Gilas Women bulking up

Gilas Pilipinas Women are optimistic that they will field their best squad possible in time for the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup in Shenzhen, China from 13 to 20 July.

Head coach Pat Aquino said during the FIBA Trophy Tour in Pasay City on Monday that they are working for clearances for Afril Bernardino and Andrea Tongco in the Philippine Navy and for Janine Pontejos and Chack Cabinbin in the Army to suit up for the national team.

The entire roster is already in the country practicing with veteran big Jack Animam joining later at the end of the week.

“We practice everyday together and we’re hoping to be ready for the tournament.That's the main objective,” Aquino said.

“We're fixing it up. Hopefully, it pushes through.”

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas executive director Erika Dy said they are processing the necessary documents to get the clearance for the players.

“We still need to get the permit for them to play. It is still in the works,” Dy said.

Expected to step up for Gilas Women for the Asian Cup are Ella Fajardo, Naomi Panganiban, Kent Pastrana and Jhaz Joson.

The Philippines will be competing in Group B in the Asia Cup, joined by Lebanon and powerhouses Japan and Australia.

Gilas Women will be aiming to finish within the top six for a slot in the qualifying tournaments of the 2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup.

As a way to prepare for the Asia Cup, the Philippines will join the 44th William Jones Cup in Taiwan from 2 to 6 July to hone their skills and build chemistry.

“It's not the X’s and O’s now. It's about how you read the game and how you prepare for the game,” Aquino said.

“So it's a different style now. Not just coaching, but how you play the game. Hopefully, we get to do that together.” Ivan Suing