SPORTS
Advocates Philippines
Gilas Pilipinas Youth Advances With Dominant Win Over Malaysia
Photo credit: SBP
In an impressive display of skill and teamwork, Gilas Pilipinas Youth secured their spot in the next stage of the FIBA U16 Asian Championship 2023 with a commanding 75-52 victory over Malaysia. The game, which took place on Tuesday September 19, 2023 in Qatar, showcased the Filipino team's prowess on both ends of the court.
Kieffer Alas, a standout player for the Philippines, delivered an outstanding performance, contributing 15 points and an impressive 13 rebounds to the team's win. Kurt Velasquez also played a pivotal role, notching 13 points and seven rebounds, while Elijah Williams came close to achieving a double-double with nine points and nine rebounds.
From the opening minutes, the Philippines exhibited an intense and suffocating defense, limiting Malaysia to a mere eight points in the first quarter. Gilas Pilipinas exploded for 29 points during the same period, establishing an early lead. Malaysia, despite scoring the first basket, struggled to find the hoop for the next four minutes. This allowed Gilas, led by Williams, Alas, and Noah Banal, to surge ahead. Gilas embarked on a remarkable 22-3 run, extending their lead to an impressive 23 points.
Maintaining their dominance, Gilas Pilipinas successfully fended off Malaysia's attempts to rally, ultimately clinching an easy victory. The national team concluded Group D as the second seed with a 2-1 record, paving their way to the knockout stage.
In the upcoming stage, Gilas will face Korea, who secured the third spot in Group C. The stakes are high for the Philippine squad as they aim to reach the semifinals of this tournament. Such a feat will secure them a coveted spot in the FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup 2024. With their exceptional performance thus far, Gilas Pilipinas Youth remains a formidable contender on their journey to international success.
Kieffer Alas, a standout player for the Philippines, delivered an outstanding performance, contributing 15 points and an impressive 13 rebounds to the team's win. Kurt Velasquez also played a pivotal role, notching 13 points and seven rebounds, while Elijah Williams came close to achieving a double-double with nine points and nine rebounds.
From the opening minutes, the Philippines exhibited an intense and suffocating defense, limiting Malaysia to a mere eight points in the first quarter. Gilas Pilipinas exploded for 29 points during the same period, establishing an early lead. Malaysia, despite scoring the first basket, struggled to find the hoop for the next four minutes. This allowed Gilas, led by Williams, Alas, and Noah Banal, to surge ahead. Gilas embarked on a remarkable 22-3 run, extending their lead to an impressive 23 points.
Maintaining their dominance, Gilas Pilipinas successfully fended off Malaysia's attempts to rally, ultimately clinching an easy victory. The national team concluded Group D as the second seed with a 2-1 record, paving their way to the knockout stage.
In the upcoming stage, Gilas will face Korea, who secured the third spot in Group C. The stakes are high for the Philippine squad as they aim to reach the semifinals of this tournament. Such a feat will secure them a coveted spot in the FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup 2024. With their exceptional performance thus far, Gilas Pilipinas Youth remains a formidable contender on their journey to international success.
Sep 20, 2023
