Jack Animam leads Gilas women pool for Fiba Pre-OQT in Mexico

MANILA, Philippines–Longtime cornerstone Jack Animam is returning to Gilas Pilipinas, leading the program’s training camp roster for the upcoming Fiba Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament in Guadalajara, Mexico.

The 27-year-old Animam, who recently signed with Polish club Energa Torun in the Basket Liga Kobiet, is joined by former Duke and Notre Dame standout Vanessa De Jesus, and veteran guards Afril Bernardino and Janine Pontejos.

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Animam is again expected to play a vital role for Gilas, but doesn’t have to do the heavy lifting upfront with rising center Kacey Dela Rosa also in tow.

The two will be tasked to hold the fort in the paint and serve as the team’s defensive anchors. Animam last saw action for the national team in the Fiba Women’s Asia Cup in July 2025.

Also back are Jhaz Joson, Tin Cayabyab, Angel Surada, Kent Pastrana, and Monique Del Carmen and Ann Pingol, as well as Louna Ozar and Sophia Dignadice.

First-timers Alyssa Rodriguez and Jaz Salon, both Fil-Australians, as well as Fil-American Camille Malagar, who traces her Filipino roots to Cebu, also got invitations.

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Completing the pool is Gilas girls standout and second generation player Tiffany Reyes. The promising Reyes, who is a 6-foot-1 guard and only 15 years old, is the daughter of former PBA veteran Jay-R Reyes.

The Philippines was drawn with Canada, host Mexico, and Senegal in Group B.

The Pre-OQT, which tips off on August 17, will also serve as the Philippine team’s first foray under new coach Burke Toews. The Canadian mentor was tapped to call the shots for Gilas women two months ago following the departure of longtime tactician Pat Aquino.