MANILA, Philippines — Gilas Pilipinas women’s squad succumbed to New Zealand, 72-106, at the start of the 2019 William Jones Cup at the Xinzhuang Gym in New Taipei City, Taiwan yesterdayFive players scored in double figures led by Micaela Cocks with 21 points, six rebounds and four assists as New Zealand overwhelmed the stunned Filipinas, 25-14, in the first frame, setting the stage for its 34-point victory. Charlisse Leger-Walker and Stella Beck chipped in 18 and 15 markers, respectively, while Penina Davidson and Kalani Purcell contributed 14 apiece for a well-balanced Kiwi attack. NZ thus took an early lead with a 1-0 card in this five-team Asian invitational tourney, eying a second straight win against South Korea at 2 p.m. today. Afril Bernardino paced the Nationals with an all-around play of 20 markers, four rebounds, three assists, three steals and two blocks in a losing effort. UCLA standout Kelli Hayes also managed to impress in her Philippine team debut with 17 points, two rebounds and three assists.

Source: Philippine Star July 24, 2019 16:30 UTC