FILE – Gilas Pilipinas Women. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines-A massive fourth quarter was still not enough as Gilas Pilipinas Women bowed to Busan BNK Sum, 65-59, in the 42nd Jones Cup on Tuesday.
Gilas rediscovered its groove following a frosty first half, even managing to double the enemy’s output in the final quarter. But an 8-18 start went on to haunt the Nationals, ultimately sending them to a 1-3 win-loss record in the meet being used to prepare for the Asian Games in China next month.
Rookie Kacey dela Rosa led with 14 points and 15 rebounds while veteran Janine Pontejos chipped in 12 more as the the Filipinos faded late once again at Taipei Peace Basketball Hall.
Gilas’ record would’ve looked different had they not sputtered just like in the two previous encounters against the host’s teams.
Malia Bambrick finished with seven points while Louna Ozar and Jhaz Joson with six points each as Gilas gird for yet another tough test against an unbeaten Japanese squad this Wednesday.
The Philippines battle 16-time Women’s Japan Basketball League champion Chanson V-Magic at 3 p.m.