MANILA, Aug. 25 (Xinhua) -- The Dominican Republic beat the Philippines 87-81 on the opening day of the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup here on Friday.
Jordan Clarkson scored a game-high 28 points for the Philippines, while June Mar Fajardo added 16 points and seven rebounds.
For the Dominican Republic, Karl-Anthony Towns had a double-double of 26 points and 10 rebounds, and guard Victor Liz added 18 points.
The host nation tipped off their tournament at the Philippine Arena, the world's largest indoor gym with a maximum capacity of 55,000 seats. FIBA announced that 38,115 came to watch the Friday night game, setting a new World Cup attendance record.
Both teams started with fast-paced coast-to-coasts, but without making a lot of shots. Towns' efforts in the paint started a wave from the Dominican Republic, and Clarkson responded with jumpers and 3-pointers. The two sides then traded leads and tied at 42-42 at half-time.
Coming back from the lockers, Towns remained hard to stop in the paint, but the 211cm center was blown a technical foul as he tried to stop Clarkson's transition. Despite his continuous contribution in offense, Clarkson fouled out in the fourth quarter.
The suspense remained until the last minute. Dwight Ramos' free throws gave the home side a hint of hope, but eventually they were unable to turn the game around.
Next up for the Philippines in Group A is Angola, while the Dominican Republic will play against Italy on Sunday. ■