Restoring the faith

MANILA, Philippines — One victory for glory of flag and country.

One inconsequential win that ended a losing streak in the FIBA World Cup by Gilas Pilipinas.

One shining moment that meant nothing in the scheme of things but for pride and honor of an embattled nation.

When time heals the passion and emotion spent that stormy night to secure a 96-75 win over China at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, it will be remembered for its impact on Philippine basketball.

Battered and humbled by superior foreign rivals despite holding its own in the early stages and ousted in its bid for the second round, Gilas began drawing the boos and maligned no end on social media by fans.

Their gods of basketball were being unmasked as mortals in Gilas jersey.

But the Nationals gave it all and scuttled the Chinese with an explosive game ignited by Fil-Am Jordan Clarkson’s impeccable outside shooting marked by four treys in a row.

“We’re just basically playing for nothing, but the fans all came out (to support us). So, we just owe this to the Filipino people,” said Gilas coach Chot Reyes.

Indeed, they owed it all to those roaring fans and millions more all over in this cold rainy night as Gilas restored their faith in this game we treasured most.