THE Gilas Pilipinas women squad faces a tough challenge in the 2021 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup Division A tournament set on Sep. 27 to Oct. 3 in Jordan.
Coach Pat Aquino and his belles are unfazed, however.
“Each and every day was a challenge, from the swabbing to the team practices but we need to prioritize our health. Our mental toughness was also tested during our camp, but I feel like that will help us compete against the continent’s best teams,” Aquino said.
“We have to take advantage of every opportunity we get to be on the court. Our situation is unique, but it will help us in the long run,” he added.
The nationals left last Tuesday night for Amman, Jordan.
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas was able to gain clearance from the Batangas LGU to hold a training camp early this month.
The team stayed at the JET Hotel while holding practice at the Summit Point Golf & Country Club.
Early in the camp, the Gilas women’s practices were on and off as typhoon “Jolina” ravaged the country. But when the weather conditions cleared, it was all business for Gilas.
Leading the squad are veterans Afril Bernardino, Janine Pontejos, Clare Castro, Andrea Tongco, Chack Cabinbin, Ria Nabalan, and Mar Prado. Completing the team are first-timers Ella Fajardo, Camille Clarin, Ann Pingol, and Kristine Cayabyab.
The team squares off with world No. 7 China on Sept. 27, No. 3 Australia on the 28th, and No. 34 Chinese-Taipei the next day.
The last-placed team in the group will take on the bottom squad of the other group in a relegation match.
“I have no expectations for this tournament, I am just happy that my players have a chance to compete on the biggest stage once again,” Aquino said.
