Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Arjun Devgan

  • William Navarro set to appeal PBA ban, eyes return to local league

    William Navarro set to appeal PBA ban, eyes return to local league

    Alas Pilipinas standout William Navarro is preparing to challenge the Philippine Basketball Association’s (PBA) decision to impose a three-year ban following his move to an overseas club, with his camp hoping league officials will reconsider the penalty that has placed his local basketball future in jeopardy.

     

    Navarro signed with Korean Basketball League (KBL) side KCC Egis on August 5, 2025, bringing an abrupt end to his brief stint with the Magnolia Hotshots. The versatile forward appeared in just five games during the PBA Philippine Cup, averaging 7.6 points and 5.6 rebounds as Magnolia managed only one victory during that stretch before bowing out to TNT Tropang Giga in the quarterfinals.

     

    Prior to joining Magnolia, Navarro had established himself as one of the league’s emerging stars with NorthPort. He posted impressive averages of 20.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.1 steals per game in the Philippine Cup, earning recognition as one of the Batang Pier’s cornerstone players.

     

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    Navarro’s agent, PJ Pilares, confirmed that they are seeking an audience with PBA commissioner Willie Marcial and the league’s Board of Governors in hopes of overturning or reducing the sanction.

     

    “We are holding on to the hope that the league will listen to us with an open mind. In a basketball player’s life, three years spans the absolute peak of an athlete’s career, and wiping that away leaves a devastating impact,” Pilares said.

     

    The ban stems from Navarro’s decision to sign with KCC Egis while the PBA’s newly implemented policy was in effect. The rule imposes a 36-month suspension on rookie players who join other leagues despite having active offers from their respective PBA teams.

    Pilares maintained that Navarro and his camp did not violate any league regulations at the time of the signing.

     

    “The PBA has always prided itself on being a compassionate, a player-first league. The board members are fathers and leaders who understand the struggles of these athletes. They don’t just protect franchises; they care about the human beings wearing the jerseys. I am deeply hoping they heed our heartfelt plea,” he added.

     

    The policy was introduced following Jamie Malonzo’s decision to turn down a two-year contract offer from Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in favor of a move to Japan’s B.League with the Kyoto Hannaryz.

     

    Despite the ban, Navarro’s PBA rights recently changed hands after Titan Ultra Giant Risers acquired them in exchange for the rights to Arvin Tolentino. The development has provided a potential pathway for the 29-year-old should his appeal succeed.

     

    Navarro’s stint in South Korea lasted one season. He averaged 5.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.1 assists across 21 appearances for KCC Egis before being released by the club on May 29.

    With two years still remaining on his suspension, Pilares believes a return to the PBA would offer Navarro the opportunity to revive his career and maximize his prime years.

     

    “This trade is exactly what William needs right now. It’s a breath of fresh air. We actively sought this change of scenery because the Titan Ultra roster has a glaring need for a versatile forward of his caliber. Unlike his previous stint with Magnolia, where his playing minutes were divided in a crowded rotation, Titan Ultra offers him the keys to the ignition. This is his best stage to show what he is truly capable of,” Pilares concluded.

     

    As Navarro’s camp prepares its appeal, the case could become a significant test of the PBA’s relatively new policy on overseas signings. With the former NorthPort star still in the prime of his career and a potential opportunity awaiting with Titan Ultra, the league’s decision may ultimately determine whether one of Philippine basketball’s most versatile forwards gets a second chance to resume his PBA journey.

     

     

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  • Hall of Famer Cecil Mamiit sees bright future for Philippine tennis with Alex Eala leading the way

    Hall of Famer Cecil Mamiit sees bright future for Philippine tennis with Alex Eala leading the way

    The Philippine Sports Hall of Fame ceremony was held on Saturday, June 20, at the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) House in Manila, where seven of the country’s most accomplished sporting icons were formally inducted in recognition of their achievements and enduring contributions to Philippine sports.

     

    Among those honored was Philippine tennis pioneer Cecil Mamiit, whose accomplishments on the international stage helped elevate the profile of Filipino tennis during his playing career. A former world No. 72, Mamiit represented the Philippines with distinction in multiple editions of the Davis Cup and competed in all four Grand Slam tournaments. He also enjoyed tremendous success in regional competitions, winning six gold medals at the Southeast Asian Games and two bronze medals at the Asian Games while establishing himself as one of the most successful Filipino tennis players of his generation.

     

    Mamiit’s induction into the Hall of Fame serves as recognition not only of his achievements as a player but also of his role in helping inspire future generations of Filipino athletes. The 49-year-old, who is currently based in Los Angeles, returned to the Philippines to receive the honor and took the opportunity to reflect on the current state of Philippine tennis.

     

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    Looking ahead, Mamiit expressed optimism about the sport’s future in the country, particularly with rising star Alex Eala continuing to make waves on the international circuit.

     

    “I think it’s very bright. I think it’s great to see that there’s another connection with Alex Eala. She’s been, I met her when I was playing seed games in the Davis Cup. She was eight years old, very humble,” Mamiit said in a media interaction.

     

    The former Davis Cup stalwart noted that Eala’s rise to prominence has not come as a surprise to those who have followed her journey from a young age. He also highlighted the strong support system around the 20-year-old and believes her success can serve as a catalyst for the continued growth of tennis in the Philippines.

     

    “You know, knowing the family, her grandfather was a big contributor and it’s great to see that kind of knew something was going to be great and she took the responsibility. That shows that she can set the bar, another bar ahead after and hopefully inspire more,” he added.

    Eala has enjoyed a breakthrough season on the professional tour, recently climbing to No. 30 in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) rankings following an impressive semifinal run at the Berlin Open. Her rapid ascent has captured the attention of tennis fans both in the Philippines and abroad, with many viewing her as the country’s best hope of achieving sustained success at the highest levels of the sport.

     

    For Mamiit, however, the challenge now lies in maintaining consistency while navigating the physical and mental demands that come with competing on the WTA Tour. He believes Eala possesses the talent and work ethic necessary to build a lasting legacy, provided she can manage the rigors of professional tennis.

     

    “I think it’s just a matter of how much she can manage her body, her mental and physical because if she’s able to continue further than other of her peers, I mean, she can keep a strong legacy. It’s all about continuation and the support because if she’s around, a lot of Filipinos will be behind her. And also, I think the world globally is catching on and I think it’s inspiring other nations as well that someone can be that supported,” Mamiit continued.

     

    Beyond celebrating his own Hall of Fame induction, Mamiit also spoke passionately about giving back to the sport that shaped his life. While his competitive playing days are behind him, he remains committed to developing future Filipino tennis talent through coaching and mentorship.

     

    Through Tennis Mechanix Academy, Mamiit has dedicated himself to helping young athletes reach their potential, sharing the knowledge and experience he gained from competing against some of the world’s best players. He sees the current momentum surrounding Philippine tennis, fueled by Eala’s success and growing public interest, as an opportunity to create a stronger pathway for aspiring players.

     

    “My playing days may be over. But through Tennis Mechanix Academy, my commitment to coaching, shaping and training the next generations of Filipino champions has only begun. Hopefully, this will be the start. Hopefully, it signifies that my accessibility to be available to the next generation. So, with everything, with this enrichment and Alex, maybe there’s something to be said and it’s all about timing. Tennis is timing. So, we’re hoping for the best for everybody,” he concluded.

     

    As one of the most accomplished figures in Philippine tennis history, Mamiit’s legacy extends far beyond his achievements on the court. His Hall of Fame induction celebrates a career defined by excellence, perseverance, and national pride, while his continued commitment to coaching ensures that his impact on Philippine tennis will be felt for generations to come. With Alex Eala leading a new era for the sport and pioneers like Mamiit continuing to guide the next generation, the future of Philippine tennis appears brighter than ever.

     

     

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  • Adeline Dumapong-Ancheta makes history as first para athlete to enter Philippine Sports Hall of Fame

    Adeline Dumapong-Ancheta makes history as first para athlete to enter Philippine Sports Hall of Fame

    The Philippine Sports Hall of Fame ceremony was held on Saturday, June 20, at the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) House in Manila, where seven of the country’s most distinguished sporting figures were formally inducted in recognition of their achievements and lasting contributions to Philippine sports.

     

    Among the honorees was para sports pioneer Adeline Dumapong-Ancheta, a trailblazer whose historic achievements helped redefine the landscape of para athletics in the country. Dumapong-Ancheta etched her name in Philippine sporting history at the 2000 Sydney Paralympic Games, where she became the first Filipino athlete to win a medal in the Paralympics after capturing bronze in powerlifting. Her landmark achievement not only placed the Philippines on the Paralympic medal map but also served as a catalyst for greater awareness and development of para sports in the years that followed.

     

    Her induction marked another milestone, as Dumapong-Ancheta became the first para athlete to be enshrined in the Philippine Sports Hall of Fame—an honor she described as representing something far beyond personal recognition, extending instead to the wider para sports community.

     

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    “There was a time that athletes like me were not expected on stages like these. Opportunities were few, resources were limited and recognition was often hard to come by. And this is why recognition means a lot to me,” Dumapong-Ancheta said on the occasion.

     

    Reflecting on the significance of her induction, she emphasized that the honor symbolized collective progress and validation for para athletes who have long worked within limited systems of support and visibility.

     

    “I know that this moment represents something bigger than myself. While my name may be on this award, it also belongs to the entire para sports community. An affirmation that para athletes have a rightful place in spaces such as this,” she added.

    Dumapong-Ancheta also pointed to the changing landscape of Philippine sports, noting that increased institutional backing, government support, and social media visibility have created new opportunities for athletes today compared to when she began her career. For her, the present moment marks a period of optimism and growth for both able-bodied and para athletes alike.

     

    “This is an exciting time to be an athlete, a para athlete, kasi iba na. Iba na nung nagsimula kami noong hanggang ngayon. They have all the support, from the government and the private sector are pitching in. Nakakatuwa. Kaya dapat mangarap sila mas lalo, magtrabaho sila. Really work hard, keep chasing the impossible dream and keep pushing the boundaries,” Dumapong-Ancheta continued.

     

    Although she officially retired from competitive para powerlifting in 2024, Dumapong-Ancheta remains widely regarded as a foundational figure in Philippine para sports. Her influence continues to be felt through the next generation of athletes who have benefited from the pathways she helped open.

     

    In her closing message during the ceremony, she dedicated her induction not only to her personal journey but also to the broader community of para athletes past, present, and future, encouraging them to pursue excellence without limitation.

     

    “To the athletes of today and tomorrow, dream bigger than your circumstances. Dream bigger than the limitations others may place upon you. Work hard, stay humble and continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

     

    “I may be the first para athlete to receive this distinction, but I am certain I will not be the last. I look forward to the day when many more para athletes stand on this stage and are celebrated too because they achieve excellence,” she concluded.

     

    Her induction stands as a historic moment for Philippine para sports, reinforcing her legacy not only as a medalist but as a pioneer whose impact continues to inspire a growing and more inclusive sporting community.

     

     

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  • NBA Trade Report: CJ McCollum agrees to one-year, $21M contract extension with Atlanta Hawks

    NBA Trade Report: CJ McCollum agrees to one-year, $21M contract extension with Atlanta Hawks

    The Atlanta Hawks have secured the services of veteran guard CJ McCollum for the foreseeable future after the 34-year-old reportedly agreed to a one-year, $21 million contract extension with the franchise.

     

    NBA insider Shams Charania broke the news on X (formerly Twitter), reporting that McCollum’s new deal also includes a trade kicker and was negotiated by agent Sam Goldfeder of Excel Sports Management. The extension ensures that McCollum will bypass free agency this offseason, having been eligible to sign a new deal until June 30.

     

    McCollum’s arrival in Atlanta earlier this year proved to be a significant midseason boost for the Hawks. Acquired in a January trade alongside Corey Kispert in a multi-player deal involving Trae Young, the experienced guard quickly settled into a leading role within the rotation. In 41 appearances for the Hawks last season, he averaged 18.7 points, 4.1 assists, and provided much-needed perimeter scoring stability, while shooting 35.7 percent from beyond the arc.

     

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    Beyond the regular season, McCollum’s impact was particularly felt during Atlanta’s late push toward playoff contention. He played a key role in a stretch where the Hawks won 18 of 20 games, helping stabilize an offense that leaned heavily on his shot creation and veteran decision-making. His presence also proved pivotal in the postseason, where Atlanta briefly held a 2–1 series lead against the eventual NBA champion New York Knicks in a hard-fought first-round matchup.

     

    One of the league’s most consistent perimeter shooters over the past decade, McCollum also extended his remarkable streak of three-point production, reaching at least 150 made triples for an 11th consecutive season. He remains the only player in NBA history to achieve that milestone in every season since 2015–16, underscoring his longevity and offensive reliability.

     

    Originally selected 10th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2013 NBA Draft, McCollum has built a distinguished 13-year career that has also included stints with the New Orleans Pelicans, Washington Wizards, and now the Hawks. Across his career, he holds averages of 19.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, along with a career three-point shooting clip of 40 percent.

     

    For Atlanta, the extension signals continuity in a backcourt that has undergone significant reshaping in recent seasons. It also positions the Hawks to operate as an over-the-cap team heading into the offseason, limiting their flexibility but ensuring that a proven scorer and veteran presence remains in place as they look to build on last season’s late surge.

     

     

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  • FIFA World Cup Roundup: Spain dominate, Egypt rally, Uruguay held in thriller

    FIFA World Cup Roundup: Spain dominate, Egypt rally, Uruguay held in thriller

    Group Stage action delivered a mix of dominant performances, dramatic comebacks, and tightly contested battles as four matches unfolded across Groups G and H. Spain opened their campaign in emphatic fashion with a commanding win over Saudi Arabia, while Egypt produced a strong second-half surge to overturn New Zealand. Elsewhere, Uruguay were held in an entertaining draw by Cabo Verde, and Belgium were frustrated in a goalless stalemate against a disciplined Iran side, as early tournament standings began to take shape.

     

     

    Spain 4–0 Saudi Arabia (Group H)

    Spain delivered a dominant attacking display to open their campaign with a convincing 4–0 win over Saudi Arabia.

     

    Teen sensation Lamine Yamal set the tone early with a 10th-minute opener, before Mikel Oyarzabal struck twice in quick succession (21’, 24’) to put the game out of reach before halftime. Saudi Arabia’s night went from bad to worse when Hassan Altambakti turned the ball into his own net in the 49th minute, sealing a comprehensive Spanish victory.

     

     

    Belgium 0–0 Iran (Group G)

    Belgium and Iran played out a tense, physical goalless draw in Group G, with discipline proving costly for the Europeans.

     

    Despite spells of pressure from both sides, neither team could find the breakthrough. Belgium were also reduced in intensity following a red card incident, leaving them to settle for a point in a tightly contested match.

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    Uruguay 2–2 Cabo Verde (Group H)

    Uruguay were forced to share the points after a dramatic 2–2 draw with Cabo Verde in an entertaining Group H encounter.

     

    Maximiliano Araújo opened the scoring in the 44th minute, but Cabo Verde struck back through Kevin Pina (21’) and Hélio Varela (61’) to take control at different stages. Uruguay looked set for defeat before Agustín Canobbio rescued a late equalizer in first-half stoppage time (45+6’).

     

     

    New Zealand 1–3 Egypt (Group G)

    Egypt staged a strong second-half comeback to secure a 3–1 win over New Zealand.

     

    Finn Surman gave New Zealand an early lead in the 15th minute, but Egypt responded after the break with a composed finish from Mostafa Ziko (58’). Mohamed Salah then turned the game around in the 67th minute before Trezeguet sealed the victory late on (82’), completing a controlled comeback performance.

     

     

     

    The opening rounds of the group stage fixtures showcased the unpredictable nature of tournament football, with established powers asserting dominance while others were forced to battle for control. Spain and Egypt emerged with statement victories, Uruguay were left reflecting on a missed opportunity after a thrilling draw, and Belgium were unable to break down a resilient Iran side. As the group phase develops, every point will carry increasing importance in the race for qualification to the knockout rounds.

     

     

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  • Fifi Sharma remains hopeful that Philippine volleyball will reach world-class level in the future

    Fifi Sharma remains hopeful that Philippine volleyball will reach world-class level in the future

    Fifi Sharma remains optimistic about the future of Philippine volleyball, believing that continued exposure to elite international competition will eventually help the country close the gap with some of the world’s top volleyball nations.

     

    Widely regarded as one of the Philippines’ premier middle blockers, Sharma has built a strong reputation through her performances in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) and as a member of the Philippine women’s national volleyball team. At just 25 years old, she has already established herself as one of the sport’s most recognizable figures, known for her versatility, defensive presence, and leadership on and off the court.

     

    Although Sharma was not part of the Alas Pilipinas squad that competed in the 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women’s Nations Cup in Candon City in June, she continued to support the national team’s efforts while keeping a close eye on the level of competition showcased during the tournament.

     

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    Having experienced international volleyball firsthand as both a player and spectator, Sharma understands the significant difference between local and world-class competition. Yet rather than being discouraged by the disparity, she sees it as motivation for Filipino athletes to continue improving and raising the country’s standards.

     

    For Sharma, tournaments featuring top international teams provide valuable learning opportunities not only for players but also for coaches, officials, and fans. She believes that witnessing elite-level volleyball in the Philippines can inspire the next generation of athletes and accelerate the development of the sport nationwide.

     

    “That we get to experience playing like this – this level of atmosphere, this level of play. Hopefully, eventually, we will reach this kind of level in the near future. It’s always inspiring to watch international-level volleyball, especially here in our home country,” Sharma said in a media interaction.

    The Akari Chargers standout emphasized the importance of continued international exposure, noting that competing against and observing stronger teams allows Filipino players to better understand the demands of the global game. Such experiences, she believes, are crucial if the Philippines hopes to become a consistent contender in major regional and international tournaments.

     

    Despite the growing popularity of volleyball in the country and the continued success of the PVL, Sharma acknowledged that there is still considerable work to be done before Philippine volleyball can consistently compete with the sport’s traditional powerhouses in Asia and beyond.

     

    The PVL has enjoyed remarkable growth in recent years, attracting large crowds, increased media attention, and a deeper pool of talent. However, Sharma recognizes that the pace, physicality, and overall quality of international volleyball remain on a different level.

     

    “I think we still have a long way to go in terms of reaching the international level. But having this kind of exposure here and making it accessible for Filipinos is a big help in developing athletes in the country,” she added.

     

    Sharma’s perspective reflects the broader vision shared by many within the Philippine volleyball community. As more international competitions are hosted locally and Filipino athletes gain opportunities to train and compete abroad, hopes remain high that the country’s volleyball program will continue to evolve and become increasingly competitive on the world stage.

     

    For now, Sharma is turning her attention back to club duties with the Akari Chargers as preparations continue for the upcoming PVL On Tour preseason tournament, which is scheduled to begin on July 8. The preseason competition will provide teams an opportunity to fine-tune their systems and build chemistry ahead of the next PVL campaign.

     

    As one of Akari’s key veterans and leaders, Sharma is expected to play a significant role in the Chargers’ preparations. While she remains focused on helping her club succeed, her aspirations extend beyond domestic competition. Like many members of the current generation of Filipino volleyball players, Sharma continues to dream of the day when the Philippines can compete on equal footing with the world’s best teams.

     

    With her experience, leadership, and commitment to the sport’s growth, Sharma remains one of the strongest advocates for Philippine volleyball’s continued development. And while she acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead, her belief in the country’s potential remains unwavering.

     

     

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  • “Kumpleto na career ko”: Troy Rosario cherishes first championship with Barangay Ginebra

    “Kumpleto na career ko”: Troy Rosario cherishes first championship with Barangay Ginebra

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel once again reinforced its reputation as one of the Philippine Basketball Association’s most successful and resilient franchises, defeating TNT Tropang 5G, 88-76, in a winner-take-all Game 7 on Wednesday, June 17, to capture the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup championship.

     

    While much of the spotlight naturally fell on resident import Justin Brownlee and Finals MVP Scottie Thompson, one player quietly delivered the kind of performance that helped tilt the series in Ginebra’s favor. Veteran forward Troy Rosario emerged as one of the Gin Kings’ most valuable contributors throughout the conference, providing timely scoring, rebounding, and defensive versatility whenever his team needed it most.

     

    For Rosario, the championship carried a deeper significance beyond simply adding another title to his résumé. Growing up as a fan of Barangay Ginebra, the 34-year-old forward fulfilled a lifelong dream by winning a championship with the franchise he had always admired.

     

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    “Hindi pa ‘ko magre-retire, pero ngayon pa lang kumpleto na career ko sa pro,” Rosario said in a media interaction.

     

    Rosario’s journey to this moment has been marked by perseverance and patience. After battling injuries that limited his effectiveness in previous conferences, he entered the Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup healthy and determined to make an impact. His presence gave Ginebra another reliable frontcourt option, complementing the team’s established stars while embracing the role asked of him by the coaching staff.

     

    His contributions were particularly evident in the deciding Game 7 against TNT. Rosario delivered one of his best performances of the Finals, finishing with 13 points on an efficient 6-of-10 shooting clip from the field. He also grabbed seven rebounds and dished out an assist, helping Ginebra control the tempo and maintain its advantage during crucial stretches of the contest.

    More importantly, Rosario’s energy and activity on both ends of the floor provided the Gin Kings with stability whenever TNT attempted to mount a comeback. His ability to defend multiple positions and convert key scoring opportunities proved invaluable in a championship-clinching victory that showcased Ginebra’s trademark depth and experience.

     

    Reflecting on the title run, Rosario expressed satisfaction not only with winning another championship but also with finally being able to contribute at full strength after previous injury setbacks.

     

    “Sweet kasi alam ko na hindi ako nakapag-perform sa last Commissioner’s Cup dahil sa injury. I’m happy na ngayon healthy, and nagawa ko ‘yung role ko, And finally, nakuha ‘yung championship na healthy rin,” he added.

     

    Rosario’s strong showing throughout the Finals was significant enough for him to be considered among the leading candidates for the PBA Finals Most Valuable Player award. Although the honor ultimately went to Thompson, Rosario remained focused on the bigger picture — helping Ginebra secure another championship banner.

     

    The veteran forward has enjoyed success at every stage of his basketball career. From winning titles in college and the PBA D-League to capturing gold medals with the Philippine national team in the Southeast Asian Games, Rosario has built an impressive collection of accomplishments. Now, with a second PBA championship to his name and his first wearing the iconic Ginebra colors, he considers this latest achievement among the most meaningful of his career.

     

    “I won championships sa college, sa D-League, at sa SEA Games. Tapos ngayon, pangalawa na sa PBA. I’m happy na nagawa ko ‘to habang malakas pa. And I hope makaisa pa,” Rosario concluded.

     

    As Barangay Ginebra celebrates another championship in its storied history, Rosario’s contributions serve as a reminder that title runs are often built not only on superstar performances but also on the sacrifices and consistency of role players who rise to the occasion. In a Finals series defined by grit, determination, and championship experience, Rosario proved to be one of the crucial pieces in Ginebra’s successful quest for the Commissioner’s Cup crown.

     

     

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  • “No doubt he is the GOAT”: Tim Cone hails Justin Brownlee after PBA triumph

    “No doubt he is the GOAT”: Tim Cone hails Justin Brownlee after PBA triumph

    For years, Justin Brownlee’s greatness in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has been defined by one enduring standard: championships. On Wednesday, June 17, he added yet another defining moment to a legacy that continues to grow into one of the most remarkable careers ever seen in the league.

     

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel defeated TNT Tropang 5G, 88-76, in a decisive Game 7 of the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup Finals, reclaiming the crown after a hard-fought series and once again affirming their status as one of the league’s most dominant franchises. For Brownlee, the victory marked his seventh PBA championship since first joining the league in 2016—an achievement that places him alone at the top of the all-time list for most successful imports in PBA history.

     

    The win also carried added significance for Ginebra, as it ended a two-year title drought and restored the Gin Kings to familiar championship territory. In a league where dynasties are hard to maintain and success is often fleeting, Ginebra once again proved their resilience on the biggest stage, with Brownlee at the center of it all.

     

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    TNT Tropang 5G had long been considered one of the few teams capable of disrupting Ginebra’s championship rhythm in recent years, having previously denied the Gin Kings in critical playoff moments. But in this winner-take-all showdown, Ginebra flipped the narrative, delivering a composed and physical performance when it mattered most to finally overcome their familiar postseason rival.

     

    A decade after first stepping onto a PBA floor, Brownlee continues to redefine what longevity and sustained excellence look like for an import player in the league. His ability to deliver in high-pressure moments has made him a constant difference-maker for Ginebra across multiple championship runs, solidifying his status as one of the most influential figures in modern PBA history.

    For Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone, there is little debate about Brownlee’s place in basketball history, especially after yet another title-clinching performance.

     

    “I don’t think there’s any doubt that he is the GOAT (Greatest of All Time). Although, there’s always going to be people who think otherwise. I think Michael Jordan is the GOAT, some people think it’s LeBron James or Kobe Bryant, there’s always going to be arguments. But, for me? My opinion, Brownlee’s the GOAT,” Cone said in a media interaction.

     

    Brownlee’s latest championship also saw him surpass Alaska legend Sean Chambers, who previously held the benchmark for import success under Cone with six championships. With seven titles now to his name, Brownlee stands alone atop that historic category, further strengthening his case as the most accomplished import in league history.

     

    Beyond the numbers, Brownlee’s impact has extended far beyond scoring averages and trophy counts. His consistency, leadership, and adaptability have made him a cornerstone of Ginebra’s identity and a fan favorite in one of the most passionate basketball markets in Asia.

     

    As celebrations continue for the Gin Kings, attention will soon shift to another stage where Brownlee remains a vital piece of the puzzle. He is expected to rejoin Gilas Pilipinas as the national team prepares for the next window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers scheduled in July, where he will once again carry the country’s hopes on the international stage.

     

    For now, though, the PBA belongs once again to Barangay Ginebra—and to Justin Brownlee, whose legacy continues to grow with every championship moment.

     

     

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  • EJ Obiena shifts training base to Greece, begins new chapter toward LA 2028 Olympics

    EJ Obiena shifts training base to Greece, begins new chapter toward LA 2028 Olympics

    Filipino pole vault star Ernest John “EJ” Obiena continues to solidify his place among the world’s elite in athletics, further strengthening a legacy that has already made him one of the greatest athletes the Philippines has produced.

     

    At just 30 years old, Obiena owns an extensive international résumé highlighted by multiple podium finishes on the global stage, consistent Diamond League performances, and a career-high ranking as World No. 2 in men’s pole vault. His achievements have not only elevated Philippine athletics but have also established him as one of Asia’s premier competitors in the discipline.

     

    Now, Obiena is entering a pivotal new phase in his career as he relocates his training base to Athens, Greece—a strategic move aimed at refining his preparation for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The decision also places him in closer proximity to top-level competition, including current World No. 2 Emmanuel Karalis, with whom he will share training environments under the guidance of coach Marcin Szczepański.

     

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    For Obiena, the shift represents both a competitive and developmental opportunity as he seeks to push his limits further in pursuit of Olympic glory.

     

    “Training with Emmanuel and his group is definitely a big thing. We have a bunch of different vaulters there, different strengths and weaknesses. I’m not really great at the gym, so I’m not the strongest athlete out there. Having someone that’s actually pretty good and strong pulls me to that direction. Training with someone has always been helpful. That’s how I got to World No. 2,” Obiena said in a media interaction.

     

    The move to Greece followed a brief 10-day training stint in Athens, during which Obiena evaluated his long-term direction before ultimately deciding to establish the country as his new base. The transition also marks the end of a highly successful 12-year coaching partnership with legendary Italian mentor Vitaly Petrov, under whom Obiena developed into a world-class pole vaulter.

    Petrov played a central role in shaping Obiena’s career, guiding him from a promising prospect into a consistent international medal contender. Under his mentorship, Obiena became the Asian champion, a World Championships medalist, an Olympic finalist, and notably, the first Asian athlete to clear the elite six-meter mark in pole vault history.

     

    Reflecting on their long-standing partnership, Obiena expressed deep gratitude for the impact Petrov had on both his athletic development and personal growth.

     

    “The more days that came, the more positive I felt about the decision I made. Vitaly has been more than just a coach for me. He’s been a mentor. Probably a second father or grandfather you can say. I owe the guy a lot. I really respect him. I love him,” he added.

     

    He further credited Petrov for expanding his ambitions beyond what he initially envisioned when he first began training in Formia, Italy.

     

    “I wouldn’t be here. My vision when I went to Formia the first year was to jump over five meters outdoors. Maybe at the end of my career, jump 5.20m. That was my vision. This guy, not knowing me, had a bigger vision for my career,” Obiena continued.

     

    Now fully focused on the next chapter, Obiena is driven by one remaining goal that continues to motivate his pursuit of excellence on the global stage: an Olympic medal at the Los Angeles 2028 Games—the one major accolade still missing from his decorated career.

     

    “That’s the medal I am missing. That’s the medal I want to get,” he concluded.

     

    Obiena is expected to continue his competitive campaign on the Diamond League circuit, with his next appearance scheduled in Doha, where he will look to maintain form and momentum as he builds toward the next Olympic cycle.

     

     

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  • PPF targets strong showing for the Philippines in inaugural Pickleball World Cup

    PPF targets strong showing for the Philippines in inaugural Pickleball World Cup

    Pickleball continues its rapid rise in the Philippines, with the sport gaining steady traction across local communities, recreational circuits, and competitive tournaments. What was once considered a niche pastime has now evolved into one of the country’s fastest-growing sports, fueled by increasing participation, structured competitions, and the emergence of Filipino athletes capable of competing at an international level.


    This growing momentum has positioned the Philippines as a nation to watch in the global pickleball scene, particularly with the inaugural Pickleball World Cup set to take place in Da Nang, Vietnam from August 30 to September 6. More than 80 countries are expected to participate in the landmark event, marking the first edition of the sport’s premier international competition.


    At the forefront of the country’s preparations is Philippine Pickleball Federation (PPF) president Sherry Anne Cu, who expressed confidence that the Philippines can make a strong impact on the world stage given the depth of talent currently emerging in the local scene.


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    “More than 80 countries are expected to participate. I personally believe, and many coaches, high-performance coaches, athletes, and professionals from other countries agree, that the Philippines has a strong chance to perform well and become one of the top nations in pickleball on the world stage,” Cu said in a media interaction.


    The federation is currently in the process of assembling its national delegation, carefully evaluating athletes based on performance, consistency, and international readiness. The Philippines is set to field a competitive roster in the Open Category, which features no age or skill restrictions and brings together the country’s top elite players.


    According to Cu, the national team will consist of a balanced lineup of male and female athletes, with five players selected per gender to represent the country in Vietnam.


    “We have an Open Category, which has no age or skill restrictions and features the country’s best elite players. We are sending five female and five male athletes,” she added.


    While selection is ongoing, the PPF continues to emphasize merit-based evaluation, drawing from athletes who have consistently performed in both local and international tournaments as well as those who have actively participated in federation-sanctioned events. However, Cu noted that the roster is not yet final, with several spots still open and tryouts continuing through an invitation-only system.


    “These players were selected based on their consistent performances in local and international tournaments, their participation in federation events, and their eligibility to represent the Philippines. We still have open spots, and tryouts are ongoing through an invitation-only process.”


    Cu also underscored the importance of support for the national program as the federation prepares to send a sizable delegation to Vietnam, with hopes of delivering a strong showing in the sport’s global debut tournament.


    “Our roster is still being finalized, which is why we need support. We are sending a large delegation to Vietnam and hope to make a strong showing for Philippine pickleball,” Cu concluded.


    The continued rise of pickleball in the Philippines has been reflected in the increasing number of grassroots and competitive events being organized nationwide. Tournaments such as the recent 1st KaTribu Pickleball Tournament highlight the sport’s expanding footprint and growing appeal among Filipino athletes of all ages.


    As the country builds toward its World Cup debut, expectations are steadily rising. With a developing talent pool and strong institutional backing from the PPF, the Philippines is aiming not only to participate but to establish itself as a legitimate contender in the global pickleball landscape.


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