Gilas Pilipinas Women’s gallant stand in the 2023 FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup has ended at the hands of New Zealand’s Tall Ferns, falling 10-17 in the quarterfinals, Sunday at the Singapore Sports Hub OCBC Square.
Behind Janine Pontejos, the Philippines raced to a 3-0 lead and held a 7-5 lead midway through the game.
However, the Kiwis were just too tall for the brave Filipinas.
Sharne Pupuke-Robati powered her way inside the paint. Then Krystal Leger-Walker caught fire from deep to give their side an 11-7 lead.
Esra Lisa McGoldrick, Pupuke-Robati, and Esra Lisa McGoldrick zoned in on the Filipinas afterward before putting the finishing touches to the contest.
Pupuke-Robati led New Zealand with seven points and 13 rebounds, while Leger-Walker added six points on two deuces.
New Zealand will face Thailand in the semis.
Pontejos led the Philippines with six points, while Afril Bernardino added three points.
Still, this is the Philippines’ best finish in the continental meet.
The Scores:
Philippines 10 – Pontejos 6, Bernardino 3, Castillo 1, Castro 0.
New Zealand 17 – Pupuke-Robati 7, Leger-Walker 6, McGoldrick 3, Hippolite 1.