Gilas Pilipinas Youth are headed to the quarterfinals of the FIBA U16 Asian Championship 2023 after defeating Korea, 95-71, on Friday in Doha, Qatar. 

It was a historic achievement for the national team as it was the first time that the Philippines beat Korea at the youth level in FIBA competitions. Korea won the nine previous games against the Philippines. 

Joaquin Ludovice led the way with 25 points, highlighted by seven 3-pointers, tying the U16 Asian Championship record. He netted eight of his 16 shots in an efficient shooting display. Kieffer Alas tallied a double-double of 11 points and 13 rebounds while Kurt Velasquez contributed 17 points and seven assists. 

It was a wire-to-wire victory for the Philippines. After a strong opening quarter, Gilas unleashed a 17-0 run to start the second period and dominated the rest of the way. They enjoyed a lead of as high as 34 points in the lopsided contest. 

Bonn Daja also added 13 points and 10 rebounds and CJ Amos fired 10 points. The Philippines dominated the glass, 57-35, and held Korea to just 18.5 percent from beyond the arc. 

Gilas Youth will take on Japan in the quarterfinals on Saturday at 12:30 AM (Manila time).