Gilas Pilipinas Youth thrashed Indonesia in the Finals to complete its sweep of the FIBA U16 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers.
Gilas Pilipinas Youth made sure to remind Indonesia who’s boss.
After a nip-and-tuck contest in their elimination round match, Gilas ran roughshod over the visitors, 70-40, in the battle for the crown in the FIBA U16 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers Friday night, May 30.
The Filipino teenage dribblers sent a statement early on against the only team that made them bleed in the competition, blazing to a 21-5 lead to reassert the country's might in the regional meet.
Gilas refused to ease on the gas pedal from there, staying poised on both ends of the floor for a golden performance worthy of praise.
The Pinoy youth battered their rival on all fronts, with Jhustin Hallare leading their balanced attack with 13 points, four rebounds, two assists and a steal.
Carl Delos Reyes added 11 points, 13 rebounds, four assists and a steal for the team that swept the competition.
[ALSO READ: Tim Cone sees bigger roles for Kevin Quiambao, Carl Tamayo for Gilas Pilipinas]
It was also an impressive maiden head coaching gig for LA Tenorio, who asked to be excused from everything Ginebra to focus on the Nationals’ preparations for the tourney.
“All the hard work we put in, the sacrifices, putting extra work after practice, skipping school. I'm just really thankful for the opportunity na ibinigay sa'kin,” said Hallare as Gilas and its fans celebrated at the Bren Z. Convention Center in San Fernando, Pampanga.
No player finished in double figures for Indonesia as Maracle Christiano paced it with nine points.
Benjamin Piet Hernusi had eight points, six rebounds and three assists.