Gilas Women ousted by South Korea in Asian Games

Gilas Pilipinas Women in the 19th Asian Games.

MANILA, Philippines–Gilas Pilipinas Women’s Asian Games campaign ended at the hands of South Korea on Monday night following a 93-71 loss in Hangzhou, China.

The Koreans dealt damage from inside and out for an early lead that kept Gilas in catch-up mode for most of the game at Shaoxing Olympic Centre Gymnasium.

Khate Castillo had 18 points, while skipper Jack Danielle Animam tossed in a double-double of 15 points and 14 rebounds.

Afril Bernardino, even despite hurting her left leg the night before, chipped in 12 in the effort.

Gilas, severely undersized in the continental showpiece, kept things competitive behind the efforts of Castillo and the two program fixtures, but the Koreans hardly budged, even stretching the lead to as many as 25 points.

Chack Cabinbin, Louna Ozar and Janine Pontejos finished with at least six points each.

The Nationals wrapped up their first Asian Games under the leadership of the Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas with a 2-2 win-loss record, finishing 5th in a field of 12 nations.

South Korea moves on to play powerhouse and perennial podium finisher Japan in the final four that gets going this Tuesday.