Gilas Pilipinas Women are back in the semifinals of the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup.
The Philippines pulled off a stunning 15–12 victory over Mongolia on Sunday at OCBC Square in Singapore, securing a spot in the final four of the continental tournament.
The matchup started tight, with the game tied at 8-all as the Filipinas struggled with foul trouble.
(C) FIBA 3×3
Mikka Cacho, one of the country’s top 3×3 players, took charge, scoring an and-one with 4:11 remaining. Afril Bernardino followed it up with a smooth drive, giving Gilas a three-point lead.
Tense moments followed as Khulan Onolbaatar nailed a big deuce to cut the lead to 13–12. But Kacey dela Rosa ensured the Philippines held on, scoring inside.
A missed two-pointer by Ariuntsetseg Bat-Erdene set up a free throw for Bernardino with 8.4 seconds left, sealing the upset over the world No. 11 team.
Dela Rosa, a multiple-time UAAP MVP, finished with six points and six rebounds, while Cacho and Bernardino added four points each.
“I’m confident because I’m playing with the most decorated player in our country, Afril Bernardino — she’s my idol — and Kacey dela Rosa, the rising star of our country. I’m really confident because I know they will give their best and we just stick to our gameplan,” said Cacho about the Philippines’ chances to podium this year.
(C) FIBA 3×3
Gilas Women will now face Japan, who narrowly defeated Thailand 15–13 later in the day. The semifinals are scheduled for 6:25 p.m.
“I believe in my team, I believe in my teammates,” said Cacho.
Bat-Erdene starred for Thailand with five points and 10 rebounds, while Onolbaatar also contributed five points.
Overall, the Philippines held its ground defensively, limiting Mongolia to just 2-of-15 from beyond the arc, despite conceding seven free throw attempts.
The Scores:
Philippines 15 – Dela Rosa 6, Bernardino 4, Cacho 4, Apag 1.
Mongolia 12 – Bat-Erdene 5, Onolbaatar 5, Nnyamjav 1, Erdenebayan 1.
