Smart Gilas Pilipinas squandered a double-digit halftime lead as it bowed down to Al Etihad Alexandria of Egypt anew, 75-84, late Saturday (Manila Time) in the championship game of the 22nd Dubai Invitational Tournament at the Al Ahli gym in Dubai.

The Nationals built a 44-33 buffer at the half despite losing naturalization candidate Marcus Douthit early in the game due to a second motion after he was reportedly elbowed by an Egyptian player.

But the PH five lost its stride and the loss of Douthit took its toll as the Egyptian club pulled away for good in the final period.

FEU stalwart Mac Baracael unleashed 26 points while skipper Chris Tiu, who was awarded best wing player of the tournament, chipped in with nine as Smart Gilas failed to avenge their 72-85 defeat over Al Etihad in the eliminations.

Mark Simon Vincent Giongco, Phil. Daily Inquirer