‘We can still rise’: Gilas Pilipinas climbs 4 spots in FIBA world rankings

‘Our goal is to continue to improve in international competition, then let the rankings follow,’ says SBP president Al Panlilio as Gilas Pilipinas jumps inside the top 35 in world basketball

MANILA, Philippines – Ahead of Gilas Pilipinas’ twin home games this November, the national basketball team climbed four notches in the FIBA men’s rankings, now sitting at 34th.

The Philippines, along with Paris Olympics participant Japan, were among the highest gainers in the rankings, with the Akatsuki Five moving up five slots to No. 21.

“Of course, we are happy there is an improvement in our rankings, but so for others like Japan,” said Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio. “Our goal is to continue to improve in international competition, then let the rankings follow.”

In a few months, Gilas Pilipinas will be back in action as the Nationals aim for a spot in the FIBA Asia Cup in 2025, playing New Zealand on November 21, and Hong Kong on November 24, at the Mall of Asia Arena.