Photo from FIBA
MANILA – Gilas Pilipinas could not mount a comeback against world no. 14 South Korea, missing out on a semifinals berth in the FIBA Women's Asia Cup.
The Nationals bowed out of the continental tournament after a tough loss against South Korea, 104-71 on Friday at the Shenzen Sports Center in China.
Gilas Women stayed in step with South Korea early in the match, even going on a 5-0 run sparked by Naomi Panganiban and Louna Ozar.
But the South Korean squad caught fire from beyond the arc to go on a 15-0 surge to create a double digit lead at the end of the opening frame, 30-16.
The East Asian powerhouse continued its hot shooting in the second quarter, while tightening its defense to prevent Gilas from getting back on track until halftime, 59-32.
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The trio of Vanessa de Jesus, Kent Pastrana and Kacey Dela Rosa tried to spark a run for Gilas, but South Korea could not miss from downtown and capped off the third quarter with an 8-0 run.
Panganiban, Pastrana, de Jesus and Dela Rosa refused to give up and kept the fight going for Gilas in the second half.
However, South Korea's efficient shooting, ball movement and clinical execution proved too much for the Nationals to overcome.
South Korea finished with 16 of 33 three-point shooting (48.38%), 24 of 39 two-point field goals (61.54%) and 33 assists in the win, moving on to the semifinals where it will face Australia.
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Four South Korean players finished in double digits led by Haeran Lee with 24 points from an efficient 10 of 13 shooting clip.
Yoolim Kang added 18 markers and two assists, while Jisu Park contributed 14 points, seven rebounds and three steals. Jihyun Park pitched in 13 markers, nine rebounds, and four assists.
Meanwhile, Panganiban paced Gilas with 19 points, four rebounds and three assists.
De Jesus added 15 markers and three rebounds, while Dela Rosa and Ozar finished with 10 points each.
Despite bowing out of the continental tournament, Gilas still secured a top six finish to book a ticket to the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup qualifiers and stay in the elite Division A.
Gilas will face New Zealand in the classification match for 5th-6th place on Saturday.