MANILA — Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas appointed veteran coach Sandy Arespacochaga to lead the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s U18 Team ahead of the 2026 FIBA Women’s U18 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers scheduled for June 2 to 6 in Bacolod.
Gilas Women program director Bacon Austria announced the appointment and cited Arespacochaga’s experience in youth development and international competition.
“He is a teacher. At this stage, he fits perfectly in shaping the girls’ future,” Austria said.
Austria added that Arespacochaga’s focus would extend beyond winning games to developing players on and off the court.
Arespacochaga previously coached the Gilas Youth Men’s team and served as an assistant coach for the senior men’s national team during the FIBA World Cup. He also holds coaching roles with the Ateneo Blue Eagles under Tab Baldwin and with TNT Tropang 5G under Chot Reyes.
“I’ve been a fan of women’s basketball, but I’ve never coached women’s basketball, so I’m really thankful for this opportunity,” Arespacochaga said.
He said the player pool was formed not only for the SEABA tournament but also to help develop young athletes and contribute to the growth of women’s basketball in the country.
Arespacochaga is expected to officially assume his duties next month.
The Philippines already secured a berth in the 2026 FIBA Women’s U18 Asia Cup after winning Division B in 2024 and earning promotion to Division A.
