SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — Gilas Pilipinas Youth bounced back with a statement win, crushing Malaysia 96-61 on Thursday night at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center to cap off an unbeaten run in the FIBA U16 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers.
After a relatively close game against Indonesia the night before, the Filipino teens came out with sharper focus and intensity, locking in on both ends to dismantle the Malaysians and book a perfect sweep of the group stage.
With the game tied at 7-all midway through the opening quarter, Gilas erupted with a commanding 21-5 run to end the period up 28-12. From there, they never looked back.
Despite already clinching a spot in the main FIBA U16 Asia Cup in August, both Gilas and Indonesia are set to face off in the finals. Thursday’s blowout win, however, sends a strong message of Gilas Youth’s title intent.
“We needed to remind the boys about discipline and sticking to our system,” said head coach LA Tenorio. “They started playing individually, underestimating our opponents. So I had to refocus them on what we’re trying to accomplish.”
Bench players led the way for the Philippines, with Travis Pascual and Jeremiah Antolin scoring 15 points each. Pascual added five assists and four rebounds, while Antolin went 7-of-9 from the field and contributed four boards and a steal.
Prince Cariño also made a big impact with 13 points, 11 rebounds, and defensive contributions that included two blocks and two steals. Starter Everaigne Cruz added 14 points along with three assists, three steals, and three blocks.
Overall, Gilas Youth’s second unit poured in 58 points and helped force 27 Malaysian turnovers, which were converted into 41 points.
Cameron Jeremie Pagbe Tan led Malaysia with 16 points. The Malaysian side finished the eliminations at 2-3 and will battle Thailand (3-2) for the final qualification slot to the continental tournament.
Gilas’ dominant win sets the tone for the finale as they aim to close the qualifiers undefeated and carry momentum into the Asia Cup proper.
