Gilas Pilipinas Women U18 overcame early jitters before unleashing a dominant performance to crush Vietnam, 93-42, and open its campaign on a high note in the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers at the STI West Negros University Gym in Bacolod City on Tuesday, July 2.
The young Filipinas led by just five points, 19-14, after the opening quarter, then tightened the screws defensively and found their rhythm offensively to open the game up.
The dominant win gave newly appointed head coach Sandy Arespacochaga a successful debut in the women’s program.
UAAP Season 88 Girls’ Basketball Most Valuable Player Rhiane Perez led the Filipinas with 16 points, seven rebounds and four steals while Tiffany Reyes added 14 points and five rebounds.
Zaydhen Rosano chipped in 15 points, while Lea Pinuela caught fire from beyond the arc late in the game and finished with 13 markers.
Gilas Women Program Director Bacon Austria said the opening-game nerves were evident but eventually gave way to a more composed performance.
“It was a good first game for us because everyone was able to contribute both offensively and defensively,” Austria said.
“Everyone was eager and excited to play in the first quarter. It should serve as a reminder for us heading into the next game,” he added.
Austria also downplayed concerns about the late arrival of Reyes and Dignadice, saying both veterans quickly settled into the system.
“The late arrival of Sophia and Tiff was not a huge issue for us. They joined the team seamlessly because they are very coachable,” he said.
The tournament serves as the regional qualifying event for the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup, with teams battling for the lone ticket to the continental competition.
Earlier, Indonesia launched its campaign with a 66-49 victory over Singapore behind a suffocating defensive effort that produced 21 steals. Ariqa Shafa Chayyara led the Indonesians with 14 points.
The young Filipinas will next face Singapore in the same venue on Wednesday at 7 p.m.*PNA
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