MANILA, Philippines – The United States, as expected, won the gold in the 2014 FIBA World Cup but the Philippines won the heart of fans from all over the world.
The Philippines celebrated its return to the world championship after 36 years with its first victory in the tournament in 40 years and by winning the Most Valuable Fan Best Country award.
As a tribute to the Philippines, a video montage of Gilas Pilipinas and their fans was played during the halftime of the Finals between USA and Serbia on Sunday (early Monday morning Manila time).
Gilas Pilipinas has captured the adulation of fans and media all over the world with their all-heart, all-out play and their rabid fans that almost carried them to the Round of 16.
Gilas pushed Croatia, Argentina and Puerto Rico to the limit before losing while they stayed competitive against Greece. They earned a well-deserved victory against Senegal, 81-79, in overtime in their final assignment.
Despite the series of heartbreaks, Filipinos and even Spanish fans, who got enamored by the team's "Puso" (Heart) mantra and style of play, filled the 7,100-seat Palacio Municipal de Deportes in Seville, Spain.