MANILA – Gilas Pilipinas Women clinched the gold medal in the 30th Southeast Asian Games women’s basketball after completing its elimination round sweep last night at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Jack Animam, Afril Bernardino, France Mae Cabinbin, and Janine Pontejos conspired on offense as Gilas Women walloped Thailand, 91-71, to finish the eliminations on top with a 3-0 slate.
It was the national women’s basketball team’s first SEA Games gold medal and a huge upgrade for the team after not landing a podium finish two years ago.
Gilas Women jumped to an 18-7 start behind Animam, Bernardino, Pontejos and Cabinbin but the Thailand countered with a huge rally to come to within 20-25.
Thailand continued its run in the second period. It tied the score at 41-all but baskets from Bernardino and Danica Jose allowed them to take a 45-43 halftime score.
The Philippines went for the kill in the second half behind consecutive hits from the trio of Animam, Bernardino and Pontejos. The lead reached its largest at 20 points.
Also part of the national team were Claire Castro, Kelli Hayes, Ana Alicia Castillo, Ria Joy Nabalan, Marizza Tongco and Eunique Chan.
Gemma Miranda was also lineup but could not play due to an ACL injury./PN
