Pilipinas Aguilas capture inaugural WMPBL title in Game 3
The Pilipinas Aguilas made history by claiming the inaugural Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) championship, defeating the UST Growling Tigresses, 54-45, in a thrilling Game 3 on April 23 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.
Finals MVP Lexi Pana led the Aguilas with 13 points, eight rebounds, and two steals.
Speaking about the team’s victory, Pana said, “I couldn’t have done it without my teammates. Chack (Cabinbin) does a really good job being a point guard—I mean, she’s arguably the best in the Philippines. It’s really nice playing with her, and also just how my teammates focused on defense. We got the stops we needed. So, a lot of credit goes to them, not just to what I can do.”
Mar Prado played a pivotal role too, contributing 16 markers and 12 boards, while Cheska Apag had a standout performance with 13 points, including three three-pointers, four rebounds, five assists, and four steals.
The Aguilas faced an uphill battle early in the game, managing only a free throw and a field goal in the first quarter to trail 3-14.
However, they found their rhythm in the second quarter, outscoring the Tigresses to take a slim 28-26 lead at halftime.
UST fought back in the third, tying the game at 41-all as both teams exchanged blows.
In the final period, the Aguilas showed their resilience, closing out the game with a 13-4 run to secure the championship and cement their place in history.
WMPBL Commissioner Haydee Ong also expressed her pride in the league’s inaugural season, highlighting the positive impact it has had on women’s basketball in the Philippines.
“I’m very happy and honored that we’re finishing the first season of the WMPBL on a positive note. This has a great impact on women’s basketball in the Philippines.”
“We’re breaking barriers and empowering women. Even our officiating ensures equality—two male and two female referees. We also encourage each team to have women coaches.”
Ong also announced a significant milestone for the league, sharing plans to take it to the next level.
“This morning, we went to GAB (Games and Amusement Board) to formally declare that the WMPBL will launch its pro league this coming June.”
In closing, Commissioner Ong thanked those behind the WMPBL’s success:
“Thank you to Sen. Manny Pacquiao for his efforts in developing women’s basketball in the Philippines. We have a long journey ahead, and we thank all our sponsors and team owners for helping the WMPBL continue its mission.”
The Scores:
Pilipinas Aguilas 54 – Prado 16, Apag 13, Pana 13, Cac 5, Adeshina 4, Guytingco 2, Cabinbin 1, Etang 0, Limbago 0, Omopia 0.
UST 45 – Ambos 8, Bron 8, Pastrana 8, Sierba 8, Onianwa 6, Soriano 3, Danganan 2, Maglupay 2, Pescador 0, Reliquette 0, Tacatac 0.
Quarter Scores: 3-14, 28-26, 41-41, 54-45.
