Hot Nationals seek spot in final

MANILA, Philippines - Gilas Pilipinas is boosted by its three-game sweep in eliminations action as it tangles with Changsha Park Lane in the crossover semifinals of the 19th Super Keung Sheung Cup International Basketball Championship in Hong Kong today.

Greg Slaughter returned strong from a one-game layoff due to a slight illness Wednesday, pouring in 27 points as the Nationals wrapped up their perfect showing in Group B play with a 119-46 demolition of the Malaysian national team Thursday.

Gilas Pilipinas earlier clobbered Indonesia and Hong Kong, proving the team is on the right track in its training and preparation for the coming SEA Games in Myanmar.

The Filipinos are fancied to stay on a roll in the semis against Changsha Park Lane, a young team placing second in Group A behind Southern California Fukienese Association (SCFA).

Changsha topped the Thai national squad, 83-70, then nipped GCC Hong Kong Xinlibao, 68-66, before being walloped by SCFA, 84-96.

As Group A top notcher, SCFA plays Hong Kong in the semis.