Gilas Pilipinas Women Suffer Dominating Loss to World No. 2 australia in FIBA asia Cup Opener
MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas Women commenced their 2025 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup journey with a significant setback, falling to a formidable Australian squad, ranked second globally, with a decisive 115-39 defeat.The Group B clash took place at the shenzhen Sports Center in Shenzhen, China, on Sunday, July 13.
The Philippine team struggled to find offensive rhythm, with no player reaching double-digit scoring. Filipino-American guard Vanessa de Jesus led Gilas Pilipinas with 9 points, shooting 4-of-7 from the field. Kent Pastrana and Naomi Panganiban contributed 8 points each, but the team collectively shot just 17-of-63 from the floor. Star center Jack Animam had a quiet outing,managing only 2 points on 1-of-11 shooting.
Australia showcased their dominance from the outset, establishing a 12-0 lead within the first two minutes and extending their advantage to 53-25 by halftime. The Opals’ scoring was distributed across their roster, with 11 players contributing points. Miela Goodchild topped the scoring for Australia with 19 points, supported by Sara Blicavs with 17 and Chloe Bibby with 16. Australia’s efficient offense saw them convert 46-of-76 field goal attempts.
The rebounding battle also heavily favored Australia, who outrebounded Gilas Pilipinas 57-21.
The 44th-ranked Gilas Women now face another formidable opponent in No. 9 Japan on Monday, July 14, at 7:30 pm. Japan secured a narrow victory over Lebanon in their opening Group B game, winning 72-68.
Scores:
Australia 115 – Goodchild 19, Blicavs 17, bibby 16, Woods 11, Fowler 11, Borlase 10, Ellis 8, Bourne 8, George 6, Reid 5, Aokuso 4.
Philippines 39 – De Jesus 9, pastrana 8, Panganiban 8, Castillo 6, Sugapong 2, Surada 2, Ozar 2, Animam 2, Villanueva 0, Fajardo 0, dela Rosa 0, Pagdulagan 0.
Quarters: 31-14,53-25,87-37,115-39.
