Courtesy: POC Media
Gilas Pilipinas Women failed to keep up with Japan’s efficient shooting and absorbed a lopsided 67-89 loss at the end of the group stage in the 20th Asian Games at the Aichi International Arena.
Despite the loss, the Philippines was already assured of a quarterfinal spot after winning their first two games in Group B.
The nationals had no answer to the hosts’ hot start and stared at a 7-16 deficit early on. Japan then finished off the opening quarter with an 8-4 blast to take a 24-11 advantage.
It was an all Japan show from there as last edition’s silver medalists displayed their on-court brilliance and streak shooting prowess in front of a rousing homecrowd.
The Japanese dominated in all fronts, firing 15 three-pointers and outrebounding the Filipinas, 42-30. They also led in steals 11-9, and moved the ball better with 25 assists.
Miyu Okamoto paced Japan with 19 points and Ami Tsuneta added 18 markers.
Elizabeth Means had 16 points, Afril Bernardino scored 13, and Janine Pontejos had 11 to lead the Philippines.
The quarterfinals is set on Sept. 24 Thursday.
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