Gilas survives Tunisian scare

MANILA, Philippines — Naturalized player Ange Kouame took charge as Gilas Pilipinas grinded out a 74-73 overtime win over African power Tunisia Thursday night in the King Abdullah Cup in Amman, Jordan.

Ivorian-born Kouame set up Thirdy Ravena for the marginal free throw then swatted away Achref Gannouni’s last attempt, securing the Nationals’ second victory in three outings.

Kouame scattered 12 points, seven rebounds, five assists, five blocks and two steals as Gilas completed its fightback from an eight-point deficit in the fourth to steal it in extra time.

Dwight Ramos and SJ Belangel helped on offense with 11 and 10, respectively. Oussama Marnoui delivered 19-8-5 while Gannouni shot 16 for Tunisia.