Gilas boys squeak past Vietnam to open Asia 3x3 tiff

MANILA, Philippines — The Gilas Pilipinas U-18 3x3 squad avoided the upset axe against Vietnam after mounting a 21-18 comeback victory in the 2019 FIBA 3x3 U-18 Asia Cup in Cyberjaya, Malaysia on Friday.

Led by Terrence Fortea, the Pinoy cagers stormed back after an early 5-0 deficit.

Clutch free throw shooting from Kevin Quiambao and Gerry Abadiano effectively sealed the deal for Gilas with 8.6 remaining in the game.

Vietnam had earlier tied the game at 18 with less than a minute to play.

Fortea notched 10 points in Gilas' opening game of the tournament.

Meanwhile, Quiambao and Abadiano chipped in with six and five markers, respectively.

Carl Tamayo did not play in the game.