftime.

Brandon Gilbeck anchored Taipei in the third quarter, scoring inside and protecting the rim. The Philippines again struggled with fouls, including Brownlee picking up his fourth with seven minutes left. Gilas trimmed the lead to single digits late in the quarter, but a personal foul followed by a technical widened the gap to 73-62 entering the final period.

“We stayed disciplined,” said Gilbeck, who tallied 16 points and 9 rebounds. “Even when they came back, we didn’t panic.”

The Philippines made one last push in the fourth. A Kevin Quiambao three-pointer and a couple of defensive stops brought them within six, 80-74. However, Brownlee fouled out with under five minutes left, finishing with 19 points. Without their main playmaker, Gilas struggled to generate consistent offense.

Chen knocked down two more triples late in the game to put the result beyond doubt. Taipei closed out the contest with efficient execution to secure the win.

“We wanted to finish strong,” Chen added. “Every possession mattered in the end.”

Thompson was the most consistent for Gilas, contributing 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. The Philippines will now face New Zealand in a must-win game on Thursday, while Chinese Taipei look to move to 2-0 when they meet Iraq.