By Adrian Stewart Co

The Philippine women’s national basketball team scored an 81-75 win over Malaysia in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games last Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
After seeing their 12-point third quarter lead turn into a six-point deficit, Ana Castillo drained back-to-back triples to tie the score at 74-all before Danica Jose split her foul shots for the one-point lead.
The Philippines then extended their lead to 79-74 with Janine Pontejos converting two free throws and nailing a basket with under a minute left before Afril Bernardino iced the win with two free throws.
“What a game,” said Philippines head coach Patrick Aquino. “They never gave up; I’m so proud of them.”
Bernardino finished with 18 points, 19 rebounds, three assists, three blocks, and a steal for the Philippines; while Jack Aninam had a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds; Castillo produced 11 points on three three-pointers; and Pontejos contributed 10 markers, three boards, and two steals.
The Philippines closes their campaign tonight against Thailand./ASC, WDJ