Philippines vs Cambodia Basketball Final Score and Key Game Highlights Revealed
2025-11-10 09:00
As I settled in to watch the Philippines versus Cambodia basketball final, I couldn't help but reflect on PLDT's incredible performance this season - four matches in just one week and all of which they still won. That kind of stamina and consistency is exactly what separates championship teams from the rest of the pack. Tonight's final promised to deliver that same level of intensity, and boy, did it deliver.
The atmosphere in the arena was electric from the opening tip-off. Having followed both teams throughout the tournament, I've got to say the Philippines came in with what I believe was the stronger game plan. Their coach implemented a defensive scheme that reminded me of PLDT's approach in their recent winning streak - tight, disciplined, and surprisingly fresh despite what must have been exhausting preparations. The first quarter ended 28-24 in favor of the Philippines, with their point guard scoring 12 points in just under eight minutes. That's the kind of explosive start that sets the tone for the entire game.
What really impressed me during the second quarter was how both teams maintained their intensity. I've seen countless games where early leads disappear due to fatigue, but these athletes played with the same energy PLDT showed during their four-match marathon week. Cambodia made an impressive comeback, outscoring the Philippines 30-25 in the second quarter. Their center, who stands at 6'11", dominated the paint with 8 rebounds and 3 blocks in that quarter alone. Statistics like these don't just happen - they're the result of incredible conditioning and mental toughness.
The third quarter brought what I consider the game's turning point. With Cambodia leading by 7 points, the Philippines implemented a full-court press that resulted in 4 consecutive turnovers. Having played competitive basketball myself back in college, I can tell you that kind of defensive pressure breaks teams mentally as much as physically. The Philippines scored 14 unanswered points during a crucial 4-minute stretch, completely shifting the momentum. Their shooting percentage during this period was an incredible 78% from the field - numbers that would make any coach proud.
As we moved into the final quarter, the tension was palpable. Both teams were clearly feeling the effects of what had been a physically demanding tournament. This is where championship experience really matters, and the Philippines demonstrated why they've been so successful in regional competitions. Their captain, who's been playing internationally for 7 years, took control of the offense and made some absolutely brilliant decisions under pressure. I particularly admired his leadership during timeouts - you could see him rallying his teammates, drawing up plays, and maintaining that crucial composure when it mattered most.
The final minutes were absolutely thrilling. With 45 seconds remaining and Cambodia trailing by just 3 points, their shooting guard attempted a three-pointer that would have tied the game. I held my breath as the ball circled the rim twice before bouncing out - one of those moments that can haunt players for years. The Philippines secured the defensive rebound and managed to run down the clock effectively. The final score of 98-95 doesn't fully capture how competitive this game truly was. Both teams left everything on the court, and as a basketball enthusiast, I couldn't have asked for a better showcase of the sport.
Looking back at the entire tournament, this final reminded me why I love basketball so much. The skill, the strategy, the raw emotion - it's all there in games like these. The Philippines' victory, achieved through smart coaching and incredible individual performances, sets them up beautifully for the upcoming Asian Games. Meanwhile, Cambodia proved they're no longer just participants but genuine contenders in Southeast Asian basketball. Their improvement over the past two years has been remarkable, and I wouldn't be surprised to see them challenging for more titles soon. Games like this final, much like PLDT's impressive four-match winning streak in just one week, demonstrate what's possible when talent meets determination and proper preparation. This is exactly the kind of basketball that grows the sport and inspires the next generation of athletes across the region.
Heather Bolton Suber ’02
Leah Schnell ’01
Sarah Grimes Wiggins ’93
Dr. Ralph Swearngin
Point University will induct four members into the Athletics Hall of Fame during a luncheon on Friday, October 24, during Homecoming weekend.
The class of 2025 includes Leah Schnell ’01, Heather Bolton Suber ’02, Dr. Ralph Swearngin and Sarah Grimes Wiggins ’93. The Athletics Hall of Fame was launched in May 2024, when six inaugural members were inducted.
“We look forward to honoring the second Hall of Fame class during Homecoming,” said Jaunelle White, vice president of intercollegiate athletics and chief student development officer. “It’s always a great feeling to have our alumni back on campus mingling with our current student-athletes and coaches. These individuals were elite during their time at Atlanta Christian College and deserve to be recognized.”
Schnell attended Atlanta Christian College from 1998 to 2001, where she earned a degree in business while competing in both basketball and volleyball. On the basketball court, she earned First Team All-Conference, Scholar Athlete, and First Team All-American honors for three consecutive years. Schnell also held the title of all-time leading scorer from 1998-2001. She now thrives as a commercial construction project manager at Barnsley Construction Group and as an entrepreneur.
Suber, from Havana, Florida, attended ACC from 1998 to 2002. A dedicated two-sport athlete, she earned numerous accolades, including First Team All-Conference, Second Team All-Conference, Honorable Mention and First Team All-American. One of her most memorable achievements came when she made eleven three-pointers in a single game. Suber graduated with a degree in early childhood education and went on to earn a master’s degree in education and a specialist degree in instructional technology. For over 23 years, she has served as an educator.
Swearngin has had a distinguished career in education, athletics and ministry spanning several decades, including 20 years at ACC in roles such as professor, dean of students, athletics director and coach. He held national leadership positions with the NCCAA, served as a trustee of Point University for over 10 years, and worked extensively in ministry and education in California, earning degrees from Whittier College and Georgia State University. His athletic involvement includes 23 years as a high school football official in California and Georgia, 22 years with the Georgia High School Association — retiring as executive director in 2014 — and service on national football and softball rules committees. Honored with multiple Hall of Fame inductions and the Atlanta Falcons Lifetime Achievement Award, Swearngin has authored two books and remains active in retirement through preaching and leading Bible studies, alongside his wife of 58 years, Evelyn.
Wiggins grew up in Roswell, Georgia, where she began playing basketball at the age of ten. After two years at Florida State University, she transferred to ACC in 1990. While at ACC, Wiggins was named to the All-American team in both 1991 and 1992. In her final year, she led her team in scoring, helping them finish second in the nation, and was named national MVP in 1992. She earned a bachelor of science in elementary education in 1993 and later received a master’s degree in technology and media sciences from Georgia Southern University in 2009. For the past 33 years, Wiggins has worked as a dedicated educator. In 1997, she married Todd Wiggins. Together, they have two children, Preston, 26, and Logan, 22.
