Gilas Pilipinas Girls will fight for their playoff lives in the FIBA Under-18 Women’s Asia Cup after suffering an 86-70 loss to Korea on Monday afternoon at Karisma Arena in Seremban, Malaysia.
With the defeat, the Philippines’ matchup against New Zealand on Tuesday becomes a do-or-die affair, with a play-in spot at stake as both teams enter the final day of the group phase still winless.
The Filipinas stayed within striking distance early, trailing just 27-24 midway through the second quarter before Lee Sohee sparked a devastating 16-3 Korean run that blew the game wide open.
Korea took control from there, maintaining a double-digit lead for the remainder of the contest.
Rhiane Perez led the Philippines with 21 points and six rebounds, while Ruiza Olmos and Grace Curley both posted double-doubles.
Olmos finished with 15 points and 12 rebounds, while Curley added 10 points and 11 boards.
Tiffany Reyes, meanwhile, was held to 11 points on 4-of-12 shooting.
Lim Yeonseo and Lee led the way for the unbeaten Koreans, combining for 55 points. Lim poured in 30 points, while Lee added 25.
Korea will face Australia on Tuesday with an outright semifinal berth on the line.
