Since the FIBA Asia Under-16 tournament began in 2009, China has remained unbeaten on all three seasons. But after facing the Batang Gilas yesterday, their dominating streak was destroyed, incurring their first-ever lost in the Asian tournament held in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Photo From: Fiba.com
After dishing out a massive 11-0 run in the final quarter of the game, the Philippine team turned the tables on China with a 6-point lead, 78-72, to win the match.
China had strong ball possession throughout the game, but the quick and agile Batang Gilas answered back with strong steals, offensive rebounds, and fast break point plays, helping them keep up with the Chinese team.
By half time, the Philippine team was ahead by 6 points, 39-33.
China stepped up on the scoreboard on the third quarter, Cutting Gilas’ lead down to one point to end at 53-52.
Fourth quarter was a tight-scoring match, with both teams keeping close possession of the ball. But after a 67-all deadlock, China pulled away 5 point, 67-72, with 3 mins left in the game.
Batang Gilas — not looking to lose – answered back with 11 points, their biggest scoring run of the game. With only 11 seconds left, China finally yielded to the Philippines, 78-72, to end the game.
Gian Mamuyac was the best performing player of the game with 22 points, 3 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals. He was followed by Sam Joseph Belangel with 11 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals.
Of six games, Batang Gilas only incurred one lose in the hands of the South Korean team. The Gilas team will be facing Japan in the Quarter Finals.
What can you say about this win? Do you think we can nab the championship title?