Gilas boys blasted by Australia

MANILA, Philippines -- The Gilas Pilipinas boys absorbed a massive 38-point defeat against Australia, 107-69, in their FIBA U18 Asia Cup clash Saturday (Manila time) at the Veer Savarkar Indoor Stadium in Ahmedabad, India. 

Coming off a one-point win over Chinese Taipei a couple of days ago, the Filipino dribblers could not contain the much-taller Australia team that was simply unstoppable. 

George Aidan Green had 12 points for Gilas boys, while Luke Atacador chipped in 10. Elias Gish, JB Cagurungan and Andrew Chio each had nine in the loss. 

Gilas was able to keep in step early on with the Boomers, trailing by just two, 24-26, in the second quarter after a deuce by Sizco Roquid. 

But a massive 16-2 run capped by a layup by Antonio Browne broke the game open, 42-26. 

While Green broke the silence for the Philippines, Australia continued on as they led by 22, 56-34, heading to the second half. 

The onslaught went on until the final buzzer, as the Boomers led by as much as 42 points, 107-65, after a pair of free throws by Isaac Riddle with about 57 seconds to go. 

The Philippines shot just 33.8% from the field, making 23 of their 68 attempts. 

Seven players from Australia finished in double figures, led by Yahya Basaran with 17 markers and eight boards. John Aryang added 16 points, while Bailey Hanson had 14 points, eight assists, three steals and two rebounds. Browne chipped in 13 markers, while Jai Fa’ale and Riddle had 12 each. Josh McCann produced 11 points for Australia, who shot 49.4% from the field. 

Gilas will return to action on Monday, aiming to return to the win column against Thailand at the same venue.