Author: Arjun Devgan

  • Tim Cone stays upbeat despite Barangay Ginebra’s loss to San Miguel on Easter Sunday

    Tim Cone stays upbeat despite Barangay Ginebra’s loss to San Miguel on Easter Sunday

    The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner’s Cup continues to test the early-season form of powerhouse Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, as the Gin Kings stumbled to another tough loss—this time against their long-time rivals, the San Miguel Beermen—on Easter Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

    In a tightly contested battle that lived up to the rivalry’s billing, Ginebra absorbed an 82-85 defeat, continuing what has been an uncharacteristically slow and inconsistent start to their Commissioner’s Cup campaign. Despite flashes of strong execution and control for much of the game, the Gin Kings ultimately faltered in the closing moments, allowing the Beermen to snatch the win late.

     

    Leading the charge for Ginebra was resident import Justin Brownlee, who once again delivered a standout performance. The veteran forward poured in a game-high 31 points while adding three rebounds and three assists, logging heavy minutes and serving as the focal point of the team’s offense throughout the contest.

     

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    However, Brownlee’s impressive stat line could not fully mask Ginebra’s late-game struggles. In a cruel twist, the prolific scorer missed three crucial free throws down the stretch—misses that proved costly in a game ultimately decided by just three points.

     

    What made the loss even more frustrating for Ginebra was the fact that they had been in firm control earlier in the game. The Gin Kings built a commanding 15-point lead at one stage and, statistically, even outperformed San Miguel in several key areas. Ginebra shot 38 percent from the field compared to the Beermen’s 35.2 percent clip, and consistently found quality looks within their offensive sets.

     

    The difference, however, came from the charity stripe. Ginebra struggled mightily with their free-throw shooting, converting just 60 percent of their attempts, while San Miguel capitalized on their opportunities with a highly efficient 90 percent conversion rate. In a game of such fine margins, those missed points loomed large.

    Despite the disappointing result, head coach Tim Cone chose to focus on the positives rather than dwell on the defeat. Speaking in the postgame press conference, the veteran tactician emphasized that the team executed much of their game plan effectively.

     

    “I thought we did a good job in many areas of the game, we did what we wanted to do, and sometimes you do everything you’re supposed to do, and you’ll come out short against a team like this,” Cone said.

     

    Cone also acknowledged San Miguel’s defensive effort while pointing out that Ginebra generated good scoring opportunities despite not shooting at an elite level.

     

    “I thought we had a good game, I thought we played well. I didn’t think we shot the ball particularly well, but we were also getting good shots. Credit to the Beermen for their defensive side,” he added.

     

    For Cone, the narrow loss serves more as a learning experience than a cause for alarm. The multi-time champion coach remains confident that if Ginebra continues to perform at this level, results will eventually follow.

     

    “We came up with one big shot, missed some free throws down the stretch, and they hit the big shot down the stretch. But overall, I’m pleased with the way we played, and if we keep playing like this we’re going to compete for the championship.

     

    “We’re not going to hang our heads too low right now. I thought we played well, just not well enough. But we can play better,” Cone concluded.

     

    As the Commissioner’s Cup progresses, consistency will be key for Ginebra as they look to regain their footing and reassert themselves as title contenders. With the talent and experience on their roster, the Gin Kings remain a dangerous squad—but they will need to clean up late-game execution and capitalize on scoring opportunities if they hope to turn close losses into victories.

    All eyes will now be on their next assignment, as Barangay Ginebra looks to bounce back against the Magnolia Hotshots on Friday, April 10, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

     

     

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  • Eli Soyud banks on “tiyaga at pasensiya” as Akari faces Creamline in must-win PVL game

    Eli Soyud banks on “tiyaga at pasensiya” as Akari faces Creamline in must-win PVL game

    The conclusion of the Holy Week break in the Philippines signals a highly anticipated return to action in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), as the intensity ramps up in the ongoing All-Filipino Conference. With semifinal spots on the line, four teams are set to clash in the Play-In round, where every possession, rally, and point carries significant weight.

     

    Among the marquee matchups is a compelling showdown between perennial contenders Creamline Cool Smashers and the rising Akari Chargers—a duel that has drawn considerable attention from fans of the country’s premier volleyball league. Creamline, widely regarded as a dynasty in Philippine volleyball, enters the contest with a wealth of championship experience, while Akari continues to build its identity as a formidable challenger eager to break through.

     

    At the center of Akari’s campaign is star opposite hitter Eli Soyud, who fully recognizes the magnitude of the challenge ahead. Facing a battle-tested squad like Creamline, Soyud emphasized the importance of discipline, resilience, and mental toughness. Still, she remains confident in her team’s preparation and belief in one another.

     

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    “Siyempre, champion team sila. Mahirap silang kalaban lalo na sa ganitong mga crucial games kasi mas experienced sila sa amin. Ang magiging puhunan talaga namin is tiyaga at pasensiya,” Soyud said in a media interaction.

    The Chargers head into the Play-In round riding the momentum of a hard-fought victory over the Choco Mucho Flying Titans, a match that showcased both their grit and composure under pressure. In a thrilling five-set encounter held at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on March 28, Akari prevailed, 25-15, 23-15, 25-16, 15-25, 21-19, to keep their semifinal aspirations alive.

     

    Soyud pointed to that emotionally charged win as a defining moment for the team, highlighting how composure and communication became crucial factors in overcoming adversity—especially in the deciding fifth set where tension ran high.

     

    “Yung pagiging kalmado, kasi kapag kalmado ang lahat, mas nakakapag-isip. Nanoon ‘yung composure namin, mas naririning namin ‘yung teammates at coaches, so mas okay kalmado. ‘Yun ‘yung ginawa namin – pinakalma namin ang isa’t isa kahit na napakaignay na,” she added.

     

    For Akari, the upcoming clash is more than just a game—it is an opportunity to prove that they can compete with the league’s elite and translate their steady progress into a deep postseason run. On the other side, Creamline will look to assert its dominance and remind the league why it remains the gold standard in the PVL.

     

    The stakes could not be higher as the Chargers and the Cool Smashers collide in their do-or-die Play-In encounter scheduled for Tuesday, April 7, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre. With a coveted semifinal berth hanging in the balance, fans can expect a high-intensity battle marked by experience, hunger, and unwavering determination.

     

     

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  • LeBron James breaks Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s NBA record for most career wins in Lakers victory

    LeBron James breaks Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s NBA record for most career wins in Lakers victory

    LeBron James surpasses Kareem Abdul-Jabbar LeBron James continues to redefine longevity and greatness, adding yet another historic milestone to his already unparalleled career. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar further cemented his legacy in the National Basketball Association record books during a 127-113 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers at the Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday, April 1 (Philippine Standard Time).

     

    While James finished with a modest stat line of 14 points, five rebounds, and six assists in 31 minutes—numbers that might seem routine by his lofty standards—the significance of the night extended far beyond the box score. The win marked the 1,229th victory of his career, allowing him to surpass Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most total wins in NBA history, a remarkable feat that further underscores his longevity and sustained excellence across more than two decades.

     

    At 41 years old, James continues to perform at a high level while competing against a new generation of stars, a testament to his conditioning, adaptability, and basketball IQ. What once seemed like unbreakable records set by legends of the past are now steadily falling to the four-time NBA champion, who shows little sign of slowing down.

     

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    Breaking Abdul-Jabbar’s marks has become a recurring theme in James’ career. During the 2022-23 season, he famously eclipsed Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time scoring record, a milestone widely regarded as one of the most untouchable achievements in professional sports. More recently, on March 22 (Philippine Standard Time), James also surpassed Robert Parish for the most games played in league history, further solidifying his reputation as the gold standard for durability and consistency.

    Despite this latest accomplishment, James has yet to claim the all-time regular-season wins record, which still belongs to Abdul-Jabbar with 1,074 victories. James remains within striking distance, needing 29 more wins to overtake that mark. While reaching it within the current season may be unlikely, the milestone appears well within reach should he choose to extend his career for another campaign.

     

    James’ greatness, however, cannot be measured by wins alone. His all-around impact on the game is reflected in his dominance across multiple statistical categories. In addition to being the league’s all-time leading scorer, he ranks among the top players in field goals made, All-Star selections, All-NBA Team honors, seasons played, and playoff appearances. His versatility is further highlighted by his placement near the top in assists, steals, and triple-doubles—rare company for a player whose primary role has often been as a scorer.

     

    Beyond the numbers, James’ influence extends far beyond the hardwood. As a leader, he has consistently elevated the play of his teammates while serving as a mentor to younger players entering the league. His presence in the locker room and his ability to adapt his game to complement evolving team dynamics have been key factors in his sustained success. Off the court, his impact on the global popularity of basketball and his role in shaping the modern NBA era are equally significant.

     

    From his early days as a teenage phenom to his current status as a seasoned veteran, James has managed to remain at the forefront of the sport. His ability to compete at an elite level against players nearly half his age continues to captivate fans and analysts alike, reinforcing his status as one of the greatest athletes in sports history.

     

    As the season progresses, all eyes will remain on James as he continues to add to an already historic résumé. Each game presents another opportunity for him to push the boundaries of what is possible in professional basketball. With his unique blend of skill, intelligence, and longevity, LeBron James is not just chasing records—he is redefining them, setting a standard of excellence that future generations may spend decades trying to match.

     

     

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  • “Healthy competition all the way”: Alyssa Valdez opens up on the growing rivalry between Creamline and Cignal

    “Healthy competition all the way”: Alyssa Valdez opens up on the growing rivalry between Creamline and Cignal

    The rivalry between the Creamline Cool Smashers and the Cignal Super Spikers has quickly emerged as the marquee storyline of the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference, captivating fans with high-intensity matches that have gone down to the wire.

     

    Both meetings between these two PVL heavyweights so far in the conference have extended to five-set thrillers, highlighting the evenly matched nature of the contest. In the preliminary round, Creamline drew first blood with a dramatic 25-19, 25-20, 15-25, 26-28, 16-14 victory over Cignal, showcasing their ability to maintain composure in tense moments. Yet, in a rematch that carried semifinal implications, Cignal exacted revenge, eking out a 25-21, 24-26, 18-25, 25-22, 17-15 win to secure a place in the semifinals, further intensifying the growing rivalry.

     

    Amidst the back-and-forth battles, PVL icon Alyssa Valdez, who captains Creamline, has expressed appreciation for the competitive environment, noting that it pushes both teams to elevate their game.

     

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    “Alam mo, parang lagi pala kami halos five-setter games and we didn’t even realize it. But I guess that’s when you know both teams are really having that healthy competition. And it’s just so nice to see na parehong teams nagpapakita at nag-i-step up,” Valdez said during a media interaction.

     

    The veteran superstar also highlighted the learning opportunities provided by facing Cignal, underlining the importance of carrying lessons from tough matches into future contests.

    “Sa totoo lang, grabe ‘yung mga learnings namin sa Cignal. Dadalhin namin ‘yun sa future games namin. And yeah, congratulations to them,” she added.

     

    Valdez herself has been enjoying a career resurgence in the current All-Filipino Conference. Even in the recent loss to Cignal, the 32-year-old standout delivered an all-around performance, finishing with 18 points, 19 excellent digs, and 20 excellent receptions, proving that she remains a central figure for Creamline both offensively and defensively.

     

    Despite her impressive individual showing, Valdez stressed the importance of moving past the defeat and refocusing on upcoming challenges.

     

    “I guess at some point, siyempre, andun ‘yung panghihinayang. Pero we don’t have time to dwell on it kasi may mga games agad-agad. Titingnan namin yung mga pagkakamali namin, correct them, learn from this, then move forward and focus on the next game,” she said.

     

    Looking ahead, Creamline will aim to return to winning ways when they face the Akari Chargers in a must-win encounter on Tuesday, April 7, at the FilOil Centre. With the semifinal race tightening, Valdez and her teammates understand the urgency of bouncing back, while continuing to build on the lessons learned from their intense duels with Cignal.

     

    The Creamline-Cignal rivalry has not only delivered some of the most exciting volleyball of the season but has also showcased the growth of the league, with both teams pushing each other to new heights. Fans can expect more high-stakes clashes in the coming weeks, as these PVL titans continue to battle for supremacy in the All-Filipino Conference.

     

     

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  • PFF optimistic about Philippine football’s future after narrow 2027 Asian Cup miss

    PFF optimistic about Philippine football’s future after narrow 2027 Asian Cup miss

    The Philippine men’s national football team endured a heart-wrenching finish to their 2027 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Asia Cup qualifying campaign after drawing 1-1 with Tajikistan in their final Group A match on Tuesday, March 31.

     

    The result left both teams tied on 14 points at the top of the group, but it was Tajikistan who advanced to the continental tournament by the narrowest of margins, edging the Philippines on goal difference—+11 to +10. The dramatic finish underscored just how close the Filipinos came to punching their ticket to one of Asia’s premier football competitions, highlighting both the progress and the heartbreak of their journey.

     

    Despite the disappointment, the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) has emphasized the growth and resilience demonstrated by the squad throughout the qualifiers. In a statement, PFF president John Anthony Gutierrez praised the team for its character and competitive spirit.

     

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    “This team has shown tremendous character and growth throughout the qualifiers, finishing unbeaten against strong opposition until the very end. We move forward with pride, and gratitude to all the supporters from home and abroad,” Gutierrez said.

    He also highlighted that the campaign, while ending in heartbreak, has created a strong foundation for the future of Philippine football.

     

    “This campaign of the PMNT has laid a formidable foundation to build on for the future,” he added, stressing that the experiences gained in these high-stakes matches are invaluable for the continued development of the team.

     

    The Philippines’ near-miss in Asia Cup qualification has not dampened the team’s determination, as they now shift focus to the upcoming ASEAN Hyundai Cup, scheduled to kick off on July 24. Drawn in Group B, the Filipinos will face stiff competition from regional heavyweights including Thailand, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Laos. The tournament will provide a crucial opportunity for the team to test the lessons learned from the AFC qualifiers and to continue building on the momentum established during their unbeaten streak against tough opposition.

     

    Fans will also be eager to see how the team adapts and improves from their 2024 semifinal finish, which ended in a narrow 3-4 aggregate loss to Thailand. With a mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talent, the PMNT will be looking to make a strong statement in Southeast Asia, demonstrating that Philippine football is steadily growing in competitiveness and stature on both the regional and continental stage.

     

    While the narrow miss for the Asia Cup was painful, the team’s performances throughout the qualifiers have reinforced that Philippine football is on an upward trajectory, with a young, talented squad gaining confidence, experience, and resilience. For fans and officials alike, the hope is that the lessons learned will translate into silverware and continued success in regional competitions, cementing the country’s place among Asia’s emerging football nations.

     

     

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  • POC hopes hosting of ACC Track Cycling Championships sparks a new era for Filipino cyclists

    POC hopes hosting of ACC Track Cycling Championships sparks a new era for Filipino cyclists

    The Philippines recently marked a milestone in its cycling history by successfully hosting the 45th Asian Cycling Confederation (ACC) Track Cycling Championships alongside the 14th Asian Para Track Cycling Championships from March 25 to 31 at the Tagaytay City Velodrome. The week-long event not only showcased the continent’s top cycling talent but also positioned the country as a rising hub for track cycling in Asia.

     

    China dominated the competition, asserting its status as an Asian powerhouse by capturing 18 of the 44 gold medals available, along with 10 silvers and a bronze. Japan finished second on the medal tally, earning seven golds, seven silvers, and 10 bronze medals, while South Korea (5-9-7), Kazakhstan (4-5-2), and Chinese Taipei (3-4-5) rounded out the top five. The results reflected the depth and intensity of Asian cycling, with fierce competition in every category from elite riders to para-athletes.

     

    Despite the dominance of these traditional powerhouses, the Philippines made its presence felt. Patrick Gerard Lee secured the nation’s lone medal of the championships, taking home bronze in the para men elite scratch race. Meanwhile, Zedrick Ivan Honoric set a new national record in the flying 200 meters, signaling a bright future for local riders.

     

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    “Yes, a Filipino rider can shine in track cycling,” Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham Tolentino affirmed. His words echoed the pride of local cycling enthusiasts and underscored the country’s potential to develop world-class cyclists.

    Tolentino, who also serves as president of PhilCycling, expressed elation over the successful hosting of the championships, emphasizing that it placed both the Philippines and the Tagaytay City Velodrome firmly on the “global track cycling map.” He stressed that the event was more than just a competition; it was a stepping stone toward building a sustainable track cycling culture in the country.

     

    “We are now in the company of the global destinations for competitions and training in the track community, and the next big step is to continue the momentum—not only in hosting international events but to go full throttle on developing our very own track cyclists,” Tolentino said during a media interaction.

     

    In recognition of their achievements, both Gerard Lee and Ivan Honoric were awarded cash bonuses by the POC. Tolentino also highlighted plans to complete the track equipment at the Tagaytay Velodrome, aiming to make it a regular venue for both local and international competitions. By doing so, he hopes to provide Filipino cyclists with consistent access to world-class facilities and the chance to compete against top-tier international talent without leaving home.

     

    “This was a dream that came to reality, and we will continue to progress on that reality,” Tolentino concluded.

     

    The successful hosting of the ACC Track Cycling Championships has already sparked excitement in the local cycling community, inspiring young riders across the Philippines. With the combination of improved facilities, international exposure, and strong institutional support, the country is positioning itself to not just participate but compete at the highest levels of Asian track cycling in the years to come.

     

     

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  • Brooke Van Sickle commends team effort as Nxled keeps PVL semis bid alive

    Brooke Van Sickle commends team effort as Nxled keeps PVL semis bid alive

    The Nxled Chameleons may not have fully found their rhythm in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference, but they continue to show resilience and composure when it matters most—keeping their semifinal hopes alive with a crucial victory.

     

    Nxled booked their spot in the next phase of the Play-In round after sweeping the Galeries Tower Highrisers, 25-23, 25-18, 25-23, on Saturday, March 28, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. While the straight-sets result suggested control, the contest itself was far from straightforward, as the Chameleons had to fend off multiple surges from a determined Galeries side that refused to back down.

     

    From the opening set, Nxled was forced to stay sharp against a Highrisers squad that had already proven capable of pulling off upsets earlier in the conference. The Chameleons leaned on their experience in the closing moments of each set, particularly in the first and third frames where execution in crunch time spelled the difference.

     

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    Leading the charge was team captain Brooke Van Sickle, who once again anchored Nxled with her leadership and steady presence on the court. Beyond her on-court contributions, Van Sickle emphasized the importance of composure and unity, especially against an opponent that had previously tested them.

     

    “Early in the preliminaries, Galeries upset some teams, especially us. I already knew they were going to be tough and come out firing. Even in the third set, they were still battling until the end, so we just stayed calm and collected,” Van Sickle said.

     

    Despite some inconsistencies throughout the conference, the Chameleons showed flashes of cohesion and mental toughness—qualities that could prove crucial as the competition intensifies. Van Sickle highlighted the team’s ability to stay together through adversity, pointing to their collective effort rather than individual brilliance.

    “There were a few road bumps, but I’m proud of all the girls for sticking together and working as a team, whoever was on the court. I’m really proud of everyone,” she added.

     

    The win not only keeps Nxled in contention but also reinforces their identity as a team capable of grinding out results even without playing at peak form. Contributions came from across the roster, with different players stepping up in key moments to maintain control whenever Galeries threatened to swing momentum.

     

    Van Sickle, who holds the distinction of being the first-ever Most Valuable Player in PVL history, also took time to acknowledge the growth and potential of their opponents. The Galeries Tower Highrisers, one of the younger squads in the league, showed significant promise throughout the conference and pushed Nxled to stay disciplined until the final point.

     

    “I thought Galeries had a really good run. They are going to be very lethal in the future. They already did well,” Van Sickle concluded.

     

    With the victory, Nxled now turns its attention to an even tougher challenge ahead. The Chameleons will face the Farm Fresh Foxies on Tuesday, April 7, at the FilOil Centre, with a coveted semifinal berth on the line. As the stakes rise, Nxled will need to elevate its level of play and maintain the composure that carried them through this latest test if they hope to extend their campaign deeper into the conference.

     

     

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  • Yeng Guiao “amazed’ after Rain or Shine’s record 56-point win over Blackwater

    Yeng Guiao “amazed’ after Rain or Shine’s record 56-point win over Blackwater

    Rain or Shine continued to stamp its authority on the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup, extending its unbeaten run to four games with a historic and emphatic victory that further solidified its status as an early conference favorite.

     

    The Elasto Painters delivered a performance for the record books on Tuesday, March 31, dismantling the Blackwater Bossing, 151–95, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. The 56-point blowout not only underscored Rain or Shine’s dominance on both ends of the floor, but also set a new benchmark in league history for the largest winning margin—surpassing the long-standing 55-point record set by Utex against Great Taste in the 1980 Open Conference semifinals.

     

    From the opening tip, Rain or Shine imposed its will. The team exploded for 45 points in the first quarter while holding Blackwater to just 15, immediately creating a gap that proved insurmountable. The offensive onslaught was relentless, with crisp ball movement, efficient shooting, and suffocating defense fueling the runaway victory. By halftime, the outcome was all but decided, allowing the Elasto Painters to maintain their intensity while also showcasing their depth.

     

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    That depth proved to be one of the defining stories of the game. Rain or Shine’s bench poured in a staggering 82 points, a testament to the team’s balanced roster and system-driven approach. Eight different players finished in double figures, highlighting a collective effort that overwhelmed Blackwater at every turn.

    Despite his team’s commanding performance, head coach Yeng Guiao admitted even he was taken aback by the magnitude of the win, especially given his decades of experience in the league.

     

    “I don’t remember. I looked at the score earlier, and it looked like an All-Star Game,” Guiao said.

    Guiao emphasized that the lopsided result did not reflect a lack of preparation or respect for their opponents. In fact, the veteran coach revealed that the team approached the matchup with caution, particularly considering Blackwater’s strong showing in their previous outing.

     

    “There will come nights like this. Coach Jeff Cariaso had a bad night with his team but that’s not the real game. They beat Magnolia in the last game. We approached this game very cautiously. I told the team in the dugout that if by the fourth quarter, Blackwater is close to us in the scores, we will have a problem. We will have to grind this game out. It’s a good thing we were away early,” he added.

     

    The victory not only preserved Rain or Shine’s perfect record but also sent a strong message to the rest of the league. Through four games, the Elasto Painters have displayed consistency, chemistry, and a high-powered offense capable of erupting at any moment, complemented by a defense that can shut down opponents just as effectively.

     

    As the Commissioner’s Cup progresses, Rain or Shine now sits atop the standings, brimming with confidence and momentum. However, tougher challenges lie ahead. The team will look to sustain its flawless campaign when it returns to action against the San Miguel Beermen on Wednesday, April 8, once again at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium—a matchup that promises to be a more telling gauge of their championship credentials.

     

     

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  • “He should earn $50 million a year”: Patrick Beverley believes the NBA owes LeBron James a lot

    “He should earn $50 million a year”: Patrick Beverley believes the NBA owes LeBron James a lot

    LeBron James continues to redefine greatness deep into his career, further solidifying his legacy as one of basketball’s most iconic figures. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar and NBA’s all-time leading scorer remains a dominant force even in his 23rd season, consistently producing at an elite level while rewriting the record books.

     

    At 41 years old, James shows little sign of slowing down. In fact, he recently added yet another historic milestone to his already unparalleled résumé by surpassing Robert Parish for the most regular-season games played in league history, suiting up for his 1,612th game. The achievement is a testament not only to his longevity but also to his remarkable durability and sustained excellence—qualities rarely seen in professional sports, particularly in a physically demanding league like the National Basketball Association.

     

    Throughout his career, James has built a reputation for consistency, versatility, and an unmatched basketball IQ, enabling him to adapt his game as he ages. Even in the latter stages of his career, he continues to average over 20 points per game while contributing across multiple facets, proving he remains a cornerstone for the Lakers.

     

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    With Father Time seemingly unable to catch up, former NBA guard Patrick Beverley recently shared his admiration for James, suggesting that the four-time champion could extend his career even further—possibly into his mid-40s—while still performing at a high level.

    “Ohh, I don’t know. I got answers for a lot of s**t, but what he is doing, I don’t have no answers for. Part of me, I really honestly believe he can play until he is 45 years old. And when I say 45, I mean like at a high level. I mean, he is the third option and he is averaging a dub. 20, bro,” Beverley said on his YouTube show.

     

    Beverley went on to emphasize not just James’ on-court impact, but also his immense influence on the business side of the league. Over more than two decades, James has been one of the NBA’s most marketable figures, driving global interest, television ratings, and commercial success.

     

    “I mean, you know how I feel about it. I just feel like the NBA owes LeBron so much, business-wise, so much money. I think LeBron James has generated so many billions and billions of dollars to the NBA.

     

    “He is one of the people in the NBA where he can be like, ‘Okay, yeah, I still want my $50 million a year, every year until I turn 46.’ I think that’s at least what the NBA can,” he added.

     

    James’ longevity and continued excellence have sparked ongoing debates about his place in basketball history, with many already considering him the greatest player of all time. Beyond the accolades and statistics, his ability to remain relevant—and dominant—across multiple eras of the game sets him apart from his peers.

     

    As he continues to add to his legacy, the question is no longer just how long James can play, but how much more history he can make before he finally decides to step away. Whether it’s breaking records, leading the Lakers, or inspiring the next generation of players, LeBron James remains the standard for greatness in modern basketball.

     

     

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  • Jia De Guzman praises rise of modern setters in Philippine volleyball

    Jia De Guzman praises rise of modern setters in Philippine volleyball

    After a two-year hiatus from the domestic scene, Jia De Guzman has finally made her much-anticipated return to the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), once again donning the colors of the Creamline Cool Smashers in the ongoing 2026 All-Filipino Conference.

     

    Widely regarded as one of the greatest volleyball players in Philippine history—and arguably the finest setter the PVL has ever seen—De Guzman resumes her domestic career with an already decorated résumé. The 30-year-old playmaker owns eight PVL Best Setter awards and holds the league’s all-time record for most excellent sets in a single match with 71, a testament to her consistency, court vision, and leadership.

     

    Her return comes after a successful stint overseas with the Denso Airybees in the V.League, where she further refined her craft against top international competition. Now back in the Philippines as captain of Alas Pilipinas, De Guzman brings with her a wealth of experience—and a fresh perspective on how the local game has evolved during her absence.

     

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    In her recent outing, De Guzman tallied 31 excellent sets in Creamline’s tough loss to the Cignal HD Spikers, a performance that highlighted her steady playmaking despite the defeat. However, the spotlight was shared with opposing setter Gel Cayuna, who delivered an impressive 35 excellent sets to help deny Creamline an outright semifinal berth.

    Following the match, De Guzman spoke candidly about the noticeable transformation among setters in the league, particularly their growing role as offensive contributors rather than just facilitators.

     

    “It’s a huge thing when setters are also part of the offense. It leaves the opponent guessing. Gel played very well today, with the help of her teammates. I love seeing the evolution of setters here in the Philippines. The league gets more excited. I am excited to see the upcoming games,” De Guzman said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    Her remarks reflect a broader shift in Philippine volleyball, where modern setters are now expected to be more dynamic—capable of scoring, attacking on second balls, and dictating tempo beyond traditional playmaking duties. For De Guzman, who has long been a standard-bearer at the position, this evolution signals a promising future for the sport.

     

    Despite Creamline’s setback, De Guzman continues to lead the league in the Best Setter race, amassing 196 excellent sets for an average of 5.44 per set—numbers that reaffirm her elite status even after time spent competing abroad.

     

    As the conference enters a crucial stretch, the Cool Smashers now turn their attention to a high-stakes Play-In matchup against the Akari Chargers on Tuesday, April 7, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre. With their championship aspirations hanging in the balance, Creamline will once again rely on De Guzman’s leadership, composure, and playmaking brilliance to guide them forward.

     

    Her return not only strengthens Creamline’s bid for another title but also adds another compelling chapter to her already storied career—one that continues to shape and elevate Philippine volleyball.

     

     

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