Gilas Women recapture SEA Games crown in tight win vs Thais

CHONBURI, Thailand – Gilas Pilipinas Women reclaimed the Southeast Asian Games crown after a hard-fought 73-70 win over host Thailand in the women’s 5-on-5 basketball final at the Nimibutr Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, on Friday, December 19.

Their three-peat bid denied after they settled for silver in the 2023 Cambodia edition, Gilas Women got the job done this time without dropping a game.

“I can’t say anything about the girls. I’m so proud of them. They gave it all,” said Philippines head coach Patrick Aquino.

Afril Bernardino and Kacey dela Rosa keyed the Filipinas’ coronation as they both delivered double-doubles when it mattered the most.

Bernardino put up 19 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 steals, while Dela Rosa produced 17 points and 16 rebounds in the win that gave the Philippines its third women’s 5-on-5 basketball title in the SEA Games following victories in 2019 and 2021.

Sophia Dignadice chimed in 10 points and 3 steals, while Khate Castillo and Janine Pontejos added 9 and 8 points, respectively.

Aquino said beating the hosts on their home turf made the victory more special.

Down by as many as 12 points, the Thais fought back and kept within striking distance until the final seconds, but the Filipinas held their nerve to get the gold.

“The girls worked hard for this. It was a tough game,” Aquino said.

Gilas Women ended the tournament with a 4-0 record, including a resounding 66-55 revenge win over 2023 champion Indonesia in the semifinals. – Rappler.com