Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Arjun Devgan

  • Kawhi Leonard reveals the secret to making NBA history in his 14th season

    Kawhi Leonard reveals the secret to making NBA history in his 14th season

    The Los Angeles Clippers have staged an impressive comeback after a rocky start to the 2025–26 NBA season, climbing back to eighth place in the Western Conference with a 34–33 record. Their resurgence has been fueled largely by the stellar performances of superstar Kawhi Leonard, who continues to redefine what it means to age gracefully in professional basketball.

     

    The Clippers’ early-season struggles were stark. At one point, the team languished with a 6–21 record, raising doubts about their playoff prospects and leaving fans questioning whether they could recover. However, Leonard’s consistency and leadership have been central to the team’s revival. In his 14th NBA season, the two-time Finals MVP has averaged a remarkable 28.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 2.0 steals per game across 53 appearances.

     

    Notably, Leonard has created NBA history with this achievement: he is the first player in league history to average a career-high in points per game this late into his career. Previously, former Clippers guard Lou Williams became the first player to average 20-plus points per game for the first time in their 13th season or later, also joining Chauncey Billups as one of only two players to set a career-high scoring average in their 13th season. Leonard’s feat underscores his dedication to both skill development and physical conditioning, even after more than a decade in the league.

     

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    Reflecting on his historic season, Leonard credited his preparation, faith, and work ethic. “The man above, and me just being able to play games. I had a good offseason, I was able to just work. Just praising him, work ethic, and believing. Just trying to get better in the game. Not worrying about the outcome. Whether it’s working on my shot, handle, or passing, just being aggressive and making mistakes,” he said.

    Even in a loss, Leonard has continued to shine. During the Clippers’ 109–118 defeat to the Sacramento Kings at home on Sunday, March 15 (Philippine Standard Time), Leonard scored 31 points, marking his 45th consecutive game scoring at least 20 points. This achievement allowed him to surpass Bob McAdoo for the most consecutive 20-point games in Clippers history, further cementing his place among the franchise’s all-time greats.

     

    “It’s amazing. Thank God for me being able to play consistently this year and being able to be in the conversation with the greats of this game. It’s always great to just be on the floor and be able to play basketball. There’s a lot of ups and downs that you go through in the NBA, either it’s a bad game, missing shots, being sick, or team failing and then the highs. It’s great to just be able to be in the conversation with greats like him,” Leonard added, highlighting his humility and perspective despite the historic milestone.

     

    However, the Clippers’ campaign has not been without setbacks. Leonard suffered yet another injury during the fourth quarter against the Kings, spraining his ankle. The injury has forced him to miss the team’s subsequent matchup against the San Antonio Spurs, marking his 15th missed game of the season. With 17 missed games serving as the threshold that rules players out of consideration for end-of-season NBA awards, Leonard now faces a critical juncture in his pursuit of league honors.

     

    Despite the challenges, the Clippers remain optimistic about their playoff chances. Leonard’s leadership, combined with contributions from supporting stars and a renewed team chemistry, has injected a sense of belief in the locker room. The Clippers’ ability to overcome their early-season struggles serves as a testament to resilience and perseverance in a league where consistency is key, and Leonard’s historic performance this season continues to remind fans why he is considered one of the most dominant and disciplined players of his generation.

     

    As the regular season approaches its final stretch, all eyes will be on Leonard and the Clippers to see if they can maintain their upward trajectory, secure a favorable playoff seed, and navigate the remaining schedule without further injury setbacks. The team’s fortunes and Leonard’s pursuit of career milestones remain intertwined, making the next few weeks critical for both the franchise and its superstar.

     

     

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  • Kim Kianna Dy admits struggles against Sisi Rondina in PLDT’s win

    Kim Kianna Dy admits struggles against Sisi Rondina in PLDT’s win

    The PLDT High Speed Hitters have opened their 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference campaign in dominant fashion, compiling an impressive 7–1 record to sit atop the standings early in the tournament. With a blend of veteran leadership and disciplined system play, PLDT has quickly established itself as one of the teams to beat in this conference.

     

    The High Speed Hitters sustained their strong run in their most recent outing, overcoming the Choco Mucho Flying Titans in four sets, 23–25, 25–21, 25–19, 25–19, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre on Saturday, March 14. After dropping a tightly contested opening set, PLDT showed composure and resilience, making key adjustments on both ends of the floor to take control of the match and secure the win.

     

    Despite the victory, PLDT star Kianna Dy acknowledged the challenge posed by one of the league’s most explosive players, Sisi Rondina. A former PVL Most Valuable Player, Rondina once again proved why she remains one of the most feared attackers in the league, finishing with 23 points built on 20 attacks and three service aces.

     

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    Dy admitted that Rondina’s offensive firepower initially caught them off guard, forcing PLDT to regroup and make in-game adjustments after the opening set.

    “Kasi nung first set talaga wala akong makapa kay Sisi. As in ang taas, ang lakas. So really had to adjust, kasi kung hindi kami makaka-adjust, medyo baka mag-uba ‘yung results,” Dy said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    After struggling to contain Rondina early, the High Speed Hitters tightened their defensive schemes, showing improved timing on their blocks and better floor coverage. Their adjustments paid off as they limited Rondina’s efficiency in the latter sets while maintaining consistent scoring on their end.

     

    Head coach Rald Ricafort emphasized that facing a player of Rondina’s caliber inevitably comes with challenges. He noted that the key lies not in completely stopping such a high-level scorer, but in staying patient, disciplined, and committed to the team’s system.

     

    “Yun na yun, bibigay mo talaga yung mga hindi maabot, yung mga sobrang lakas. Pero more on talaga sa patience ng naba-block. Yun, at yun naman ang ibibigay namin sa kanya, kaya tinake na lang namin yung mga pwedeng kunin at siguraduhing hindi mawawala sa syatem na gusto namin para sa kanya,” Ricafort added.

     

    PLDT’s ability to weather early pressure and execute adjustments underscores the maturity and cohesion within the squad. Their balanced attack and defensive discipline have been central to their success so far, allowing them to respond effectively against top-tier competition.

     

    As the All-Filipino Conference progresses, the High Speed Hitters will aim to sustain their momentum and hold on to the top spot, with tougher matchups expected ahead. If their current form is any indication, PLDT appears well-equipped to remain a strong contender deep into the tournament.

     

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  • Ljay Gonzales is living up to his “Speedy Gonzales” moniker for NLEX in the PBA

    Ljay Gonzales is living up to his “Speedy Gonzales” moniker for NLEX in the PBA

    The NLEX Road Warriors have come out firing in the ongoing Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner’s Cup, opening their campaign with back-to-back victories to remain unbeaten early in the tournament. Their strong start has not only set the tone for their season but also signaled their intent to be serious contenders in the mid-season conference.

     

    NLEX’s latest triumph came at the expense of the Magnolia Hotshots, whom they defeated 112–105 on Sunday, March 15, at the Ynares Center in Montalban. It was a complete team effort for the Road Warriors, with contributions coming from across the roster in a performance that highlighted both depth and cohesion.

     

    Among the standout performers was rookie guard Ljay Gonzales, who once again showcased his explosiveness and versatility. The 27-year-old finished with an impressive stat line of 13 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and two steals, providing energy on both ends of the floor. His ability to push the pace and attack in transition has quickly made him a valuable piece in NLEX’s rotation.

     

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    Gonzales’ speed has not gone unnoticed, earning him the nickname “Speedy Gonzales,” a nod to the iconic Speedy Gonzales from the Looney Tunes franchise. The rookie has embraced the moniker, taking it as a badge of honor as he continues to carve out his role in the professional ranks.

    “Siguro yun po nakikita nila. Sobrang happy naman ako na yun sinasabi sakin. Yun sinabi nila boss so kailangan tanggapin. Sobrang sarap din sa pakiramdam na sasabihin ka ng ganun ng manager,” Gonzales said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    Before turning pro, Gonzales built a solid reputation in the collegiate scene as a key player for the Far Eastern University Tamaraws in the UAAP. Following his collegiate stint, he took his talents to the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL), signing with the Quezon Huskers in November 2023.

     

    His time in the MPBL proved to be a crucial stepping stone. Gonzales flourished in the league, capturing the Rookie of the Year honors in 2024 and earning two All-Star selections. His performances there caught the attention of PBA teams, eventually leading to his signing with NLEX on December 23, 2025.

     

    Now, just a few games into his PBA career, Gonzales is already making his presence felt, providing the Road Warriors with an added dimension—particularly in transition offense and perimeter defense.

     

    “He gives us a different dimension sa laro,” NLEX head coach Jong Uichico said when asked about the rookie.

     

    With momentum on their side, the Road Warriors will look to extend their winning streak when they take on the TNT Tropang 5G on Sunday, March 22, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. As NLEX continues to build chemistry and confidence, all eyes will be on Gonzales and the rest of the squad to see if they can sustain their early surge in the Commissioner’s Cup.

     

     

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  • Noel Ferrer raises questions over Phoenix Petroleum’s ‘free fuel for life’ pledge to Hidilyn Diaz

    Noel Ferrer raises questions over Phoenix Petroleum’s ‘free fuel for life’ pledge to Hidilyn Diaz

    Fuel company Phoenix Petroleum Philippines has found itself at the center of a public controversy after it was alleged that the company failed to fully deliver on its widely publicized promise of providing Olympic champion Hidilyn Diaz with “free fuel for life” following her historic gold medal triumph at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan.

     

    Diaz made history in 2021 when she captured the Philippines’ first-ever Olympic gold medal in the women’s 55kg weightlifting event, ending the country’s nearly century-long wait for a gold in the Games. Her achievement sparked a wave of national celebration and prompted a series of rewards and incentives from both the government and private companies eager to recognize her remarkable accomplishment.

     

    Among those that pledged support was Phoenix Petroleum, which publicly announced that it would provide the weightlifting icon with a lifetime supply of fuel. However, the issue resurfaced recently after Diaz’s longtime manager, Noel Ferrer, took to social media to clarify that the commitment did not materialize as initially presented.

     

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    “Medyo naiiling na lang ako. Si Haidie ay tumahimik na lang at idinadaan na lang sa punchline. Pero drawing naman talaga ang lifetime na fuel suppy,” Ferrer said.

     

    “Pero waley ang lifetime supply na fuel na nai-commit. Ang tanong tuloy ng iba, kaninong lifetime ba ang tinutukoy nila? Idinadaan na lang sa comedy ang lahat, pero OK na OK talaga kung seseryosohin ang pagbibitaw at pagtupad sa salita,” he added.

     

    According to Ferrer, Diaz only received the free fuel benefit for approximately two years following her Olympic victory. After that period, the arrangement reportedly stopped, prompting questions about the original promise that had been publicly announced at the time.

    The matter gained renewed attention amid the recent surge in global fuel prices, which have been influenced by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and other economic pressures affecting the global energy market. Ferrer noted that while Diaz has largely chosen to remain quiet on the matter, the situation reflects broader concerns about how athletes are treated once the spotlight on their achievements fades.

     

    “It was their announcement, their commitment – not hearsay. In the press release, there were no conditions whatsoever; it was presented purely as an incentive. Thanks, but to be accurate, it wasn’t for a lifetime. I’m not sure whose lifetime the people had in mind,” Ferrer wrote.

     

    “Sadly, this is also symptomatic of how we regard athletes who are no longer in the limelight – even when they continue to contribute to sports and to the country. May these tough times bring out the best in us – and the honesty to match public pronouncements,” he continued.

     

    In response to the allegations, Phoenix Petroleum issued a statement defending its position and clarifying the circumstances surrounding the arrangement. The company emphasized that it had indeed supported Diaz even before her historic Olympic triumph and maintained that it had fulfilled the commitments agreed upon at the time.

     

    “We fulfilled our commitments. As with many corporate donations, such arrangements are guided by conditions, including brand alignment. As circumstances changed and Hidilyn engaged with another fuel brand, the fuel donation arrangement could no longer continue under the same terms,” the company said.

     

    Phoenix Petroleum also expressed disappointment over how the issue was raised publicly, saying that the matter could have been clarified privately before being brought to social media. The Davao-based fuel company further criticized what it described as misleading narratives circulating online and stressed that its support for Filipino athletes remains part of its broader corporate advocacy.

     

    The situation has sparked discussions among sports fans and observers about corporate incentives for athletes and the importance of clear agreements when such rewards are announced publicly. Diaz, widely regarded as one of the Philippines’ greatest athletes, continues to be an influential figure in Philippine sports following her historic Olympic victory.

     

     

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  • LeBron James calls Luka Doncic a “generational player” after clutch overtime win over the Nuggets

    LeBron James calls Luka Doncic a “generational player” after clutch overtime win over the Nuggets

    The Los Angeles Lakers have continued their strong campaign in the ongoing 2025-26 NBA season, compiling a 42-25 record to secure third place in the Western Conference standings. The team has been firing on all cylinders in recent weeks, and their latest performance against the Denver Nuggets further demonstrated their resilience and championship potential.

     

    On Sunday, March 15 (Philippine Standard Time), the Lakers faced a tough test at home against the Nuggets in a game that went down to the wire. In a thrilling overtime showdown, the Lakers eked out a 127-125 victory, highlighting their ability to perform under pressure and maintain focus in clutch moments.

     

    The standout for Los Angeles was Luka Doncic, who delivered yet another brilliant performance. The Slovenian star recorded a near triple-double with 30 points, 11 rebounds, and 13 assists in 43 minutes of playing time, proving once again why he is considered one of the NBA’s premier talents. Doncic capped off the game with a dramatic jumper with just half a second left in overtime, securing the Lakers’ narrow win and showcasing his poise in high-pressure situations.

     

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    Following the victory, LeBron James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, heaped praise on Doncic, calling him a “generational player” and applauding his clutch performance.

    “Just a big-time shot by a f***** generational player. Big time. We wanted the last shot. We wanted to put the ball in our guy’s hands. Austin Reaves was able to find him, and he was able to get away from the double team and hit one of his patented step-backs. So, it’s going to be just the first of many game winners like that for him and in a Lakers uniform,” LeBron said in a media interaction.

     

    The win over Denver also underscored the Lakers’ ability to rely on a balanced roster while leaning on their stars in crunch time. While Doncic delivered the heroics, teammates like Reaves, Anthony Davis, and D’Angelo Russell contributed key points and defensive stops to keep the Lakers ahead in critical stretches. The team’s depth and cohesion have been a major factor in their climb up the Western Conference standings, positioning them as serious contenders for the postseason.

     

    With the regular season entering its final stretch, the Lakers are focused on maintaining their momentum and securing home-court advantage for the playoffs. The recent victory not only bolsters team confidence but also cements Doncic’s role as a transformative player for the franchise, with LeBron James already signaling that the Slovenian is a future cornerstone for Los Angeles.

     

    As the Lakers prepare for upcoming matchups against tough Western Conference rivals, fans will be eagerly watching to see if Doncic can continue his late-season heroics and lead the team deep into the postseason. With performances like the one against Denver, the combination of star power, experience, and clutch execution makes the Lakers one of the most exciting teams to watch this season.

     

     

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  • Akari’s Ivy Lacsina named PVL Player of the Week for March 10 to 14

    Akari’s Ivy Lacsina named PVL Player of the Week for March 10 to 14

    The Akari Chargers have staged an impressive turnaround in the ongoing Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference, bouncing back from a three-game losing streak to register four consecutive victories and climb to fifth place in the standings.

     

    At the heart of Akari’s resurgence has been the stellar play of star outside hitter Ivy Lacsina, whose consistency and leadership on the court have been pivotal for the Chargers. Lacsina was once again a force for her team in their hard-fought 25-21, 26-24, 17-25, 25-21 triumph over the Creamline Cool Smashers on Saturday, March 14, at the FilOil Centre.

     

    The 26-year-old finished with a team-high 20 points, coming from 18 attacks, one block, and one service ace, effectively ending Creamline’s five-game winning streak and keeping Akari’s hopes alive for a Top 4 finish in the preliminary round. Her standout performance did not go unnoticed, as she was named Ivy Lacsina PVL Press Corps Player of the Week for March 10 to 14—a recognition awarded by journalists covering the country’s premier professional volleyball league.

     

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    Despite her rising profile, Lacsina credited the Chargers’ coaching staff for helping her maintain composure and focus during tight moments on the court.

    “Siguro sa akin po, with the guidance na rin po ng mga coaches. Kasi sila talaga ‘yung nagsasabi na, ‘Oh, kalma.’ Parang kapag medyo mataas na ‘yung emotion namin, sila talaga ‘yung nagma-manage no’n,” Lacsina said in a media interaction.

     

    The outside hitter also emphasized her commitment to continuous improvement, no matter how well she performs in a given game.

     

    “Siyempre, every day naman, kahit na nananalo ako, lagi ko pong sinasabi, kahit sa ibang interviews ko na, every day, lagi dapat may space sa akin para sa bagong learning. So, hindi ‘yun nawawala sa akin, kasi may gusto pa akong ma-achieve,” she added.

     

    Lacsina’s determination and consistent output have been a major factor in the Chargers’ climb up the standings, giving them momentum as the conference reaches a critical stage. With the preliminary round still in full swing, Akari will need her leader at her best as they prepare to face the Galeries Tower Highrisers on Tuesday, March 17, at the Santa Rosa Multi-Purpose Complex.

     

    As the PVL All-Filipino Conference heats up, all eyes will be on Lacsina and the Chargers to see if they can continue their winning streak and secure a strong position heading into the playoffs. With her leadership, skill, and mindset focused on growth, Lacsina could once again play a defining role in her team’s campaign.

     

     

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  • PFF praises the Filipinas resilience after quarterfinal finish at the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup

    PFF praises the Filipinas resilience after quarterfinal finish at the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup

    The Philippine women’s national football team saw its campaign in the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup come to an end in the quarterfinals following a tough 7–0 loss to Asian powerhouse Japan women’s national football team on Sunday, March 15 at Stadium Australia.

     

    Facing one of the strongest sides in the global women’s game, the Filipinas struggled to contain Japan’s relentless attack, with the former champions demonstrating their depth and quality throughout the match. Despite the heavy defeat, the Philippine side showed moments of resilience against a team widely regarded as among the elite in international football.

     

    While the quarterfinal loss ended the Filipinas’ bid for the continental title, their journey in the tournament is not yet finished. The team will now shift its attention to a crucial play-in match against the Uzbekistan women’s national football team for a spot in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, which will be held in Brazil.

     

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    Following the match, Philippine Football Federation president John Anthony Gutierrez commended the team for its determination and fighting spirit throughout the competition, emphasizing that the Filipinas’ performances have inspired fans back home.

     

    “The Filipinas delivered a campaign that every Filipino can be proud of, fighting bravely against three of the best teams in Asia in Australia, Korea Republic, and Japan. They definitely showed the character that defines our national team,” Gutierrez said.

    “While Japan proved their elite class today, our World Cup dream remains alive and we now move forward with determination as the Filipinas prepare for the play-in match against Uzbekistan,” he added.

     

    Head coach Mark Torcaso echoed similar sentiments, praising the effort and resilience shown by his players despite the difficult result against one of the world’s top-ranked teams.

     

    “We don’t want to lose any game that we play, but we also understand we were playing against probably one of the best teams in the world. I’m extremely proud of the girls and the effort they put in tonight,” Torcaso stated.

     

    The Australian tactician also highlighted the level of competition the Filipinas faced during the tournament, noting that the team battled several of the continent’s strongest sides.

     

    “It’s not publicized enough that the Philippines have played three of the best teams in Asia, and I believe probably three of the best teams in the world as well. We have done a really good job competing against them, and those experiences have helped put us in a position where will still have a chance to qualify for the World Cup,” he added.

     

    With their focus now shifting to the decisive play-in fixture, Torcaso and the Filipinas will prepare for a crucial showdown against Uzbekistan scheduled for Thursday at Gold Coast Stadium. A victory in the match would keep the Philippines’ hopes alive of qualifying for a second consecutive FIFA Women’s World Cup appearance.

     

     

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  • Bella Belen, Kim Kianna Dy excited for PVL All-Star Showcase return

    Bella Belen, Kim Kianna Dy excited for PVL All-Star Showcase return

    The Philippines’ top volleyball stars are set to take center stage when the Volleyball All-Star Showcase brings together standout players from the Premier Volleyball League and Spikers’ Turf on May 1 at the Candon City Arena.

     

    The event marks the long-awaited return of the league’s All-Star festivities, which were last staged in 2019. Its comeback has generated considerable excitement across the Philippine volleyball community, not only among fans eager to see their favorite stars share the same court but also among the players themselves, many of whom are looking forward to the rare opportunity to compete alongside athletes from rival clubs.

     

    Among those enthusiastic about the upcoming showcase is Bella Belen, the rising superstar of the Capital1 Solar Spikers. One of the league’s brightest young talents, Belen shared her excitement during a recent media interaction, expressing hope that she could be selected to participate in the special exhibition match.

     

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    “I saw the All-Star announcement. It’s the first time in the pros right? I’m very happy that we will have one. And if ever I make it to the team, do you also want me to be a referee? I might give you a yellow card even before we get there,” Belen said in a media interaction.

     

    Beyond the fun and lighthearted atmosphere expected during the event, Belen emphasized that the All-Star showcase ultimately serves as a celebration for the fans who support the sport year-round.

     

    “This is for the fans. For sure, they have players they would like to see playing together on one team, so this is their chance to see that dream happen,” she added.

    Another player who expressed excitement about the event is Kim Kianna Dy of the PLDT High Speed Hitters. A consistent crowd favorite in the PVL, Dy highlighted how meaningful it is to bring a major volleyball event outside the capital, giving provincial fans a rare opportunity to witness top-tier professional players up close.

     

    “I guess it’s also good for the fans who can’t travel to Manila. They will get to experience the games that usually happen here in Manila. It’s nice to bring the event to Candon, and I think it’s going to be a fun event since it will be the first time it’s happening there,” Dy said.

     

    Meanwhile, the Cignal HD Spikers will also be well represented, with star players Vanie Gandler and Dawn Catindig welcoming the return of the All-Star spectacle. For them, the exhibition offers a unique opportunity for players across different clubs to interact, compete together, and showcase a lighter side of the sport.

     

    Gandler believes the event mirrors the excitement typically associated with the All-Star festivities in the Philippine Basketball Association, where fans relish the chance to see players from rival teams share the same stage.

     

    “It’s going to be fun, of course, especially if we get to be part of it. We will have the chance to play with other players from different teams. For sure, it will be a fun experience, just like the PBA,” Gandler said.

     

    For Catindig, the All-Star event goes beyond competition and entertainment. She noted that it is also an opportunity for players to show appreciation to the fans who continue to support Philippine volleyball.

     

    “It’s a way of giving back to the fans – for them to see their volleyball idols. And maybe to show them a different side of us,” Catindig added.

     

    With the return of the All-Star festivities after several years, the showcase is expected to be one of the highlights of the PVL calendar this season. Bringing together some of the biggest names from the women’s and men’s professional leagues, the event promises an entertaining mix of high-level volleyball, fan engagement, and a celebratory atmosphere that honors the continued growth of the sport in the Philippines.

     

     

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  • Charles Tiu happy with rookie’s Will Gozum’s progress in Phoenix blowout win over Titan Ultra

    Charles Tiu happy with rookie’s Will Gozum’s progress in Phoenix blowout win over Titan Ultra

    The Phoenix Fuel Masters continued their impressive start to the ongoing Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup campaign, improving to a perfect record after securing a dominant 109–76 victory over the Titan Ultra Giant Risers on Sunday, March 16 at the Ynares Center.

     

    Phoenix showcased a balanced offensive performance and suffocating defense to pull away comfortably, maintaining control of the game from the second quarter onward. The Fuel Masters’ depth was on full display as multiple players stepped up to contribute, allowing the team to maintain its momentum and energy throughout the contest.

     

    Among those who capitalized on the opportunity was rookie forward Will Gozum, who delivered a productive stint off the bench. In 14 minutes of action, Gozum tallied seven points, two assists, and one rebound, providing a spark for the Fuel Masters during a key stretch of the game. The performance was particularly notable considering that Gozum did not see the floor in Phoenix’s opening victory over the Magnolia Hotshots earlier in the tournament.

     

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    With the team already boasting a competitive rotation on the wings, opportunities have been limited for the rookie. However, circumstances opened the door in this matchup after veteran forward Jason Perkins was dealing with Achilles discomfort, prompting head coach Charles Tiu to give Gozum a chance to prove himself.

    Following the game, Tiu explained the decision during the postgame press conference while also acknowledging the challenges Gozum faces in carving out consistent minutes in a crowded lineup.

     

    “With Perkins being questionable, sabi ko sige, we will give him a chance. I told Will from the start, it’s tough kasi here in the PBA, he is playing the wings, and I got guys like Ricci Rivero, Kenneth Tuffin. Even si Kai Ballungay, he plays in the wings. So it’s going to be tough for him to get that minutes,” Tiu said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    The Phoenix coach also noted that Gozum’s development has been gradual since joining the squad, pointing out that the rookie initially needed time to adjust to the pace and demands of the professional game. Despite the early challenges, Tiu expressed satisfaction with the progress he has seen from the young forward in recent weeks.

     

    “Lately, he has been better. Nung unang dating niya sa team to be honest, he really looks rusty, and he really looks out of it. But still he is trying to pick up. I’m happy he was able to contribute and score a little bit today. This guy works hard and kami, we want to give everybody a chance here to play,” he added.

     

    While Gozum’s role moving forward remains uncertain, his performance against the Titan Ultra Giant Risers provided a glimpse of the potential depth Phoenix possesses this conference. For a team looking to maintain its strong start in the Commissioner’s Cup, contributions from players throughout the roster could prove vital as the competition intensifies in the coming weeks.

     

    With two convincing wins to open their campaign, the Fuel Masters will look to sustain their momentum and continue building chemistry as they navigate the early stages of the tournament. If the team’s depth continues to produce performances like Sunday’s outing, Phoenix could emerge as one of the early contenders in the conference.

     

     

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  • “Kyrie wanted to beat LeBron”: Iman Shumpert explains why Irving requested trade from Cavaliers

    “Kyrie wanted to beat LeBron”: Iman Shumpert explains why Irving requested trade from Cavaliers

    Kyrie Irving is widely regarded as one of the most talented players in National Basketball Association (NBA) history. His combination of elite ball-handling, deep shooting range, and clutch performance has cemented his status as a future Hall of Famer. Over the course of his career, Irving has dazzled fans and analysts alike, routinely making shots that seem impossible and breaking defenses with his quickness and agility, despite his relatively smaller stature for an NBA guard.

     

    Irving’s skill set was on full display during the 2016 NBA Finals, where he helped the Cleveland Cavaliers stage one of the most historic comebacks in league history. Trailing the Golden State Warriors 3–1 in the series, Irving and the Cavaliers orchestrated a remarkable turnaround to claim Cleveland’s first NBA Championship. His clutch three-pointer in Game 7, over Stephen Curry’s outstretched hand, remains one of the defining moments of his career and a symbol of his ability to perform under pressure.

     

    However, just a year after reaching the pinnacle of success in Cleveland, Irving shocked the basketball world by requesting a trade from the Cavaliers in July 2017. The decision was widely debated, as it came only a year after his championship triumph alongside LeBron James, the team’s superstar and face of the franchise. Reports at the time suggested that the then 25-year-old Irving no longer wanted to play in LeBron’s shadow. Instead, he sought the opportunity to be the centerpiece of a team — a chance to lead as the primary star, which would have been difficult to achieve in Cleveland.

     

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    The dynamics of the Cavaliers’ locker room and Irving’s motivations were recently discussed by former teammate Iman Shumpert, who was part of Cleveland’s 2016 championship squad. Speaking on the “Club Shay” podcast, Shumpert offered insight into Irving’s mindset and why the young guard desired a move away from LeBron’s influence.

     

    “If you know Kyrie, Kyrie is a Kobe guy. Kyrie wanted to beat LeBron, and that’s okay. People be like, ‘Man that was dumb. I would have —’ Yeah, you would have. You would have teamed up. That’s who you are. That’s not Kyrie. Kyrie is like, ‘The only way I can be crowned the best is to beat the best,’” Shumpert explained.

    He continued, offering a colorful analogy to describe the situation: “You at your momma crib. And then they just bring you a new brother, and your mama like, ‘Well you is the one that get to have the house key and do whatever you want. You get to drive the car. You got a new brother now.

     

    “For people not to understand that’s what happened, and then be like, ‘Oh, he should have put his pride to the side?’ Why? What’s wrong with that? Bron is great, Kyrie wanted to beat him. Kyrie wanted you all to have to say, ‘I beat LeBron on the biggest stage ever,’” Shumpert added.

     

    Shumpert’s perspective sheds light on Irving’s competitive fire and his desire to establish his own legacy separate from LeBron James, whom many consider one of the greatest players in NBA history. While some fans criticized Irving at the time for leaving a championship-caliber team, understanding his mindset puts his decision into context: Irving was not merely seeking personal glory; he wanted to prove that he could conquer the league’s very best on his own terms.

     

    Indeed, Irving’s career following the trade has reflected this mindset. While he faced challenges adjusting to new teams and systems, his talent remained undeniable. In Boston, he led the Celtics to deep playoff runs and became the centerpiece of their offense. Later, in Brooklyn, Irving continued to demonstrate his scoring prowess, ball-handling wizardry, and ability to dominate critical moments — all hallmarks of the same player who hit one of the most iconic shots in Finals history.

     

    Irving’s story illustrates the delicate balance between team success and individual legacy in professional sports. While championships define careers for some, personal growth, competitive drive, and the desire to test oneself against the very best can equally shape a player’s journey.

     

    As Irving continues his career, fans and analysts alike are reminded that his decisions — from the 2017 trade to the moments of brilliance on the court — are driven by an insatiable desire to compete at the highest level. Whether in Cleveland, Boston, Brooklyn, or wherever he plays next, Kyrie Irving remains a player whose talent, ambition, and unyielding competitive spirit define his path in the NBA.

     

     

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