Gilas cagebelles enter quarterfinals in Asian Games

NAGOYA -- Gilas Pilipinas Women head coach BT Toews is confident his team can carry its momentum into a crucial showdown against host Japan in the 2026 Asian Games.

The Philippines booked a spot in the quarterfinals after beating Hong Kong, China, 90-73, on Sunday at the Aichi International Arena, improving to a 2-0 record.

Stefanie Berberabe led the way with 21 points, including four three-pointers, while Afril Bernardino added 17 points and 11 rebounds.

With Japan next on the schedule, Toews said the immediate priority is simple: recovery.

“The key point here from now to the tip-off is players resting. That's it,” said Toews.

Toews believes having fresh legs will be crucial against a Japanese side that has been preparing together for significantly longer.

“So players resting will be key because if we have more energy, I believe we'll be able to play better one-on-one defense, which of course is the basis for team defense.”

Japan also enters the matchup after dominating Hong Kong, but Toews believes the scoreboard does not tell the entire story.

“But I do believe that if this team plays to their potential, like Steph said, it'll be a good game.”

The Gilas Women coach also pointed out the difference in preparation between the two teams, with the Philippines having just one week of practice compared to Japan’s month-and-a-half buildup and several tournaments together.

“It's a real team. It's not just throwing them together. So that's in their favor.”

Still, Toews has no doubts about what he expects from his team. But we are going to win that game, and that's it.”

Gilas Women will face host Japan on Tuesday at noon, with the Philippines looking to complete a sweep of the group stage and build further momentum heading into the knockout rounds.