In an electrifying showdown on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena, Gilas Pilipinas turned heads with a commanding 93-54 victory over Hong Kong in the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers. This massive triumph unfolded with notable Filipino-American star Dwight Ramos mostly sidelined, who though dressed in competition uniform, surprisingly didn’t make an appearance on the court.

Ramos, known for his sharp shooting and crucial three-point contributions, was rendered a mere spectator due to a calf injury. The team's coach, Tim Cone, made the strategic decision to give Ramos the day off, opting instead for Calvin Oftana to fill his role in the starting lineup. This quick adjustment proved effective as Gilas Pilipinas overwhelmed their opponents, showcasing impressive teamwork and skill.

Despite the final score vividly demonstrating the team’s prowess, fans expressed their longing for Ramos by chanting his name even when the game was firmly in hand. Cone acknowledged the support and excitement surrounding the player but remained firm in his precautionary approach, stating that Ramos’ injury is manageable and that the team's priority is ensuring he’s fully fit for upcoming matches.

As Gilas Pilipinas looks ahead, the spotlight now shifts to Ramos’ recovery. His absence was felt, but the team’s performance suggests a promising depth that could continue to shine in future competitions. Fans can only hope to see him back on the court soon, ready to contribute to his team’s aspirations of qualifying for the Asia Cup and beyond. Will Ramos return in time to help in the critical upcoming games? Only time will tell!