Akatsuki Japan Extends Win Streak At The Expense Of Gilas Women
It was business as usual for Akatsuki Japan as they beat Gilas Pilipinas Women 95 - 57, in day two of the 2023 FIBA Women's Asia Cup held at the Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre in Sydney, Australia.
Japan clearly showed why they're the reigning five-time defending champs right from the get-go, as they built a scoring run from three point territory and lead as much as 18 points in the first half. Meanwhile, the Filipinas struggled to find ways score and close the gap to single digits.
Then in the third quarter, Himawari Akaho happened. Her defensive plays paved the way to stretch their lead beyond reach until the final buzzer.
Himawari Akaho is a two-way star ⭐#AsiaCupWomen | @JAPAN_JBA pic.twitter.com/zBeuQAhZ1B
— FIBA Women's Asia Cup (@fibasiacupwomen) June 27, 2023
Afril Bernardino finished with 12 points and grabbed 8 boards, 3 steals, 2 assists and 1 block for Gilas Pilipinas Women. Vanessa De Jesus also had 12 points, 4 assists, 1 rebound and 1 steal.
Janine Pontejos chipped in with 11 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists while Jack Animam contributed with 8 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks.
Himawari Akaho lead all scorers for Akatsuki Japan with 16 points, 4 rebounds, 3 blocks and 2 assists. Mai Yamamoto added 15 points, grabbed 4 boards, and dropped 2 dimes.
Japan is now 2 - 0 in the tournament.