By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
In front of a fantastic crowd in Manila, the French national team faced some trouble but eventually bettered Philippines 93-84, entering the Olympic Qualifying Tournament with the desired result.
It was the backcourt duo of Nando De Colo and Tony Parker that constantly slashed through the opposing defense making a beyond repair damage. The Euroleague MVP paced the winners with 27 points, 6 rebounds and three steals, while the Spurs superstar finished the match with 21 points, 6 assists and 4 rebounds.
Although the hosts of the tournament had a raging start in the match, the French soon recovered, initially grabbing the reins, and expanding their lead to double-digit numbers in the third period.
Empowered by their loud fans, Philippines fought back and made it a four-point game with three minutes to go, yet an 8-0 run by France put an end to their comeback dreams.
Andray Blatche who scored 21 points and 8 rebounds along with Terrence Romeo scored 19 points, were the best that Philippines had to offer.