Batang Gilas excited with clash vs Team US

DUBAI—Instead of stage fright, Batang Gilas relishes its meeting with the United States late Monday in the Fiba U17 World Championship at Al Shabab Arena here.

It will be the first meeting between the PH five and the US on the world stage since the 1978 world championship in Manila.

“Playing on the same court with these future superstars is a different kind of feeling,” said Jolo Mendoza, the prime scoring option for the Philippine side, who will be wrapping up their Group A stint after back-to-back losses to Angola and Greece.

“I’m sure they’re also excited to play [against] us,” said Batang Gilas coach Jamike Jarin.  “They need to prepare because we’re getting better.  We’ll play with the biggest heart against the United States.”

Back in 1978, the Philippines lost to the Americans, 100-70, in the semifinals.

Champions in the U17 global meet the past two editions, Team USA has brought along top collegiate prospects Malik Newman, Ivan Rabb, Diamond Stone, Henry Ellenson, Harry Giles, Tyus Battle, Caleb Swanigan and Henry Ellenson.