Gilas Pilipinas Youth ruled the FIBA U16 Women’s Asian Championship 2023 Division B after defeating Iran in the final, 83-60, Sunday night in Jordan. 

With the championship, the Philippines earned a promotion to Division A of the 2025 edition of the tournament.

Nevaeh Smith delivered 21 points, including five 3-pointers, to lead the national team. Ava Fajardo was right behind with 12 points and nine assists, while Ariel Star De La O contributed a double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds. 

After a competitive first period with the Philippines managing just a four-point lead, 19-15, Gilas unfurled a quick 9-0 run capped off by a Kimi Sayson bucket in the opening minutes of the second frame. Smith’s late 3-pointer to close the half gave the squad a 41-26 advantage. 

Sayson finished with eight points and six rebounds. Alyssia Palma likewise chipped in with eight points alongside 11 boards. Gilas enjoyed a lead as high as 27 points.

The Philippines swept the competition after finishing with a perfect 3-0 record in the pool phase and toppling Malaysia in the semifinals.