Gilas Pilipinas U16 delivered a commanding 87-42 win over Thailand in the 2025 FIBA U16 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers, leaning on a blistering start and intense defensive pressure. The young Filipinos imposed their will in the first quarter, holding Thailand to just one point and forcing nine turnovers in a 31-1 opening frame.

Relentless Defense Sets the Tone

After a slow start against Vietnam, Gilas came out with urgency against fellow unbeaten squad Thailand, with Andwele Cabanero slashing to the basket and early triples from Jhustin Hallare and Prince Carino giving the Philippines a fast advantage. But it was their suffocating defense that dismantled Thailand’s rhythm, limiting them to 0-of-19 shooting in the opening quarter.

Thailand briefly fought back, winning the second quarter 19-16, prompting a halftime reality check from coach LA Tenorio. “Moments like the first quarter will come,” he warned. “But we need to respect the game and our opponents. We must stay disciplined.” The message resonated, as Gilas returned to form in the third quarter and finished strong, building a lead that ballooned to 45 points late in the game.

Balanced Attack and Bench Depth Fuel Victory

Thailand was held to just 16% shooting and committed 21 turnovers, as no player scored in double digits. Gilas wasn’t at its offensive peak either, converting only 40% of their field goals and missing several inside looks. However, their overwhelming 77-52 rebounding edge and deep bench ensured a wire-to-wire victory.

Gab Delos Reyes paced the Philippines with 16 points and nine rebounds, while Carino contributed 15. Cabanero, named Best Player of the Game, had 10 points, four boards, three steals, and two assists in just 16 minutes. Travis Pascual flirted with a triple-double with six points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. Jhello Lumague led the rebounding charge with 15, and Everaigne Cruz added 12 points off the bench.

Thailand rested their leading scorer Ronnie Allsop in preparation for a crucial game against Indonesia. In earlier matches, Indonesia stayed unbeaten by defeating Malaysia 67-45, while Vietnam edged Singapore 89-83 in a close encounter.