DESPITE a sorry loss in his belles’ opening game, Gilas Pilipinas women coach Pat Aquino is still convinced they can hack it.
“We’re the underdog here and you know, I think the girls fought hard with a big heart,” Aquino said.
“That’s what the Gilas stands for, “puso.” So, I think we have to really work harder in the succeeding games,” he added.
The Filipina cagers nearly pulled off a stunning upset of world No. 8 Brazil but lost steam in the end in a 74-77 defeat last Monday night in Group C play of the FIBA Women’s World Cup pre-qualifying tourney at the Kigali Arena in Rwanda.
Jack Animam’s double-double performance of 18 points and 21 rebounds, along with four blocks, an assist and a steal went down the drain.
Afril Bernardino finished the contest with 14 points, seven rebounds, two steals and two blocks, while Fil-Am Naomi Panganiban had 13 markers, five boards and four dimes for the Philippines.
Gilas women tried to make up for the setback at press time last night against Hungary.
“Hungary is a good team, tough team also. They got a 6-foot-10 girl (Bernadett Hatar). I think they’re gonna enforce their height against us again and so we’ll try to manage on that and hopefully, you know, we get a good game plan,” Aquino said.
