Tim Cone says Gilas Pilipinas loss to New Zealand 'painful,' but celebrates Alex Eala's Wimbledon victory

Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone described the Philippines' heartbreaking loss to New Zealand in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers as "painful," but said Alex Eala's Wimbledon victory gave the country something to celebrate.

The Philippines fell to New Zealand, 106-102, in double overtime on Friday, a day after Eala rallied past Maya Joint, 3-6, 6-2, 6-0, to advance to the Wimbledon Round of 32.

"That was as painful as it can get. I'm at least happy that Alex was able to win her match. Her win was for the country. We couldn't do our part. Hurting," Cone wrote on X.

That was as painful as it can get. I'm at least happy that Alex was able to win her match. Her win was for the country. We couldn't do our part. Hurting.

— Tim Cone (@manilacone) July 3, 2026

Speaking to the press after the game, Cone also expressed his disappointment over the loss but said he remains proud of his young Gilas squad.

Gilas Pilipinas will next face Australia on Monday, while Eala takes on Iga Swiatek on Saturday night for a place in the Wimbledon Round of 16.

—JKC, GMA News