Scrappy Phl U-17 yields to mighty US

DUBAI – With its size and length, the United States simply overwhelmed the Philippines, 124-64, in the Fiba U-17 World Championship Monday night at Al Ahli Arena here.

Terrance Ferguson and Josh Jackson sizzled from the outside while bigmen Diamond Stone and Henry Ellenson pounded Batang Gilas inside as the Americans raced to a 29-point halftime lead and never looked back.

The unbeaten Americans, a collection of top collegiate prospects and future NBA players, topped Group A after three preliminary games.

In contrast, Batang Gilas, a bunch of Filipino dribblers which has dreams of playing in the PBA, lost of its three games in the opening round.

“They’re (Americans) the best but we’re able to play our hearts out and that’s the bottomline,” said Batang Gilas coach Jamike Jarin.

Jolo Mendoza had 19 points while Jollo Go and Richard Escoto added 12 and 10 for the Filipinos, who was scheduled to play France in a knockout match to determine the quarterfinalists late Tuesday evening

“We just kept fighting and never gave up. We just need to keep our heads up that we played our best and the hardest and we’re looking forward to the knockout phase tomorrow (Tuesday),” said Jarin.

It was practically over when the Filipinos trailed, 32-61, at halftime, but Team USA coach Donald Showalter was all praises to Batang Gilas.

“I told my players not to overlook the Philippines and give it all. We saw them play, they’re scrappy and very well coached, they can hit shots when they’re open,” said Showalter, who steered the US to back-to-back Fiba U17 titles.

“We respected them a lot for what they can do. We went into the game knowing that we couldn’t ease up. They’re probably the fastest team we played in the tournament,” added Showalter.

Aside from torching the hoops from the perimeter and from afar, the Americans showcased their dunking skills with Harry Giles, Malik Newman, Henry Ellenson and Jayson Tatum slamming it home on every opportunity.

They also demolished the Filipinos in the shaded area with 66 rebounds, including 29 offensive boards, to rule the paint.

“They (Filipinos) need some size. I think they have the athleticism and they know how to play the game. I think down the road they’re going to have very much success,” said Showalter.