The Gilas Pilipinas Women suffered a 120-56 loss at the hands of the third-ranked basketball women’s team in the world, Australia, in the 2021 Fiba Women's Asia Cup on early Wednesday morning at the Prince Hamza Hall in Amman, Jordan.
Much like their first game against China, the Philippines stayed within striking distance of Australia in the first. However, the Opals unleashed a sizzling 15-0 blast at the start of the second that allowed them to surge in front, 64-33.
Australia then cruised in the second half, outscoring the Philippines, 57-23, to snatch their second win in a row heading to their clash with fellow unbeaten squad, China. The Opals took full advantage of the height and heft advantage to lord over the boards, grabbing 41 rebounds to the Gilas Women’s 18.
Lauren Nicholson led the Opals with 21 points, six rebounds, and three assists, while Keely Jane Froling pulled off a double-double with 18 points and 12 boards.
Darcee Garbin, Alexandra Sharp, and Lauren Marie Scherf added 12 points apiece.
Janine Pontejos led the Gilas Women with 13 points while Kristine Cayabyab added 10. The Philippines still has a shot at making it to the next round as it battles Chinese Taipei in their next game. (JNP)