Gilas Pilipinas failed to make the 2025 FIBA Women's Asia Cup semifinals after falling to South Korea. They still have a shot of improving from their 2023 finish when they face New Zealand for fifth place.
Gilas Pilipinas absorbed a tough 104–71 loss at the hands of perennial powerhouse South Korea in the qualification semifinals of the 2025 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup at the Shenzhen Sports Center on Friday, July 18.
Despite the defeat, the Filipinas still carved out history, having already secured a spot in the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament for the first time following their third-place finish in Group B.
Gilas held their own early, staying within striking distance at 16–15 late in the first quarter. But the world no. 13 Koreans had other plans, unleashing a blistering 15–0 run to break the game wide open and establish a double-digit advantage they would never relinquish.
Naomi Panganiban top-scored for Gilas with 19 points, while Duke standout Vanessa De Jesus added 15 markers. Louna Ozar and Kacey Dela Rosa chipped in 10 points each. But the team struggled to keep up with Korea’s relentless pace and sharpshooting.
Veteran Jack Animam was held to just three points on 1-of-6 shooting as Korea’s length and discipline on defense proved overwhelming.
On the other end, Haeran Lee spearheaded the Korean offense with 24 points, supported by Yoolim Kang’s 21, Jihyun Park’s 15, and Jisu Park’s 14.
Gilas though still has a chance to improve from their sixth place finish in 2023 when they take on New Zealand on Saturday, July 19, in the battle for fifth place.