Gilas Pilipinas Girls emerged triumphant in the FIBA Under-18 Women’s Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers, marking a significant stride towards reclaiming Division A status.
Under the guidance of Julie Amos, the Philippines showcased dominance in Ratchaburi, Thailand.
They swept aside formidable opponents to secure their berth in the upcoming Division B tournament in Shenzhen, China.
Gilas blazed through the competition, delivering commanding victories over host Thailand with a scoreline of 103-58, Malaysia with 100-68, and Indonesia with 73-37.
Amos emphasized the team’s unwavering commitment to each match, approaching every game with a championship mentality.
“We prepared every game with a championship game mentality,” she remarked. “They worked hard together and played like a solid team in every game.”
(C) FIBA Asia/Kuk Thew
The victory in SEABA holds immense significance for Gilas Girls, as it propels them towards their ultimate goal of securing Division A qualification.
Ava Fajardo, the captain of the team, expressed the team’s collective determination to excel in the upcoming challenges, stating, “Our success in the Thailand FIBA Qualifiers means a lot to us, in showing that this team has big potential at making a great run in the FIBA Asian Championships coming up in China.”
Looking ahead to the Division B tournament in Shenzhen, China, Patrick Aquino underscored the team’s need to maintain focus and determination.
“This is just the start,” he emphasized. “We have to focus on the next big thing, which is to move from Division B to Division A.”
Gilas Girls face a formidable lineup in Group B, including matchups against Lebanon, Syria, and Maldives.
With their sights set on promotion to Division A, the team is poised to showcase their talent and determination on the international stage.
