Ildefonso stars as Batang Gilas dominates China in FIBA Asia U-18

The Philippines fashioned out an impressive 73-63 victory over regional powerhouse China on Thursday in the opening round of the FIBA Under-18 Asian Championship in Thailand.

Second-generation star Dave Ildefonso led the Batang Gilas conquest with 18 points, while twin towers AJ Edu and Kai Sotto held their own down low against the Chinese frontcourt.

The 6-foot-10 Edu finished with 13 points, 14 rebounds, and five blocks, while Sotto had 11 points, 10 rebounds, and four blocks as Batang Gilas finished the first round with an unbeaten 3-0 record.

After a close first half, the Philippines outscored China, 23-12, in the third period to take a commanding 54-39 lead.

The Philippines earlier scored victories over Lebanon and the United Arab Emirates to punch an automatic ticket to the quarterfinals of the tournament.

Guo Haowen carried the fight for China with 24 points. —JST, GMA News