EVEN if it is a day off for Smart Gilas Pilipinas, action in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament continues as a pair of highly pivotal games take place.
Powerhouse France and New Zealand tango in an important Group B clash at 9 p.m. in the main event at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City today.
Prior to this, Turkey and Senagal square off at 6:30 p.m. in Group A play in the initial offering.
The French National team showed why it is the tournament favorite when it trounced Smart Gilas Pilipinas, 93-84, Tuesday night after strong performances from Nando De Colo and Tony Parker.
The deadly French one-two punch is expected to lead the charge once again for France against the dangerous New Zealand squad.
De Colo and Parker combined for 48 points in France’s win over the Philippines.
While France is almost certain of a berth in the round of four, a win will guarantee it a top seed heading to the next phase.
As of this report, the Philippines and New Zealand are currently locking horns in an intense battle that may very well determine the fate of both teams.
Having lost to France the other day, Gilas Pilipinas is now in desperation mode as it needs to win against the Kiwis to put itself in good position to make the semifinals.
A lost for the host team eliminates it outright.
Only the top two teams from each group advance to the knockout crossover semifinals on Saturday.