HISTORY beckons the Gilas Pilipinas Women as they shoot for its first ever gold in the 30th Southeast Asian Games against Thailand on Tuesday.
The Filipinas have proved every bit how far women's basketball has come and a breakthrough gold would cement their position as the new bonafide powerhouse in the region.
All coach Pat Aquino wants is for her girls to stay the course.
"This is it. This is what we've worked hard for, for the longest time," he said.
Afril Bernardino and Jack Animam are expected to lead the charge, but Aquino urges everyone to contribute.
It won't be easy, especially against a Thailand team bannered by former WNBA draftee Tiffany Bias and has raised the cup five times, last time winning it all in 2013.
That regional conclave in Naypyitaw was also the last time the Philippines made it to the podium, earning the silver medal.
Despite the odds, Aquino has nothing more on his mind other than the championship.
"I know Thailand is a tough team to crack, but ito yung pinakagusto natin at sana, wag na natin pakawalan ito," he said.
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