Gilas Pilipinas Boys fell to the 15-16th classification phase match of the FIBA Under-17 World Cup 2024, losing to Argentina, 67-83, on Friday evening at Ahmet Comert Sports Hall in Turkey.
To avoid its worst-ever finish in the Under-17 World Cup, the Philippines must secure a victory against China on Saturday. Previously, Gilas finished 15th in 2014 and 13th in 2018.
The sheer size of Argentina overwhelmed the young Filipinos, as they were outrebounded 28-48, resulting in a 13-0 disadvantage in second-chance points.
Argentina’s bench also made significant contributions, with Matias Domine and Ivan Prato combining for 24 of their 38 bench points.
Gilas struggled to contain Argentina in the first half, trailing 15-27 in the opening quarter and 31-53 at halftime.
The team faced difficulties in scoring throughout the first 20 minutes of play.
At its peak, Argentina held a commanding 29-point lead during the contest.
Kurt Velasquez and Joaquin Ludovice led Gilas offensively with 17 and 12 points respectively, including a combined five three-pointers.
Bonn Daja contributed significantly from the free throw line, scoring eight of his 15 points, while also securing eight rebounds. Edryn Morales added 13 points and five rebounds.
Martin Torriani paced Argentina with 15 points, seven assists, and five rebounds.
The Scores:
Argentina 83 – Torriani 15, Kropp 13, Domine 12, Prato 12, Rotta 8, Minzer 7, Chapero 6, Cabodevilla 3, Gradin 2, Scola 2, Sarmiento 0.
Philippines 67 – Velasquez 17, Daja 15, Morales 13, Ludovice 12, Chua 6, Amos 3, Williams 1, Alegre 0, Diao 0, Banal 0, Gomez de Liano 0.
Quarterscores: 27-15, 53-31, 69-48, 83-67.
