Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Arjun Devgan

  • “He belongs in the NBA”: LeBron James praises son Bronny after Lakers win over Pacers

    “He belongs in the NBA”: LeBron James praises son Bronny after Lakers win over Pacers

    The Los Angeles Lakers continue to build momentum in the 2025–26 National Basketball Association season, compiling an impressive 47-26 record to sit third in the highly competitive Western Conference standings. With the playoffs fast approaching, the Lakers are beginning to hit their stride, fueled by strong performances from both their veteran stars and emerging contributors.

     

    Los Angeles returned to the win column in emphatic fashion on Thursday, March 26 (Philippine Standard Time), securing a 137-130 victory over the Indiana Pacers at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The high-scoring affair highlighted the Lakers’ offensive firepower, with multiple players stepping up to deliver a complete team performance.

     

    Superstar duo Luka Doncic and LeBron James led the charge, while Austin Reaves and Jaxson Hayes provided crucial support on both ends of the floor. However, one of the most compelling storylines from the game was the increased involvement of rookie guard Bronny James, who made the most of his extended minutes.

     

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    Bronny logged 13 minutes—his highest playing time this month—and contributed four points, two steals, one rebound, and one assist. While the numbers may appear modest, his impact went beyond the stat sheet, as he displayed defensive intensity, improved confidence, and a better feel for the pace of the game. His performance offered a glimpse of his potential as he continues to adjust to the demands of the NBA.

     

    Following the game, LeBron James, the league’s all-time leading scorer, expressed immense pride in his son’s development and performance, emphasizing that Bronny has earned his place at the highest level of basketball.

    “So, just proud of him. I’m super proud of him. And he belongs. He belongs. Physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally, he’s back. Real, meaningful minutes. I couldn’t dream of better. I couldn’t dream of something better than that. Just couldn’t,” LeBron said.

     

    “For him to go out and, you know, I mean obviously, he’s shown over this – almost two years, year and a half – his progression. And why he belongs in this league. And what he can do in this league. So, for the coaching staff to trust him tonight, and for him to have significant playing time and make plays and for me to be out there on the floor with him. I couldn’t, I couldn’t dream of a better feeling than that. I could not,” he added.

     

    Despite the encouraging outing, Bronny’s rookie campaign has largely been a work in progress. The young guard has averaged 2.3 points, 0.8 assists, and 0.7 rebounds in just 6.7 minutes per game across 27 NBA appearances, reflecting both limited opportunities and the adjustment period typical for first-year players.

     

    To accelerate his development, Bronny has also spent time in the NBA G League with the South Bay Lakers, where he has shown significantly more promise. Across 18 appearances, including the regular season and Tip-Off Tournament, he has averaged an impressive 18.6 points, 4.8 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game. Those performances have highlighted his scoring ability, playmaking instincts, and defensive potential—qualities that the Lakers hope will eventually translate consistently at the NBA level.

     

    There have already been flashes of that potential in the NBA. Bronny recorded a nine-point outing against the Utah Jazz in February and followed it up with a career-best performance of 17 points, five assists, and three rebounds against the Milwaukee Bucks in March, signaling steady progress.

     

    As the Lakers push toward the postseason, the continued growth of Bronny James could provide an additional boost to an already deep roster. With veteran leadership, star power, and emerging young talent, Los Angeles appears well-positioned to make a strong run—while also nurturing the next generation, led by one of the most closely watched rookies in the league.

     

     

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  • POC urges Filipino athletes to step up ahead of 2026 Asian Games

    POC urges Filipino athletes to step up ahead of 2026 Asian Games

    The 2026 Asian Games is fast approaching, with the 20th edition of the prestigious multi-sport event scheduled from September 19 to October 4 in Nagoya. As the countdown begins, the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) is urging Filipino athletes to intensify their training and preparation to ensure a strong and successful campaign on the continental stage.

     

    The POC has emphasized the importance of ramping up practice sessions, particularly in sports where the Philippines enters the Games as reigning champions. These include men’s basketball, athletics, jiu-jitsu, and gymnastics—disciplines where the country has historically excelled and where expectations are high.

     

    During the previous edition of the Asian Games in Hangzhou in 2022, the Philippine contingent made waves, securing four gold medals, two silver, and 18 bronze. Standout performances came from Gilas Pilipinas, pole vaulter EJ Obiena, jiu-jitsu champions Meggie Ochoa and Annie Ramirez, who all brought home gold for the country.

     

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    “Our success in previous competitions means other countries will now prepare specifically against us. Athletes like Carlos Yulo will be closely studied by competitors. This means we must continuously improve. We cannot remain stagnant. In sports like basketball, pole vault, and jiu-jitsu, the level of competition is rising, and we must elevate our performance accordingly,” POC secretary general Wharton Chan said in a media interaction.

    Chan added that the POC is coordinating closely with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to ensure that local sports federations are equipped with the necessary resources and support systems to help Filipino athletes perform at their peak in Japan.

     

    “The Philippine Olympic Committee primarily serves an oversight role, supervising national federations while respecting their autonomy. We ensure that their development programs align with the Olympic movement. We also step in when there are issues or concerns, acting as a guiding body,” he explained.

     

    The POC has strong reasons to be optimistic about the Philippines’ chances at this year’s Games. Returning stars such as Gilas Pilipinas, gymnast Carlos Yulo, boxers Nesthy Petecio, Eumir Marcial, Carlo Paalam, and tennis sensation Alex Eala are expected to vie for gold and deliver another memorable performance for the country.

     

    With a combination of proven talent, meticulous preparation, and the full backing of the POC and PSC, Team Philippines is aiming not just to replicate its past successes but to raise the bar even higher at the 2026 Asian Games.

     

     

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  • Erika Santos uses pro-Creamline crowd as motivation to lead Cignal to the PVL semifinals 

    Erika Santos uses pro-Creamline crowd as motivation to lead Cignal to the PVL semifinals 

    The Cignal Super Spikers secured their spot in the semifinals of the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference after surviving a heart-stopping, five-set thriller against the Creamline Cool Smashers. The match, held on Thursday, March 26, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, ended 21-25, 26-24, 25-18, 22-25, 15-17, in favor of Cignal during the Qualifying Round.

     

    The encounter showcased not only skill and star power but also the resilience and tactical discipline that have become hallmarks of the Super Spikers. Cignal’s victory over one of the league’s perennial contenders emphasized both the team’s depth and their ability to execute under pressure. With the semifinals now within reach, the win also serves as a confidence booster as the tournament enters its decisive stages.

     

    Leading the charge for Cignal was Erika Santos, who delivered a spectacular all-around performance. Santos finished with 26 points, including 23 attacks, two blocks, and an ace, repeatedly stepping up at critical junctures to keep the Super Spikers within striking distance. Her ability to perform in high-pressure moments proved pivotal in a match that swung back and forth between the two elite squads.

     

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    The former University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) standout also revealed that the vocal, pro-Creamline crowd, which filled the arena with energy and jeers, served as added motivation rather than a distraction.

    “For me naman, masarap maglaro na ‘yung crowd parang nasa kabilang team lahat – so for me, ginawa ko siyang motivation. Ginawa ko siyang motivation kasi may mga fans na nagbu-boo or what, tapos nagkakapuntos ka, parang nakaka-proud lang na ‘bakit ang daming doubters, ito ako,” Santos said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    “Parang tine-take ko lang siya as motivation instead na tumiklop sa maraming tao. It feels good na maglaro with that crowd,” she added, underscoring her competitive mindset and poise under pressure.

     

    Beyond Santos, the match was a showcase of Cignal’s cohesive team dynamics and strategic preparation. The Super Spikers displayed remarkable composure, particularly during critical stretches of the match where momentum could easily have swung in Creamline’s favor. The team’s disciplined rotations, quick transitions, and effective communication allowed them to execute key plays and capitalize on opportunities despite the hostile atmosphere.

     

    The win also reflected the team’s commitment to improvement after earlier matches in the conference. Adjustments in defensive schemes, serve-receive formations, and attack strategies demonstrated that Cignal’s coaching staff and players have been closely analyzing opponents and fine-tuning their approach for high-stakes matches.

     

    With this victory, Cignal now turns its focus to the semifinals, where even tougher opponents await. The team’s current form, combined with the confidence gained from outlasting Creamline, positions the Super Spikers as a legitimate contender for the championship. If their performance in this thriller is any indication, Cignal is peaking at the perfect time, blending individual brilliance with disciplined teamwork in pursuit of PVL glory.

     

    Fans can expect the Super Spikers to carry this momentum forward, relying on their depth, experience, and the fire ignited by matches like this as they take the next step toward what could be a historic championship run.

     

     

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  • PeSO appointed as national team partner for the Philippines at Esports Nations Cup 2026

    PeSO appointed as national team partner for the Philippines at Esports Nations Cup 2026

    The Philippine Esports Organization (PeSO) has taken a major step forward in the international esports arena after being officially named the Philippines’ National Team Partner for the inaugural Esports Nations Cup 2026, set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This milestone cements PeSO’s role as the leading authority in Philippine esports and reinforces the country’s growing reputation on the global stage.

     

    As the designated National Team Partner, PeSO will oversee all aspects of the Philippine national esports team’s preparations and operations for the prestigious tournament. This includes the critical processes of player selection, training programs, team management, and overall coordination with event organizers, ensuring that the delegation represents the Philippines at the highest level of professionalism and competitiveness.

     

    “We are honored to be appointed as the national team partner of the Philippines for the upcoming Esports Nations Cup 2026. This designation reflects our continued commitment to developing world-class Filipino esports athletes and strengthening the country’s presence in international competition,” PeSO executive director Marlon Marcelo said in a statement. “We will work closely with our stakeholders to ensure that our national team is fully prepared to represent the Philippines with excellence, discipline, and pride.”

     

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    Further strengthening the national team’s leadership, Leo Andrew Escutin, general manager of Sibol, has been appointed as National Team Manager. Escutin will oversee day-to-day team operations and ensure that the Filipino delegation meets the competition standards and protocols set by the Esports Nations Cup organizers. His appointment is seen as a key factor in maintaining structure, focus, and strategic readiness as the team heads into its first major international competition under PeSO’s guidance.

    Highlighting the global recognition of Filipino esports talent, Hans Jagnow, director of national team relations for the Esports Nations Cup, praised the country’s players for their unique combination of skill and sportsmanship. “Filipino players are some of the most friendly by heart, but also fierce competitors on the server. We are looking forward to hosting their national delegation at the inaugural Esports Nations Cup,” Jagnow said.

     

    The appointment of PeSO as the official National Team Partner was highly competitive. The organization emerged as the top choice from over 630 applicants across 150 countries and territories, highlighting the confidence of international organizers in PeSO’s capability to manage a world-class national esports team.

     

    The inaugural Esports Nations Cup 2026 in Riyadh is expected to become a marquee event on the global esports calendar, with the organizers planning to implement a rotating host city format in future editions. For the Philippines, this represents not only a chance to compete at the highest level but also an opportunity to showcase the country’s esports development programs and the depth of its talent pool to an international audience.

     

    With PeSO at the helm, the Philippine esports national team is now focused on preparation, training, and strategy sessions aimed at ensuring that the delegation is ready to face top-tier competitors from around the world. As excitement builds for the first-ever Esports Nations Cup, Filipino fans and stakeholders alike are eagerly anticipating the team’s performance—and the potential to solidify the country’s position as a rising power in the global esports scene.

     

     

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  • Gel Cayuna backs up bold promise in Cignal’s win over Creamline

    Gel Cayuna backs up bold promise in Cignal’s win over Creamline

    The Cignal Super Spikers punched their ticket to the semifinals of the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference after outlasting the Creamline Cool Smashers in a thrilling five-set battle, 21-25, 26-24, 25-18, 22-25, 15-17, during the Qualifying Round on Thursday, March 26, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

    In a match that showcased resilience, tactical discipline, and star power on both sides, Cignal leaned on a total team effort to overcome the league’s perennial contenders. The victory not only secured their place in the semifinals but also underscored their growing confidence as the tournament enters its final stretch.

     

    Leading the charge was Erika Santos, who delivered a standout performance with 26 points built on 23 attacks, two blocks, and an ace. Santos consistently provided the offensive spark, stepping up in crucial moments to keep Cignal within striking distance throughout the tightly contested encounter.

     

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    Backing her up was Vanie Gandler, who turned in an all-around performance with 22 points, while anchoring the team’s floor defense with 28 excellent receptions and 13 digs. Her stability in both offense and defense proved vital in neutralizing Creamline’s relentless attacks.

     

    However, the defining presence on the court came from setter Gel Cayuna, who masterfully orchestrated Cignal’s offense. Cayuna tallied 35 excellent sets while also contributing 11 points, effectively controlling the tempo and ensuring her hitters were put in the best positions to score. Her performance was particularly remarkable given the expectations she had set for herself prior to the match.

    Cayuna had confidently declared before the game that she aimed to register at least 30 excellent sets and reach double digits in scoring against Creamline—a goal she ultimately fulfilled in emphatic fashion.

     

    “Coach asked us about our goals, like how many excellent sets and points we wanted. I said 30 plus sets and double digits in scoring – so I’m glad I was able to achieve that,” Cayuna said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    Beyond individual achievements, the victory was a testament to Cignal’s preparation and collective resolve following their previous outing. The team showed marked improvements in execution, particularly in crucial stretches where composure often spells the difference between victory and defeat.

     

    “We finally felt relieved because we learned a lot from our last game. Our preparation was intense. We really studied Creamline so we could win today. I’m just really happy because everyone held on and fought. Even the coaches put in so much effort to win this game. We are happy, but we will keep working as we head into the semifinals,” she added.

     

    Cignal head coach Shaq Delos Santos echoed Cayuna’s sentiments, praising his squad’s discipline and commitment to the game plan. For Delos Santos, the win was a clear reflection of how well his players embraced their roles and executed under pressure.

     

    “They really committed because I told them to focus on our intention – what we needed to do to win. They executed exactly what we asked from them, so I’m really happy and proud that they were able to do it,” Delos Santos continued.

     

    With momentum on their side, the Super Spikers now shift their focus to the semifinals, where tougher challenges await. If their performance against Creamline is any indication, Cignal is peaking at the right time—and shaping up to be a serious contender for the championship.

     

     

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  • Slow start, steady rise: Mikey Williams finding form for Converge amid PBA struggles

    Slow start, steady rise: Mikey Williams finding form for Converge amid PBA struggles

    The Converge FiberXers have stumbled out of the gates in the ongoing Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup, managing just a single win against four losses to sit near the bottom of the standings in 11th place. While their record paints a grim picture, recent performances suggest the team may be inching toward better form.

     

    Their latest outing—a narrow 103-99 defeat to the San Miguel Beermen on Wednesday, March 25, at the Ynares Center—offered a mix of frustration and optimism. Despite falling short, Converge showed flashes of cohesion, particularly on the offensive end, where ball movement and playmaking were noticeably improved.

     

    A key bright spot in the loss was the resurgence of veteran guard Mikey Williams. After a sluggish start to the conference, Williams delivered a more composed and impactful performance, finishing with 14 points on 33 percent shooting while also contributing three rebounds and eight assists. The outing marked a significant leap from his first three games, where he averaged just 3.3 points on a dismal 14 percent shooting clip.

     

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    Williams’ early struggles can largely be attributed to limited preparation time. The Filipino-American guard only joined Converge’s training camp a week before the Commissioner’s Cup tipped off, leaving him little opportunity to build chemistry with his teammates or fully integrate into the system.

     

    “My objective is to just keep stacking days. I’m in the lab everyday. I have got to keep working. I know I have played this game my entire life and things will come when they come. I’m not putting too much pressure on that. I’m just trying to do the little things to help my team so far,” Williams said in a media interaction.

    Beyond his scoring, Williams’ playmaking stood out as a crucial factor in keeping Converge competitive. The FiberXers actually out-assisted the Beermen, 25-23, a sign that their offensive execution is beginning to take shape despite the losses.

     

    “I have always been a willing passer. I’m just a playmaker. I have always molded my game around that. But guys are just knocking them down and I’m finding the right people in the right places,” he added.

     

    The numbers may not yet fully reflect it, but Williams’ growing comfort within the team’s system is evident. His ability to orchestrate the offense and create opportunities for teammates could prove vital as Converge looks to turn its campaign around in the coming weeks.

     

    “I’m still adjusting to everything. I’m still in the adjustment period but slowly but steadily, everything is going in the right direction for me. Morale wise, I think that’s the biggest takeaway for me,” Williams concluded.

     

    As the Commissioner’s Cup progresses, Converge will be hoping that these incremental improvements translate into wins. Their next challenge will be a daunting one, as they prepare to face league powerhouse Barangay Ginebra San Miguel on Sunday, March 29, at the iconic Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

    With momentum slowly building and Williams finding his rhythm, the FiberXers will be eager to prove that their early struggles are merely growing pains rather than a sign of deeper issues.

     

     

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  • “Craziest week of my life”: Alex Eala reflects on breakthrough Miami Open

    “Craziest week of my life”: Alex Eala reflects on breakthrough Miami Open

    Alex Eala continues to carve her place on the global stage, emerging as one of Southeast Asia’s brightest tennis prospects in recent years. At just 20 years old, the Filipina sensation has steadily built a reputation as a rising force on the professional circuit—combining skill, composure, and a maturity beyond her years.

     

    Eala’s ascent has not only captured the attention of the tennis world but has also galvanized Filipino fans across the globe. Wherever she competes, a strong contingent of supporters proudly waves the Philippine flag, transforming international venues into pockets of home support. Her growing popularity reflects both her on-court success and her role as a symbol of national pride.

     

    Recently, Eala reflected on her journey during an interview with former world No. 1 Andy Roddick and renowned journalist Jon Wertheim, recalling a pivotal moment in her career—her earlier appearance at the Miami Open when she was still outside the top 100 in the world rankings.

     

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    “I have to say, that week was probably the craziest week of my life. I came into the tournament around ranked 140. I was a wild card and I was obviously super looking forward to the Miami Open,” Eala said.

     

    Since then, her trajectory has only continued upward. With each tournament, Eala has grown more confident and composed, embracing the expectations that come with her rising profile. Now widely regarded as one of the faces of Philippine tennis, she acknowledges the responsibility that comes with representing her country on the international stage.

    “People tell me that I have, I’m a role model for people back home. So, I do my best to put on my best attitude. So when they think of the Philippines in regards to tennis, they think of me. So, I really do my best to be on my best behavior, represent the best of the Philippines.

     

    “Filipinos are really amazing, I have to say, seeing other Filipinos succeed makes us happy. So yeah, we are very nationalistic, I guess,” Eala concluded.

     

    Her connection with Filipino fans has become one of her defining traits, providing an added layer of motivation as she navigates the challenges of the professional tour. The support has been especially evident in high-profile tournaments, where Eala continues to make strides against more experienced competition.

     

    In the ongoing 2026 Miami Open, Eala’s campaign came to an end in the fourth round following a loss to Karolína Muchová, 6-0, 6-2. While the result was a setback, it does little to overshadow the progress she has made in recent months.

     

    Reaching the latter stages of a WTA 1000 event is a significant achievement for a player still early in her career, highlighting her steady development and growing competitiveness against the sport’s elite. Each deep run serves as both a learning experience and a confidence booster as she continues to refine her game.

     

    Looking ahead, Eala is focused on sustaining her momentum as the tour shifts to a new surface. After taking time to regroup, she is set to transition to the clay-court swing, with her next appearance scheduled at the Upper Austria Ladies Linz beginning April 6.

     

    With her talent, work ethic, and unwavering support system, Eala’s journey is only just beginning. As she continues to climb the rankings and gain experience on the biggest stages, the young Filipina remains firmly on track to become not only a mainstay on the WTA Tour but also a trailblazer for Philippine tennis on the world stage.

     

     

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  • Filipino boxing star Nesthy Petecio eyeing elusive Asian Games medal

    Filipino boxing star Nesthy Petecio eyeing elusive Asian Games medal

    Nesthy Petecio is more than just a two-time Olympic medalist—she is a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and the enduring Filipino fighting spirit. From her humble beginnings in Davao del Sur to standing on the world stage in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and the Paris 2024 Olympics, Petecio has carved out a legacy defined by grit, sacrifice, and an unwavering belief in her dreams.

     

    Throughout her decorated career, the 33-year-old has consistently overcome adversity, turning setbacks into motivation and challenges into triumphs. Yet despite her accomplishments on the global stage, one prize continues to elude her—a medal in the Asian Games. It is a goal that remains firmly on her radar as she looks ahead to the next phase of her journey.

     

    “May hangganan, tumatanda din po tayo, pero pipilitin ko pa rin makapasok sa next Olympics. Gusto ko pa ring makalaro sa Asian Games talaga, kasi zero pa ako dito – wala pa akong medal. ‘Yan na lang listahan ko na wala pa akong medal,” Petecio said in a media interaction.

     

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    “Hindi ko pa rin masabi kung last Olympics na ba, or last Asian Games,” she added.

     

    Even as she navigates the later stages of her career, Petecio’s hunger for excellence remains as strong as ever. She has set her sights not only on securing that elusive Asian Games podium finish but also on earning a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics—a testament to her enduring drive and commitment to representing the Philippines on the biggest stage.

    Her preparation, however, has not been without challenges. Petecio recently underwent eye surgery shortly after capturing a bronze medal at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand. The procedure temporarily sidelined her from training, but her recovery has been progressing well, offering optimism as she gears up for her return to competition.

     

    “My eye doctor already gave me the go-ahead to start training, but I still have a follow-up visit and need one more clearance. My recovery has been going well so far, and I hope it stays that way so everything goes smoothly and I can keep moving forward,” she shared.

     

    Despite the physical hurdles, Petecio’s dedication to her craft has never wavered. Known for her relentless work ethic and discipline, she is eager to regain peak form and continue competing at the highest level. Her journey serves as an inspiration not only to aspiring boxers but also to Filipinos who see in her story a reflection of perseverance and hope.

     

    Beyond the ring, Petecio’s contributions to Philippine sports have not gone unnoticed. She was recently honored with the Flame Award at the 2026 All-Women Sports Awards held at the Philippine International Convention Center, an event celebrating the achievements and impact of Filipino female athletes across various disciplines.

     

    “I feel so blessed with everything I am receiving. I am honored and blessed, and I am happy that all athletes are recognized and not just me, especially women. We are recognized for our hard work and sacrifices for our country,” Petecio concluded.

     

    As she continues her journey, Petecio remains focused on unfinished business. With her eyes set on new milestones and her spirit as unbreakable as ever, she stands ready to write the next chapter of an already remarkable career—one that could yet see her add another historic achievement to her name.

     

     

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  • “Our growth doesn’t stop here”: Bella Belen eyes improvement after Capital1’s PVL exit

    “Our growth doesn’t stop here”: Bella Belen eyes improvement after Capital1’s PVL exit

    The Capital1 Solar Spikers saw their 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference campaign come to a heartbreaking end on Tuesday, March 24, at the hands of ninth-seed Galeries Tower Highrisers. The loss marked a disappointing finish for a team that showed flashes of brilliance but ultimately fell short in a must-win clash.

     

    Among the Spikers, Bella Belen stood out as the team’s driving force. The 23-year-old outside hitter delivered a stellar performance, nearly carrying her squad to victory with 21 points, 12 digs, and nine excellent receptions. However, her 20-of-71 attempts highlighted the team’s reliance on a single scorer and underscored the need for a more balanced offensive approach.

     

    In a post-match press conference, Belen admitted the defeat was painful but emphasized that it provided valuable lessons for both herself and her teammates.

     

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    “It’s really disappointing because I feel like we could have won. I feel like I could have done more to help the team. But we learned a lot this conference. Lessons we really need to absorb so we can come back stronger next time,” Belen said.

    She added, “I was actually looking forward to our next game on Saturday, but we just weren’t able to make it. For now, we regroup, reset, and go back to training. Our growth as a team and as players doesn’t stop here.”

     

    Belen’s individual campaign was nothing short of impressive. She scored 20 or more points in 10 games and finished as the top scorer of the preliminary round with 218 points from 199 kills, alongside eight blocks and 11 aces. Her consistency and resilience throughout the conference have firmly established her as one of the league’s rising stars.

     

    Reflecting on her own development and the team’s potential, Belen remains focused on improvement.

     

    “I’m never really satisfied. Every game, every conference, I feel like I have to raise my standard, not for others, but for myself. Like in this game, I know I could have done more. So from here, I will look at what else I can improve for the next conference and the next tournament with Capital1.

     

    “For me, that’s really how I am when it’s a tough situation—I feel like I can step up. But it would be better if the whole team can do that together. Coach Jorge De Brito told us earlier that it’s really a mental game, having courage and heart. I think that’s something we still lack, maybe because we don’t have that much experience yet as a team or as players. But I believe we will get there, where no matter who’s on the court, anyone can score and contribute,” she concluded.

     

    While the Capital1 Solar Spikers’ campaign ended sooner than they hoped, Bella Belen’s breakout performance provides a bright spot for the team’s future. Her leadership, consistency, and determination set the tone for the next chapter of the franchise. With lessons learned and a renewed focus on teamwork and mental toughness, Belen and the Solar Spikers are poised to come back stronger, aiming for a deeper run in the upcoming PVL conferences.

     

     

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  • Steve Kerr confirms Stephen Curry will only suit up in Play-In tournament if fully healthy

    Steve Kerr confirms Stephen Curry will only suit up in Play-In tournament if fully healthy

    The Golden State Warriors have endured a rollercoaster season, falling short of the lofty expectations that have long accompanied the franchise. Currently sitting 10th in the Western Conference with a 34-38 record in the 2025-26 National Basketball Association season, the Warriors’ campaign has been marked by inconsistency and frustration.

     

    A major factor behind their struggles has been the prolonged absence of superstar Stephen Curry, who has not taken the court since January 30 due to patella-femoral pain syndrome and bone bruising in his knee. Golden State’s performance starkly contrasts depending on Curry’s availability: the Warriors are 23-16 when he plays but have dropped 11-22 in his absence—a testament to just how integral he remains to the team’s success.

     

    Steve Kerr, the team’s head coach, stressed that Curry will only return to action in the upcoming NBA play-in tournament if he is fully healthy and capable of performing at his usual elite level. Kerr emphasized the importance of balancing immediate playoff ambitions with long-term considerations for the veteran guard.

     

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    “We are not chasing a play-in berth. We are squarely in the play-in tournament, no matter what we do. The bottom line is that if Steph is healthy, he is going to play. It’s what we are here for. And the chance to get in the playoffs is a big deal for us. A big deal for Steph, at 38. We don’t know how many more chances there are, so you go for it. But if there is any risk whatsoever in terms of how it would impact next year, then he won’t play,” Kerr said in a media session.

    He further clarified, “Bottom line, if Steph is healthy, he is going to play. It’s pretty simple.”

     

    The franchise had initially hoped Curry would return to the lineup after the NBA All-Star Game, but the superstar guard is still recovering and has yet to resume full team practices. His absence has left the Warriors relying on a younger supporting cast, with Klay Thompson, Jordan Poole, and Draymond Green shouldering much of the offensive and defensive load. While these players have had standout moments, Golden State has struggled to consistently close games and maintain leads without Curry on the floor.

     

    With the NBA play-in tournament looming, the Warriors are now faced with a delicate balancing act: giving Curry enough time to recover fully while ensuring the team is prepared to compete at a high level. A return by Curry could dramatically alter the team’s fortunes, offering a potential boost not only for their playoff positioning but also for the morale of a squad that has been tested by injuries and setbacks all season.

     

    For Golden State, the stakes could not be higher. At 38, Curry is acutely aware that opportunities to make a deep playoff run may be limited. The coming weeks will determine whether the Warriors can harness their veteran star’s talent to navigate the play-in tournament and make a meaningful push in the postseason, or whether they will enter the playoffs relying on a mostly Curry-less rotation—a scenario that would test the team’s depth and resilience to the fullest.

     

     

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