Late comeback falls short as Gilas Youth defeated by Argentina

Marco Giordano led Argentina to a win against Gilas Youth. FIBA
By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—Gilas Pilipinas Youth came up short of completing a huge comeback against Argentina and lost, 72-77, in Day 2 of the FIBA U19 World Cup in Heraklion, Greece early Monday (Philippine Time).

Despite playing without the injured AJ Edu, Gilas Youth stayed close against Argentina for most of the first three quarters.

However, the South American side threatened to pull away after starting the fourth quarter with a 10-2 run capped by a shotclock-beating long triple from Lucas Reyes with 6:34 remaining for the largest lead of the game at 15, 68-53.

Gilas Youth mounted a comeback bid by going on a 16-5 run to trim the lead to just four, 73-69, with 29 seconds left.

But Reyes scored four straight free throws that helped seal the win for Argentina.

Marco Giordano made 18 points, three rebounds, three assists, and one steal for Argentina, which moved up to 2-0 in Group C.

Reyes added 15 points, going 5-for-6 from the field, one rebound, and five assists off the bench.

Dave Ildefonso tallied 22 markers, 10 boards, one assist, and one steal for Gilas Youth, which remained winless at 0-2.

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