Elizabeth Means shines in debut as Gilas Women crush Kazakhstan in Asian Games opener
The Elizabeth Means era for Philippine women's basketball has officially arrived, and it comes with a lethal dose of defensive havoc and offensive brilliance.
Gilas Pilipinas Women opened their 20th Asian Games campaign with a resounding statement, dismantling Kazakhstan, 86-58, on Thursday, September 17, at the Aichi International Arena.
The lopsided victory immediately propelled the Filipinas to a 1-0 start in Group B, signaling their serious intent to contend for a podium finish in this year's tournament.
The Elizabeth Means Show
All eyes were on the newly minted naturalized reinforcement Elizabeth Means, and she did not disappoint. Making her highly anticipated 5-on-5 debut for the national team, Means spearheaded a relentless Filipino attack.
After Kazakhstan opened the game with a brief 2-0 lead, Means and the Filipinas locked down defensively, orchestrating a massive breakaway that saw the lead swell to as many as 39 points. Means finished the evening with a spectacular game-high 23 points, 4 rebounds, and an elite 8 steals, completely disrupting Kazakhstan’s backcourt rhythm.
Complete Team Effort
While Means provided the frontline firepower, the Gilas local crew showcased the depth and chemistry built under the national program.
Stef Berberabe pulling the strings flawlessly, flirting with a double-double by putting up 11 points, 8 assists, and 4 rebounds.
The trio of Jhaz Joson, Kent Pastrana, and veteran sniper Janine Pontejos providing steady ammunition off the wings, chipping in 8 points apiece to keep the Kazakh defense guessing.
Kazakhs Stifled
Kazakhstan struggled heavily against the Filipinas' full-court pressure and active hands. Tamara Noiok paced the losing squad with 11 points and two assists, while Anna Bezgovada fought hard in the paint to salvage a 10-point, 15-rebound double-double, but their efforts were ultimately drowned out by Gilas' transition game.
What's Next?
With momentum firmly on their side, Gilas Pilipinas Women will look to make it two in a row when they return to action on Sunday, September 20, facing off against Hong Kong.
Tip-off is scheduled for 9:00 AM, Manila time.
