The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has officially announced the appointment of Canadian coach Burke “BT” Toews as the new head coach of the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s national basketball team. The decision comes after an extensive global search that attracted over a dozen applicants from various countries.
Toews Brings Championship Pedigree
Toews joins the national program fresh off a successful tenure with the Fujitsu Red Waves in the Women’s Japan Basketball League. Under his guidance, the Red Waves secured back-to-back league championships in 2024 and 2025, in addition to capturing the prestigious All-Japan Championship. Over a decade with Fujitsu, Toews led the team to five Finals appearances and earned three Coach of the Year awards.
The SBP highlighted Toews’ deep experience in the Japanese system, which emphasizes fast-paced play, sharp ball movement, relentless defensive pressure, and efficient half-court execution. His hiring is part of the federation’s continued buildup for the women’s national program, with Gilas Pilipinas Women currently ranked No. 30 in the world by FIBA.
Upcoming Competitions
Toews replaces Pat Aquino ahead of crucial tournaments, including the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament in August and the Asian Games in September. The SBP expressed confidence that Toews’ leadership will elevate the team’s performance on the international stage.
Youth Program Strengthened
In a related move, the SBP also appointed Alexander “Sandy” Arespacochaga as head coach of the Gilas Women Youth team. Arespacochaga, a multi-titled assistant coach in the UAAP and PBA, previously led Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA U-19 Basketball World Cup in 2019. The youth squad will compete in the FIBA Women’s U-18 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers from June 2 to 6, 2026, at STI West Negros University gym in Bacolod City.
The Philippines has already secured a spot in the 2026 FIBA Women’s U-18 Asia Cup as Division B winners in 2024, earning promotion to the top tier. The team is awaiting the arrival of Tiffany Reyes, who last played for Gilas in the FIBA U16 Women’s Asia Cup 2025, and Sophia Dignadice, who debuted at the elite level during the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifiers in France earlier this year. Reyes is expected to arrive in late May, while Dignadice is set to join just before the tournament begins.
