Gilas Women, Men bag SEA Games 5-on-5 basketball golds anew

Gilas Pilipinas Women reclaimed the Southeast Asian Games crown after a hard-fought 73-70 win over host Thailand, marking the Philippines' third women's 5-on-5 basketball title in the SEA Games without dropping a single game.

Afril Bernardino and Kacey dela Rosa were key to the coronation, with Bernardino delivering 19 points and 12 rebounds, while Dela Rosa had 17 points, 16 rebounds, and three blocks, including a crucial block that prevented Thailand from tying the game in the final seconds.

Coach Patrick Aquino expressed immense pride in his team's performance, especially in defeating the host nation on their home turf.

Meanwhile, Gilas Pilipinas men's team defended their SEA Games gold title with a 70-64 comeback win against Thailand.

The men's team trailed by double digits in the first half but rallied in the third quarter, with Jamie Malonzo contributing a personal 5-0 run to build a 12-point lead.

Robert Bolick sealed the win with two crucial free throws with 8.1 seconds to play after Thailand had trimmed the lead to 68-64.

This is the Philippines' 20th championship in men's 5-on-5 basketball at the SEA Games.