Powerade RP nips Kuwait

MANILA, Philippines -- Powerade Team Pilipinas had a relatively easy going against Kuwait, hacking out a 14-point win over the Gulf state, 85-71, in the 25th FIBA Asia Championship at the Tianjin Gym in Tianjin, China.

The RP Nationals are now hoping China wins against Jordan tonight to avoid a possible confrontation with the Asian powerhouse.

The Chinese and the Jordanians square off at 7 p.m. today, with the loser facing the Philippines in a knockout quarterfinal match.

Cyrus Baguio led the scoring parade for the Filipinos with 14 points, drawing support from three other players who finished in double figures.

Asi Taulava churned out a double-double performance with 10 points and 10 boards, while Kerby Raymundo and Jared Dillinger chipped in 10 markers apiece.

The Philippines, who kept the Kuwaitis at bay throughout the game, led by as much as 19 points in the fourth quarter to comfortably pull away with the win.

Mohammad Ashkanani quarterbacked Kuwait with 20 points and eight rebounds. - By Dino Maragay (Philstar News Service, www.philstar.com)