Gilas started their 14th straight men’s basketball title bid with a win over gutsy Thailand, 76-73 last Monday, and the former wished to do the same in their second game against Cambodia.

With a commanding lead in the first frame, coach Chot Reyes took advantage of the chance to scout his bench, particularly the team’s younger players, in preparation for the upcoming key games.

Youngster Francis “LeBron” Lopez went on with game-high 17 points on top of five rebounds and two blocks, while William Navarro had 16 points and seven rebounds, and Jaydee Tungcab chipped in 14 points and five steals.

Gilas began the second half with a 57-17 lead and comfortably defeated Cambodia by 20 points in the last period to claim the tournament’s most lopsided victory.

Isaac Go had a double-double of 13 points and 12 rebounds, and Matthew Wright added 10 points as the Gilas first five received some well-deserved rest ahead of Wednesday’s game against Singapore.

“We actually didn’t think about the margin,” said coach Reyes.

“We talked about making sure that we stay sharp and play at our level and respect the game. And that means respecting also respecting the opponents” he added.

The Scores:

Philippines 100 – Lopez 17, Navarro 16, Tungcab 14, Go 13, Wright 10, Montalbo 8, T. Ravena 5, Fajardo 5, Rosario 4, Pogoy 4, K. Ravena 2, Tautuaa 2.

Cambodia 32 – Seng 8, Tep 7, So 7, Hu 6, Chin 2, Soy 2, Kun 0, Thea 0, Khou 0, Te 0.

Quarters: 32-9; 57-17; 71-23; 100-32.