Gilas Pilipinas Girls basketball player Ashlyn Abong dies at 18
Gone too soon: Ashlyn Abong, who was part of the Gilas Pilipinas Girls' basketball team, has died. She was only 18.
Gilas Pilipinas Women announced her death in an Instagram post on Saturday, June 28.
"In loving memory of our teammate and friend Ashlyn Abong #21," the team began in the caption. "Quiet, kind, and strong — that was Ash. She may not have said much, but she always said hi first. That small act meant everything. It showed her heart — gentle, thoughtful, and always looking out for others."
The women's basketball group said that while the player had a #21 jersey, they considered her as "one of one" as she "gave everything on and off the field."
"We’ll miss your smile, your warmth, and the quiet strength you brought into every room and every game. We are very proud of you," they said.
They went on to thank Abong for being their teammate, their pride, and for simply being herself.
"We play for you now. We carry your spirit in every step," it wrote. "Forever our teammate. Forever our #21. Forever Ash."
Gilas Women program director Patrick Aquino confirmed to PhilSTAR L!fe that Abong died during training. She was rushed to the hospital, where she was declared dead.
"As her former coach, we are very saddened by what happened and extremely will miss her," he said.
Aside from Gilas Pilipinas Girls, Abong was also part of the NU Lady Bullpups (National University). She played at the UAAP Season 87 for the latter and won second place.
