PH U-18 squad opens up FIBA-Asia with easy win

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Under-18 Youth Squad pummeled Saudi Arabia, 95-52, Friday to kick off its campaign in the FIBA-Asia championship in Mongolia.

UP’s Kyle Suarez led and NU’s Jay Alejandro lead with 15 and 14 points, respectively as the youth cagers just found their range all game.

La Salle Greenhills’ Mario Bonleon, meanwhile, chipped in 13 points while reigning UAAP juniors MVP Jerie Pingoy of FEU-Diliman added 11.

Energen Pilipinas’ battles from then on are expected to be tougher as it faces Kazakhstan Saturday at 12 noon, and two-time titlist Iran on Sunday at 4 p.m.