The Nationals made themselves busy detonating bombs after bombs, blasting away at the hapless Vietnamese for their second straight win following a 112-74 rout of the Indons Monday.
After regaling Filipino expats and overseas workers here with two impressive shows, the Nationals take a needed rest today before resuming their drive for the coveted gold medal tomorrow against Thailand — the team which could possibly put up the best stand against the title holders.
Once they hurdle the Thais, it could be all over except the singing of the Philippine national anthem. The Nationals’ last two assignments are Singapore Saturday and Malaysia Sunday.
"Maganda ang timing ng break dahil we’re facing Thailand Thursday. Sila pa rin ang pinaka malakas nating kalaban. We have to prepare ourselves, style Korea na kung lumaro ang Thailand," said national coach Boysie Zamar.
Meanwhile, tension had simmered down in the RP basketball camp as FIBA-recognized Basketball Association of the Philippines president Tiny Literal finally became an official member of the RP delegation in the Games. He got his accreditation card yesterday morning.
Reuben dela Rosa, Eddie Laure, Chris Calaguio and Rommel Adducul once again combined for the bulk of the Nationals’ production last night as the four all fired no less than 12 points.
Dela Rosa topscored with 17 points that went with four rebounds, two steals, one assist and one block, Laure made 16 points on top of nine rebounds and three assists, Adducul got 12 points, three rebounds and two assists while Calaguio made two three-pointers and wound up with 12 points, five rebounds and one assist.
For all intents and purposes, the game was all over right after the first period with the Nationals racing to a 30-12 lead.
The Nationals started with a 15-0 run in the next period before taking the half at 55-16. They went on to post the biggest winning margin in the tourney thus far.
"My players were like boys against your men. They (the Filipinos) were definitely superior in everything," said Vietnam head coach Australian Mark Wormington. "With the way they played, I see no reason why the Philippines can’t retain the title."