BACOLOD City — Gilas Pilipinas Girls took another giant step toward capturing the 2026 FIBA Under-18 Women’s Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers title after dismantling Thailand, 86-48, on Thursday at the STI West Negros University Gym, extending their unbeaten run to three games and tightening their grip on the tournament lead.
The Filipinas dominated from start to finish, overwhelming the Thais with relentless defense and balanced scoring to improve to 3-0 and remain on course for a winner-take-all showdown against fellow unbeaten Indonesia.
Lea Pinuela led the charge with 16 points, five rebounds, and two assists as Gilas showcased its depth and firepower against a Thai side that never found its rhythm.
Ruiza Olmos added 11 points on a perfect 5-of-5 shooting performance, while Tiffany Reyes and Zia Oñate chipped in nine points each. Oñate also dished out five assists.
Sophia Dignadice contributed eight points and eight assists, Zaydhen Rosano scored seven markers, and Rhiane Perez controlled the boards with 10 rebounds to go along with six points.
Gilas wasted little time asserting its dominance, storming to a 14-2 lead before closing the opening quarter with a commanding 20-6 advantage.
Thailand struggled to solve the Philippine defense throughout the contest as Gilas steadily widened the gap. The Filipinas entered the final quarter ahead by 34 points, 67-33, after limiting the Thais to only nine points in the third period.
The lopsided victory highlighted Gilas’ superiority on both ends of the floor and further strengthened its bid for the lone qualifying berth at stake in the regional tournament.
Thailand failed to produce a double-digit scorer, with Kanyaphat Hookee and Paweetida Chanasimma pacing the team with nine points apiece.
The defeat dropped Thailand to 0-2 in the standings.
Earlier, Indonesia also preserved its unbeaten record after routing Vietnam, 81-32. Vietnam slipped to 1-2 following the loss.
Gilas Pilipinas Girls will enjoy a rest day before facing Indonesia on Saturday in what is expected to be the tournament’s most crucial match and a likely battle for the top spot./PN
