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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Basketball devider Gilas struggle continues as Pinay dribblers bow to Japan

Gilas struggle continues as Pinay dribblers bow to Japan

Published Jul 14, 2025 10:25 pm

At A Glance

  • Gilas Pilipinas displayed toughness before yielding to Japan, 85-82, to remain winless in the FIBA Women's Asia Cup at the Shenzhen Sports Center in China Monday, July 14.
(FIBA)
(FIBA)
Gilas Pilipinas displayed toughness before yielding to Japan, 85-82, to remain winless in the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup at the Shenzhen Sports Center in China Monday, July 14.
Down by 22, 57-79, with eight and a half minutes left in the fourth quarter, the Nationals relied on Jack Animam, Vanessa De Jesus, and Naomi Panganiban as the Filipina trio connived for a 22-4 blitz that cut the deficit to just four, 79-83.
But Monica Okoye made sure there was no comeback for now as she coolly sank two free throws that gave the Akatsuki Five enough separation despite De Jesus drilling a triple in the following possession.
Though it suffered its second loss in the continental tiff, the Philippines’ hopes for a spot in the FIBA World Cup qualifiers remain alive with a win over Lebanon (0-2) this Wednesday, July 16, boosting its chances of advancing to the next round.
On the other hand, Japan and Australia duke it out for the top spot in Group B when they battle one another Tuesday, July 15.
Animam came out with a double-double effort of 24 points and 14 rebounds which went along with three assists, two blocks and one steal in almost 30 minutes of play.
De Jesus posted 13 points, one rebound and six assists, while Panganiban and Sumayah Sugapong added 13 and 12 points, respectively.
Seasoned center Maki Takada topscored for Japan with 20 points, while rising star Minabi Yabu logged 15 points.
Coming off a massive 115-39 demolition from Australia, the Philippines stuck with its system and kept itself close against the fast-paced and perimeter-shooting Japanese side.
The Nationals showed resilience under tall odds with Animam, De Jesus, and Panganiban forming a lethal trio on offensive end to keep the game within the distance.

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Gilas Pilipinas FIBA Women\'s Asia Cup
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