Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Arjun Devgan

  • LeBron James admits Lakers were “out-talented” in playoff loss to Thunder 

    LeBron James admits Lakers were “out-talented” in playoff loss to Thunder 

    The Los Angeles Lakers’ 2025-26 NBA season came to a disappointing conclusion after they were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs, suffering a 4-0 series sweep at the hands of the defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder.

     

    Despite entering the postseason as the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference and advancing past the first round with a hard-fought series victory over the fifth-seeded Houston Rockets, the Lakers were ultimately overpowered by Oklahoma City’s depth, pace, and two-way execution. The Thunder’s relentless tempo and superior roster balance proved too much for Los Angeles to handle, as the series exposed the gap between the two contenders over four straight games.

     

    The Lakers’ exit was made even more significant given the absence of their leading star, Luka Dončić, who was sidelined throughout the postseason due to a Grade 2 left hamstring strain. Dončić, who led the NBA in scoring during the regular season, was widely viewed as a crucial factor in Los Angeles’ championship hopes, and his absence left a major void on both ends of the floor during the series against Oklahoma City.

     

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    Veteran superstar and NBA all-time leading scorer LeBron James, who continues to anchor the franchise in the twilight of his career, has now had over a week to reflect on the team’s early playoff exit. Speaking on a recent episode of his podcast Mind the Game, alongside co-host and NBA legend Steve Nash, James offered an honest assessment of the Lakers’ shortcomings against the Thunder.

     

    “I have the passion and the admiration to hoist a Larry O’Brien Trophy up every single year, but I also have a realization of what particular team I have been a part of in that particular year. And understanding this year, we fought and we played to the maximum ability of our team. But ultimately, if we are being completely honest, we were out-talented,” James said.

     

    He further elaborated on the nature of the defeat, emphasizing that effort and preparation were not the deciding factors in the series, but rather the overall talent disparity between the two teams.

    “We were not outworked, they didn’t out-physical us, they didn’t outsmart us. I feel like we were just out-talented by OKC. They just possess so much more talent,” he added.

     

    James also acknowledged the impact of playing without Dončić, noting that the Lakers were forced to compete in the postseason under less-than-ideal circumstances against a fully loaded Oklahoma City roster.

     

    “At the end of the day, we failed in talent. OKC just possessed so much more talent than us. You can tip your cap to them, obviously, in understanding that. But you can’t get caught up in that, especially when you know you were undermanned,” James continued.

     

    Beyond the immediate disappointment of elimination, attention has now shifted toward James’ future in the league. The 40-year-old remains one of the most influential figures in basketball history, and uncertainty surrounds whether he will return for a 24th NBA season in 2026-27—a move that would extend his own record for the longest career in league history.

     

    In his podcast discussion, James made it clear that no firm decision has been made regarding his playing future, stressing that his immediate focus remains on recovery, family time, and reflection following another grueling campaign.

     

    “I’m still in the moment of just taking my time. I haven’t even really thought about it too much. Obviously, I understand that I’m a free agent and I can control my own destiny – being here with the Lakers for the foreseeable future or if it’s going somewhere else.

     

    “But like, I haven’t even really got to that point. I haven’t even taken my family vacation yet, which is going to happen after Memorial Day. That’s kind of the thing at the forefront of my mind. But I think at some point in June, late June, as July rolls around – free agency starts to get going and as July rolls around and maybe into August, we will start to kind of get a feel of what my future may look like,” he concluded.

     

    As the offseason begins, the Lakers face pressing questions about roster construction, health, and their ability to close the gap on the NBA’s elite—while the basketball world waits for clarity on whether James will extend his legendary career into yet another season.

     

     

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  • Thomas Tuchel shockingly drops Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Harry Maguire from England World Cup squad 

    Thomas Tuchel shockingly drops Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Harry Maguire from England World Cup squad 

    England manager Thomas Tuchel has sparked widespread debate across the footballing world after reportedly omitting Manchester City star Phil Foden, Chelsea forward Cole Palmer, and Manchester United defender Harry Maguire from his provisional squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

     

    With Tuchel set to officially announce England’s final 26-man squad on Friday, reports emerged on Thursday indicating that several high-profile names have failed to make the cut for football’s biggest international tournament. The news has triggered intense reaction among fans and pundits alike, particularly given the stature and recent international experience of the players involved.

     

    Among the most notable omissions is Harry Maguire, who became the first of the trio to publicly address his exclusion. The Manchester United centre-back took to Instagram to express his disappointment after what he described as a season in which he felt he had done enough to earn a place in the squad.

     

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    “I was confident I could have played a major part this summer for my country after the season I have had. I have been left shocked and gutted by the decision. I have loved nothing more than putting that shirt on and representing my country over the years. I wish the players all the best this summer,” Maguire wrote.

    Maguire’s omission is particularly striking given his recent resurgence at club level with Manchester United, where he has rediscovered form and consistency after a difficult spell in his career. The defender was also recalled by Tuchel for England’s most recent international friendlies in March, underlining that he remained part of the manager’s broader plans heading into the World Cup cycle. To date, Maguire has earned 66 caps for England and was a key member of the squad that reached the final of Euro 2020, although he was forced to miss Euro 2024 due to injury.

     

    The decision to leave out Phil Foden has also drawn significant attention, with the Manchester City playmaker struggling to replicate his usual elite-level performances for both club and country over the course of the season. Despite being regarded as one of England’s most technically gifted players and having featured in the nation’s last three major international tournaments, Foden’s inconsistency appears to have influenced Tuchel’s selection call.

     

    Similarly, Chelsea attacker Cole Palmer—who earned widespread praise after scoring in the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain—has also been left out of the squad. While widely viewed as one of England’s most promising attacking talents for the future, Palmer has endured an interrupted campaign marked by injuries and inconsistent form. His limited impact during England’s March fixtures is also believed to have weighed heavily in the decision-making process.

     

    Tuchel’s reported selections signal a bold and potentially controversial shift in direction as he prepares to lead England into the World Cup, with the omissions of established stars suggesting a renewed emphasis on form, fitness, and tactical fit over reputation.

     

    As anticipation builds ahead of the official squad announcement, the debate surrounding England’s biggest exclusions is expected to intensify, with supporters and analysts closely scrutinizing Tuchel’s vision for a squad tasked with ending the country’s long wait for a major international trophy.

     

     

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  • Respect over rivalry: MMA star Lito Adiwang explains reluctance to face fellow Filipino Joshua Pacio 

    Respect over rivalry: MMA star Lito Adiwang explains reluctance to face fellow Filipino Joshua Pacio 

    Filipino MMA standout Lito Adiwang continues to strengthen his reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s most explosive mixed martial arts prospects, powered by his relentless forward pressure, sharp striking arsenal, and a fan-friendly fighting style that has made him a consistent highlight-reel presence in ONE Championship.

     

    Known widely by his moniker “Thunder Kid,” Adiwang once again delivered a statement performance on the global stage after dismantling Indonesia’s multi-time national wrestling champion Eko Roni Saputra via first-round TKO in just 34 seconds during their bantamweight clash on Friday, May 15, at the iconic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

     

    The emphatic finish underscored Adiwang’s growing evolution as a dangerous finisher inside the cage, further cementing his status as one of the most electrifying strikers on the ONE Championship roster. Competing in the bantamweight division for this bout, the 33-year-old Filipino star showcased composure, precision, and killer instinct, ending the contest almost immediately and sending a strong message to the rest of the division.

     

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    Beyond the highlight-reel victory, Adiwang’s career trajectory remains a major talking point as he continues to explore a full-time return to the flyweight MMA division—where he believes his championship aspirations are most realistic. The Filipino contender has openly expressed confidence that a move back down in weight will position him for a deeper title run in ONE Championship’s highly competitive flyweight ranks.

    Following his latest win, Adiwang already has his sights set on potential future matchups, naming Chinese standout “Wolf Warrior” Hu Yong as his preferred next opponent.

     

    “I think for now the number one is Hu Yong,” Adiwang said in a media interaction.

     

    Adiwang’s decision to shift his focus back to flyweight also effectively cools long-standing fan discussions surrounding a potential all-Filipino showdown with reigning strawweight champion Joshua Pacio, a matchup that has generated significant interest due to their shared history.

     

    “Yeah, at least yeah, because in strawweight they keep calling, yeah, people want to see me fight Joshua, and that sucks. And now that I’m at flyweight, at least now there’s no more just like Filipino versus Filipino fights to happen, so yeah,” he added.

     

    Adiwang and Pacio were former teammates at the renowned Team Lakay camp, and both fighters have previously expressed mutual respect, with reports suggesting that they have been reluctant to entertain the idea of facing each other in competition.

     

    As Adiwang continues to rebuild momentum and refine his path toward a potential title opportunity, his latest victory serves as another reminder of his finishing ability and growing ambition within ONE Championship’s stacked roster.

     

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  • Ian Umali pushes for youth golf development after NCAA Golf Tournament win 

    Ian Umali pushes for youth golf development after NCAA Golf Tournament win 

    The inaugural National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Golf Tournament recently teed off at the historic Wack Wack Golf and Country Club, marking a significant step in the league’s efforts to broaden its sporting landscape beyond traditional mainstream events.

     

    Emerging victorious in the Guest Division was Filipino entrepreneur and fitness industry figure Ian Tantoco Umali, who clinched the championship title in dramatic fashion after finishing with a score of 80, equivalent to 28 points. Umali ultimately secured the crown via tiebreak after finishing level with Mark Ronquillo, who also carded an identical 80 for 28 points.

     

    The championship was decided by a narrow margin in the final stretch, where Umali proved superior under pressure. He tallied 16 points in the closing nine holes, edging Ronquillo, who managed 15 points in the same stretch, to seal the victory in one of the closest finishes of the tournament.

     

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    Despite walking away as champion, Umali admitted that he was far from satisfied with his overall performance during the competition, describing it as an unexpected triumph given his struggles on the course.

     

    “Actually, medyo nagulat ako because I actually felt like I didn’t play so well,” Umali said in a media interaction.

     

    Beyond his individual achievement, Umali emphasized the broader significance of the NCAA Golf Tournament, highlighting its potential role in developing young Filipino golfers and strengthening grassroots participation in the sport.

    “For me kasi this is really about just the younger generation. We are really trying to help them grow. Because golf for the NCAA is very, very good. It’s actually the first year we are doing the NCAA golf tournament. We were talking to the San Beda golf team nga. And we were telling them na we will support them, we will do training with them, they can go play with us also,” he added.

     

    Umali underscored that the long-term goal of initiatives like the NCAA Golf Tournament is to make golf more accessible to student-athletes, especially at a time when basketball continues to dominate the Philippine sporting landscape. Through his company, Quantum Golf, he aims to help bridge that gap by providing training opportunities and access to facilities for aspiring players.

     

    “So for me, I was telling the San Beda team and probably other teams in the future that they can use my facility for free in order to be able to train,” Umali continued.

     

    The entrepreneur also lauded Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick Gregorio for supporting initiatives that allow golfers aged 18 and under to access public golf courses free of charge, a policy he believes could significantly boost grassroots development.

     

    “Nung panahon ko, grabe. I always had to ask money from my dad for me to be able to play. But now, because of the PSC and their initiatives, grabe, libre na ang 18 and below to play. So hopefully, we can produce great talent and more individuals to be interested in golf,” Umali stated.

     

    In addition to his growing profile in sports development, Umali has also recently been in the public eye following his attendance at Creamline Cool Smashers games in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference, where he has been linked to Philippine volleyball star Alyssa Valdez.

     

    Despite the attention, Umali kept his focus on supporting athletes and local sports programs, expressing enthusiasm for being part of the broader sporting community.

     

    “I’m so excited to just be part of the journey and watch and support all the teams, and especially Alyssa,” he concluded.

     

     

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  • Tim Cone slams Barangay Ginebra’s lack of discipline after Game 1 collapse vs Rain or Shine 

    Tim Cone slams Barangay Ginebra’s lack of discipline after Game 1 collapse vs Rain or Shine 

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel opened its PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinal campaign on a sour note after surrendering a double-digit fourth-quarter lead in a stunning 115-111 defeat to Rain or Shine in Game 1 on Wednesday, May 20, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.

     

    Despite appearing to be in full control midway through the final period, Ginebra faltered down the stretch as Rain or Shine unleashed a decisive late-game rally anchored on the explosive performances of import Jaylen Johnson and forward Jhonard Clarito. Johnson erupted for 40 points while Clarito added 25 markers, powering the Elasto Painters to a crucial opening-game victory in the best-of-seven semifinal series.

     

    Adrian Nocum and Mike Malonzo also delivered timely contributions for Rain or Shine, chipping in 16 and 12 points, respectively, as the squad repeatedly punished Ginebra in transition and capitalized on costly turnovers in the closing minutes.

     

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    What made the loss even more frustrating for the Gin Kings was the fact that they squandered a 10-point advantage in the fourth quarter despite another vintage performance from resident import Justin Brownlee. The longtime Ginebra reinforcement once again carried the offensive load, finishing with 32 points, five rebounds, and five assists, but his efforts ultimately went for naught as Rain or Shine executed better in crunch time.

     

    Following the heartbreaking defeat, Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone did not mince words when assessing his team’s performance, particularly their lack of composure and discipline during the pivotal final stretch.

     

    “They hit the bigger shots and we played their game tonight,” Cone said during the postgame press conference.

    The veteran tactician lamented how Ginebra allowed Rain or Shine to dictate the tempo, pointing out that the Gin Kings fell into the trap of engaging in a fast-paced contest that favored their opponents.

     

    Cone stressed that unless his team regains its focus and discipline, their hopes of advancing to the finals could quickly slip away.

     

    “If we are going to continue to be like that, we are not going to win many games in this series. We have got to be tougher, we have got to be better, we have got to be more disciplined. They hit the bigger shots and made the bigger plays down the stretch.

     

    “The bottom line is we gave up way too many games. We made them play their running game and we made too many turnovers. We have got to be better locked in next time,” he added.

     

    The loss places immediate pressure on Ginebra heading into Game 2 as they now face the challenge of avoiding a dangerous 0-2 hole in the series. Known for their resilience under Cone, the Gin Kings will need to make significant adjustments defensively and take better care of the basketball if they hope to slow down Rain or Shine’s high-octane offense.

     

    Meanwhile, the Elasto Painters gained a major confidence boost after stealing the series opener and proving they can match up against one of the league’s most decorated franchises. Their aggressive pace, balanced scoring, and ability to capitalize on transition opportunities exposed several defensive lapses on Ginebra’s end.

     

    All eyes will now turn to Game 2 on Friday, May 22, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, where Barangay Ginebra will attempt to regroup and even the series before Rain or Shine gains full momentum in the semifinals showdown.

     

     

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  • From Messi to Ronaldo: Top 5 players with the most FIFA World Cup matches in history 

    From Messi to Ronaldo: Top 5 players with the most FIFA World Cup matches in history 

    The FIFA World Cup is the pinnacle of international football, where only the greatest players consistently perform on the sport’s biggest stage. Reaching multiple World Cups is already a remarkable achievement, but maintaining elite-level performance across several tournaments requires extraordinary longevity, consistency, and durability.


    Here’s a look at the five players who have made the most appearances in FIFA World Cup history.


    1. Lionel Messi (Argentina) — 26 Matches

    Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Lionel Messi sits alone at the top of the all-time World Cup appearance list with 26 matches for Argentina national football team.


    Messi’s World Cup journey began in 2006 as a teenage prodigy and culminated in glory at the 2022 tournament in Qatar, where he finally lifted the coveted trophy. Across five World Cups, Messi delivered unforgettable performances, countless iconic moments, and became Argentina’s undisputed leader on the international stage.


    His longevity, consistency, and ability to perform under immense pressure cemented his place in football history.


    2. Lothar Matthäus (Germany) — 25 Matches

    German legend Lothar Matthäus held the record for most World Cup appearances for many years before Messi surpassed him.


    Representing Germany national football team across five tournaments from 1982 to 1998, Matthäus became synonymous with leadership and tactical intelligence. He captained West Germany to World Cup glory in 1990 and remains one of the most decorated midfielders in football history.


    His versatility and endurance allowed him to remain a key figure for Germany over an incredible 16-year World Cup span.


    3. Miroslav Klose (Germany) — 24 Matches

    Another German icon, Miroslav Klose is best remembered for his extraordinary goalscoring exploits at the World Cup.


    Klose appeared in four tournaments between 2002 and 2014 and famously became the tournament’s all-time leading scorer with 16 goals. His 24 appearances showcased his consistency and importance to Germany’s success during one of the nation’s strongest football eras.


    He capped off his World Cup career by helping Germany win the 2014 title in Brazil.


    4. Paolo Maldini (Italy) — 23 Matches

    Italian defensive legend Paolo Maldini remains one of the greatest defenders to ever play the game.


    Representing Italy national football team in four World Cups from 1990 to 2002, Maldini built his reputation through composure, intelligence, and defensive mastery. Despite never winning the World Cup, he was consistently one of Italy’s most reliable performers on football’s grandest stage.


    His 23 appearances remain the most by an Italian player in tournament history.


    5. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) — 22 Matches

    Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo rounds out the top five with 22 World Cup appearances for Portugal national football team.


    Like Messi, Ronaldo enjoyed a remarkable World Cup career spanning multiple generations, appearing in five tournaments from 2006 onward. Known for his elite athleticism, goalscoring ability, and relentless competitiveness, Ronaldo became the face of Portuguese football for nearly two decades.


    Although he never won the World Cup, his consistency and influence on the international stage remain undeniable.


    Honorable Mentions

    • Diego Maradona — 21 matches
    • Philipp Lahm — 20 matches
    • Cafu — 20 matches

    These players not only showcased exceptional talent but also demonstrated the longevity and resilience required to compete repeatedly at football’s highest level. In a tournament where careers can be defined by a single moment, these legends built lasting legacies across multiple World Cup generations.


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  • Four senators throw their support behind Bennie Boatwright’s Philippine naturalization process 

    Four senators throw their support behind Bennie Boatwright’s Philippine naturalization process 

    The Philippine naturalization bid of Bennie Boatwright has gained significant momentum after receiving formal backing from key lawmakers, marking another important step in his potential eligibility to represent the Philippines in major international competitions.

     

    The San Miguel Beermen standout forward is currently undergoing the naturalization process, which was recently boosted by the co-sponsorship of four Philippine senators during plenary discussions held on Tuesday, May 19. Senators Francis Pangilinan, Jinggoy Estrada, Pia Cayetano, and Bong Go voiced their support for House Bill 6639, which seeks to grant Philippine citizenship to Boatwright. A parallel measure, House Bill 6644, also includes Filipino-American wrestler Matthew James Ramos in its proposed naturalization provisions.

     

    Boatwright was present during the Senate session, underscoring his personal commitment to completing the process as he eyes potential eligibility in time for future international tournaments, including the 2026 Asian Games in Japan. His attendance was seen as a strong signal of intent, reflecting both his desire to represent the country and the seriousness with which lawmakers are treating his application.

     

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    Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights chair Francis Pangilinan, who presided over the hearing, emphasized the broader sporting significance of Boatwright’s naturalization, framing it as a boost not only for Philippine basketball but for the country’s international sporting ambitions.

     

    “By embracing the Philippines and choosing to stand with Filipino athletes, Bennie Boatwright strengthens not only our basketball program but also our hopes of excelling on the international stage, defending our Asian Games title, and one day returning to the Olympics,” Pangilinan said.

    Senator Jinggoy Estrada echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the importance of strengthening national teams across multiple sports disciplines.

     

    “As a staunch advocate of basketball and sports in general, this representation has been continuously supporting measures that will improve the conditions of Filipino athletes and to make them globally competitive, dahil sama-sama tayong nangangarap na makita ang Philippine sports, basketball man o wrestling, na umangat sa buong mundo,” Estrada added.

     

    The naturalization journey of Boatwright began in 2024 when former Senator Sonny Angara filed Senate Bill No. 2646 during the 19th Congress, formally proposing the granting of Philippine citizenship. However, progress was temporarily slowed after Boatwright suffered an Achilles injury in August 2024, which sidelined him for an extended period and delayed the momentum of the application.

     

    On the court, Boatwright made an immediate and lasting impact during his stint in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, where he joined San Miguel as a mid-conference import. His presence proved transformative, helping power the Beermen to a championship run marked by consistent scoring, versatility, and leadership in high-pressure situations.

     

    He averaged 30.3 points, 12 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game during the conference, culminating in a pivotal role in San Miguel’s 104–102 title-clinching victory over the Magnolia Hotshots in Game 6 of the finals held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on February 14. His performance solidified his reputation as one of the most productive imports in recent PBA history.

     

    While Boatwright’s potential inclusion in the national program is widely seen as a major boost for future campaigns, immediate participation with Gilas Pilipinas remains uncertain. The national team is expected to rely on established naturalized player Justin Brownlee for its upcoming assignments, including the 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifiers scheduled for November.

     

    Despite the timeline, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas continues to pursue the completion of Boatwright’s citizenship process, viewing him as a valuable long-term addition to the national team pool as the Philippines looks to strengthen its competitiveness on the global stage.

     

     

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  • Jaja Maraguinot eager to rebuild career after signing with Capital1 Solar Spikers 

    Jaja Maraguinot eager to rebuild career after signing with Capital1 Solar Spikers 

    The Capital1 Solar Spikers made one of the most aggressive roster overhauls in recent Premier Volleyball League history on Thursday, May 14, signaling a decisive shift in identity as the franchise moves from rebuilding project to legitimate title contender ahead of the upcoming season.

     

    After previously positioning themselves as a developing squad focused on growth and chemistry, Capital1’s latest moves suggest a dramatic change in direction. The organization has now assembled a significantly strengthened core headlined by the acquisitions of former Cignal HD Spikers standouts Vanie Gandler and Erika Santos, both of whom are expected to immediately elevate the team’s offensive firepower.

     

    The Solar Spikers further reinforced their lineup with veteran setter Jaja Santiago, a move that significantly strengthens their playmaking stability and leadership presence on the court. The addition of high-level experience across multiple positions underscores Capital1’s intent to compete right away with the PVL’s established powerhouses rather than gradually building toward contention.

     

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    Another key acquisition that flew under the radar amid the headline signings was former Nxled Chameleons playmaker Jaja Maraguinot, who officially joined the Solar Spikers after parting ways with Nxled earlier in January. While not expected to carry a starting role immediately, Maraguinot adds valuable depth and experience to a stacked roster already loaded with versatile attacking options.

    For Maraguinot, the move represents both a fresh start and an opportunity to revive her career in a competitive environment. She also expressed gratitude toward Capital1 co-owners Milka and Mandy Romero for the opportunity to return to top-level action.

     

    “It was not easy but I’m really thankful for everyone in Capital1, they gave me this opportunity. It’s a process. I have been away from the game for a while. So, it won’t be easy. But we are in the process of making it happen with me in the team. And, I’m very thankful that I was given with this right timing to do that. And, it’s not gonna be easy. But, I’m ready to face the challenges,” Maraguinot said in a media interaction.

     

    Beyond the emotional significance of her return, Maraguinot’s arrival also creates an intriguing reunion scenario within the squad. She will once again share the court with former Ateneo teammates Vanie Gandler, middle blocker Pauline Gaston, and libero Roma Mae Doromal, adding familiarity and chemistry to a rapidly evolving roster.

     

    However, competition for minutes is expected to be intense. Capital1’s wing positions are particularly crowded following the arrivals of Gandler and Santos, alongside emerging talent Bella Belen, which may see Maraguinot initially deployed in a backup or rotational role as she works her way back into peak form.

     

    “In our terms, I will just dish it out to whoever has the hot hands,” she concluded.

     

    With a retooled roster, strengthened depth across all positions, and a clear shift in competitive ambition, the Solar Spikers are now positioning themselves as one of the most intriguing teams to watch heading into the new PVL season — a squad no longer content with development alone, but one ready to challenge the league’s established hierarchy.

     

     

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  • “Unacceptable”: Carl Jammes Martin slams Manny Pacquiao MP Promotions over event setup 

    “Unacceptable”: Carl Jammes Martin slams Manny Pacquiao MP Promotions over event setup 

    Rising Filipino boxing star Carl Jammes Martin continues to strengthen his reputation as one of the country’s most promising fighters, extending his unbeaten run while steadily climbing the global rankings across multiple sanctioning bodies. The reigning WBC Asia super bantamweight champion has built a growing profile defined by discipline, aggression, and technical precision, making him one of the most closely watched prospects in Asian boxing.

     

    The 28-year-old southpaw added another victory to his record on Saturday, May 16, after defeating fellow Filipino Carlo Demecillo in a grueling 12-round bout. While the win further solidified his perfect professional slate, Martin’s post-fight focus quickly shifted away from his in-ring performance and toward concerns over the event’s overall organization.

     

    The fight, staged under the banner of Manny Pacquiao MP Promotions, was reportedly held in an unconventional venue—a basketball court setup that lacked standard fighter amenities such as proper dressing rooms. According to Martin, the situation forced athletes to prepare in inadequate conditions, including waiting outdoors under makeshift shade prior to the bout.

     

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    Martin later voiced his frustration publicly, stating that the circumstances fell far below professional expectations for a fighter of his level and experience. In a strongly worded social media post, he expressed disappointment with how the event was handled by organizers, including promoter Sean Gibbons.

     

    “To the promoter on Saturday night, and to Mr. Sean Gibbons, I sincerely appreciate the effort and sacrifices made. However, I cannot pretend that what happened was acceptable. I did not wait seven months for a fight to be staged on a basketball court, without a dressing room and with me left waiting under a tree,” Martin wrote.

    The remarks sparked discussion within the local boxing community, particularly given Martin’s rising status and increasing visibility on the international stage. At present, he holds impressive rankings across multiple governing bodies, sitting No. 2 in the World Boxing Organization, No. 7 in the International Boxing Federation, No. 12 in the World Boxing Association, and No. 15 in the World Boxing Council rankings.

     

    Despite the controversy surrounding the event logistics, Martin emphasized that his performance and career trajectory remain his primary focus. He expressed concern that the situation not only reflected poorly on him professionally but also subjected him to criticism from fans and detractors online.

     

    “I am speaking up because my supporters saw what happened and once again the critics are having a field day at my expense. At this point, I do not know what comes next. But one thing is certain: I am deeply disappointed,” he added.

     

    The latest victory also extended Martin’s undefeated professional record to 28 wins, reinforcing his standing as one of the most active and successful Filipino boxers in recent years. With nearly a decade in the professional ranks, he reiterated that his track record should position him for higher-profile opportunities moving forward, including more competitive bouts on the international stage.

     

    “I have done my part through 28 fights and nearly 10 years as a professional. I believe I have earned the right to pursue the best possible fights and opportunities moving forward, all for my family and the supporters who stood by me through every high and low, never losing faith in me even during the hardest moments,” Martin concluded.

     

    As discussions continue around the event’s organization, Martin’s performance and outspoken remarks have further elevated his profile—both as a rising contender in the super bantamweight division and as a fighter increasingly willing to speak out on professional standards in boxing events.

     

     

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  • Dallas Mavericks part ways with Jason Kidd after five seasons 

    Dallas Mavericks part ways with Jason Kidd after five seasons 

    The Dallas Mavericks have officially parted ways with head coach Jason Kidd after five seasons, confirming the decision in a social media statement released early Wednesday morning (May 20, Philippine Standard Time). The franchise described the move as a mutual separation, closing a chapter that included both playoff breakthroughs and lingering inconsistency.

     

    In an official statement, team president Masai Ujiri paid tribute to Kidd’s contributions both as a former championship-winning player and as the coach who helped guide Dallas back to the NBA’s biggest stage in recent years.

     

    “Jason has had a meaningful impact on the Dallas Mavericks, both as a Hall of Fame player and as the head coach who helped lead this franchise back to the NBA Finals. We are thankful for Jason’s leadership, his professionalism and his commitment to the team. In my short time here, I have developed an enormous amount of respect for what he has built. He will always be an important part of the Mavericks family,” Ujiri said.

     

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    Kidd’s tenure in Dallas began in the 2021–22 season, when he took over head coaching duties following the departure of Rick Carlisle, who left to lead the Indiana Pacers. Over five seasons at the helm, Kidd compiled a regular-season record of 205–205, reflecting both the highs and lows of a team in transition, while also posting a 22–18 record in the playoffs.

    His tenure featured notable postseason success, including a run to the 2022 Western Conference Finals and a return to the NBA Finals in 2024, marking Dallas’ most competitive stretches since its 2011 championship era. Despite those achievements, the Mavericks were unable to consistently sustain elite-level performance across full seasons.

     

    Interestingly, Kidd had recently signed a contract extension that still had four years remaining and was valued at over $40 million. However, the financial commitment ultimately did not prevent the organization from making a decisive shift in direction as front-office leadership opted for a restructuring of the coaching staff.

     

    “As we evaluate the future of our basketball program, we believe this is the right moment for a new direction for our team. We have high expectations for this franchise and a responsibility to build a basketball organization capable of sustained championship contention. We will conduct a thorough, disciplined search for our next head coach and continue to evaluate our entire basketball operations staff to ensure we compete at the standard Mavs fans expect and deserve,” Ujiri added.

     

    Reports also indicate that Kidd had expressed interest in taking on a broader leadership role within the organization, including a potential path toward president of basketball operations following the dismissal of general manager Nico Harrison in November. However, sources suggest the Mavericks ultimately decided to pursue a different direction for their long-term leadership structure.

     

    A former superstar point guard widely regarded as one of the greatest in NBA history, Kidd leaves behind a decorated legacy both on and off the court. As a player, he captured an NBA championship with Dallas in 2011, earned Rookie of the Year honors in 1995, led the league in assists five times, and was selected to 10 All-Star Games. His career achievements earned him induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018, with a second recognition in 2025 as part of the legendary “Redeem Team” Olympic roster.

     

    With Kidd’s departure now official, the Mavericks enter a pivotal offseason, tasked with identifying a new head coach capable of maximizing their current core while pushing the franchise back into consistent championship contention in an increasingly competitive Western Conference landscape.

     

     

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