Danny I’s son powers Batang Gilas past China in big upset
Batang Gilas is not settling for crumbs after booking a quarterfinal berth in the 2018 FIBA Under-18 Asian Championship in Thailand.
Following a stunning 73-63 victory over powerhouse China Tuesday night, morale is high on the Philippine youth squad in not only booking a ticket to next year’s FIBA Under-19 Basketball World Cup but also winning the crown.
The country has won six titles so far in this tournament, but it has been 36 years since the Filipinos brought home the trophy.
In 1982, the PH team prevailed over China for the crown.
Batang Gilas proved they have what it takes to dominate this year after marching into the quarters with a three-game sweep of Group B that also included lopsided triumphs over Lebanon, 75-53 and United Arab Emirates, 92-49.
A quarterfinals win today against Bahrain, which beat Chinese-Taipei, 76-65, late last night, will advance the Filipinos to the World Cup.
Against China, Batang Gilas directed the tempo after untangling from a 12-all tie in the opening quarter and then protected their lead throughout.
Sean Ildefonso, son of PBA great Danny Ildefonso, starred with 18 points and 7 rebounds while AJ Edu and Kai Sotto combined for 24 points, 24 rebounds and 9 blocks.
Dalph Panopio also shone with 12 points and eight rebounds while Miguel Oczon added 11 markers including a 8-of-8 free throws.