Ildefonso’s hot start helps Batang Gilas torch Lebanon in Fiba U18 Asian Championship

Photo from Fiba.com

Batang Gilas had an impressive debut after steamrolling Lebanon, 75-53, in the Fiba U18 Asian Championship Sunday night at Stadium 29 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Dave Ildefonso set the tone, firing 11 of his game-high 19 points in the first quarter, where the Filipinos built a double-digit lead.

The Philippines extended its lead to 20, 59-39, late in the third quarter and pushed it to 24, 71-47, after a 3-pointer by Joshua Ramirez with 5:28 remaining in the game.

AJ Edu also shone with a double-double of 17 points and 12 rebounds that went with five blocks while Kai Sotto added 12 points and eight rebounds.

Fil-Italian guard Dalph Panopio collected 12 points, four rebounds and six assists.

With Edu and Sotto manning the paint, the Philippines outrebounded Lebanon, 61-36.

Batang Gilas goes for a 2-0 start against UAE on Monday.