JEDDAH (Saudi Arabia) – Justin Brownlee once again delivered in crunch time, hitting a contested three-pointer to force overtime before Gilas Pilipinas surged to a 95-88 victory over hosts Saudi Arabia in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualification to Quarter-Finals on Monday, August 11, at King Abdullah Sports City.

The win improved the Philippines’ record to 2-2 and sealed a spot in the Quarter-Finals against defending champions Australia. Saudi Arabia, also 2-2, fell just short of their first top-eight finish in two decades, last achieved in 2005.

Brownlee led all scorers with 29 points, sinking three triples along with 5 assists and 4 rebounds in a complete performance. AJ Edu was a force inside with 17 points, 11 rebounds, and a block, while Kevin Quiambao chipped in 17 points, including crucial shots in overtime. Muhammad-Ali Abdur-Rahkman was spectacular for Saudi Arabia, pouring in 33 points on 8 triples, with 5 rebounds and 4 assists.

Back-and-forth battle in Jeddah

Gilas controlled the early stages, building a double-digit cushion through Brownlee’s outside shooting, Edu’s dominance in the paint, and Quiambao’s scoring bursts. Saudi Arabia responded in the second quarter with a 14-1 run led by Abdur-Rahkman and Musab Kadi, briefly taking the lead.

The third period saw Saudi Arabia maintain the edge behind Abdur-Rahkman and Mohammed Alsuwailem, before Scottie Thompson’s late drive gave the Philippines a 60-59 advantage entering the fourth.

The final quarter was a tense exchange of baskets. Abdur-Rahkman’s seventh triple and a Marzouq Almuwallad corner three pushed the hosts ahead by six. After Alsuwailem’s putback with eight seconds left made it 79-76, Brownlee nailed a clutch, contested triple to tie the game and silence the home crowd.

Overtime dominance

In the extra period, Quiambao struck first from deep and added another triple minutes later. Dwight Ramos and Brownlee extended the lead, and Edu’s dagger three in the final minute sealed the hard-earned win.

For Gilas Pilipinas, the victory marked a significant improvement from their 2022 Asia Cup run, guaranteeing a top-eight finish. Saudi Arabia, despite the heartbreak, showcased their growth by pushing a traditional Asian powerhouse to the brink.

The Philippines now prepare to face Australia in the Quarter-Finals. With Brownlee in peak form, Edu controlling the boards, and role players stepping up, Gilas will aim to carry their clutch execution from Jeddah into the battle against the reigning champions.