The Gilas Pilipinas Women's team will participate in the 2019 William Jones Cup in Taiwan to ramp up their preparation for the 2019 FIBA Asia Women's Cup and the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) President Al Panlilio believes that taking part in the Jones Cup will provide the women's team with invaluable competitive experience.
"The participation in the 2019 Jones Cup will definitely give the girls the experience and the competitive spirit in preparation for the 2019 Women's Asia Cup and the 2019 Southeast Asian Games," Panlilio said.
Panlilio added that the Gilas Pilipinas Women's program is on track for international success.
"We are confident that with Coach Patrick Aquino at the helm, combined with the vision of the federation and the support of the private sector, our goal of reaching the podium in any women's tournament is achievable in the near future." Panlilio said.
"We want to thank San Miguel Corporation and the Ever Bilena group for supporting the growth of women's basketball in our country," he concluded.
The Philippines will field a lineup bannered by national team mainstays Jack Danielle Animam, Janine Pontejos, and Afril Bernardino for the Jones Cup. The team is also reinforced by US-based players Kelli Hayes, Arnecia Hawkins, Elisha Bade, and Mei-Lyn Bautista.
Here is the team roster for the Jones Cup:
Ana Castillo (De La Salle University)
Arnecia Hawkins (Arizona State University)
Afril Bernardino (National University)
Camille Claro (De La Salle University)
France Mae Cabinbin (Lyceum of the Philippines University)
Janine Pontejos (Central Escolar University)
Jack Danielle Animam (National University)
Mei-Lyn Bautista (George Washington University)
Clare Castro (Far Eastern University)
Jose Danica Therese (Ateneo De Manila University)
Kelli Hayes (UCLA)
Elisha Bade (Sacramento State)
Gemma Miranda (National University)
The Philippines will compete against two teams from Chinese Taipei, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea in the Jones Cup. Gilas Pilipinas Women's Team will open their campaign against New Zealand on July 24.