Bernardino, Pontejos star as Gilas Women open SEAG title defense bid with win vs Indonesia

Gilas Pilipinas Women started their title defense bid with a rousing 93-77 victory over Indonesia in the 31st Southeast Asian Games women's basketball event on Monday in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Already up by 10, the Filipinas stepped on the gas in the fourth frame, igniting for a 7-0 run highlighted by a triple from Trina Guytingco as they stretched their lead to 17, 79-62.

The Indonesians were able to inch closer, cutting their deficit to 12, 81-69, after a triple of their own. However, Janine Pontejos, who already chipped in nine points in the first half, went for back-to-back baskets that made it a 91-75 affair for the Philippines.

Another veteran in Afril Bernardino then sealed the deal for the Philippines, 93-77.

Bernardino flirted with a double-double output as she finished with 16 points, nine rebounds, four steals, and three blocks while Pontejos tallied 15 markers, three assists, and two boards.

Filipino-American Gabi Bade and Camille Clarin also made their presence felt with 11 points each.

The win was a redemption of sorts for the Filipinas as it was Indonesia that booted them out of a podium finish in the 3x3 women's basketball event last Saturday.

—JMB, GMA News