Gilas Women show improvement in close loss to Japan

Gilas Pilipinas Women, despite a close 85-82 loss to Japan, showcased significant improvement and fought until the final buzzer, marking a positive trajectory for Philippine women's basketball.

Samahang Basktbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Al Panlilio stated that the team's performance is a clear indication that women's basketball in the Philippines is on the rise.

The team mounted a remarkable 16-0 run in the fourth quarter, cutting a 22-point deficit to just four in the final seconds against World No. 9 Japan.

Vanessa De Jesus hit a late three-pointer to set the final score, contributing to her 13 points in the game.

Jack Animam led Gilas with a double-double of 24 points and 14 rebounds, while Naomi Panganiban also scored 13 points.

Despite the absence of key players like Afril Bernardino and Janine Pontejos, the younger core of the team, including collegiate players, showed resilience.

Coach Pat Aquino was lauded by the SBP for his masterful job in assembling the team with an eye on the future while still being competitive.

Gilas Pilipinas Women now hold an 0-2 record in Group B but still have a chance to advance by winning their upcoming game against Lebanon.