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    Guiao cites 'big' reason why PH team can't take Syria lightly

    Guiao warns PH team about Syria's seven-footer ahead of Asiad match
    Aug 31, 2018
    PHOTO: AP

    JAKARTA – The Philippines is not taking Syria lightly ahead of their battle for fifth place on Friday night in the 18th Asian Games men’s basketball tournament at the GBK Istora.

    National coach Yeng Guiao presided over practice one last time on Thursday for the 7:30 p.m. (Manila time) game, where they will be looking to give NBA player Jordan Clarkson a fitting send-off after his maiden appearance in a Philippine uniform.

    “Syria is a strong team,” Guiao said. “Let’s not make that mistake of underestimating this team.”

    The Philippines advanced to the battle for fifth after a 113-80 win over Japan, assuring the team improves on its seventh-place finish in the 2014 Asiad in Incheon.

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      Focus will be on Syria’s 7-foot-2 big man Abdulwahab Alhamwi, who had 10 points and eight rebounds in their 76-66 win over Indonesia.

      “They have a seven-footer. I think he's taller than seven feet, mga 7-2. He is mobile and he has moves. He can shoot the outside shot," said Guiao. "Of course, kapag nakakuha sa loob ‘yan, there is nothing we can do anymore. "

      Also expected to be a key player for Syria is Tarek Aljabi, who scored 33 points in the Indonesia game.

      “We have to pay special attention to number 12 (Alhamwi). And he is surrounded by guards who can also score. They have good shooters, they have good ball handlers,” said Guiao.

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      “They have the materials that’s why we need to be really careful,” he added.

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      PHOTO: AP
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