By MARK REY MONTEJO
Putting its heartbreaking loss to Japan behind, Gilas Pilipinas women’s team played with a sense of urgency and downed regional rival Thailand, 68-58, in the 35th Jones Cup at the Xinzhuang Gymnasium in New Taipei City Tuesday, July 9.
After a low-scoring affair in the first half, Jack Animam sparked a telling breakaway that saw the Nationals take a commanding 50-32 advantage late in the third frame.
That proved too much for the Thais to overcome as the Nationals evened their record to 2-2 in the week-long tournament.
Animam produced double-double effort of 10 points and 21 rebounds and was ably supported by Naomi Panganiban who had nine points and six assists while Camille Nolasco and Gabby Ramos tallied nine and eight, respectively.
So determined were the Nationals to beat the Thais they grabbed 33 offensive rebounds.
Veteran Afril Bernardino had her own moment as she snagged 17 rebounds along with five points, three assists and four steals.
Sasiporn Wongtapha scored 18 points to lead Thailand (2-2) offense while Supavadee Kinchuan and Amphawa Thuamon added 12 and 10, respectively, for their second defeat.
Up next for the Filipina cagers is Chinese Taipei A Wednesday, July 10, at the same venue.
