China def Philippines, 87-59 [Battle for 3rd | FIBA U16 Asian Championship | Sep. 24, 2023]

Gilas Pilipinas Youth’s magical run in the 2023 FIBA U16 Asian Championship came to an end when they were defeated 92-36 by Australia in the semifinals on Saturday, September 23 (Sunday, September 24, Manila time) in Doha, Qatar.

The Philippines was sent falling back to earth after stamping its ticket to the 2024 FIBA U17 World Cup in Turkey with a stunning 64-59 quarterfinals triumph against Japan on Saturday, as the undefeated Australians dominated the Filipinos from start to finish.

Australia surged out to a 22-7 lead at the end of the first quarter, then held the Philippines to just 3 points in the second quarter to extend its 15-point lead to a stunning 35-point edge at halftime, 45-10.

The smothering defense of the Australians allowed the Philippines to convert on only four of their 34 field goal tries in the first half, including a dismal 1-of-16 clip from long range.

Australia continued to punish the Filipinos in the second half, increasing its advantage to 60 points, 88-28, with less than four minutes remaining in the one-sided contest.

No Filipino player scored in double figures, with Irus Chua and CJ Amos leading the way with 6 points each.

Kieffer Alas, who had 29 points against Japan, was held down to just 2 points on 1-of-7 shooting this time.

The Philippines, mentored by Josh Reyes, will gun for a bronze medal against China later today at 10 p.m.