Batang Gilas ends losing run with slim win vs Egypt

BATANG Gilas ended a five- game losing skid by escaping Egypt, 70- 69, in the classification round of the International Basketball Federation ( FIBA) Under- 17 World Cup in Santa Fe, Argentina.

Kai Sotto was a dominant force in the paint, notching 28 points and grabbing 17 rebounds on top of three blocks while Gerry Abadiano had 15 points for Batang Gilas.

Raven Angelo Cortez and Keith Padrigao added 10 points each.

After leading by 20 points ( 3919) with more than two minutes left in the second quarter, Batang Gilas squandered its big lead and was left gasping for air, 59- 58, in the final period.

But the Filipinos were able to hang on behind Sotto and Abadiano to prevail against the gritty Egyptians.

“Our players did not give up even though we haven’t win yet. They also had a mindset that we can beat Egypt that’s why we star ted the game with intensity and aggressiveness on defense no matter what happened to our offense. So proud of the boys,” said Batang Gilas coach Mike Oliver in an online interview.

The Philippines and New Zealand will dispute the 13th place today.

Batang Gilas has surpassed its 15th place finish in the 2014 edition of the tourney held in the United Arab Emirates.