Young Gilas Women ready for tough Asia Cup grind
Jack Danielle Animam has led Gilas Pilipinas Women through many battles where the National Five was installed as overwhelming underdogs.
She knows the upcoming Fiba Women’s Asia Cup won’t be any different—especially with three of the program’s old reliables unlikely to suit up.
Still, she remains optimistic, undaunted—unfazed by the odds stacked against her and the Nationals when they plunge into action in Shenzhen, China, next month.
“I never thought I’d say this, but I think we’re a really relatively young team now,” Animan told the Inquirer. “I’m only 26, but I’m the only veteran left because Janine (Pontejos), Afril (Bernardino) and Chack (Cabinbin) might not make it to this Asia Cup. I’m the only one left from the old core.
“But you know, I do believe we have what it takes to have a better finish,” she added. “I think that year (2023) was the best year for us ever. But I think we really have a shot at placing better than Top 6.”
Pontejos, Bernardino and Cabinbin—who have played alongside Animam since the women’s program rose to prominence during the Fiba 3×3 World Cup in Bulacan eight years ago—could miss both the Asia Cup and the Jones Cup before that due to military obligations. All three are enlisted personnel.
Their absences will surely dent the team’s collective know-how, as the trio accounts for years of international experience that was one of—if not—the biggest reason why Gilas now enjoys top-flight status in the continental showcase.
But that could also pave the way for fresh talents to seize the moment and unlock a new dimension for Gilas, which is grouped with powerhouses Australia, Japan and Lebanon in Group B play.
“We’re really young, but we’re also really talented,” said Animam.
Sumayah Sugapong and Naomi Panganiban—vital cogs in the Gilas Girls’ recent breakthroughs—are part of the national federation’s 20-woman pool for the upcoming tournaments. Other noteworthy names include UST’s Kent Pastrana, FEU’s Yvette Villanueva and Ateneo’s Kacey Dela Rosa.
Beyond the surge of youthful energy, Animam is also drawing optimism from the return of Filipino American guard Vanessa de Jesus, who also suited up for Gilas during the 2023 Asia Cup in Sydney.
De Jesus’ presence should be a boost for Animam, as both were at the forefront of Gilas’ gallant stand against Australia and Japan two years ago.
And what about herself?
“I think the Jack who will be playing this time will look so different compared to the past years she’s played for the national team,” said the crafty big, who is coming off a stint in Romania.
“I just can’t wait to go out there and play.”
