Gilas Pilipinas whipped up a third-quarter storm behind the playmaking of Scottie Thompson as the national squad hammered host Hong Kong, 94-64, to kick off the first round of FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers 2025 on an explosive note Thursday night at the Tsuen Wan Stadium.

After taking a slim 41-37 halftime lead, the Filipinos broke the game wide open behind a massive 30-9 third-quarter exchange that left the Hong Kong team biting the dust.

The win marked a strong debut for the Philippines in the opening window of the regional qualifier under new head coach Tim Cone.

After allowing Hong Kong to score 37 points in the first half, Gilas stepped up its defense in the last two periods, while showcasing its firepower as well.

Twenty-one-year-old Kai Sotto was a tower of strength for the Philippines as he churned out a double-double of 13 points and 15 rebounds, while his 7-foot-3 frame provided the intimidating presence.

Naturalized player Justin Brownlee led Gilas Pilipinas with 16 points, seven rebounds and seven assists, along with three steals.

Kevin Quiambao added 15 points off the bench for the Philippines, which led by as many as 31 points.

Jamie Malonzo added 11 points while Thompson finished the game with nine assists, along with five points and two rebounds.

The national squad, which only practiced together under Cone last week, dominated the host squad with its size after enjoying a 56-32 rebounding advantage.

The Filipinos also demonstrated excellent ball movement en route to a man-sized 33-12 edge in assists.

Shiu Wan Leung led Hong Kong with 15 markers on five triples, while Oliver Xiu chipped in 13. Duncan Reid, who saw action for the Bay Area Dragons that finished second in last season's PBA Commissioner's Cup, added 12 and five boards.

Gilas returns to action on Sunday to host Taiwan at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.