Gilas Pilipinas Girls endured a difficult start to their FIBA Under-18 Asia Cup 2026 campaign after Australia cruised to a 102-47 victory on Sunday at Karisma Arena in Seremban, Malaysia.
The Australians immediately took control, opening the game with a 19-0 run before the Philippines finally got on the scoreboard through a pair of free throws from Zaydhen Rosano with 4:15 left in the first quarter.
KJ Badajos later scored Gilas’ lone field goal of the opening period on a layup, but Australia continued to widen the gap.
The Philippines struggled to contain Australia’s size throughout the game, with the Australians eventually building a 58-point advantage.
Australia also dominated the battle for possession, outrebounding Gilas, 60-20, while forcing 28 turnovers that resulted in 34 points.
Rosano and Tiffany Reyes were the Philippines’ only players to reach double figures, scoring 10 points each. Reyes also collected three rebounds and three steals.
Australia had five players in double digits, led by Sophie Anderson, who scored 18 points in only 15 minutes. Isabel Smith added 17 points, four assists, three rebounds and three steals.
Gilas Girls will have little time to dwell on the defeat as they return to action against South Korea on Monday before facing New Zealand on Tuesday. (Adrian Co)
