Atin Ito First Filipino Community Newspaper in Ontario
Vanessa de Jesus struck with 25 points, while Jack Animam posted a double-double for the Gilas Pilipinas National Women’s team as they put away Chinese Taipei, 92-81, on Wednesday to stay on track for a semifinal berth in the 2023 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup at the Sydney Olympic Park Sports Center.
With Afril Bernardino drilling in 18 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, three steals and a block, and Animam banging in 16 points and 15 boards, the Filipinas went on to post their only win in three matches in Group B.
The win was, however, enough for the Filipinas, who will Timely assists, steals and baskets from De Jesus and Animam in the last five minutes allowed the Philippines to move away after the Taiwanese side threatened, 74-78.
Camille Clarins’ triple and layup off a rebound and steal from Animam and De Jesus allowed the Filipinas to pull away on an 8-0 blast to gain the upperhand at 84-74 in the final 2:33.
“It’s our first win in the pool. We’re happy to know that we belong to the FIBA Asia Cup. Hopefully, this is not the last time. We hope to continue winning,” said coach Patrick Aquino.
China, which is unbeaten in Group A after two games, is fighting the top slot with New Zealand, which has a 2-1 slate.
Chinese Taipei drew strength from star player, Yu-Ting Lin who showed the way with 21 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists.
The New Zealand Ferns bounced back from their Day 2, 46-80 mauling at the hands of China with a 76-45 triumph over Lebanon.
Tahlia Tupea led the Tall Ferns with 20 points, while Penina Davidson did the business in the paint with 13 points and 13 rebounds. — Peter Atencio
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