At A Glance
- Gilas Pilipinas remained winless in its first stint in the FIBA Women's World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament, dropping a 113-80 decision against Germany at the Astroballe in Lyon early Friday, March 13.
Gilas Pilipinas remained winless in its first stint in the FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament, dropping a 113-80 decision against Germany at the Astroballe in Lyon early Friday, March 13.
Emily Bessoir towered over the Filipinas with a double-double of 25 points and 13 rebounds as the world No. 12 team led from start to finish to hand the Nationals their second straight defeat in as many games.
Sumayah Sugapong was the bright spot for the Filipinas with 21 points on a 7-of-11 shooting from the field while veteran Afril Bernardino added 13 points and nine rebounds.
Janine Pontejos chipped in 11 points built on three triples as the Filipinas kept themselves within striking distance through the opening frame, 35-25, before allowing Germany to consistently pad the lead in the ensuing quarters.
Fried Buhner had 19 points for Germany while Britta Daub added 16.
Up next for Gilas is Nigeria on Saturday, March 14.
The Nationals are entering a crucial contest as a win would keep them in contention for one of the two best teams in their group outside already qualified teams Germany and Nigeria.
At it stands, France has the inside track for one of the two spots with a 2-0 record. South Korea is the other one with a 1-1 record after defeating Nigeria. Like Gilas, Colombia is also winless through two games.