GILAS Pilipinas Women fell just short of pulling off a huge upset in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Pre-Qualifying Tournament, losing to Brazil, 77-74, on Monday in Rwanda.
The Philippines came so close to claim a victory in its first game outside the FIBA Asia zone, holding on to a 74-73 lead entering the final minute of the game against the world's No. 8-ranked women's basketball team.
But Aline Moura drained two free throws to give Brazil back the lead for good, 75-74, and Khate Castillo missed the potential go-ahead three with the world's No. 40 side down by one after a timeout.
Brazil’s Caca Martins drained two free throws with 1.8 seconds left to extend the lead to three. Gilas Women turned once again to Castillo in the last possession but she missed a desperate three as time expired.
Animam shows way
Jack Animam had 18 points and 21 rebounds to help keep Gilas Women in the game. They even took the lead by as many as six despite being down for 23 minutes and 43 seconds of the match.
Afril Bernardino chipped in 14 points and seven rebounds, while Naomi Panganiban held her own as the youngster had 13 points, five rebounds, and four assists.
The Philippines will go up against fellow opening day loser Hungary on Tuesday. Hungary was nipped by Senegal, 63-61, in the earlier game.
Leticia Soares added 15 points, five rebounds, and two steals, while Emanuely De Oliveria had 13 points for Brazil.
The scores:
Brazil – Soares 15, De Oliveria 13, Albeiro 12, Martins 11, Goncalo 7, D’Arrigo 6, Silva 6, Moura 3, Pereira 2, Zabani 2, Guimaires 0.
Philippines 74 – Animam 18, Bernardino 14, Panganiban 13, Castillo 9, Berberabe 9, Pontejos 6, Dela Rosa 5, Nolasco 0, Ozar 0, Fajardo 0, Yumul 0.
Quarters: 20-19; 40-39; 60-57; 77-74.
Get more of the latest sports news & updates on SPIN.ph
NOTICE ON UNAUTHORIZED AND UNLAWFUL USE, PUBLICATION, AND/OR DISSEMINATION OF SPIN.PH CONTENT: Please be notified that any unauthorized and unlawful use, publication, and/or dissemination of Spin.ph’s content and/or materials is a direct violation of its legal and exclusive rights to the same, and shall be subject to appropriate legal action/s.
