FIBA Asia Women: Gilas Pilipinas falters late vs New Zealand, Division A status in peril

Gilas Pilipinas Women failed to sustain a good start and fell to New Zealand, in their last group stage game of the 2019 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup in India.
The Filipinas had their best start of the tournament, with Afril Bernardino and Gemma Miranda joining hands to give them a 15-14 1st quarter lead.

But New Zealand regained rhythm, and had a 9-1 run late in the 2nd frame to go up by double-digits for the 1st time, 39-29.

The Tall Ferns never looked back, outscoring the Philippines the rest of the way.

Tessa Boagni and Natalie Taylor had 16 and 14 points, respectively for the Oceania country.

Janine Pontejos had her breakout gsme for the Philippines, making 15 points including 3/6 from 3-point area. Bernardino added 12 while Miranda contributed 10.

Gilas shot 40% from deep although only had 10 assists against 19 turnovers.

The nationals will face the Chinese Taipei-India loser in the relegation match with their Division A status on the line.

A loss would mean the Philippines will be sent back to Division B and will have to win it to get back to the top tier of the continental wars.

(FIBA.com photo)