Reporting note: this article draws on gmanetwork.com; LodiScore provides the summary and editorial framing.
Gilas Pilipinas Girls demonstrated composure in the closing minute to secure a pivotal 69-64 triumph over New Zealand on Tuesday at Karisma Arena in Malaysia, claiming their first victory in the 2026 FIBA U18 Asia Cup Division A tournament.
Late-Game Execution Secures Vital Group A Victory
Facing a one-point deficit in the final minute of regulation, the young Filipina squad executed under pressure to orchestrate a decisive 6-0 closing run. Rhiane Perez initiated the turnaround by driving for a contested layup with 50 seconds remaining, pushing the Philippines ahead at 65-64.
Following a crucial defensive stop, primary scorer Zaydhen Rosano drew contact and calmly converted two free throws to extend the advantage to three points. Grace Curley subsequently iced the contest at the charity stripe with 15 seconds on the clock after drawing a foul from New Zealand's Riley McClenaghan, sealing the five-point margin.
Rosano and Curley Anchor the Statistical Effort
Rosano paced the Philippine offense throughout the contest, finishing with a team-high 23 points and seven rebounds. Perez delivered comprehensive support across the floor, tallying 13 points, six rebounds, two steals, and an assist.
Inside the paint, Curley narrowly missed a double-double, contributing nine points and hauling down a team-best 10 rebounds. Tifanny Reyes matched Curley's offensive output with nine points of her own alongside five boards, giving the squad balanced scoring across the starting rotation.
Group A Standings Context and What Lies Ahead
The hard-fought result concludes the preliminary stage for Gilas Girls with a 1-2 record in Group A. The victory provides essential momentum after the team endured challenging opening fixtures against regional heavyweights Australia (102-47) and South Korea (86-70).
By securing third place in the group table, the Philippines remains in championship contention and avoids early relegation concerns. Gilas Girls now advance to Thursday's crossover qualification round, where they will compete for a semifinal berth against the second-seeded team from Group B.
