Energen Pilipinas notches second win in Fiba Asia U-18

MANILA, Philippines – Energen Pilipinas notched its second straight win after beating Kazakhstan, 83-69, Saturday in the Fiba Asia U-18 in Ulan Bator, Mongolia.

Mario Bonleon led the way with 20 points while team captain Jay Alejandro added 18 points for the Philippines, which routed Saudi Arabia, 95-52, in its opening game.

The Philippines, coached by former PBA star Olsen Racela, blew an early double-digit lead as Kazakhstan came back and even took the lead briefly in the third period.

Kris Porter gave the Philippines back the lead before Alejandro’s free throws put them up by twin-digits anew, 68-56, a big of a lead in which Kazakhstan this time wasn’t able to overcome.

Reigning UAAP juniors MVP Jerie Pingoy also came through with crucial baskets in the fourth quarter that kept Kazakhstan at bay.