Written by Akari Sports Staff | Photo from the Samahang Basketball Ng Pilipinas
THE Philippines moved on the cusp of completing a FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers sweep after dismantling Thailand, 86-48, on Thursday night at the STI West Negros University Gym in Bacolod.
It was the young Gilas women’s third consecutive win and their best performance of the tournament, as the squad has embraced coach Sandy Arespacochaga’s system.
Dominant throughout the tournament, the Philippine U18 team, backed by Akari, overwhelmed Vietnam, 93-42, and Singapore, 83-53.
For the third straight game, every Gilas player entered the scoresheet.
Lea Pinuela took the scoring mantle for the Philippines with 16 points on 50 percent shooting, which went along with five rebounds and two assists.
Ruiza Olmos went a perfect 5-of-5 from the field to finish with 11 points in just 13 minutes of action, while Tiffany Reyes had nine points.
Zia Oñate, 13, also scored nine points that went along with five assists and three rebounds, while Sophia Dignadice finished with eight points and eight assists.
Zaydhen Rosano chipped in seven points, while Riri Perez posted six points and 10 rebounds for Gilas.
After enjoying a rest day, the Philippines will face Indonesia at 7 p.m. Saturday.
