WMPBL: Aguilas, Lady Sailors clash

A highly anticipated showdown between two tournament favorites will take place in the 2025 Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) as the Pilipinas Aguilas collide with the Philippine Navy Lady Sailors Sunday at the Mandaluyong City College Science and Technology Gym.

Tip-off is set for 6 p.m.

Both teams delivered dominant performances in their debuts in the cagefest.

The Aguilas secured a 66-55 victory over the New Zealand-Bluefire Valkyries, while the Lady Sailors cruised past the Cavite-TOL Lady Patriots, 70-57.

“Our mindset heading into this game is all about focus, discipline and teamwork. We know this is an early clash of giants, so we’re preparing ourselves both physically and mentally,” said Lady Sailors head coach Ewon Arayi.

“We respect our opponents, but we’re also confident in our training and game plan. Every player is locked in, ready to give their best, and committed to executing our strategies. Most importantly, we’ll play with heart, pride and the determination to win.”

Aguilas head coach Ryan Monteclaro acknowledges the depth of the Lady Sailors’ roster, led by stars such as Afril Bernardino, Gemma Miranda, Andrea Tongco and Trixie Antiquera.

“Definitely a tough team to match up against. They have Afril Bernardino, who is really versatile and one of the best in women’s basketball. They are loaded with Andrea and Trixie. We hope we can contain them,” Monteclaro said.

Meanwhile, the nightcap will feature the San Juan Lady Knights taking on the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws, with both squads aiming for back-to-back victories.