Dominican Republic punch ticket to semis with a win against the Philippines / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Veteran guards led the Dominican Republic (1-1) to a win 94-67 (23-22, 16-19, 26-10, 29-16) against the Philippines (0-2).

Dominican Republic / Schedule

Dominican Republic Serbia76-94 Philippines Dominican Republic67-94

Another matchup with win-or-go-home significance started with an alley-oop from the Dominican Angel Thomas. It did not upset the Philippines, however, as they kept the quarter competitive and matched the Dominican attack with their own accurate shots.

The second quarter wasn’t as electric, as both teams started to miss shots and commit turnovers. Samjosef Belangel made two free-throws, found an open teammate a few possessions later, and pushed the Philippines to an 8-point lead midway through the second quarter. But the lead didn’t last, as Dominica’s Victor Liz got going and hit two 3-pointers, to cut the deficit to two at halftime.

The Dominicans quickly erased the remaining deficit in the third quarter and started to build their own lead. As Gelvis Solano hit a layup with the foul, Dominica’s lead grew to ten points.

In the fourth quarter, the South American team remained on a winning course securing their first win and a trip to the second round of competition.

Victor Liz (5 for 6 in 3-point shooting) led all scorers with 23 points, Gelvis Solano added 21 PTS and 5 AST.

Jordan Heading had 16 points for the Philippines.

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