THE Philippines showed too much class in beating Indonesia, 76-54, in 2023 International High School 16-Under Basketball Championships at the MABA Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia last December 17.

Prince Fajardo stood at.the helm of the victory for the FIlipinos, scoring 23 points despitethe tight, double-teaming defense of the Indonesian players.

Denmar Soriano also did well 14 points, while Eon Frivaldo contributed 13 points for the Mike Pascasio-mentored Filpinos..

Andrei topped the scoring for Indonesia with 16 points, followed by Jovan with 13 points, and Waine with seven points.

“I’m satisfied with the performance of the boys, who recovered well after our setback to host Malaysia,” said Pascasio,who is being assisted by Jay Balagtas and Lorenz Laderas.

The win was a fitting follow-up to the Filipinos’ 83-74 triumph over Singapore last Dec.16.

Fajardo, Santino Serapio, and Yuri Rufino combined for 45 points for the Filipinos in the prestigious six-day competition featuring select teams from Thailand, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, and host Malaysia.

Fliang Tan was the top scorer for Singapore with 11 points, with Soh Jun Jie contributing nine points.

In their first game last Dec,15, the Philippines dropped a 64-79 setback to host Malaysia despitet he efforts of Yuri Rufino (19 points, Eon Frivaldo (11 points), and Denmar Soriano (10 points).

Benedict Ong and Chia Sy finished with 16 points each for host Malaysia.

Both Pascasio and Balagtas expressed gratitude for the support of Sports Garage Apparel, Noupa Al Zaabi Manpower Services, G4CE Lights and Sounds, Aliw Inn, Kawali Sizzling Pares and Silog, Kream Frappe, Stich Tech, Boy & Girlie Corporation, Judy Ann’s Cripy Pata, and Dunlop Socks.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Robert Andaya