MANILA – Tiffany Reyes gave Gilas Pilipinas Girls a historic breakthrough in the FIBA U16 Women’s Asia Cup 2025 after sinking a cold-blooded jumper at the buzzer to stun South Korea, 77-75, on Wednesday at the Karisma Arena in Malaysia.
The 15-year-old Reyes, who celebrated her birthday on the same day, not only scored the game-winner but also etched her name in the record books by delivering the Philippines’ first-ever victory in Division A of the continental tournament.
Reyes finished with 16 points, eight of which came in the payoff period, and was instrumental in a decisive run that pushed Gilas ahead, 69-60, midway through the fourth quarter.
Ella Smith spearheaded the attack for head coach Julie Amos’ squad with 21 points and seven rebounds, while Ruiza Olmos added 12 markers and seven boards. Olmos forced the deadlock at 75-all with 10.3 seconds left by splitting her free throws. Though she missed the second shot, Reyes grabbed the offensive rebound and drilled the dagger jumper as time expired.
The thrilling win boosted the Philippines to a 1-2 record in Group A, enough to secure third place and a berth in the Qualification to the Semifinals on Friday against the No. 2 team from Group B, either Japan or New Zealand.
Despite a gallant stand, Korea was sent crashing to a 0-3 slate and will now play in the classification round for seventh place to avoid relegation. Lim Seun exploded for 31 points and eight rebounds, while Kim Damhee tallied 26 points and 12 boards in the losing effort./PN
