Pilipinas Aguilas make history with inaugural WMPBL title

The Pilipinas Aguilas captured the inaugural Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) championship after dismantling the UST Growling Tigresses in a thrilling do-or-die Game 3 Finals, 54-45, on Wednesday night, April 23, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.

Lexi Pana led the charge for the Aguilas in the deciding game, finishing with 13 points, eight rebounds, two assists, and two steals. She was named the first-ever WMPBL Finals MVP.

Speaking about their title-clinching performance, Pana said:

“I couldn’t have done it without my teammates. Chack (Cabinbin) does a really good job being a point guard—I mean, she’s arguably the best in the Philippines. It’s really nice playing with her, and also just how my teammates focused on defense. We got the stops we needed. So, a lot of credit goes to them, not just to what I can do.”

Mar Prado was also instrumental in the victory, contributing 16 markers on 7-of-13 shooting, grabbing 12 boards, while tallying three steals and three blocks. Cheska Apag had her best performance of the series, finishing with 13 points—including three triples—along with four rebounds, five assists, and four steals.

On the UST side, star Kent Pastrana struggled, scoring just eight points along with five rebounds and three assists. Agatha Bron, Rachelle Ambos, and Karylle Sierba also scored eight apiece, while Oma Onianwa added six markers and a game-high 17 boards.

The Aguilas had a rough start, managing only a free throw and a field goal in the first quarter, trailing 3-14 at the end of the opening period.

However, they found their rhythm in the second quarter and entered halftime with a slim 28-26 lead.

The Tigresses rallied in the third quarter to tie the game at 41-all heading into the final period.

In the fourth, both teams fought tooth and nail, but the Aguilas proved too much for the Tigresses, closing the game with a 13-4 run to secure the championship.

Pilipinas Aguilas head coach Paolo Layug praised his team’s composure despite a shaky start.

“The character of the team showed—they stayed composed. We started to make a run in the second quarter and got contributions from everyone. Melody (Cac) gave us a boost, Cheska (Apag) played great, Kem (Adeshina) gave us good minutes, Novi came in and contributed—it was really a team effort.”

Layug also credited his mentor, Coach Eric Altamirano, for his influence on the team's success.

“Coach E is my mentor. This is our second championship together—we won one in NU before. He’s a father figure, a guiding light in my life. I really appreciate all the help and advice he’s given me, on and off the court.”

Altamirano also expressed his pride in the team's accomplishment.

“I’m very happy for the girls. They really worked hard for this championship. We’ve accomplished things in the men’s division, but there’s a challenge now in women’s basketball—and we really wanted to help. The warm reception from the people is a good sign for the future of women’s basketball.”

“We’re blessed to be the first to win this WMPBL title. This team was assembled on short notice, but the chemistry was there. They showed composure tonight. UST is a very good team with experience, but you have to give it to the Aguilas. They fought hard and bounced back after the loss last Sunday.”

WMPBL Commissioner Haydee Ong also expressed her pride in the league’s inaugural season.

“I’m very happy and honored that we’re finishing the first season of the WMPBL on a positive note. This has a great impact on women’s basketball in the Philippines.”

“We’re breaking barriers and empowering women. Even our officiating ensures equality—two male and two female referees. We also encourage each team to have women coaches.”

She also announced a major development for the league.

“This morning, we went to GAB (Games and Amusement Board) to formally declare that the WMPBL will launch its pro league this coming June.”

In closing, Commissioner Ong thanked those behind the WMPBL’s success:

“Thank you to Sen. Manny Pacquiao for his efforts in developing women’s basketball in the Philippines. We have a long journey ahead, and we thank all our sponsors and team owners for helping the WMPBL continue its mission.”

Pilipinas Aguilas 54 – Prado 16, Apag 13, Pana 13, Cac 5, Adeshina 4, Guytingco 2, Cabinbin 1, Etang 0, Limbago 0, Omopia 0.

UST 45 – Ambos 8, Bron 8, Pastrana 8, Sierba 8, Onianwa 6, Soriano 3, Danganan 2, Maglupay 2, Pescador 0, Reliquette 0, Tacatac 0.

Quarter Scores: 3-14, 28-26, 41-41, 54-45.