Gilas Pilipinas won over Egypt after it's 5 defeats in Tune up games

The Philippine national men’s basketball team finally picked up a victory after dropping five consecutive tune-up games, downing Egypt, 74-65, as part of their preparations for the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain.

Gilas Pilipinas defeated the FIBA Africa runners-up behind a strong showing from sharpshooter Jeff Chan and the usual play of naturalized NBA player Andray Blatche.

The Filipinos trailed 31-29 at the half but made a strong run to open the third quarter, 17-5, to lead by as much as 10 points before settling for a 53-46 advantage heading into the final period.

Egypt climbed back into the game in the fourth, getting to as close as four points, 62-58.

But Gilas closed out strong to ensure themselves a rare win after tough outings against France, Australia, Ukraine, Basque and Angola – all defeats.

They’ll have a chance to boost their confidence even further in one last tune-up game against Dominican Republic before beginning their World Cup campaign.

--TV5