Gilas Pilipinas Women’s Alicia Villanueva at the U18 Seaba qualifiers in Thailand.–FIBA ASIA PHOTO
Coach Julie Amos swore that Gilas Pilipinas’ U-18 squad was ready for the task that awaited in the Fiba U18 Women’s Asia Cup Seaba Qualifiers.
They truly looked the part on Friday night.
The Nationals, anchored by a stellar showing by National U-Nazareth School ace Alicia Villanueva, dismantled host Thailand, 103-58, for a rousing start in the meet held at Ratchaburi Gymnasium.
Villanueva had 25 points, unloading most of her baskets in a blistering second quarter that set the tone for the Filipinos. She also had six rebounds and a pair of steals to her name by game’s end.
READ: Gilas Women salvage bronze in Fiba Asia U18 after missing out on promotion
Program cornerstones Gabriella Ramos and Naomi Panganiban tossed in 16 points each for the Philippines, which will next face familiar foe Malaysia this Saturday at the same venue.
The Malaysians slipped past the Philippines in overtime in a thrilling semifinal duel of the tournament’s Division B two years ago in Bangalore, India. They eventually ruled to contest while Gilas settled for third place.
Skipper Ava Fajardo had seven points as each member of the Amos-mentored squad contributed in the scoring effort.
Natsuda Boonpech starred for the hosts with 16 points, while Kleetawadee Oudnun had 14 in the rout.