BANGKOK, Thailand – Gilas Pilipinas delivered a historic double gold sweep in 5×5 basketball at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games, turning back gritty host Thailand in both finals on Friday, December 19, 2025, at Nimibutr Stadium. The women’s team reclaimed the crown with a thrilling 73-70 victory, while the men retained theirs via a comeback 70-64 triumph—marking the Philippines’ first basketball double-gold since 2019 and a resounding statement of regional supremacy.
Gilas Women Reclaim Gold in Nail-Biter
The Filipinas overcame a late Thai surge to edge the hosts 73-70, denying Thailand a three-peat bid after their 2023 title. Led by Afril Bernardino (19 points, 12 rebounds) and Kacey Dela Rosa (17 points, 16 rebounds, crucial late block), Gilas held firm in the clutch, sealing the win on a missed buzzer-beater three from Thailand.
This marks the Philippines’ third women’s 5×5 gold (also 2019, 2021), completing redemption from 2023 silver.
Gilas Men Rally from 13 Down to Defend Title
Trailing by double digits early, the men’s squad—coached by Norman Black—unleashed a fierce second-half surge to stun Thailand 70-64. Jamie Malonzo sparked the comeback with explosive scoring (17 points, 12 rebounds), while Robert Bolick iced it with late free throws and a signature “night night” gesture. Matthew Wright added timely threes in the decisive run.
The win—Gilas’ record-extending 20th men’s gold—overcame eligibility hurdles and hostile crowds, proving resilience under pressure.
Both squads turned back determined Thai sides on home soil, delivering pride and inspiration back home. This sweep caps a triumphant SEA Games for Philippine basketball—gritty, golden, and unforgettable.
Finals Results:
| Category | Score | Key Standouts |
|---|---|---|
| Women | Philippines 73-70 Thailand | Bernardino (19 pts, 12 reb), Dela Rosa (17 pts, block) |
| Men | Philippines 70-64 Thailand | Malonzo (17 pts, 12 reb), Bolick (clutch FTs) |