Gilas Pilipinas Women against New Zealand in the 2025 Fiba Asia Cup qualification phase. –FIBA PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—Gilas Pilipinas Women finished in sixth place in the 2025 Fiba Asia Cup after falling short against New Zealand in the classification round on Saturday.
Just a day removed from their elimination in the semifinal qualifiers, Gilas Women bowed to the Tall Ferns, 78-71, to miss out on fifth place in the continental meet.
The New Zealand loss, though, didn’t take away the Filipinos’ footing in Fiba Asia’s Division A, and they are still headed to the 2026 Fiba World Cup Qualifiers.
“I think we did a really good job just coming out there and playing for Gilas,” said Vanessa De Jesus, who finished with 16 points, four rebounds and four assists.
“I’m really proud of our group and seeing where the future leads. For some of us, it’s a learning moment to get better and prepare for the next.”
Khate Castillo did the best she could in 17 minutes of action with 14 points for the Philippines but to no avail. Naomi Panganiban also chipped in 11 in a losing effort.
Esra McGoldrick dominated for the Tall Ferns with 17 points and seven rebounds while Emilia Shearer also gave the Philippines some troubles with 16 points to her name.
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