PH Perlas team beats Uzbekistan in FIBA Asia women

MANILA, Philippines — Philippines pulled away in the final three minutes to beat Uzbekistan, 62-55, in the 2013 FIBA Asia Championship for Women Monday in Bangkok, Thailand.

Skipper Joan Grajales collected 13 points, three assists and three steals to offset her five turnovers for the Discovery Perlas ng Pilipinas.

The Philippine team, which kicked off its campaign with an 87-57 rout of Hong Kong on Sunday, broke loose from a 51-deadlock as it closed the game on an 11-4 run in the last 3:48.

The Philippines is looking to finish in the top two of the competition in Level II to secure playoff games against the fifth and sixth placers in higher Level I and improve its rank.