Gilas Pilipinas routs Guam to open first window of FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers

Gilas Pilipinas dominated Guam, 87-46, to open its campaign in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers on Friday in Guam.

After a tight first quarter which ended at 17-all, the Philippines surged ahead and took a 40-29 lead by halftime, before it limited Guam to just seven points in the third period while Gilas made 24 points to claim a 64-36 lead.

Gilas continued to pound in the final frame as it outscored Guam, 23-10, to take the victory.

"The score didn't indicate it, but we have tremendous respect for the Guam team, what they've been able to accomplish in terms of winning the qualifiers to the Asia Cup, getting into the second round, that's just amazing feat for them," Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone said.

Justin Brownlee had 22 points, two rebounds, and two assists to lead the nationals, while Dwight Ramos added 10 points. June Mar Fajardo grabbed 10 rebounds on top of eight points.

Jericho Cruz, meanwhile, led Guam with 17 points, while Tai Wesley had 12 points.

The Philippines will face Guam again next on Monday at the Ateneo de Manila Blue Eagle Gym in Quezon City.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News