Malaysia’s men’s basketball team suffered a setback in their second group-stage match of the 2025 SEA Games, going down 58–83 to the Philippines at Nimibutr Stadium on Sunday.
Malaysia showed early promise by taking control in the opening quarter, edging ahead 22–16 with energetic ball movement and solid perimeter defence that disrupted the Filipinos’ rhythm.
However, the tide turned dramatically in the second quarter as the Philippines imposed their physicality and tempo. A dominant 26–4 run saw them flip the script and head into halftime with a commanding 42–26 advantage.
Malaysia attempted to regroup after the interval and briefly found momentum in the third quarter, but the Philippines continued to punish defensive lapses, extending their lead to 62–51 heading into the final period.
The Filipinos then shut the door in the fourth quarter, combining aggressive defence with efficient fast-break execution to close out the contest and seal a 25-point victory.
The defeat halts Malaysia’s early momentum after their opening win, leaving them with work to do in the remaining fixtures as they chase a place in the knockout stages.
Despite the heavy scoreline, the opening-quarter performance offered positives, highlighting Malaysia’s ability to compete when intensity and discipline are maintained.
Credit Photo : BSAT
