By Jonas Terrado
Game Saturday
(Auckland, New Zealand)
10:10 a.m. — Philippines vs Korea
Gilas Pilipinas was handed a 111-54 beating by host New Zealand on Thursday to begin its campaign in the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament Asia-Oceania at the The Trusts Arena in Auckland.
Gilas Pilipinas’ Kelli Hayes shoots a jumper against a New Zealand defender during their FIBA Pre-Olympic Qualifier in Auckland. (Photo from fiba.basketball)
The Pinay dribblers were outscored 36-11 by the Kiwis in the second quarter to fall behind 60-28 at the half, thus absorbing defeat in their first match of the four-day tournament.
Afril Bernardino scored 17 points while Kelli Hayes and Janine Pontejos added 10 points apiece for the national cagebelles of coach Pat Aquino.
Penina Davidson and Tessa Boagni were among the five New Zealand players in double figures with 15 points apiece.
Gilas returns to action on Saturday against South Korea before wrapping up its campaign the following opposite China.
The Philippines is also using the tourney as preparation for the 30th Southeast Asian Games.
Source: Manila Bulletin
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