Gilas Youth turned doubters into believers after slaying the giants in the FIBA U16 Asian Championship to advance in the semifinals and in the process secure a spot in the FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup.
Kiefer Alas led the charge with 29 huge points as the Philippines took down Japan, 64-59 in the quarterfinals.
National youth team assistant coach Enzo Flojo detailed how the up-and-coming superstars sacrificed and remained unselfish throughout their preparations for the tournament.
"These kids started prepping as early as April. They balanced schoolwork, varsity, club, and [Gilas Youth] U16 duties—all at their own expense and volition," Flojo said in an appreciation post on Instagram.
"They battled from 100+ guys who tried out and through multiple cut stages. Some were cut, kept grinding, and answered the call when called back. Many endured repeated injuries. Never backed down from the challenge, though."
After losing to China in their opening game, Batang Gilas remained unbeaten against Kazakhstan, Malaysia, South Korea, and Japan. According to Flojok, "no U16 team has ever beaten Korea and Japan in two knockout games to make it to the U17 World Cup."
The FIBA U17 World Cup will be held in Turkey next year.
Before shifting their attention to that, the next generation of Gilas will set their sights in the FIBA U16 Asian Championship semifinals against another powerhouse in Australia.