Gilas Girls Dominate Vietnam in SEABA Qualifiers Opener

Gilas Pilipinas Girls kicked off their 2026 FIBA U18 Asian Championship – SEABA Qualifiers campaign with authority, thumping Vietnam 93–42 on Tuesday at the STI West Negros University Gym.

The Filipinas controlled the game from start to finish, briefly trailing only in the opening minutes before quickly asserting dominance.

After a tight first quarter, edging Vietnam 19–14, coach Sandy Arespacochaga’s squad turned up the intensity in the second period. Gilas unleashed a 26–7 run, entering halftime with a commanding 45–21 lead. Tiffany Reyes played a key role in the surge, contributing six points as the team found its rhythm with sharp three-point shooting and fast-break execution.

In the second half, Gilas maintained relentless pressure on both ends, steadily extending their lead and eventually hitting their largest margin late in the game.

Balanced scoring defined the victory, with all players registering points and five finishing in double figures. Rhiane Perez led the charge with 16 points, seven rebounds, and four steals, while Zaydhen Rosano added 15 points, eight rebounds, five assists, and five steals. Lea Pinuela scored 13 points, and Sophia Dignadice contributed across the board with 10 points, six rebounds, six assists, and five steals.

Vietnam relied on Ha Anh Nguyen and Lcienne Le Chi, each scoring 11 points in the losing effort.

Earlier, Indonesia also opened its campaign with a 66–49 win over Singapore. Ariqa Chayyara led Indonesia with 14 points, while Inez Welly added 11 points, six rebounds, and five assists. Joanne Giovanni chipped in 10 points, with Marsya Sazali pacing Singapore with 15 points.

With the qualifiers underway, Malaysia and the Philippines have already secured spots in the Asia Cup proper in Malaysia. Thailand and Indonesia are seeded into Division B in Thailand, leaving one remaining Division B berth for the highest-placed team not yet qualified.