Philippine Navy fended off a late rally from the Pilipinas Aguilas to secure a 72-65 victory in the Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) on Sunday at the Mandaluyong City College Science and Technology Gym.
Featuring top-tier talent, both teams delivered an intense battle as the match remained close until the final two minutes.
Kem Adeshima’s layup pulled the Aguilas within three, 65-68, but Navy tightened its defense. Andrea Tongco then sank a crucial floater with 32 seconds left, extending the Lady Sailors’ lead to five before Josephine Ong sealed the win with two free throws in the final 10 seconds.
“We really planned everything that we will give them. Thank God that our defense materialized,” Navy head coach Ewon Arayi said.
Afril Bernardino led the charge with a game-high 24 points, 12 rebounds, and three assists as the Lady Sailors improved to 2-0.
Gemma Miranda also recorded a double-double with 17 points, 16 rebounds, and four steals, while Ong contributed 14 points on an efficient 4-of-5 shooting, along with five assists.
On the other hand, Elaine Etang paced the 1-1 Aguilas with 17 points while Mar Prado finished with 13 points, six rebounds, and two steals. Adeshima chipped in seven points and 10 boards.