Krabi: Gilas Pilipinas Youth wasted no time flexing its firepower, dismantling Vietnam, 121-28, to launch its FIBA U18 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers campaign on a rousing start on Wednesday at the Chankapoh Gym in Krabi, Thailand.

According to Philippines News Agency, the young Filipinos turned the opening game into a one-sided affair from the get-go, overwhelming Vietnam with relentless defense and balanced scoring en route to a staggering 93-point victory. Gilas raced to a commanding 39-11 lead after the first quarter and showed no signs of slowing down, stretching the gap to 68-15 at halftime.

The third period was even more punishing as Gilas held Vietnam scoreless throughout the quarter while pouring in 25 unanswered points to build an insurmountable 93-15 advantage entering the final frame. With the outcome long decided, Gilas continued to attack and eventually posted its biggest lead of 96 points.

Depth proved to be one of the Philippines' biggest weapons as all 12 players who saw action found their way into the scoring column, with seven finishing in double figures. Ethan Aguas led the offensive charge with 19 points and six rebounds, while Joaquin Tovera added 16 markers. Hans Patagoc contributed 14 points, Andrew Cho chipped in 12, while Louis Razon, Louis Cari±o, and Patrick Pasinos scored 11 points apiece.

Pampanga's popular playmaker Kenji 'Chog' Morales orchestrated the attack and filled up the stat sheet with five points, five rebounds, 10 assists, and seven steals, spearheading a defensive effort that repeatedly turned stops into transition baskets. The dominant performance immediately boosted the Philippines' standing in Group A, where it is competing against host Thailand, Singapore, and Vietnam in the regional qualifying tournament.

Gilas Youth returns to action against Singapore on Thursday before facing host Thailand on June 12 as it continues its bid for the SEABA title and a berth in the next stage of continental competition.