Gilas Women celebrated victory over Chinese Taipei in the 2023 FIBA Asia Cup. –FIBA ASIA PHOTO
Looking to scale new heights, Gilas Pilipinas' path in trying to do so will begin in Rwanda this August when they will face higher ranked teams in the FIBA (International Federation of Basketball).
The Nationals were grouped with Senegal, Hungary and Brazil in Group C for the final which Mexico City will also co-host.
“We are very excited to participate in this pre-qualification tournament as we will face top teams,” national coach Pat Aquino told the Inquirer after the draw ceremony held at the House of Basketball in Mies, Switzerland, on Thursday night.
The Philippines' campaign in the Rwandan capital, Kigali, will be difficult, as the three opponents are ranked higher than the nationals. Senegal is 15 places above the Philippines, in 25th position, while Hungary is in 16th position. Brazil, in turn, is the eighth best team on the planet.
Even so, Aquino believes it is an experience that will be truly transformative for Gilas.
“Having to compete at this level (will help with exposure) and allow us to grow,” the multi-titled mentor continued.
The PQT will send two teams to the last phase of the qualifiers that will define the squad for the next World Cup, which will be held in Berlin, Germany, in September 2026.
Aquino has told the Inquirer in several interviews in the past that he hopes to see his charges compete in the global event, which is as prestigious as the Summer Olympics.
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