RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian basketball team has secured its place in the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup Division B 2026 after recording a third consecutive victory in the SEABA Qualifiers, defeating Thailand 67-53 at STI West Negros University Gym, Philippines, on Friday, June 5, 2026.

The win guarantees Indonesia’s ticket to the continental stage, though one final match against the Philippines remains to decide the top ranking in the qualifiers.

Head coach Amin Prihantono explained that Indonesia’s qualification came through a battle with Singapore and Vietnam, as the Philippines and Thailand had already secured automatic berths--Philippines as a Division A participant and Thailand as Division B host.

Before overcoming Thailand, Indonesia had also beaten Singapore 66-49 on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, and Vietnam 81-32 earlier in the tournament. Amin credited the team’s success to collective strength rather than reliance on individual stars.

“If one player is off, we have others who can step up. All 12 players are prepared to contribute when needed,” he said, as quoted by Antara, highlighting the balanced roster led by Praisey Blessed and Mabekou Talla Valerie.

Looking ahead to the final clash, Amin stressed the importance of discipline and sticking to the game plan. “We have prepared what must be done against the Philippines, so the players must not deviate from the plan,” he noted.

He added that the Philippines pose a complete challenge with strong shooting, penetration, speed, and physical strength. “Against them, we must fight harder. If shooting is not possible, there must be other options because they are a complete team,” he emphasized.

Meanwhile, Indonesian Basketball Association (Perbasi) Secretary General Nirmala Dewi reminded the team to stay focused despite already securing qualification.

“The match against the Philippines will decide the leader of the SEABA Qualifiers. While qualifying is an achievement, it is not the final goal, and the team must continue to give their best,” she said in Jakarta on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

Nirmala also called for public support. “We ask for the prayers and encouragement of the Indonesian people so the team can perform at their maximum and achieve results that make the nation proud,” she added.

The FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup Division B 2026 will be staged in Thailand from July 13–19, where Indonesia’s young Srikandi squad will aim to build on their strong qualifying campaign. The final qualifier against the Philippines offers not only prestige but also momentum heading into the Asia Cup. ***