MANILA, Philippines—Gilas Pilipinas women’s head coach Patrick Aquino likes his team’s chances ahead of its campaign in the Fiba 3×3 Asia Cup later this month in Changsha, China.
Aquino has plenty of reasons for his optimism, one of which is the composition of his team.
“These are the best players that we have,” said Aquino, who also serves as program director of women’s basketball for the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), Tuesday during the weekly PSA Forum at Amelie Hotel.
Jack Animam, Janine Pontejos, Afril Bernardino and Clare Castro will banner the team. Pontejos led the team in the 2018 Fiba World Cup 3×3.
Aquino said the goal is to top the group and advance to the next phase.
“If we advance, then we will face the tougher teams like Japan, China and New Zealand,” said Aquino, who also calls the shots for undisputed UAAP champion National University.
“You have to qualify to the main tournament. The goal is to make it there.”