i TV Pinoy

Source: mb.com.ph

-- The Nokia Pilipinas Under-16 National Team scored a masterful win over Iran, 77-57, to bag the 2nd Nokia Pilipinas Youth Invitational Basketball Championship title last Sunday at the University of San Carlos Main Gym here.

The Filipinos made up for their lack of ceiling with their quickness and hustle to control the tempo of the game en route to the big win.

The win was a fitting farewell to the young team which will compete in the 1st Fiba Asia Championship for 16 and under starting on November 19 in Johor Bahru, Malaysia.

“I am proud of the boys. I am happy for them. I believe that this win will give them morale boost going to the Fiba-Asia tournament in Malaysia. This is a big win and we will be giving our best shot there,” said coach Eric Altamirano.

The Philippines finished the elimination round unscathed, beating Japan in the opening match last Thursday, 77-59 followed by another breezy, 87-55 win over Chinese-Taipei on Friday.

Last Saturday, Team Pilipinas climbed back from a 16-points half time deficit to beat Iran via scary 89-83 win to complete the sweep of the elims.

Nokia-Team Pilipinas got off to a hot start, taking a commanding 23-9 lead in the first 10 minutes behind crisp passing and a sticky zone press. The Filipino youth squad carried a 20-point lead 41-21 at the break and never looked back.

Iran pulled within 50-60 but the Nationals regrouped behind the efforts of Paolo Luis Romero and Kevin Ferrer, who combined in a 7-1 run that gave the Philippines enough breathing space, 67-51.