FIBA-Asia Champions Cup Down To 8 Teams?

Two slots left to fill.

That's the monumental task the organizers of the FIBA Asia Champions Cup are facing after Japan, Afghanistan and Kazakhstan all withdrew from the tournament, citing financial reasons.

The organizers are now eyeing South Korea and India as replacement teams, giving them until Friday to confirm.

Smart Gilas Pilipinas will be playing in Group A, with Malaysia, Syria and the United Arab Emirates. Group B is composed of Iran, Qatar, Lebanon and Jordan.

If both South Korea and India confirm their participation, South korea will be joining Group A and India, Group B.

Either way, the Smart Gilas squad are confident of their chances in the tournament especially as they will be reinforced by PBA stars Dondon Hontiveros and Asi Taulava.

More on this story here.

Ginebra Boots Out Smart Gilas!

For the Nationals, it was a story of "almost-but-not-quite".

Smart Gilas led by 8 after the first quarter and 9 by halftime but the Gin Kings showed them true championship mettle by forging ahead at the end of the third quarter and then holding on for the win.

Ronald Tubid scored 22 points to lead the Gin Kings while Rudy Hatfield (16points), Mark Caguioa (15points) and Willie Miller (11points) provided able support.

The Nationals were led by Marcus Douthit, who scored 25points, Marcio Lassiter (13points), Mac Baracael (13points) and JV Casio (11points).

More on this story, here.