FOSHAN (FIBA U16 Asia Championship) - The Philippines hardly impressed anyone despite surviving a gritty Malaysia, 62-57, on Day 1 of the FIBA U16 Asia Championship.

Despite having a bigger and deeper team, the Philippines struggled on both ends of the floor against a Malaysian side that played fast and smart. Malaysia were actually ahead after the first ten minutes of the game, 13-11, and kept control of the match for most of the first half before the Philippines snatched lead at the break, 30-27.

Malaysia continued to stay within striking distance of the Philippines for the entire game even if the Filipinos seemed to finally get into a groove in the fourth period, where Batang Gilas still had to weather some tense moments to seal the victory.

Kai Sotto stood tall for the Philippines with 12 points, 16 rebounds and 4 blocked shots, while John Tang paced Malaysia with 17 points, 4 rebounds and 5 three-pointers. The Philippines also drew good performances from Terrence Fortea and Raven Cortez, who compiled 15 and 12 points respectively.

This win puts the Philippines momentarily at the top of Group B with a 1-0 win-loss record, while the Malaysians fall to third place with a 0-1 slate.

Malaysia will gun for their first win tomorrow against fancied Australia, while the Filipinos take a rest day before plunging into action against the Crocs on Day 3.

FIBA