Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Arjun Devgan

  • Team Philippines targets improved medal haul in 2026 Asian Beach Games campaign 

    Team Philippines targets improved medal haul in 2026 Asian Beach Games campaign 

    The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) has confirmed that Team Philippines is fully prepared for the sixth edition of the Asian Beach Games, scheduled from April 22 to 30 in Sanya.

     

    POC president Abraham Tolentino expressed confidence that all logistical and competitive preparations are in place as the country fields a 101-athlete delegation across multiple disciplines in the continental showcase.

     

    The last edition of the Games, held in Da Nang in 2016, saw Team Philippines collect 21 medals—two gold, four silver, and 15 bronze. With a more experienced pool of athletes this time around, Tolentino believes the country is in a strong position to surpass that tally.

     

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    “Readying ready na. Actually paalis na yung 101 athletes. Kung ano man record natin, I hope we can surpass previous records. Maraming pwedeng pagkunan ng gold. So far, after previous, this delegation will be the stronger siguro no. Last one was ten years ago in Vietnam,” Tolentino said in a media interaction.

     

    Bannering the Philippine campaign is decorated jiu-jitsu standout Annie Ramirez, a two-time Asian Beach Games gold medalist who is expected to lead a seasoned core in Sanya. She will be joined by fellow jiu-jitsu ace Kaila Napolis, alongside key contingents in beach volleyball, 3×3 basketball, triathlon, wrestling, and handball.

    Historically, the Philippines has amassed five gold, 10 silver, and 35 bronze medals in the Asian Beach Games, with jiu-jitsu and other combat sports consistently serving as the country’s strongest medal sources.

     

    Off the field, the POC continues to strengthen its support system for national athletes. On Thursday, April 16, the committee formalized a partnership with Cleantech as its official fuel partner, a move Tolentino described as timely amid a packed international calendar that includes the 2026 Asian Games and the 2028 Olympic Games.

     

    “Very timely kasi marami tayong schedule of events. Lahat po ito kung ano mang tulong, maliit man o malaki, ay siguradong aabot sa ating atleta. Sana umabot ng 2028 kasi taon ng Olympics yun eh. Imagine kahit merong crisis sa Middle East, affected ang oil industry, still they managed to support our athletes. So maraming salamat,” he added.

     

    Cleantech Vice President for Finance Yeana Mercado reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Filipino athletes, including providing incentives for medal-winning performances.

     

    “Naniniwala kami sa potential ng mga atletang Pilipino. At gusto naming maging part ng journey nila papunta sa LA 2028 Olympics, gusto namin maging parte sa kanilang gagawin. It’s part of our agreement with the POC that there will be incentives for the medalists,” Mercado said.

     

    As the delegation departs for Sanya, expectations remain grounded but optimistic. Armed with a deeper and more experienced lineup, Team Philippines aims not only to surpass its previous medal haul but also to build momentum toward future major competitions on the road to 2028.

     

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  • Kawhi Leonard noncommittal on future following Clippers’ NBA exit

    Kawhi Leonard noncommittal on future following Clippers’ NBA exit

    The Los Angeles Clippers saw their 2025–26 National Basketball Association campaign come to a disappointing end on Thursday, April 16 (Philippine Standard Time), falling 126–121 to the Golden State Warriors at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood.

     

    In a tightly contested playoff clash, the Warriors leaned on their veteran firepower down the stretch. Stephen Curry once again delivered in the clutch, erupting for 35 points, including key baskets in the closing minutes that ultimately sealed the victory. He was well-supported by Kristaps Porzingis and Gui Santos, who chipped in 20 points apiece, giving Golden State the offensive balance needed to outlast a determined Clippers side.

     

    For Los Angeles, Kawhi Leonard led the charge with 21 points on an efficient 8-of-17 shooting clip, while also contributing seven rebounds. Despite his efforts, the Clippers were unable to capitalize on momentum swings throughout the game, particularly in the fourth quarter where execution proved costly. The defeat was made even more frustrating given that Los Angeles had beaten the same Warriors squad in their regular-season finale, raising expectations that they could replicate that success in a win-or-go-home scenario.

     

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    The loss not only ended the Clippers’ season but also reignited questions surrounding Leonard’s future with the franchise. When asked postgame about what lies ahead, the typically reserved superstar offered little clarity.

     

    “Let me cry about this loss a little bit more. We will have our discussions when that time comes,” Leonard said.

    Leonard, 34, remains under contract for the 2026–27 season, where he is set to carry a cap hit of approximately $50 million. However, his long-term future in Los Angeles is far from certain. He is projected to become an unrestricted free agent in the 2027 offseason and will soon be eligible for a contract extension. According to reports from ESPN, the maximum extension the Clippers can offer stands at $126.1 million over two additional seasons.

     

    Complicating matters further are recent reports involving both Leonard and the franchise in a controversy tied to alleged attempts to circumvent the NBA’s salary cap rules. The situation prompted league authorities to initiate an investigation, though Leonard appeared unfazed when addressing the issue.

     

    “I never thought about it too much other than questions asked. You will have to ask the NBA, not me. I’m not the one doing the investigation, I think we are going to be in the clear. I’m not stressing it,” he added.

     

    Amid the uncertainty, Leonard’s individual brilliance this season cannot be overlooked. The two-way star delivered one of the finest campaigns of his career, averaging a career-high 27.9 points per game while ranking among the league’s top 10 in field goal percentage, two-point percentage, and three-point percentage—a testament to his elite efficiency and scoring versatility.

     

    Widely regarded as one of the greatest two-way players in NBA history, Leonard’s résumé speaks for itself. A two-time NBA champion and two-time NBA Finals MVP, he has consistently proven his ability to perform on the biggest stage. His accolades also include a NBA All-Star Game MVP award in 2020, two Defensive Player of the Year honors, the 2015 steals title, and seven All-Star selections.

     

    As the Clippers head into a pivotal offseason, the focus now shifts to roster decisions and the future of their franchise cornerstone. Whether Leonard remains the centerpiece of the team’s championship aspirations or explores a new chapter elsewhere will be one of the most closely watched storylines in the coming months.

     

     

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  • Beau Belga praises rookie Shawn Umali, offers guidance after on-court duel 

    Beau Belga praises rookie Shawn Umali, offers guidance after on-court duel 

    The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters have stormed out of the gates in the 2026 Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup, extending their unbeaten run to seven games with a 124–117 victory over the Terrafirma Dyip on Wednesday, April 15, at the Ynares Center.

     

    Rain or Shine showcased its depth once again, with four players finishing in double figures. Adrian Asistio and Jhonard Johnson led the way with 18 points apiece, anchoring a balanced offensive attack that continues to fuel the team’s early dominance in the conference.

     

    Beyond the numbers, one of the game’s most engaging moments came from the spirited matchup between veteran Beau Belga and rookie Shawn Umali. The two big men traded highlights in the second quarter, with the 6-foot-3 Umali muscling his way to a one-handed scoop over the 39-year-old Belga. The veteran quickly answered back on the other end, knocking down a three-pointer in the next possession to the delight of the crowd.

     

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    Belga finished with six points on an efficient 2-of-3 shooting from beyond the arc, along with two rebounds and two assists in limited minutes. Umali, for his part, contributed five points on a perfect 2-of-2 clip in 11 minutes of action.

     

    Despite the competitive exchange, Belga was all praise for the young Terrafirma big man after the game.

     

    “I just wish the guy a better career. Bata pa naman yun. E, ako halos pa-retiro na,” Belga said in a media interaction.

    The veteran admitted he sees similarities between himself and Umali, while noting the rookie’s physical edge.

     

    “Mas mataba pa ako dun. But the good thing with us ni JR, nadadala namin yung katawan namin. Kaya naming i-manage, hindi kami nai-injury kahit mabigat kami. Yun siguro yung naging advantage namin.

     

    “Kasi maraming nagsasabi sa iyo kapag ganun ang katawan mo hindi ka magtatagal sa liga. Sa tingin ko naman napatunayan ko naman yun. I have been in the league for 17 years with this type of body and nag-survive naman,” he added.

     

    Belga also highlighted Umali’s potential, pointing out the unique combination of size and mobility.

     

    “Ang advantage niya mabigat na siya, hefty siya, plus mabilis siya. He just has to manage kung anuman ang meron ka and make it an advantage and not a disadvantage. Hindi ko lang ulam kung paano niya i-manage yung katawan niya, how he works out, kung paano mo dalhin yung sarili mo sa professional league kasi yun ang puhunan namin, yung katawan,” Belga continued.

    True to his role as one of the league’s most respected veterans, Belga extended an open hand to the rookie.

     

    “Anything that will be good for his career. I will be happy to help, kasi hindi ko naman puwedeng sarilinin lang yung alam ko. I want to share it to anybody, I want kung sino man yung gustong matuto,” he concluded.

     

    Rain or Shine’s perfect start reflects not only its firepower but also its chemistry and depth, qualities that make the Elasto Painters early contenders in the Commissioner’s Cup. Meanwhile, the Belga–Umali exchange offered a compelling glimpse of the league’s generational transition—where seasoned veterans continue to set the standard while guiding the next wave of talent.

     

     

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  • Mavericks’ Cooper Flagg joins Michael Jordan in elite rookie company

    Mavericks’ Cooper Flagg joins Michael Jordan in elite rookie company

    The Dallas Mavericks may have endured another difficult season in the standings, but one undeniable bright spot has been the emergence of rookie sensation Cooper Flagg, whose historic debut campaign has placed him firmly at the forefront of the race for the NBA Rookie of the Year honors.

     

    At just 19 years old, Flagg has delivered a remarkable all-around season, averaging 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game while leading the Mavericks in points, rebounds, assists, and steals. His ability to impact the game across multiple facets has not only elevated his individual stock but also drawn comparisons to some of the greatest rookies in league history.

     

    In fact, Flagg has etched his name alongside Michael Jordan, becoming the only player since the 1984–85 season to lead his team in total points, rebounds, assists, and steals as a rookie—a feat made even more impressive given that steals have only been officially tracked since the 1973–74 campaign.

     

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    Over the course of the season, Flagg accumulated 1,473 points, 466 rebounds, 316 assists, and 84 steals, underlining his versatility and consistency on both ends of the floor. Despite operating on a team that struggled to find rhythm and cohesion, the young forward proved capable of carrying significant offensive and defensive responsibility.

     

    His rookie campaign was also highlighted by several record-breaking performances. On April 3, Flagg exploded for 51 points against the Orlando Magic, becoming the first teenager in NBA history to record a 50-point game. Earlier in the season, he had already made headlines by scoring 40 points against the Utah Jazz in December, becoming the first 18-year-old to reach that milestone.

    Flagg’s scoring prowess extended throughout the season, as he registered four 40-plus-point games—surpassing the rookie total of LeBron James, who had three such performances during his debut campaign. These achievements further cemented Flagg’s place among the league’s most exciting young stars.

     

    Off the court, his popularity has surged just as rapidly. According to the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association’s end-of-season data, Flagg ranked ninth in jersey sales league-wide, notably emerging as the only rookie in the top 15—a testament to his growing fan base and marketability.

     

    However, the season ended on a sour note for the promising forward. Flagg suffered a left ankle sprain during the Mavericks’ 149-128 victory over the Chicago Bulls at the American Airlines Center on April 13 (Philippine time), raising concerns about his immediate recovery timeline heading into the offseason.

     

    Despite his individual brilliance, Dallas finished with a disappointing 26-56 record, missing the playoffs for a second consecutive year. The team’s struggles have underscored the need for further roster development around their young cornerstone, even as Flagg’s performances provide hope for a brighter future.

     

    In the race for Rookie of the Year, Flagg faces stiff competition from Kon Knueppel of the Charlotte Hornets. Knueppel has also enjoyed an outstanding debut season, averaging 18.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game while leading the league in three-pointers made. His contributions have been instrumental in guiding Charlotte to a 44-38 record and a ninth-place finish in the Eastern Conference standings.

     

    While team success may weigh into the final voting, Flagg’s historic statistical output and record-breaking performances make a compelling case for him to take home the league’s top rookie honor. Regardless of the outcome, his debut season has already signaled the arrival of a potential franchise cornerstone and future superstar in the NBA.

     

     

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  • “We know how hard we worked for this”: Vanie Gandler credits teamwork and growth in Cignal’s finals run

    “We know how hard we worked for this”: Vanie Gandler credits teamwork and growth in Cignal’s finals run

    The Cignal Super Spikers secured a return to the championship stage of the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference after delivering a composed and commanding semifinal performance, sweeping past the Creamline Cool Smashers, 25-13, 13-25, 25-16, 25-16, at the Mall of Asia Arena on Tuesday.

     

    But while the scoreboard reflected a four-set victory, the Super Spikers’ return to the Finals was defined less by a single dominant stretch and more by a collective maturity that has been steadily building throughout the conference. Unlike previous campaigns where momentum swings often derailed their rhythm, Cignal showed poise in crucial stretches, regaining control whenever Creamline attempted to mount resistance.

     

    At the heart of the breakthrough was standout spiker Vanie Gandler, who produced a well-rounded and efficient triple-double performance of 24 points, 10 digs, and 10 receptions. Her all-around display not only anchored Cignal’s offense but also reinforced their defensive structure, allowing the Super Spikers to stabilize during pressure situations and convert key runs into decisive separation.

     

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    Despite the impressive stat line, Gandler was quick to deflect individual praise, emphasizing instead the collective identity and shared purpose that have fueled Cignal’s rise this season.

    In the postmatch press conference, she reflected on the team’s journey and the emotional weight of reaching another Finals appearance, crediting both her teammates and the coaching staff for shaping her growth as a player.

     

    “It’s hard for us to answer kasi parang we can’t explain how deep this is for us. Kasi we know how hard we worked for this. I just have so much gratefulness for the team kasi the player I am today is because of them. And then the way the team is performing is because we just want the best for each other. It’s really not for ourselves, it’s for each other,” Gandler said.

     

    “I can’t explain how meaningful it is for me to reach the Finals again,” she added.

     

    Cignal’s victory not only booked them a Finals return but also guaranteed at least a top-two finish in the semifinal round, a significant achievement that underscores their consistency in one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory.

     

    The Super Spikers are set to conclude their semifinal campaign against the PLDT High Speed Hitters on Thursday, April 16, at the FilOil Centre, a matchup that will now serve as both a final tune-up and a test of their readiness heading into the championship series.

     

    As Cignal shifts its focus toward the Finals, their latest win stands as a testament not just to talent, but to cohesion, discipline, and a growing belief that this group is built for the biggest moments.

     

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  • POC confirms 101-athlete delegation for Asian Beach Games 2026

    POC confirms 101-athlete delegation for Asian Beach Games 2026

    The Philippine Olympic Committee (Philippine Olympic Committee) has confirmed that Team Philippines is fully prepared for its participation in the sixth edition of the Asian Beach Games, set to be held from April 22 to 30 in Sanya, China.

     

    POC president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino expressed confidence that all logistical and sporting preparations are in place as the country sends a 101-athlete delegation to compete across multiple disciplines in the continental beach sports showcase.

     

    Tolentino also highlighted the importance of the closing ceremony, where the Philippines is set to take center stage as the official host of the next edition of the Games in 2028, which will be staged in Cebu.

     

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    “Everything and everyone’s ready from opening to closing. We are also focused on the closing ceremony in Sanya, where the Asian Beach Games flag will be turned over to representatives from 2028 host Cebu,” Tolentino said in a media interaction.

     

    The symbolic turnover marks a major milestone for Philippine sports, as the country prepares to host a continental multi-sport event for beach and coastal disciplines for the first time in history, further boosting its profile in international sporting governance.

    Leading Team Philippines is decorated jiu-jitsu champion Annie Ramirez, a two-time Asian Beach Games gold medalist, who is expected to guide a strong and experienced core of athletes in Sanya. She will be joined by fellow standout Kaila Napolis, as well as key contingents from beach volleyball, 3×3 basketball, triathlon, wrestling, and handball.

     

    The Philippine beach volleyball squads and 3×3 basketball teams are also expected to be among the country’s strong medal prospects, alongside endurance-focused entries in triathlon and other combat sports categories. Despite the optimism surrounding the delegation, Tolentino acknowledged the level of competition and the challenge ahead, noting that podium finishes will not come easily.

     

    “It’s been 10 years since the last Beach Games. But we have athletes in jiu-jitsu, beach volleyball, and handball, and we also have entries in wrestling and triathlon,” he added.

     

    The Asian Beach Games returns after a decade-long hiatus, with the last edition held in 2016 in Da Nang, Vietnam. The event has previously been staged in Bali (2008), Muscat, Oman (2010), Haiyang, China (2012), and Phuket, Thailand (2014), reflecting its rotating international footprint across Asia’s coastal sporting hubs.

     

    This year’s edition is expected to gather around 45 National Olympic Committees under the Olympic Council of Asia, with additional participation from invited countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, and the Solomon Islands, further elevating the level of competition.

     

    Historically, the Philippines has collected a total of five gold, 10 silver, and 35 bronze medals across its previous Asian Beach Games campaigns, with jiu-jitsu and combat sports consistently providing the country’s strongest performances.

     

    As the delegation departs for Sanya, expectations remain measured but hopeful, with Team Philippines aiming not only to improve its medal tally but also to build momentum ahead of hosting duties in 2028.

     

     

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  • Philippine collegiate sports gets boost as NCAA introduces golf to sporting calendar

    Philippine collegiate sports gets boost as NCAA introduces golf to sporting calendar

    The National Collegiate Athletic Association (Philippines), the country’s oldest collegiate athletic organization composed of ten private colleges and universities in Metro Manila, continues to strengthen its role as a breeding ground for emerging Filipino sports talent with the expansion of its sports program.

     

    In a significant development for collegiate sports, the NCAA has officially added golf to its sporting calendar, further broadening a lineup that already includes disciplines such as gymnastics, weightlifting, and boxing. The move has been widely praised by key stakeholders in Philippine sports, including Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick Gregorio, who expressed strong support for the initiative and signaled plans to replicate the model across other academic institutions nationwide.

     

    “This is not an easy process and not an easy exercise. Pero pinatunayan ng NCAA na gusto nila tulungan ang Philippine sports. This a new project of the PSC and the NCAA. So, let me thank the board of the NCAA. Bilib ako sa kanila by including gymnastics, boxing, weightlifting, and now golf. What the NCAA is doing is really commendable,” Gregorio said during a press conference.

     

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    He further emphasized the long-term vision of expanding sports development programs beyond Metro Manila, particularly into Visayas and Mindanao, as part of a broader grassroots strategy aimed at strengthening the country’s athletic pipeline.

     

    “Mahirap lang ‘yung simula but the PSC is very happy and we are supporting the efforts of the NCAA for sports to grow. Tuloy tuloy po ito. Talagang we will encourage them. Mga state schools and colleges – sports development. Yan po ang ginagawa namin,” he added.

    The announcement comes after the NCAA Management Committee (Mancom) formally revealed on Tuesday, April 14, the staging of a special collegiate golf tournament scheduled for May 20 at the historic Wack Wack Golf and Country Club. The event will feature participation from six to seven member schools, serving as a pilot competition ahead of golf’s expected full integration into the league’s official calendar in the coming years.

     

    According to NCAA Mancom chairman Melchor Divina of Mapúa University, the introduction of golf marks an important step in diversifying the league’s sports offerings and nurturing talent in non-traditional collegiate disciplines.

     

    “Magandang simula ito na with collegiate golf, gaganda pa lalo ang golf in the country. We can encourage more. Everything that we do here is for the good of the sport,” Divina said.

     

    He also confirmed that the league is targeting the full inclusion of golf as a regular sport within the NCAA program within the next two to three years, depending on the success of the initial tournaments and continued support from member institutions.

     

    To ensure the smooth launch and development of the sport at the collegiate level, the NCAA has partnered with the Pilipinas College Golf Series, an independent organization that has been instrumental in organizing golf competitions across the country. The collaboration is expected to provide technical expertise, tournament management support, and a structured pathway for student-athletes interested in pursuing golf competitively.

     

    With this expansion, the NCAA reinforces its commitment not only to traditional powerhouse sports but also to emerging disciplines, strengthening its position as a key driver of grassroots athletic development in Philippine sports.

     

     

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  • Kim Kianna Dy calls out PLDT’s finishing issues after crucial PVL semifinal loss

    Kim Kianna Dy calls out PLDT’s finishing issues after crucial PVL semifinal loss

    The PLDT High Speed Hitters saw their hopes of reaching the finals of the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference take a significant blow after absorbing a stunning four-set defeat at the hands of the Farm Fresh Foxies on Tuesday, April 14, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    In a match that swung in momentum several times, the Foxies emerged victorious, 25-23, 18-25, 25-19, 25-23, dealing PLDT their second consecutive loss in the semifinal round and pushing them to the brink of elimination.

     

    At the heart of Farm Fresh’s breakthrough win was rising star Trisha Tubu, who delivered a career-defining performance. The young spiker erupted for 28 points and showcased remarkable composure under pressure, particularly in the closing stretch of the fourth set. With the match hanging in the balance, Tubu scored all but one of the Foxies’ final seven points, powering a dramatic comeback that stunned both PLDT and the crowd.

     

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    PLDT, which had entered the semifinals as the top-seeded team with just one loss in the preliminary phase, appeared poised to extend the match to a deciding fifth set. However, their inability to close out crucial moments once again proved costly—a concern that has lingered despite their strong showing earlier in the conference.

     

    Star hitter Kim Kianna Dy did not hide her frustration following the defeat, pointing to the team’s struggles in finishing games as a recurring issue.

     

    “It’s how we end the game talaga. It’s always almost there but not getting the goal. It’s really something we have to work on hanggang sa dulo because wala eh, sayang. Breaks of the game din eh,” Dy said in a media interaction.

    “Farm Fresh wanted it more. Sayang lang ‘yung opportunity kasi we were so close to going into the fifth set,” she added.

     

    The loss was particularly painful given PLDT’s dominant run in the group stage, where they established themselves as one of the title favorites. From a position of strength, the High Speed Hitters now find themselves in a precarious situation, with their finals hopes hanging by a thread after back-to-back semifinal setbacks.

     

    Another defeat—this time against the Cignal Super Spikers—would officially end their campaign, making their upcoming match a virtual do-or-die encounter.

     

    Despite the uphill battle, Dy emphasized that the team has not lost belief, even as emotions ran high in the aftermath of the loss.

     

    “It’s sad eh, very sad. The mood in the dugout, people were sad kasi it’s tough for us na to reach the finals. We have one more game to work on and the conference is not yet over for us. We have a chance to finish strong so we are gonna continue working on sa mga kulang namin.

     

    “We are still gonna give our all. The conference is not yet over for us and it’s still an important game. We are gonna see how do we bounce back from this kasi we can’t be satisfied with where we are now. Obviously, kulang kasi talo,” Dy concluded.

     

    All eyes will now be on PLDT as they attempt to regroup and salvage their campaign in their final semifinal assignment against Cignal on Thursday, April 16, at the FilOil Centre.

     

    With their backs against the wall, the High Speed Hitters face their toughest test yet—not just in terms of skill and execution, but in resilience and character—as they fight to keep their championship aspirations alive.

     

     

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  • Yeng Guiao warns against complacency amid Rain or Shine’s unbeaten start in the Commissioner’s Cup

    Yeng Guiao warns against complacency amid Rain or Shine’s unbeaten start in the Commissioner’s Cup

    The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters have emerged as one of the early stories of the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup, storming out of the gates with a flawless 6–0 record. The hot start not only places them firmly atop the standings but also marks the best opening in franchise history, signaling a team that may finally be ready to contend at the highest level.

     

    Despite the impressive run, veteran head coach Yeng Guiao remains grounded, cautioning his squad against the dangers of overconfidence. Known for his disciplined and no-nonsense approach, Guiao emphasized that sustaining success requires constant vigilance—especially in a league as competitive as the PBA.

     

    “That’s always the fear of coaches especially if you are on a winning streak. Magbabanty ka rin kung hanggang kailan ito. So we just try to be consistent with what we do, and what we do in practice,” Guiao said in a media interaction.

     

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    Rain or Shine’s unblemished start has been built on resilience and cohesion, traits that have developed over time. Guiao pointed out that the team’s core has been together for several seasons, steadily gaining experience through multiple deep playoff runs. The Elasto Painters have reached the semifinals in four of the last five conferences, a stretch that has helped shape their identity and composure in high-pressure situations.

    “It takes years to mature. We have been making the semifinals four out of the last five conferences, and I think that’s part of the maturity already. Although wala pa kami dun ngayon, palagay ko malaking tulong yung experience na yun,” he added.

     

    That maturity has already been put to the test early in the conference. Rain or Shine pulled off remarkable comeback victories against powerhouse squads like the San Miguel Beermen and the Converge FiberXers, overcoming deficits of more than 20 points in both contests. Such performances underscore not just talent, but a growing belief within the roster that no game is out of reach.

     

    For Guiao, however, these wins are not signs of overnight success but rather the result of a long and deliberate process.

     

    “Hindi ka naman bigla-biglang gagaling na lang. There’s a process to it, and we are just going through that process,” Guiao concluded.

     

    As the Elasto Painters prepare for their next assignment, the focus remains on consistency rather than milestones. They will look to extend their winning streak to seven when they take on the Terrafirma Dyip on Wednesday, April 15, at the Ynares Center.

     

     

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  • Creamline’s Bernadeth Pons named PVL Player of the Week after semifinal heroics

    Creamline’s Bernadeth Pons named PVL Player of the Week after semifinal heroics

    Creamline Cool Smashers reaffirmed their status as one of the top contenders in the Premier Volleyball League after opening their All-Filipino Conference semifinal campaign with a thrilling come-from-behind victory on Saturday, April 11, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    In front of a roaring crowd of 12,411 fans, Creamline outlasted their opponents in a five-set battle, 22–25, 27–25, 19–25, 28–26, 15–10, showcasing both resilience and championship poise. The match was a rollercoaster from start to finish, with momentum swinging back and forth before the Cool Smashers dug deep in the latter stages to secure the crucial opening win of the semifinal series.

     

    Leading the charge was Bernadeth Pons, who delivered a career-defining performance when her team needed it most. The veteran outside hitter erupted for 28 points built on 21 attacks, four blocks, and three service aces, while also anchoring the defensive end with 22 excellent receptions and 16 digs. Her all-around brilliance proved instrumental in keeping Creamline within striking distance before taking over in the decisive moments.

     

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    “Alam ko talaga na kaya naming kuhanin yung fourth set. Kahit na lumamang sila, kaya naming humabol. And sobrang thankful lang din kasi grabe din talaga yung effort ng bawat isa. Kasi gusto din talaga ng bawat isa na maipanalo yung game,” Pons said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    Pons’ standout outing in the semifinals builds on her strong form heading into the round. Just days earlier, the 2024 Reinforced Conference Most Valuable Player played a key role in Creamline’s must-win Play-In victory over the Akari Chargers, where she contributed 13 points and 17 digs to help her squad advance.

    At 29, Pons appears to be peaking at the perfect time for Creamline, combining offensive firepower with defensive consistency. Her leadership on the court has been vital, especially in high-pressure situations where experience and composure often spell the difference between victory and defeat.

     

    Her recent heroics did not go unnoticed, as she was named the PVL Press Corps Player of the Week, an award presented by sportswriters covering the league. Pons edged out strong contenders including fellow Creamline star Alyssa Valdez, as well as Cignal HD Spikers standouts Erika Santos and Vanie Gandler, and Farm Fresh Foxies scorer Trisha Tubu.

     

    Beyond the individual accolades, Pons emphasized the team’s collective mindset entering the semifinals—a fresh start despite their previous results in the conference.

     

    “Coming into the semifinals, na-remind kami ni coach na lahat ng mga past games namin, tapos na ‘yun eh. 0-0 ulit. So, ‘yun parang sobrang prinepare din talaga. Sobrang grateful din kami na lumabas yung mga pinag-ensayuhan namin, kahit medyo on and off,” she added.

     

    Creamline’s ability to reset mentally and execute under pressure was evident throughout the match, particularly in the tightly contested fourth set where they fended off multiple challenges before forcing a decider. In the fifth set, the Cool Smashers asserted control early and never looked back, riding on Pons’ momentum and timely contributions from the rest of the squad.

     

    With the series now in their favor, Creamline will look to carry this momentum into their next outing as they aim to secure a finals berth. Pons, in particular, will be expected to maintain her high level of play when the Cool Smashers return to action on Tuesday, April 14, once again at the Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    As the semifinals intensify, Creamline’s blend of experience, depth, and clutch performance continues to make them a formidable force, with Pons emerging as a key figure in their pursuit of yet another PVL title.

     

     

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