Gilas Pilipinas Girls could not overcome Australia’s size and length, bowing 102-47 to open their FIBA Under-18 Asia Cup 2026 campaign on Sunday at Karisma Arena in Seremban, Malaysia.
Australia immediately asserted its dominance, racing to a 19-0 start before Zaydhen Rosano split her free throws with 4:15 remaining in the opening quarter to put the Philippines on the board.
KJ Badajos then scored on a layup with 1:05 left in the quarter, which turned out to be Gilas’ only field goal of the opening period.
It was all Australia from there, with the Australians building a lead as large as 58 points in the contest.
Australia dominated across the board, outrebounding the Philippines, 60-20, while forcing 28 turnovers that it converted into 34 points.
Tiffany Reyes and Rosano were the only double-digit scorers for Gilas, finishing with 10 points apiece. Reyes also contributed three rebounds and three steals.
Scarlett Mercado added six points, while Brianna Katigbak chipped in five.
Gilas will look to bounce back against Korea on Monday before facing New Zealand on Tuesday.
Australia, meanwhile, had five players score in double figures, led by Sophie Anderson with 18 points in just 15 minutes. Isabel Smith added 17 points, four assists, three rebounds, and three steals.
