Clarkson explodes for 34 points, leads Gilas Pilipinas to first FIBA World Cup win / News - Basketnews.com

Gilas Pilipinas crushed China in their last FIBA World Cup 2023 game, secured their first tournament win, and got their ticket to the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for 2024 Paris Olympics.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Jordan Clarkson put on an offensive masterclass in the third quarter for Gilas Pilipinas to pave their way for the first FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 win.

Player of the Game EFF 29 Jordan Clarkson Points 34 Accuracy 11-18 Rebounds 2 Assists 3

The Philippines finished their appearance in the World Cup with a 96-75 victory over China in Manila. With this win, Gilas Pilipinas secured second place in Group M and qualified for the next summer's FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

Clarkson dropped 24 points in the third tally, including five threes in two minutes, and alone outscored the whole China team (11). Despite being down by one point at halftime (39-40), Gilas Pilipinas won the third period by 23 points and never looked back (73-51).

Utah Jazz star completed the game with 34 points (6/8 2PT, 5/10 3PT, 7/9 FT), 2 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 steal over 33 minutes. He was 6 points away from the FIBA World Cup 2023 scoring record.

Kyle Anderson had a team-high 17 points and 9 rebounds on the other end.

Jordan Clarkson addresses his Gilas Pilipinas future, reacts to win over China

Game highlights:

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