Gilas Pilipinas Women rally back to defeat Indonesia in SEA Games opener
The Gilas Pilipinas Women national team used a strong second half to repulse Indonesia, 63-56 and kick off their gold medal bid in the 30th Southeast Asian Games Philippines 2019 on a good note on Thursday night at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila.
The Filipinas closed the game outscoring Indonesia, 18-11 in a crucial stretch that changed the complexion of the game.
Ria Nabalan first gave the Philippines the lead with a triple, 47-45, before Jack Animam and Kelli Hayes conspired for an 11-0 run which brought the home side ahead, 59-51 midway into the fourth quarter.
That cushion proved to be enough as Gilas buckled down on defense with 13 steals to secure their first win of the tournament.
Janine Pontejos topscored with 16 points including 6-of-6 from the free throw stripes. She also had 5 steals. Hayes added 12 points while Animam had 9 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 blocks.
Only four nations are in the women’s basketball tournament of the SEA Games.
The Philippines will still battle Malaysia and Thailand. The top team at the end of the round robin shall win the gold medal.
Head coach Patrick Aquino is seeking a historic SEAG gold for the country, five years since taking over for the women’s squad.
The Filipinas have won silver twice in 2011 and 2013.
The scores:
Philippines (63) – Pontejos 16, Hayes 12, Animam 9, Bernardino 7, Nabalan 7, Castillo 6, Jose 4, Prado 2, Chan 0, Cabinbin 0, Tongco 0, Castro 0.
Indonesia (56) – Anggraeni 16, Sutijiono 10, Sophia 8, Dewi 8, Ayuningrum 7, Antonio 4, Retong 3, Kahol 0, Widyami 0, Lovita 0, Wongsohardjo 0.
Quarterscores: 15-15, 31-34, 47-45, 63-56.
Photo by Faye Veras
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