Gilas Men face a crucial decision ahead of their qualification to the quarterfinals clash in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025, as Calvin Oftana appears to have reinjured his right ankle — which could open the door for Jamie Malonzo to finally make his tournament debut.
The team now has a single day to regroup before the knockout stage begins on Monday.
This brief pause couldn’t come at a more important time for Oftana, who has been hampered by ankle sprains sustained during the last PBA conference and worsened on Saturday.
Despite a brief spark when he hit a three-pointer to halt Iraq’s rally, Oftana’s overall performance has been quiet. He has struggled throughout the continental showpiece, averaging just 3.0 points on 3-of-19 shooting from the field.
Before the competition started, Oftana’s participation was uncertain due to the injuries he had sustained during the conference.
He only received clearance to play shortly before the team left for Jeddah.
The spotlight now shifts toward Jamie Malonzo, who has yet to see playing time in the tournament.
(C) FIBA
Fans at the King Abdullah Sports City made their feelings loud and clear in the closing moments of Gilas’ 66-57 win over Iraq, chanting Malonzo’s name in hopes the coaching staff would finally send the former Ginebra forward onto the court.
Despite the clamor, Malonzo remained benched as Gilas secured their first win of the tournament.
With the playoffs imminent, the coaching staff faces a tough decision.
If Oftana’s injury limits his performance, Malonzo could be the fresh energy Gilas needs to keep advancing.
