By Angel Joyce C. Basa

Far Eastern University (FEU) Lady Tamaraw Yvette Villanueva made her first Philippine women's basketball national team introduction in Gilas Pilipinas as they set off to compete in the FIBA (International Basketball Federation) Asia Women's Cup on July 13 to 20 at Shenzhen, China.

From a Facebook post made on the Gilas Pilipinas Women's Basketball page on June 16, the green-and-gold cagebelle was confirmed to be included in the team as they were present at the Manila stop of the FIBA Asia Cup Trophy Tour.

Villanueva recently brought pride to the FEU community by bagging the silver medal in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 87 women's 3x3 basketball tournament last May 4.

In an interview with FEU Advocate, the UAAP silver medalist shared how being a Lady Tamaraw helped prepare her for a bigger arena through her teammates and coaches’ guidance.

“At FEU, I learned to work hard, never give up, and be a good teammate. Every practice and game taught me something important. My coaches were a huge part of it too. They taught me the right way to play and pushed me to get better every day,” Villanueva said.

When asked how she felt about joining the country's basketball representatives, Villanueva spoke fully with pride on the honor of playing for the Philippines and the hope to inspire young dreamers like she once was.

“When I put on that jersey, I'd feel so proud, playing for every Filipino who loves basketball. I'd work harder than ever with the best players. And I hope to inspire kids to chase their dreams, just like I did,” she stated.

The junior player will be joining the 2025 roster consisting of Jack Animam, Vanessa de Jesus, Monique del Carmen, Trina Guytingco, Louna Ozar, Afril Bernardino, Naomi Panganiban, Khate Castillo, Janine Pontejos, Ella Fajardo, Sumayah Sugapong, Kent Pastrana, Angel Surada, and Chack Cabinbin.

The Gilas Pilipinas ladies are currently gearing up for their pre-FIBA stint at the 44th William Jones Cup happening from July 1 to 6 in Taiwan.

(Photo by Karch Rafael/FEU Advocate)