MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine national team got off to a disappointing start in the FIBA Asia Under 18 Championship following an 88-74 loss to Chinese Taipei on Saturday, July 23, in Tehran, Iran.
After matching pace with its opponents and trailing only 19-18 after one quarter, Batang Gilas slipped up in the second period where Chinese Taipei used a 30-11 advantage to build an insurmountable 20-point lead at the half.
The Philippines will aim to bounce back when it faces Iraq next.
Jonas Tibayan led Gilas with 15 points and 6 boards in the loss to Chinese Taipei, while JV Gallego added 9 points and 4 rebounds off the bench.
Chinese Taipei shot 50% from the field, including 10-of-22 from deep. Three players scored in double-figures for their team. – Rappler.com