Gilas Pilipinas Youth stayed perfect in the 2025 SEABA U16 Qualifiers with a hard-fought 77-68 win over fellow FIBA U16 Asia Cup qualifier Indonesia. Though both teams had already booked their tickets to Mongolia, they battled fiercely before a raucous home crowd at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center.

Gilas head coach LA Tenorio welcomed the challenge, saying the close game served as valuable preparation. “Mabuti na rin na ngayon ito nangyari samin, hindi sa finals,” he said, though he emphasized the team remains focused on finishing the prelims strong.

Defense And Clutch Plays Fuel Win

The match was a stark contrast to the Filipinos’ previous blowout victories over Singapore, Vietnam, and Thailand. Tenorio reminded his squad that not every game would be easy, and this battle was a necessary test of their resilience.

With fans shouting “Defense!” in the final minutes, Gilas clung to a slim lead until key baskets and free throws sealed the game. Despite being down only four with under five minutes to play, Indonesia couldn’t recover as the Nationals pulled away.

Prince Carino top-scored with 15 points while Travis Pascual added 13 and Jolo Pascual contributed 12. Carl Delos Reyes and Everaigne Cruz also hit double figures with 10 points each, balancing the offensive load.

Gilas Ready For Malaysia, Possible Rematch

Indonesia remained within striking distance for most of the game, trailing only 32-28 at halftime. But a quick 7-2 burst sparked by Jolo Pascual’s triple gave Gilas breathing room and their largest lead of the night.

Even then, the Indonesians refused to go quietly, narrowing the margin to 65-61 late in the fourth quarter. Gilas answered with seven straight points to slam the door and stay unbeaten at 4-0.

Indonesia’s Benjamin Hernusi led all scorers with 23 points and will be Gilas’ main focus should both teams meet again in Friday’s final. Before that, the Philippines must take care of business against Malaysia in Thursday’s prelim finale.

Thailand, after falling to Indonesia earlier, bounced back by beating Vietnam 63-46. Meanwhile, Malaysia kept Singapore winless with a convincing 78-55 victory to wrap up Wednesday’s action.