MANILA, Philippines — Gilas Pilipinas Women will begin their campaign in the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament this week after announcing their 12-player roster for the competition in Lyon-Villeurbanne, France.
The lineup, revealed Tuesday by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), includes nine players who helped the Philippines capture gold in the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.
Veteran forward Afril Bernardino returns to the national team along with rising talents Kacey Dela Rosa, Louna Ozar, Angel Surada, Sophia Dignadice, Sarah Heyn, and Ann Pingol.
Also back in the squad are veterans Janine Pontejos and Trina Guytingco.
One of the biggest additions to the roster is Stefanie Berberabe, who was previously considered a naturalized player under SEA Games eligibility rules, preventing her from seeing action for the Philippines in that tournament.
Completing the roster are Kent Pastrana, the UAAP Season 88 Finals Most Valuable Player, and Sumayah Sugapong.
The Philippines will face six top international teams in the qualifiers beginning Thursday, opening its campaign against host nation France women’s national basketball team as it seeks a spot in next year’s FIBA Women’s World Cup.
