Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Arjun Devgan

  • “We have to play like champions”: Vanie Gandler sets the tone as Cignal eye maiden PVL title 

    “We have to play like champions”: Vanie Gandler sets the tone as Cignal eye maiden PVL title 

    For the Cignal HD Spikers, the road back to the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference Finals has been anything but abrupt. It’s a return shaped by patience—two years of recalibration, system tweaks, and steady internal growth rather than headline-grabbing overhauls. The result is a squad that looks more complete, more mature, and far more dangerous than in its previous title bids.

     

    At the heart of that evolution is Vanie Gandler, whose rise from a complementary option to the team’s focal point has mirrored Cignal’s own climb. Once regarded as a promising piece with upside, Gandler has now fully embraced the role of franchise cornerstone—delivering when it matters most and elevating those around her.

     

    Her latest performance served as the clearest statement yet.

     

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    In Cignal’s finals-clinching victory over the Creamline Cool Smashers at the Mall of Asia Arena, Gandler put together an all-around masterclass. She poured in 24 points while anchoring the backcourt with 10 digs and 10 excellent receptions, showcasing not just scoring prowess but complete two-way impact. Against one of the PVL’s most decorated dynasties, it was the kind of performance that signaled a shift in balance—and perhaps, a changing of the guard.

     

    But for Gandler, the job is far from finished.

     

    “Our focus isn’t just making it to the finals, we pray for a championship. But that comes with challenges, and we have to play like champions,” Gandler said in a media interaction.

    That mindset reflects a deeper hunger within the Cignal camp. Since joining the PVL five years ago, the franchise has flirted with glory but has yet to capture its first title. They came agonizingly close twice—first in the 2022 Reinforced Conference and again in the 2024 Invitational Conference—only to fall short at the final hurdle.

     

    Those near-misses now serve as both motivation and fuel.

     

    With another finals appearance secured, the stakes feel different this time. The roster is more battle-tested, the chemistry more refined, and the leadership—both vocal and by example—more pronounced. For Gandler, the opportunity carries personal and collective significance.

     

    “It means the world to me because I see the qualities of a champion in each one of my teammates, they have made me a better player and person,” she added.

     

    Cignal’s return to the championship stage sets up yet another high-stakes showdown with Creamline, a team synonymous with winning in the PVL era. Game 1 is slated for Tuesday, April 21, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, where experience and legacy will collide with hunger and momentum.

     

    The question now is whether Gandler’s emergence—and Cignal’s long, methodical buildup—will finally translate into a breakthrough title, or if Creamline’s championship pedigree will once again prove too steep a climb.

     

    Either way, the stage is set for a defining chapter.

     

     

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  • NBA announces end-of-season award finalists for 2026: Star power and rising talent highlight list 

    NBA announces end-of-season award finalists for 2026: Star power and rising talent highlight list 

    The National Basketball Association has officially unveiled the finalists for its 2026 end-of-season awards, with the announcement made early Monday morning, April 20 (Philippine Standard Time). As the regular season draws to a close, the league’s top individual honors are once again at the center of attention, highlighting the standout performers across multiple categories.

     

    As is customary, NBA studio analysts revealed the top three finalists for each major award, including Most Valuable Player (MVP), Defensive Player of the Year, Coach of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Most Improved Player, Sixth Man of the Year, and Clutch Player of the Year. This year’s list features a compelling mix of established superstars and emerging talents who have made significant impacts throughout the season.

     

    NBA awards finalist list:

     

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    MVP

     

    • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)
    • Nikola Jokic (Denver Nuggets)
    • Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs)

    Defensive Player of the Year 

     

    • Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs)
    • Chet Holmgren (Oklahoma City Thunder)
    • Ausar Thompson (Detroit Pistons)

    Coach of the Year

     

    • Joe Mazzulla (Boston Celtics)
    • J.B. Bickerstaff (Detroit Pistons)
    • Mitch Johnson (San Antonio Spurs)

    Rookie of the Year

     

    • Cooper Flagg (Dallas Mavericks)
    • Kon Knueppel (Charlotte Hornets)
    • VJ Edgecombe (Philadelphia 76ers)

    Sixth Man of the Year

     

    • Keldon Johnson (San Antonio Spurs)
    • Jaime Jaquez (Miami Heat)
    • Tim Hardaway Jr. (Denver Nuggets)

    Clutch Player of the Year

     

    • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)
    • Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)
    • Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets)

    Notably, the league’s 65-game minimum requirement once again played a major role in determining award eligibility. Several high-profile stars were ruled ineligible for end-of-season honors and All-NBA team consideration after failing to meet the threshold. 

     

     

    Top players ineligible for NBA awards this season:

     

    • LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers)
    • Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors)
    • Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)
    • Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)
    • Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns)
    • Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics)
    • Jalen Williams (Oklahoma City Thunder)
    • Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers)

    However, exceptions were granted in certain cases. Luka Doncic and Cade Cunningham were both deemed eligible despite falling short of the 65-game requirement after successfully receiving an Extraordinary Circumstances Challenge exception. Additionally, while Edwards played only 59 games this season, he remained eligible for the Clutch Player of the Year award, as that specific honor does not fall under the same participation rule.

     

    With a diverse pool of finalists and several storylines shaping the race, this year’s NBA awards season promises to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. The winners are expected to be announced during the playoffs, adding further excitement as the league transitions from regular-season accolades to postseason intensity.

     

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  • “We will play, let’s see”: PNVF president keeps Alas Pilipinas expectations measured ahead of AVC Cup

    “We will play, let’s see”: PNVF president keeps Alas Pilipinas expectations measured ahead of AVC Cup

    The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) has come under increasing scrutiny in recent weeks amid growing concerns over athlete welfare, program structure, and its proposed draft system for the Alas Pilipinas Women.

     

    At the center of the debate is the reported draft mechanism for the national women’s program, which includes provisions requiring invited players to commit exclusively to the national team pool. The proposal has sparked discussion across the local volleyball community, with stakeholders raising questions about player autonomy, eligibility, and long-term athlete welfare.

     

    PNVF president Ramon “Tonyboy” Liao has moved to address the issue while steering attention back to competition, emphasizing that the immediate focus remains on preparation for the upcoming 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation Women’s Volleyball Cup. The continental tournament will be hosted in the Philippines in June, with Alas Pilipinas Women entering the competition following a silver-medal finish in the 2025 edition.

     

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    Liao stressed that while expectations are naturally elevated due to the team’s recent success and home-court advantage, the federation is not imposing rigid targets on the squad.

     

    “I don’t want to maybe say na we will copy what was garnered the last time. So ang amin is, we will play, and let’s see from then kung anong magiging resulta ng ating games,” Liao said in a press conference.

    The Philippines has been placed in a highly competitive Group A alongside Chinese Taipei, South Korea, Australia, and Uzbekistan. Liao acknowledged the difficulty of the draw, noting that all participating teams bring strong credentials into the tournament.

     

    “If you look at it, kahit saan ka mapunta, Pool A or Pool B, parang mabigat. Looking at it, parang the four teams are really, like in our pool, we have Korea and Chinese Taipei, and then Australia. The other side naman, you have Vietnam, Indonesia, and Kazakhstan.

     

    “So these are really countries na malalakas din ang women’s team. Pero siyempre, yung atin naman Alas Women’s Team, we always prepare for these kind of events. So hopefully, pagdating ng tournament sa Candon, this coming June, maganda na maging preparation,” he added.

     

    Liao also addressed the transition in leadership, particularly the appointment of head coach Tai Bundit following the departure of Brazilian tactician Jorge de Brito. Known for his intense coaching style and high expectations, Bundit is expected to begin shaping the team’s system in the coming training phase.

     

    “Coach Tai Bundit is sabihin nating he hates losing, as you know. So talagang ang preparation niya will be especially ngayon, ang tinitingnan kasi niya na past performance was silver. So parang challenge na kagad siya. Sabi ko, huwag muna iisipin yan. Banuin muna natin yung team at saka tayo mag-training ng mga ano,” Liao said.

     

    Despite the ongoing controversy, the PNVF has already begun assembling its training pool, sending out invitations to potential Alas Pilipinas Women prospects. The federation is awaiting confirmations from clubs and universities, with national team training expected to begin in the coming weeks.

     

    The 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup is scheduled from June 6 to 14 in Candon City, Ilocos Sur, where Alas Pilipinas Women will aim to build on their recent podium finish while navigating both heightened expectations and internal program challenges.

     

     

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  • Filipino roots remain central to Marcus Smith’s England rugby success story 

    Filipino roots remain central to Marcus Smith’s England rugby success story 

    Marcus Smith has firmly established himself as one of the standout young talents in Gallagher PREM Rugby, earning widespread recognition for his performances with Harlequins, as well as his contributions to the English national team and the British and Irish Lions setup.

     

    While the 27-year-old has built his international career with England, his identity has been shaped by a rich multicultural background. Born in Parañaque, Manila, to a Filipina mother and English father, Smith has never shied away from acknowledging his Philippine roots—a connection he continues to carry with pride both on and off the field.

     

    In a recent media interaction, Smith revealed a personal ritual that reflects his dual heritage every time he steps onto the pitch.

     

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    “I play for England, and I’m very, very proud of that. But every single game, I wear lucky shorts underneath my kit with a half-Filipino flag and half-English flag. That ensures that whenever I step on the field, I remember where I came from. I remember my roots. I remember where I first picked up a rugby ball, which was in Manila,” Smith said.

     

    Smith moved to the United Kingdom at the age of 13 after a brief stint in Singapore, eventually qualifying to represent England through residency and ancestry. Despite his rise through the English rugby system, he said his formative years in the Philippines continue to influence his mindset and values.

     

    “I think growing up in the Philippines, my mom Suzanne, my dad, and my family instilled a ‘family-first’ mindset. We are very close. They pushed and inspired me to achieve my dreams, whether that was in the classroom, building discipline and focus, or just playing with friends.

     

    “They also instilled a sense of togetherness and a love for being around people, which is massively important on the field. Rugby is the ultimate team game,” he added.

    Sporting talent runs deep in the Smith family. His brothers, Tomas and Luc, have also represented the Philippines in international competitions, including the Southeast Asian Games. The trio spent their early sporting years playing for Manila Nomads, the country’s oldest active multi-sport club, while also engaging in basketball and community sports across Quezon City and Makati.

     

    Smith emphasized that his motivation extends beyond personal achievement, drawing strength from those who shaped his early development.

     

    “Whenever I play, I remember to represent all those people who helped me. The coaches in the Philippines, my friends, my teammates. I keep them in mind, and that drives me to perform in a way that makes them proud,” he said.

     

    Off the field, Smith’s Filipino connection remains strong, often highlighted by the presence of supporters and family traditions during his matches in England. His mother, in particular, is known to bring Filipino friends to games and share home-cooked meals with his teammates—an experience Smith says has helped broaden cultural appreciation within his rugby circle.

     

    “It’s always a heartwarming feeling when I come off the field and see Filipinos in the crowd. My mom brings her friends, and sometimes it’s their first time watching rugby. I’m proud that I have been able to experience Filipino heritage and share it with my teammates from England, Australia, South Africa, Argentina. They all want to visit the Philippines now. Sharing that experience shows how special Filipino people are,” Smith shared.

     

    While Smith remains fully committed to England at the international level, he has not ruled out the possibility of representing the Philippines in the future, a prospect that could significantly elevate the profile of rugby in the country.

     

    “That’s a dream,” he said.

     

    For now, Marcus Smith continues to balance elite international rugby with a deeply personal connection to his Filipino heritage. As his career progresses on the global stage, his story stands as a reminder of how sport can bridge cultures and identities. Whether or not he eventually dons Philippine colors, Smith’s influence already extends beyond the pitch—serving as an inspiration for young Filipino athletes who aspire to reach the highest levels of world rugby.

     

     

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  • “It’s a huge honor”: Annie Ramirez on being named Philippines flag bearer for 2026 Asian Beach Games

    “It’s a huge honor”: Annie Ramirez on being named Philippines flag bearer for 2026 Asian Beach Games

    The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) has confirmed that Team Philippines is fully prepared for its campaign in the sixth edition of the Asian Beach Games, set to take place from April 22 to 30 in Sanya, China. The continental multi-sport event will once again bring together elite athletes from across Asia in beach and coastal disciplines, with the Philippines fielding a sizeable and experienced delegation.

     

    POC president Abraham Tolentino expressed confidence that the country’s preparations—both logistical and competitive—are firmly in place ahead of departure. The national contingent will feature 101 athletes competing across multiple sports, including beach volleyball, 3×3 basketball, triathlon, wrestling, handball, and jiu-jitsu, among others.

     

    “Everything is ready. We have done our preparations, and the athletes are set to compete,” Tolentino said, underscoring the federation’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and competitive outing for Team Philippines in Sanya.

     

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    Leading the Philippine campaign is decorated jiu-jitsu veteran Annie Ramirez, one of the most accomplished athletes in the delegation. A two-time Asian Beach Games gold medalist, Ramirez is expected to anchor the country’s jiu-jitsu campaign while also serving as one of the team’s flag bearers and senior leaders.

     

    She will be joined by fellow jiu-jitsu standout Kaila Napolis, forming a strong core for the sport that has historically delivered some of the Philippines’ best performances in the Asian Beach Games. Their presence is expected to boost the country’s medal chances, particularly in combat sports where the Philippines has consistently excelled.

     

    Ramirez expressed both pride and responsibility after being given one of the delegation’s leadership roles, emphasizing the significance of representing the country on a major international stage.

    “It’s a huge honor to be named one of the flag bearers for the Philippines. At the same time, it comes with added responsibility and pressure, especially in a big multi-sport event like this. I’m proud to share this moment with Yman, who is one of our rising athletes, and I believe we both represent the future and strength of Philippine jiu-jitsu,” Ramirez said.

     

    Now 35, Ramirez remains one of the country’s most reliable medal prospects. She further solidified her legacy after winning two gold medals at the JJIF World Championships last year, reinforcing her status as a world-class competitor in the discipline. Ahead of the Sanya Games, she has also transitioned to the 57kg division, a move that proved successful after she secured another gold medal last November in her new weight category.

     

    Despite the challenges of adjusting to a new division and the absence of an overseas training camp, Ramirez emphasized that her preparation has remained disciplined and structured.

     

    “My preparation has been consistent with how I approach my past competitions – staying disciplined with my training, strength and conditioning, and overall routine. The only difference this time is that I didn’t have an international training camp, but I made sure to maximize what I have locally and stay focused on my goals,” she added.

     

    Historically, the Philippines has performed competitively in the Asian Beach Games, amassing five gold, 10 silver, and 35 bronze medals in previous editions. Combat sports, particularly jiu-jitsu, have consistently been among the country’s strongest medal sources, alongside emerging success in beach volleyball and other beach-based disciplines.

     

    As Team Philippines departs for Sanya, expectations remain cautiously optimistic. While officials have avoided setting a specific medal target, the expanded and more seasoned roster is expected to improve on past performances. Beyond immediate results, the campaign is also seen as part of a longer-term build-up toward future international competitions, including the pathway to the 2028 Olympic cycle.

     

    With a blend of veteran leaders and rising talents, the Philippine delegation aims not only to contend for medals but also to further establish its presence in Asia’s growing beach sports landscape.

     

     

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  • UAAP standout Irah Jaboneta keen on entering 2026 PVL Draft

    UAAP standout Irah Jaboneta keen on entering 2026 PVL Draft

    The Premier Volleyball League (PVL) is set to usher in a new wave of talent as it officially opens applications for the 2026 PVL Draft on Monday, April 20. With the league continuing to grow in popularity and competitiveness, this year’s draft is expected to feature a strong pool of collegiate standouts, particularly from the University Athletic Association of the Philippines.

     

    Among the most notable early entrants is Nina Ytang, the three-time UAAP Best Middle Blocker from the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons. Ytang recently confirmed her intention to take her talents to the professional ranks, marking the end of a decorated collegiate career defined by consistency and dominance at the net.

     

    She may soon be joined by teammate Irah Jaboneta, who has also expressed a strong desire to enter the draft. Jaboneta, one of UP’s most reliable scorers in recent seasons, spoke candidly about her decision to move on from the collegiate level and embrace the next chapter of her volleyball journey.

     

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    “It’s time to take the next step na talaga and magpa-draft. Tanda na rin’ eh. It’s time for the kids and the remaining players to show what they have got. Kasi kumbaga, ako, I have served my purpose na talaga for UP. And sana talaga nakita nila at na-appreciative nila kasi every game, hindi naman kaming lahat ng players, and alam ko kaming tatlo every game talaga binubuhos namin kung ano kaya namin,” Jaboneta said in a media interaction.

     

    Jaboneta’s UAAP career came to a close on Sunday, April 19, following UP’s four-set loss to the University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses in the Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament. Despite a spirited effort, the Fighting Maroons bowed out with a 23-25, 25-21, 25-22, 25-19 defeat, signaling the end of an era for one of the program’s key leaders.

    While Ytang and Jaboneta appear poised to take the leap, team captain Joan Monares remains undecided about her immediate future. The veteran setter hinted at taking time off before making a final decision on whether to pursue a professional career.

     

    “Ako, magbe-beach muna ako. Titingnan ko kung saan ako dadalhin ng hangin,” Monares shared, suggesting a more reflective approach after years of intense collegiate competition.

     

    Monares and Jaboneta, along with Ytang, have been instrumental in the Fighting Maroons’ rise over the past five years. The trio endured a challenging rebuilding period that saw the program transition through five different head coaches, while steadily helping restore pride and competitiveness to the UP women’s volleyball team.

     

    Reflecting on their journey, Jaboneta emphasized the significance of their shared experience and the transformation they witnessed firsthand.

     

    “I would say since kaming tatlo, parang same same kami nag-start, we entered UP, and we played in UP parang sabay, hindi ‘yon madali. We witnessed seeing the crowd empty coming to now, seeing the UP crowd filling up the arena. Ako, kasi masasabi ko na my chest is gonna explode kasi somehow nandoon kami nung binubuo ang UP ngayon at kung ano UP na meron ngayon,” she concluded.

     

    As the PVL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on this new generation of UAAP standouts looking to make their mark on the professional stage. For players like Ytang and Jaboneta, the transition represents not just a career move, but the continuation of a journey that began in the collegiate ranks and now heads toward a bigger spotlight.

     

     

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  • Delta Pineda pins Converge’s PBA struggles on import Kylor Kelley 

    Delta Pineda pins Converge’s PBA struggles on import Kylor Kelley 

    The Converge FiberXers continue to search for answers in the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup, as their struggles deepened following another disappointing outing on Sunday, April 20, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. With a 94-106 loss to the Magnolia Hotshots, Converge slipped further down the standings, now holding a 2-6 record and languishing in 11th place.

     

    It was a game that once again exposed the team’s ongoing issues, particularly on the import front. Much of the spotlight fell on Kylor Kelley, whose underwhelming performance raised further questions about his role moving forward. In 26 minutes of action, Kelley finished with just seven points, six rebounds, and a steal, posting a -4 plus-minus despite a flawless 3-of-3 shooting clip from the field. While efficient in limited attempts, his lack of overall impact was evident, especially when matched up against Magnolia’s dominant import, Clint Chapman.

     

    Chapman delivered a commanding performance, leading all scorers with 22 points while anchoring the paint with 14 rebounds. He also contributed three assists and two blocks, proving to be a two-way force that Converge simply could not contain. His presence underscored the stark contrast between the two imports and played a pivotal role in Magnolia’s convincing victory.

     

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    Following the game, Converge head coach Delta Pineda did not mince words when addressing Kelley’s performance, pointing to it as a key factor in the team’s defeat.

     

    “Ito yung pinakamababang production niya,” Pineda said after the game.

    While Kelley has posted respectable averages of 13.2 points, 16.4 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game throughout the conference, his inconsistency has become a growing concern for the coaching staff. Pineda acknowledged that the team is already weighing its options, including the possibility of bringing in a replacement import as they attempt to salvage their campaign.

     

    “We are planning, pero sunud-sunod yung araw kasi. I don’t know kung aabot pa. But for now, ang adjustment namin for the next game either we have an import or not, I would like na ma-maximize namin yung mga locals,” he added.

     

    The compressed schedule presents an additional challenge, leaving little room for major roster changes. Still, the urgency is clear, as Converge risks falling further behind in the standings with each loss. Pineda emphasized that regardless of the import situation, the team must find ways to elevate the contributions of its local core moving forward.

     

    Despite the mounting pressure, Kelley is expected to get at least one more opportunity to prove his worth. Converge is set to face TNT Tropang Giga on Wednesday, April 22, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium—a crucial matchup that could determine the team’s next course of action.

     

    “If he will not perform in the next game, labas. Susugalan na namin yung locals namin,” he concluded.

     

    With their playoff hopes hanging in the balance, the FiberXers find themselves at a crossroads. Whether through a change in personnel or a renewed collective effort, Converge must respond quickly—or risk seeing their Commissioner’s Cup campaign slip further out of reach.

     

     

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  • “We want to show who we are”: Alyssa Valdez sends strong message as Creamline returns to PVL Finals 

    “We want to show who we are”: Alyssa Valdez sends strong message as Creamline returns to PVL Finals 

    The Creamline Cool Smashers once again underscored their dynasty status in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), punching their ticket to yet another finals appearance after outlasting the Farm Fresh Foxies, 25-23, 14-25, 25-23, 25-19, in the All-Filipino Conference semifinals on Thursday, April 16, at a jampacked FilOil EcoOil Centre.

     

    In a match that showcased both resilience and championship pedigree, Creamline leaned on its core veterans to overcome a spirited challenge from the upstart Foxies. Tots Carlos spearheaded the attack with 15 points, delivering in crucial stretches, particularly in the tightly contested first and third sets. She was ably supported by Jema Galanza and Jeanette Panaga, who chipped in 13 markers apiece to keep the offense balanced and unpredictable.

     

    The victory marked the 15th finals appearance in franchise history for Creamline, further solidifying its reputation as the league’s gold standard. Even more impressive is their sustained dominance in the All-Filipino Conference, where this latest berth represents their ninth consecutive trip to the championship round—a testament to the organization’s consistency, depth, and winning culture.

     

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    Despite their storied success, the Cool Smashers entered the conference with something to prove. The team experienced a rare dip in form over the past year, falling short in their title defense in the previous All-Filipino Conference and missing the finals in the three succeeding tournaments. For a team accustomed to competing for championships, the drought served as both a humbling experience and a source of motivation.

     

    Team captain Alyssa Valdez, one of the most recognizable faces in Philippine volleyball, acknowledged the significance of their return to the finals. Speaking to reporters after the match, Valdez emphasized that the journey back has been as meaningful as the result itself.

    “Coming into the Finals, we just want to show and even see for ourselves who the Creamline Cool Smashers really are after everything we have been through,” Valdez shared. “Of course, we are really happy. It feels so good to be back in the Finals. It’s been a while, right? Almost a year, three conferences without getting here. Honestly, it’s hard to put into words what we are feeling right now.”

     

    Beyond the statistics and accolades, Valdez highlighted the importance of rediscovering team identity and chemistry. The Cool Smashers’ campaign in this conference has been bolstered by the return and reintegration of key players, including playmaker Jia De Guzman, versatile spiker Bernadeth Pons, and Galanza, giving the squad a sense of completeness that had been missing in previous tournaments.

     

    “I think for this conference, our mindset has really been about getting to know ourselves better as Creamline,” Valdez explained. “This is the first time in a while that we are complete, so our growth and journey have been different. We have gotten to know each other on a deeper level because of all the challenges we went through. We are very thankful for that experience.”

     

    That renewed cohesion was evident against Farm Fresh, particularly in how Creamline responded after dropping the second set convincingly. Instead of unraveling, the Cool Smashers regrouped, tightened their defense, and executed more efficiently in transition to regain control of the match.

     

    Awaiting them in the finals is another formidable opponent in the Cignal HD Spikers, setting up a highly anticipated championship showdown between two of the league’s most competitive squads. Game 1 is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21, at the iconic Smart Araneta Coliseum, where a large and passionate crowd is expected to witness the opening salvo of the series.

     

    For Valdez and the Cool Smashers, the mission is clear: reclaim their place at the top of Philippine volleyball. With their core intact, confidence restored, and momentum on their side, Creamline now stands just steps away from adding another chapter to its already illustrious legacy.

     

     

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  • “Crawford beats Mayweather in their prime”: Manny Pacquiao’s comments fuel new GOAT argument in boxing 

    “Crawford beats Mayweather in their prime”: Manny Pacquiao’s comments fuel new GOAT argument in boxing 

    Boxing fans across the globe are bracing for what is being billed as one of the most high-profile exhibition-style events in recent memory, with reports indicating that Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao are set to meet once again in a rematch nearly a decade after their first iconic showdown.

     

    According to multiple announcements circulating on social media and attributed to Netflix, the two all-time greats will square off on September 19 in Las Vegas (September 20 in the Philippines), with the bout scheduled to take place at the technologically advanced Sphere venue. The streaming giant is expected to carry the event exclusively worldwide, marking yet another major push into live sports entertainment.

     

    Netflix confirmed the news in a post on X (formerly Twitter), describing the matchup as a historic occasion: the first professional boxing event to be staged at the Sphere, featuring two of the most recognizable names in the sport’s modern era. The announcement quickly sparked global debate and excitement, as fans revisited one of boxing’s most polarizing and commercially successful rivalries.

     

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    The upcoming fight revisits the long-standing narrative between Mayweather and Pacquiao, whose first meeting in 2015 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas was promoted as the “Fight of the Century.” That bout, years in the making due to prolonged negotiations, ultimately saw Mayweather claim a unanimous decision victory to preserve his perfect record. The fight shattered pay-per-view records but also drew criticism from some fans who felt the action did not fully live up to its massive hype.

     

    Mayweather, who retired from professional boxing in 2017 with a pristine 50–0 record, remains one of the sport’s most accomplished defensive technicians. Over the course of his career, he captured 15 major world championships across five weight divisions, ranging from super featherweight to light middleweight. His résumé also includes an Olympic bronze medal from the 1996 Atlanta Games in the featherweight division, underscoring a decorated career that spanned more than two decades.

     

    Pacquiao, meanwhile, carved out his own legendary path as one of boxing’s most dynamic and versatile fighters. Known for his explosive southpaw style and relentless pace, the Filipino icon became the only boxer in history to win world titles in eight different weight divisions. His career has been defined not only by championship success but also by his longevity and ability to compete at elite level across multiple eras of the sport.

    In the lead-up to the reported rematch, Pacquiao has already begun to stir conversation with his assessment of modern greats and past opponents. In a recent appearance on “Inside the Ring,” the 47-year-old veteran suggested that undefeated American star Terence Crawford would have posed significant stylistic problems for Mayweather had both fighters met in their primes.

     

    “I think Crawford beats Mayweather if they both fought in their prime. He has the advantage as a southpaw,” Pacquiao said. “I saw Crawford as a southpaw; he mastered it. He knows how to handle his advantage, to maximize his advantage, against an orthodox fighter.”

     

    The remarks add another layer of intrigue to the broader discussion surrounding generational greatness in boxing, particularly as fans continue to debate how fighters from different eras would match up stylistically.

     

    Crawford, who retired in 2025 with an unblemished 42–0 record, is widely regarded as one of the most complete fighters of his generation. His career included world titles in five weight classes, from lightweight to super middleweight, and he also achieved the rare distinction of becoming a three-division undisputed champion. Despite frequent comparisons to Mayweather from fans and pundits, Crawford has consistently expressed admiration rather than rivalry toward the former pound-for-pound king.

     

    “Man, listen. That’s the GOAT,” Crawford said of Mayweather in a previous interview. “Mayweather is one of the GOATs. I have nothing but the utmost respect for Mayweather. I would never compare myself to Mayweather. He’s the greatest of his era, and I’m the greatest of my era.”

     

    He has also pushed back against narratives that attempt to diminish Mayweather’s accomplishments or pit modern fighters against him in hypothetical matchups.

     

    “I don’t understand why, especially our people, hate on Mayweather so much. He made so much history for us. He paved the way for me to be where I’m at,” Crawford added. “I don’t know why a lot of people always try to tarnish his career or want me to be like, ‘I’ll knock Mayweather out’ or always try to compare us.”

     

    As anticipation builds, the reported Mayweather–Pacquiao rematch—regardless of its format—has already reignited discussions about legacy, longevity, and the enduring appeal of two of boxing’s most influential figures. Whether the event will recapture the global attention of their first meeting remains to be seen, but it has already succeeded in putting the sport’s biggest historical rivalry back in the spotlight.

     

     

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  • “I respect my contract”: Calvin Oftana reaffirms commitment to TNT amid interest from South Korea

    “I respect my contract”: Calvin Oftana reaffirms commitment to TNT amid interest from South Korea

    Calvin Oftana continues to solidify his status as one of the most versatile forwards in Philippine basketball, with the TNT Tropang Giga and Philippine Basketball Association standout drawing increasing attention from overseas clubs amid his rising profile for both club and country.

     

    The 30-year-old has emerged as a key figure for both Gilas Pilipinas and TNT, thanks to his two-way impact, perimeter shooting, and ability to guard multiple positions. His consistent performances have not gone unnoticed internationally, with his agent PJ Pilares recently confirming that teams from South Korea have expressed interest and are actively pursuing a potential signing.

     

    Despite the growing buzz around a possible overseas move, Oftana has made it clear that his immediate focus remains with TNT, emphasizing professionalism and commitment to his current contract.

     

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    “I respect my contract. I respect my team. Kailangan ko i-honor yun as a professional player. Happy lang ako na may mga ganung pangyayari sa buhay ko. As of now, focused ako sa conference na ito at sa all throughout ng contract ko,” Oftana said in a media interaction.

     

    While he acknowledged the attention coming from abroad as a positive sign of his development, Oftana stressed that he is not rushing into any decisions and remains fully locked in with his current campaign.

    “Hindi natin alam, di ba? Kasi hindi natin alam yung panahon. As of now, focus ako sa Talk ‘N Text kasi napamahal na ako dito. Sabi ko nga kay boss PJ, siya na bahala sa kung anong meron sa labas. Pero internally, dito ako sa Talk ‘N Text,” he added.

     

    Oftana’s rise has been steady and well-earned. A standout during his collegiate years with the San Beda Red Lions in the NCAA, he was selected third overall by the NLEX Road Warriors in the 2021 PBA Draft. After a brief stint with NLEX, he was traded to TNT, where his career has since flourished.

     

    Since joining the Tropang Giga, Oftana has become one of the franchise’s most reliable two-way wings, contributing to multiple championship runs and establishing himself as a core piece of their long-term plans. His achievements include three PBA championships, the 2025 PBA Order of Merit, the 2024 PBA 3-Point Shootout (Guards division) title, and multiple All-Star selections, underscoring his rapid ascent in the professional ranks.

     

    Beyond the numbers, TNT values Oftana’s versatility and maturity on both ends of the floor—traits that have also made him a valuable asset for Gilas Pilipinas in international competitions. His ability to stretch defenses, defend bigger wings, and provide consistent scoring has made him one of the most trusted options in the national pool.

     

    While interest from South Korea signals growing recognition of his talent on the Asian stage, Oftana remains measured about what comes next, prioritizing stability and growth within TNT’s system for now. Still, the possibility of an overseas stint remains open-ended, depending on future opportunities and timing.

     

    As the current PBA season continues, Oftana’s focus will be on helping TNT chase more championships, while his long-term trajectory—both in the Philippines and potentially abroad—will be one of the more closely watched storylines among Filipino basketball talents in the years ahead.

     

     

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