Gilas Women fall to Hungary in 37-point rout

Gilas Pilipinas Women failed to build their underdog tale in the FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026 Pre-Qualifying Tournament as Hungary roared its way to a 97-60 rout in Rwanda on Tuesday, August 20.

The Filipinas were outscored by the world No. 16 in the second quarter, 28-10, to enter the half down, 51-24. Hungary later led by as many as 39 points to even its record to 1-1 while the Philippines fell to a 0-2 record.

After an astounding 18-point, 21-rebound double-double performance against world No. 8 Brazil, top anchor Jack Animam was limited to six points, one rebound, and five turnovers in 23 minutes.

Afril Bernardino instead took charge with 11 points, six rebounds, and four steals, while Ella Fajardo had 10. Kacey Dela Rosa added nine markers, five boards, and three rejections for Gilas Women.

Meanwhile, Angela Torok paced the Hungary squad finishing a game-hig 25-point outing on a 10-of-11 clip, four assists, and three boards, while fellow wingers Debora Dubei and Reka Lelik scored 13 apiece.

After a one-day break, Gilas Women will look to keep its slim hopes of advancing to the semifinals alive in their match against Senegal on Thursday, August 22.