The Gilas Pilipinas Boys seized a spot in the semifinals of the 2023 FIBA U16 Asian Championships.
The Philippines rallied in the second half to fend off Japan, 64-59, in the quarterfinals game held on Saturday, September 23, at Al-Gharafa Sports Club Multi-Purpose Hall in Doha, Qatar.
The win also secured the appearnace of the Philippines in the FIBA U17 World Cup
Kiefer Alas scored 29 points while Joaquin Ludovice and Kurt Velazquez combined for 21 points at they led the Filipinos to their fourth straight win in the competition.
After scoring only nine points in the second quarter, the Philippines entered half-time down by 10 points, 35-25.
Gilas Pilipinas managed to take the lead at the end of the third quarter, 46-45, following back-to-back three point baskets by Alas and Ludovice.
In the final two minutes, Japanese forward Ginga Sembo managed to close the gap, 60-59, but Bonn Ervin Daja buried two straight baskets to provide the Philippines with a five-point cushion.
Shogo Takata registered 12 points while Sembo and Kenichiro Benedict both chipped in 10 points in the first loss of Japan in the tournament.
Gilas Pilipinas will face an undefeated Australian team in the semifinals on Sunday, September 24.
