By REYNALD MAGALLON
The Gilas Pilipinas Boys proved they are more than just their top gun Andy Gemao.
The Nationals made quick work of Indonesia, 75-48, to begin their campaign in the FIBA U18 Asia Cup at the Arena Complex in Amman, Jordan on Monday, Sept. 2.
The Filipinos asserted their mastery of the Indonesians, who they also routed during the SEABA tournament, behind a searing second quarter explosion where Gilas limited the young Timnas to a measly three points while putting up 23.
Gilas Boys broke the game wide open from a tight 16-15 first frame into a big 38-16 lead at the break. The Filipinos never looked back from then as the lead ballooned to as many as 36 points.
Wilhalm Cabonilas led the way in Gemao’s absence with 19 points, eight rebounds, a steal and a block. Drei Lorenzo finished with 12 points while John Earl Medina added 11 points.
Mark Esperanza orchestrated the attack for the Filipinos with eight points, seven assists and six rebounds.
Halmaheranno Aprianto Lolaru Hady paced Indonesia with 12 points and nine rebounds.
The world No. 25 Gilas goes for a 2-0 when it takes on the host Jordan early Wednesday, Sept. 4 (Manila time).
