Andy Gemao led the fight for Gilas’ U18 squad against Malaysia. MABA

MANILA–Gilas Pilipinas turned to a solid second-quarter showing to edge Malaysia, 97-71, to open their campaign in the FIBA U18 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers on Friday night at the MABA Stadium in Kuala Lumpur.

After a close first quarter that even saw Malaysia taking a slim late in the period despite an 8-0 Gilas run to open the game, Gilas outplayed Malaysia in the second, outscoring them, 28-7, to take a 51-28 halftime lead.

Gilas kept the lead within around 20 points for most of the second half en route to the blowout win.

Andy Gemao led Gilas with 17 points, three rebounds, two assists, two steals, and one block, while Wilhelm Cabonilas added 16 points, 12 rebounds, two assists, two steals, and three blocks.

Marc Burgos and Charles Esteban each had 10 markers with Burgos also tallying 11 boards.

Chua Yen Joon put up 14 points and one rebound off the bench to lead Malaysia.