By Darryl John Esguerra

(From left) Afril Bernardino, Kacey dela Rosa, Cheska Apag, and Mika Cacho banner Gilas Women to its first-ever podium finish in the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup. (SBP photo)

MANILA – Gilas Pilipinas Women secured a historic silver medal after falling to defending champion Australia, 9-18, in the finals of the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup in Singapore on Sunday.

Australia set the tone early with a 6-0 run, putting the Filipinas on the back foot.

Two-time UAAP Most Valuable Player Kacey dela Rosa scored back-to-back baskets to put the Philippines on the board, but Australia maintained control en route to the victory.

Despite the loss, Gilas Women made history by capturing the country’s first-ever medal in the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup and reaching its first finals appearance.

The Filipinas advanced to the championship round after a hard-fought 21-19 win over Japan in the semifinals.

They earlier pulled off a 15-12 upset over Mongolia in the quarterfinals.

Meanwhile, the Gilas Pilipinas men’s team bowed out in the quarterfinals after an 18-15 loss to South Korea. (PNA)