Arana replaces Tamayo in Gilas 12 vs Iran

MANILA, Philippines -- Justin Arana is set to make his Gilas Pilipinas debut against Iran.

The 6-foot-7 Arana will be stepping up the plate for the national team, replacing the injured Carl Tamayo, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announced Saturday evening. 

The announcement came a day before Gilas’ crucial clash against the Iranians. 

Tamayo sustained a left ankle injury during the Philippines’ matchup against Jordan on Friday. He exited the game and did not return. 

Arana brings physicality, defense and grit for Gilas against Iran. 

The bruising big man will shore up the frontline of the Nationals, alongside Kai Sotto, Justine Baltazar, AJ Edu, Troy Rosario and June Mar Fajardo. 

The rest of the team – Juan Gomez-de Liano, CJ Perez, Kevin Quiambao, Dwight Ramos and Scottie Thompson – will continue to see action for the Philippines. 

Iran is coming off a close 91-93 defeat against New Zealand on Friday. 

The same day, Gilas came from behind against Jordan, 82-81, in overtime. 

The game between Iran and the Philippines will be held on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena at 8 p.m. 

The Philippines will try to continue rising in the standings. They are currently holding a 3-4 win-loss record, good for fifth in Group E, while Iran is at 5-2.