FIBA U19: Gilas Pilipinas defeated by nemesis Australia

By Kevin Sox

Gilas Pilipinas Youth was unable to keep up against the superior game of Australia, falling in the 9th-16th classification phase of the 2019 FIBA U19 World Cup in Greece on Friday night, 60-82.

Going up against their fellow FIBA Asia counterparts, the Philippines surrendered a double-digit cushion right after the opening period and was unable to recover from there.

The Aussies stretched the lead to 25 at one point in the 4th quarter, and cruised to the finish line.

It was the lowest scoring output for the Philippines in the 5 games that they have played in the prestigious tournament.

Dave Ildefonso, one of the most consistent players for the squad, topscored with 13 points. Usual contributors Gerry Abadiano and Kai Sotto chipped in 12 points each.

Gilas made 10 triples, although shot just a shade below 35% overall in the game as their offensive struggles continued.

James Froling led 4 double-digit scorers for Australia with 13 points while Kody Stattmann added 11 markers.

With the nationals’ 5th straight loss, they have been relegated further into the 13th-16th classification phase of the consolation round.