IT's been quite the historic stretch as of late for Gilas Pilipinas Women.
Last April 5, the quartet of Kacey Dela Rosa, Afril Bernardino, Mikka Cacho, and Cheska Apag captured a breakthrough silver medal in the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup 2026 — the Philippines’ first-ever podium finish in the continental meet.
A week later, Gilas Women continued to build on that momentum, with Dela Rosa, Bernardino, and Cacho joined by Tantoy Ferrer in securing a berth in the FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2026 - the program’s second appearance in the global showpiece since 2018.
READ: Gilas Women whip Singapore, punch ticket to FIBA 3x3 World Cup
Notably, all five history-makers trace their roots to the UAAP.
Bernardino, who earned a spot on the All-Asia Cup Team, starred for National U from Seasons 76 to 79 and was hailed as MVP from 2014 to 2016. Cacho is another Lady Bulldog who suited up from Seasons 80 to 85.
Dela Rosa, a two-time 5-on-5 MVP and reigning 3x3 MVP, is entering her fifth year at Ateneo, as Ferrer and Apag are products of University of Santo Tomas and Adamson, respectively.
Where it all begins
In the eyes of Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Executive Director Erika Dy, all this is testament to how the UAAP has been a cornerstone of the national team’s success.
“The UAAP has been a key contributor to our national team program,” she said. “Their commitment to women’s basketball is unwavering and it continues to provide a strong foundation for developing elite talent, not just locally, but also for the international stage.”
SBP 3x3 program director Ryan Gregorio also underscored the importance of the league’s efforts in sustaining the pipeline for national team success.
“We are proud to have the UAAP as a strong partner and stakeholder of the federation,” said Gregorio, who played for the University of the Philippines from 1992-94 before serving as head coach of the Fighting Maroons from 2000-02.
“They have always been willing to help in national team building and in developing the next generation of players who can compete at the international level.”
The UAAP’s dedication to the sport extends beyond the collegiate level, with strong grassroots programs in the high school ranks, including both 3x3 and 5-on-5 competitions in the girls’ division.
Indeed, Executive Director Atty. Rebo Saguisag re-stressed the league’s continued push to grow the game.
"The UAAP is committed to invest in and grow women's sports across all levels," he said. "From grassroots to the collegiate stage, we recognize equal importance, as we create equal opportunities to sustain this momentum that our student-athletes are now showcasing on the world stage."
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