BANGKOK, Thailand - The AirAsia Philippine Patriots awoke from a listless first half to defeat the Saigon Heat, 75-59, in the To Be Number One Basketball Challenge at the Nimibutr National Stadium here.

Ex-PBA import Anthony Johnson scored 24 of his 26 points in the second half as the Patriots overcame a six-point deficit and a 29-27 halftime deficit to win their debut match in this four-day preseason tournament.

6-foot-10 Nakiea Miller had 15 points and 17 boards while Rob Wainwright and Jonathan Fernandez hit consistent shots from the outside for nine and eight points, respectively.

Former University of the East star Marcy Arellano was scoreless in 11 minutes but had two assists that opened the door for the Patriots to pull away in the third.

The Patriots can earn a spot in the Sunday's final if they beat host Thailand on Saturday. The Thais blasted the Heat, 78-55, on Wednesday.

Former NBA cager Julius Hodge had 31 points for the Heat in a losing effort.

The finals of this tourney that is a fund-raiser for the victims of the massive flood that hampered the city a few months ago will be held on Sunday.