Sunday, August 26, 2012

Smart Gilas wins 2012 Williams Jones Cup against team U.S.A

It is a good start for the new Smart Gilas, they won the 2012 Williams Jones Cup tournament held in  Taiwan.

The new players gave their best to take home the title. L.A. Tenorio was the hero against the powerhouse, team U.S.A. A one point lead, 75-76, gave Smart Gilas their first trophy after new players and coaches came.

Gilas never took the lead for three quarters, team U.S.A had a very solid defense against Marcus Douthit. But Tenorio and Jeff Chan made important baskets including three point shots.

When fourth and final quarter begun,it was a different Smart Gilas. They made their outside shots and took some good inside shots. Gabe Norwood who is very consistent since the tournament started, also contributed a good lay up to slim down the lead.

Larry Fonacier contributed a big three point shot that gave Smart Gilas a one point lead. After exchanging baskets and leads, it was Tenorio's turn around jump shot and a big rebound that change the scenario of the game.

Team U.S.A took a timeout but failed to make a basket and gave up a foul. Chan was fouled and went for  free throws, he missed the first show but intentionally missed the second one to run out the time. 

Smart has a impressive 7-1 record the best record after the 14 years.