Gilas Women bow to Kiwis, settle for 6th

Gilas Pilipinas Women suffered a 71-78 setback to New Zealand in the classification phase of the FIBA Asia Cup on Saturday at the Shenzhen Sports Center in Shenzhen, China

Filipino-American guard Vanessa de Jesus came up with yet another solid performance while Khate Castillo, Sumayah Sumagpong and Naomi Panganiban chipped in solid numbers for the Filipinas, who finished sixth in this prestigious continental event.

De Jesus, a former Duke University standout, delivered 16 points, four rebounds, and four assists while Castillo, Sumagpong and Panganiban chipped in a combined 36 points for the Filipinas, who showed a lot of promise despite winning just one game and failing to land on the medal podium.

“This is our first time playing together and I think we did a good job coming out there. I’m really proud of our group and am just excited to see where the future leads,” De Jesus said.

“This is a learning moment for us to be better and prepare for the next time.”

The Philippines started slowly after a 39-115 loss to Australia last Sunday, falling short against Japan, 82-85, on Monday, and eventually securing a 73-70 win over Lebanon last Thursday to clinch its spot in the qualifying tournaments of the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup.

Gilas Women eventually lost to South Korea, 71-104, in the playoff round last Friday before facing New Zealand.

Esra McGoldrick shone with 17 points, seven rebounds, and two assists for the Kiwis, who banked on the three-point play of Emilia Shearer in the final 2:03 to secure a 76-68 lead that demoralized the Filipinas.

Panganiban tried to spark another run for Gilas Women after sinking a free throw with 1:24 remaining but McGoldrick sank a crucial layup with 41 seconds left to wrap up the game.

The Kiwis outrebounded the Filipinas, 66-35, and used their height to their advantage, scoring 52 points inside the paint and 30 second-chance points.