Gilas women take beating from Hungary in World Cup prequalifiers

Gilas Pilipinas women star Jack Animam flanked by Hungary defenders during a 2026 Fiba Women’s World Cup Pre-Qualifying tournament game in Rwanda. –FIBA PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Gilas Pilipinas women suffered a 37-point rout at the hands of Hungary, 97-60, and remained winless in Group C of the 2026 Fiba Women’s World Cup Pre-Qualifying tournament on Wednesday (Manila time) in Kigali, Rwanda.

After losing to Senegal by just two points, 61-63, in its campaign opener, Hungary vented its ire on the Philippines, leading as many as 39 points in the second half. 

Agnes Torok led the way for Hungary with 25 points on top of four assists and three rebounds. Reka Lelik delivered 13 points, nine rebounds, and four assists, while Debora Dubei also scored 13 on top of five boards and four assists.

READ: Gilas Women lose close one to Brazil in first stint outside Fiba Asia

Hungary, which improved to a 1-1 record, battles Brazil for a ticket to the knockout stage as only the top two teams from the group will advance.

Gilas remained winless in two games after a tough defeat, this time. It put up a gallant stand against World No.8 Brazil before falling short, 77-74 loss, with Jack Animam putting up 18 points and 21 rebounds. 

Animam was held to just six points and a rebound, committing five of the team’s 14 turnovers in the game.

READ: Tough draw for Gilas Women in Fiba World PreQualifiers

Afril Bernardino led the Filipinos with 11 points and six rebounds. Ella Fajardo had 10 points on 2-of-7 shooting, while Kacey Dela Rosa and Naomi Panganiban added nine points each.

Gilas takes on Group C top seed Senegal (2-0) on Thursday at 5 p.m. (Manila time).