Unbeaten Gilas Youth tops Pool A, advances to FIBA U18 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers semis

Gilas Pilipinas Youth Men’s completed a flawless group-stage campaign sweep, overpowering host Thailand, 98–63, securing their place in the semifinals of the FIBA U18 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers, at Chan ka Pho Gymnasium in Krabi, Thailand, June 12.

The Filipinos secured the top spot in Pool A after completing a perfect 3–0 sweep of the elimination round, following earlier victories over Vietnam and Singapore.

Thailand stayed within striking distance early, trailing by just six points as Gilas carried a 21–15 lead in the opening quarter.

The Philippines gradually pulled away in the second period, building a 47–33 advantage at halftime before tightening its grip on the contest in the third quarter.

Gilas entered the final frame ahead 74–48 and continued to dictate the tempo the rest of the way, stretching the lead to as many as 35 points en route to the 98–63 victory.

The Philippines will next face Malaysia on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. Philippine Time in the crossover semifinals.

A semifinal victory will not only book the Filipinos a place in the tournament final but will also guarantee qualification to the FIBA U18 Asia Cup 2026 in India, regardless of the outcome of the championship game.

With its unbeaten record intact, the Philippines now stands one win away from both a finals appearance and a secured berth on the continental stage.

The FIBA U18 Asia Cup serves as the region’s premier youth basketball competition, the top teams from Southeast Asia earning the chance to compete against Asia’s best in India this August.