THE Gilas Pilipinas Women were outclassed by China, falling 52-143, in their Division A game in the 2021 Fiba Women’s Asia Cup on Sept. 27 at the Prince Hamza Hall in Amman, Jordan.
China ran away with the lead late in the first, uncorking a 13-2 blast that put them in front, 35-17. Bad turned to worst in the third canto as the Chinese outscored the Filipinas, 39-9, to erect an incredible 70-point lead, 108-38.
Afril Bernardino was the lone bright spot for the Gilas Women as she produced 17 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks.
Gilas Women head coach Patrick Aquino said that preparation is key especially against an elite team like China.
“First of all, it’s about the preparation. China has always been there and they are coming off the Olympics. And us right now, we just practiced like a month ago,” said Aquino. “It’s really a big difference.
“Aside from that, a lot of struggles and turnovers for us. Hopefully, in the next game, we’ll do better,” he said.
Yang Liwei had 21 points, five assists, and five steals for China while Li Yueru contributed 18 points, six assists, and four rebounds.
The road does not get easier for the Filipinas as their next opponent will be Australia.