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Gilas Women open bid vs Malaysians

Sports | Basketball

Gilas Women open bid vs Malaysians

By Reynald I. Magallon

At A Glance

BANGKOK — Gilas Pilipinas faces an acid test against many-time champion Malaysia to open its gold medal bid in the women's basketball in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games at the Nimibutr Arena on Saturday, Dec.13 here.

BANGKOK — Gilas Pilipinas faces an acid test against many-time champion Malaysia to open its gold medal bid in the women’s basketball in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games at the Nimibutr Arena on Saturday, Dec.13 here.

Seeing an open race to the gold following the change of format in this year’s edition, Gilas head coach Pat Aquino is hoping to take advantage as his wards seek the top spot in Group B to get an outright semis seat.

“It’s gonna be two groups and we’re grouped with Malaysia and Singapore and whoever will be on top will be in the semis. If not, you’re gonna get through the quarterfinals. So, it’s a good tournament for me. I think we have the talent and the capability to get that gold again,” said Aquino.

And a strong start would be crucial to that plan — something that the Filipinas intend to do against the Malaysians in the 10 a.m. affair (Manila time).

The squad is expected to draw strength from veterans Janine Pontejos and Afril Bernardino.

The likes of Chuck Cabinbin and Ana Castillo, along with young guns Kacey Dela Rosa, Louna Ozar, and Angel Surada banner the crew which faces Singapore Sunday at the same venue.

Completing the roster are Trina Guytingco, Sarah Heyn, Monique del Carmen, and Sophia Dignadice.

Gilas has won the golds in the competition in the 2019 and 2021 editions before settling for the silver in 2023.

Malaysia, on the other hand, has won the tournament 13-times but last ruled it in 2017.

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