No broken hearts out here
By Recah Trinidad
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 24 Aug 2018
FOR lack of a better term, we all had to call the Philippine National team?s gallant finish against super power China a heartbreaking loss.
The Nationals finished the Asian Games thriller against super power China behind 80-82, but the gutsy Filipino warriors did not look any bit shaken or beaten.
They simply failed to score a win; but at the same time got widely celebrated.
**
?I?m very happy with their efforts,? said national coach Yeng Guiao. ?They gave it their all, I could?ve not asked for more.?
The rugged, blazing contest was tighter than the final count indicated.
There were, in fact, pre-game fears the Nationals, hastily formed, could get blown off the court.
Racing back from a 10-point deficit in the first half, the shorter Filipinos, played sharp, speedy, gutsy ball, while sacrificing everything in defense, to finally take the lead in the closing seconds.
Certified slinger Paul Lee missed an open three-pointer from the far left at the buzzer to the relief of the beleaguered Chinese team.
**
There was regret, of course; but definitely no miserable scene on the Philippine bench.
On the other hand, there was a grab shot of Chinese basketball association head Yao Ming, visibly shaken, his face a mask of grief.
Just like many others, the Chinese giant who did great in the NBA, was obviously at a loss on how the Filipinos could?ve transformed into a world beater overnight.
They definitely overdid themselves.
But a more fitting accolade should be: How did coach Guiao do it?
**
Guiao singled out the NBA?s Jordan Clarkson, son of a Filipina from Angeles City, for a superb all-around prowess. But he continued to swoon over the National team?s dedication and solidarity.
It will be a totally different ballgame against Korea on Monday.
Before the China match, Guiao made a fervent vow that they would be ready for everything. He cited the relative slowness of the Chinese big men as their most tangible weakness.
Now, Guiao sees in Korea, speedier and smarter opposing team.
The Nationals no doubt were able to play as tall as the Chinese.
He?s not saying it, but coach Yeng should be able to again motivate and weave patriotic magic against Korea on Monday.
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Recah Trinidad.
Recent PhilBoxing.com In-House articles:
Donaire ready for Tsutsumi
By Joaquin Henson, Tue, 16 Dec 2025INDIGO FIGHT NIGHT: WEIGH-IN RESULTS AND RUNNING ORDER CONFIRMED AS CONNOR MITCHELL GETS READY FOR HIS PRO DEBUT
Tue, 16 Dec 2025THE PAST WEEK IN ACTION DECEMBER 15 DECEMBER 2025: Gassiev KO Pulev in 6; Mikaeljan Beats Jack for WBC Cruiser Title; Pacheco Outpoints Sadjo
By Eric Armit, Tue, 16 Dec 2025Sumalinog, Castanol rule Senior, PWD fun run
By Lito delos Reyes, Tue, 16 Dec 2025Vargas urges boxers to defy odds
By Joaquin Henson, Tue, 16 Dec 2025GIORGIO VISIOLI SETS OUT MISSION TO LAND MAJOR TITLES AFTER TENSE FIRST FACE-OFF WITH ENGLISH TITLE RIVAL JOE HOWARTH
Tue, 16 Dec 2025Kevin Brown and Yoenis Tellez Shine at Boxlab Promotions’ “Night of Champions XIII” During the 104th Annual WBA Convention
Tue, 16 Dec 2025TRAINING CAMP NOTES: Justin Cardona Shares Insights Ahead of December 19 Showdown Against Avious Griffin
Tue, 16 Dec 2025JAS MATHUR JOINS MANNY PACQUIAO PROMOTIONS AS CEO TO LEAD STRATEGIC VISION, CREATIVITY AND GLOBAL GROWTH INITIATIVES
Tue, 16 Dec 2025Split-T Management Signs Amateur Standout Adrian Salazar
Tue, 16 Dec 2025INTERNATIONAL BOXING HALL OF FAME REMEMBERS CANASTOTA’S MANAGER / TRAINER / PROMOTER TONY GRAZIANO
Mon, 15 Dec 2025Catubig, Prado win Suy Foods Santa Run
By Lito delos Reyes, Mon, 15 Dec 2025Junior, Youth and Elite Divisions Awarded on Final Day of 2025 USA Boxing National Championships
Mon, 15 Dec 2025Jean Henri Lhuillier Applauds Cebuana Lhuillier Ambassadors for Bronze Finish at SEA Games 2025
Mon, 15 Dec 2025NOEL MIKAELIAN DETHRONES BADOU JACK TO BECOME THE NEW WBC CRUISERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION
Sun, 14 Dec 2025