Manila: The Pilipinas Aguilas defeated the University of Santo Tomas, 54-45, in Game 3 Wednesday night to secure the Women's Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) Invitational title at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mar Prado led the Aguilas with 16 points on 7-of-13 shooting and contributed 12 rebounds, three steals, and three blocks. The Aguilas executed a 10-2 run, gaining a 51-43 lead with 4:16 remaining in the game.

The Aguilas had previously won Game 1 in double overtime, 95-86, but faced a challenging start in Game 3, trailing 3-14 in the first quarter. They mounted a comeback to tie the score at 41-41 by halftime.

"For me, it's really about the players. I was telling the players before the game, what is the story of the Aguilas? And you have players from all sorts of backgrounds. Some were students, some were in the army, some are coming back from bad injuries, one player, Lexi (Pana), is reconnecting with her roots, so the story behind each and every player is something very special," said Pilipinas Aguilas head coach Paulo Layug. He expressed his gratitude for having the opportunity to coach such a unique team, highlighting the diverse backgrounds and strong character of the players.

Alexis Pana was a key contributor with 13 points, eight rebounds, two assists, and five steals. Her outstanding performance throughout the series earned her the Finals MVP title, as she averaged 16.3 points, 8.0 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 3.6 steals.

Cheska Apag added 13 points, including three triples, along with four rebounds, five assists, and four steals. For the Tigresses, Kent Pastrana managed eight points, five rebounds, and three assists. Despite their efforts, including a 69-64 win in Game 2 to force the rubber match, the Tigresses fell short in the decisive game.

Agatha Bron, Rachelle Ambos, and Karylle Sierba each contributed eight points for the Aguilas, while Oma Onianwa added six points and an impressive 17 rebounds.