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Author: Arjun Devgan

  • Sydney Niegos admits heartbreak after being cut by Capital1, shines in PVL comeback

    Sydney Niegos admits heartbreak after being cut by Capital1, shines in PVL comeback

    The Capital1 Solar Spikers continued their climb up the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference standings with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over the Farm Fresh Foxies at the FilOil Center on Thursday, February 26. The match, which ended 26-24, 20-25, 28-26, 20-25, 15-11, showcased a blend of star power, resilience, and the emergence of a surprise hero in a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

     

    While UAAP standout and team centerpiece Bella Belen once again dominated the scoreboard, tallying 23 points in her sixth consecutive 20-plus performance, the win was a team effort, with several key contributors stepping up at critical moments.

     

    Outside of Belen, the Solar Spikers saw impressive contributions from Shaya Adorador, who recorded 14 points, and both Pauline Gaston and Cherry Nunag, who added eight points apiece. However, the most remarkable story of the night came from Sydney Niegos, who erupted for a career-high 20 points, including clutch plays during the deciding fifth set.

     

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    Niegos’ performance carried added weight, given her journey over the offseason. After the team decided not to renew her contract, she spent weeks grappling with disappointment and a sense of uncertainty about her volleyball career. At one point, she even began a new role outside of sports, enrolling as an enforcer with the Land Transportation Office, before receiving a second chance from head coach Jorge Souza De Brito.

     

    “When I got removed from the team, I was really down. For a whole month, I didn’t even look at volleyball or step on the court. I didn’t play at all. I got accepted to be an enforcer at the Land Transportation Office. I was already in the seminar when I got a call from Jorge Souza De Brito,” Niegos said during the post-match press conference.

     

    The former Jose Rizal University standout did not hesitate to return. “It’s different when the coach calls you; it means he believes in you. I didn’t want to waste the opportunity. You know how it is in volleyball — only a few make it to the pros. So I grabbed it.”

    Niegos’ redemption arc was on full display as she helped Capital1 overcome Farm Fresh, a team the Solar Spikers had never beaten in their two-year history. “I just want to prove to the coach that bringing me back wasn’t a mistake. I want to help Bella and contribute to the team. I just want to give my all so we can win, especially against Farm Fresh. We have been together for two years and had never beaten them until now, so I’m really proud that we finally did,” she said.

     

    Coach De Brito echoed his confidence in Niegos’ ability to continue producing on the court. “I’m really confident that she can deliver more than this and be more consistent. But for now, I’m happy because she trusts the process and also trusts her teammate,” he said.

     

    This victory sees Capital1 improve to a 3-3 record, moving up to sixth place in the All-Filipino Conference standings. While their record is balanced at the midpoint of the tournament, the team is beginning to hit its stride, blending Belen’s scoring dominance with Niegos’ renewed energy and the supporting cast’s timely contributions.

     

    The win also underscores Capital1’s ability to perform under pressure. Each set was fiercely contested, with multiple points decided by razor-thin margins. The Solar Spikers’ resilience, particularly in the decisive fifth set, demonstrates their capacity to withstand adversity and execute in high-stakes situations — a quality that could prove crucial as the conference progresses.

     

    Looking ahead, Capital1 aims to maintain their momentum as they prepare to face the Akari Chargers on Saturday, March 7, again at the FilOil Center. The Chargers, who have been formidable opponents in the league, will test the Solar Spikers’ ability to translate their hard-earned confidence into consistent results.

     

    If the Solar Spikers can build on the cohesion displayed against Farm Fresh, particularly with Belen and Niegos firing on all cylinders, they have the potential to climb further in the standings and become serious contenders in the PVL All-Filipino Conference.

     

    With a mix of talent, determination, and players hungry to prove themselves, the Capital1 Solar Spikers are a team on the rise — one whose narrative extends beyond scores and stats, encompassing redemption, teamwork, and the relentless pursuit of victory.

     

     

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  • Knight Arthur by PlayStar: How Cascading Wins and Multipliers Drive Big Rewards

    Knight Arthur by PlayStar: How Cascading Wins and Multipliers Drive Big Rewards

    In an increasingly competitive online gaming market, Knight Arthur by PlayStar stands out with a design philosophy that mirrors the drama of a comeback victory: momentum builds, pressure mounts, and when everything aligns, the rewards can be explosive.

     

    Unlike traditional slot machines that rely on fixed paylines, Knight Arthur operates on a six-reel, cluster-pay system centered around cascading wins and stacked multipliers. The result is a fast-paced experience driven less by single-spin hits and more by sustained streaks — a format that rewards patience and persistence rather than quick bursts of luck.

     

    A Modern Cluster-Pay Structure

    At the foundation of Knight Arthur is its grid-based cluster mechanic. Instead of aligning symbols along predefined paylines, players win by landing matching symbols anywhere on the reels. A minimum of eight identical symbols must appear to trigger a payout, reinforcing the game’s emphasis on volume rather than placement.

     

    Each round begins with a base wager of 20 credits, setting the stage for what can become an extended chain reaction. When a winning cluster forms, the symbols disappear and are immediately replaced by new ones falling from above — activating the game’s Tumble Feature.

    This cascading mechanic is where the title truly comes alive.

     

    The Tumble Feature: Building Streaks

    The Tumble Feature allows for multiple wins within a single paid spin. Once a cluster pays out, removed symbols create empty spaces, and new symbols drop into the grid. If those replacements create another winning cluster, the process repeats.

     

    There is no defined limit to the number of tumbles per spin. As long as new clusters continue to form, the sequence rolls on — with each win accumulating before the final payout is credited to the player’s balance.

     

    For players who appreciate streak-based gameplay, this mechanic is central. Much like a hot shooting stretch in basketball or a power-play surge in hockey, momentum compounds. A single spin can transform into a prolonged scoring run, particularly when multipliers enter the equation.

     

    Multipliers: The Engine Behind Big Payouts

    Multipliers are woven deeply into both the base game and bonus rounds, acting as the primary accelerant for larger returns. Random Multiplier symbols may land during spins, carrying values that range widely — from 2x and 3x all the way up to 1000x.

     

    When multiplier symbols appear during an active tumble sequence and contribute to a win, their values combine and are applied to the total accumulated payout for that entire cascade. If multiple multipliers land within a single streak, they stack — dramatically increasing the final result.

     

    This stacking element can shift a modest cluster win into a significant payout. Because multipliers can appear at any stage of a cascade, late-sequence additions can amplify already growing totals, creating dramatic swings in value.

     

    The design strongly favors extended streaks over isolated hits. Players chasing large returns are effectively seeking the perfect alignment: long tumble chains coupled with high-value multiplier symbols.

     

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    Free Spins Bonus: Where the Stakes Rise

    The headline feature of Knight Arthur is its Free Spins Bonus round, triggered when four or more Scatter symbols land anywhere on the reels. When activated, the feature awards 15 free spins.

    During the bonus round, the multiplier system evolves. Rather than applying multipliers solely to individual cascades, every multiplier that lands and contributes to a win is added to a cumulative multiplier that persists throughout the entire bonus session.

     

    In practical terms, this means early multipliers can set the stage for exponentially larger payouts later in the round. Consecutive winning tumbles not only generate immediate rewards but also increase the multiplier total for subsequent wins.

     

    The feature can also be retriggered. Landing three or more Scatter symbols during free spins awards five additional spins, with the total capped at 200 free spins. This retrigger potential keeps tension high deep into the session, as extended bonus rounds can dramatically increase volatility and reward potential.

     

    Bet Adjustments and Feature Access

    Knight Arthur includes adjustable betting options that influence gameplay dynamics. Opting for a higher base wager increases the likelihood of Scatter symbols appearing, potentially improving the frequency of bonus triggers. Some configurations may also provide access to a Super Bonus feature, depending on platform availability.

     

    This layered bet structure gives players the flexibility to tailor risk exposure according to their bankroll strategy. However, the game’s overall design remains firmly in the high-volatility category.

     

    High Volatility: Risk and Reward Balance

    High-volatility slots are characterized by less frequent but larger potential payouts, and Knight Arthur fits squarely within that framework. Extended dry spells can occur, but the combination of cascading streaks and stacked multipliers provides the potential for dramatic payout spikes when the bonus mechanics align.

     

    The structure favors disciplined play and bankroll management. Players seeking steady, low-variance returns may find the pace uneven, while those comfortable with swings may appreciate the explosive upside.


    A Momentum-Driven Experience

    At its core, Knight Arthur revolves around momentum. Clusters initiate tumbles, tumbles attract multipliers, and multipliers fuel payout growth — particularly during the free spins round, where accumulation mechanics amplify every streak.


    The design rewards extended sequences rather than isolated wins, placing emphasis on sustained cascades and multiplier stacking. For players who enjoy gameplay that builds tension over time — where one spin can evolve into a multi-layered payout event — Knight Arthur delivers a format built around escalation.


    In a landscape crowded with traditional payline slots, PlayStar’s Knight Arthur differentiates itself through its streak-oriented structure and high-impact bonus system. While volatility remains high, so too does the ceiling — especially when cascades and multipliers align at the right moment.


    For players willing to embrace its risk-reward dynamic, Knight Arthur offers a gameplay experience defined by momentum, multiplier stacking, and the ever-present possibility of a breakout sequence.


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  • “I loved drugs”: Lamar Odom admits drug addiction hurt his NBA Hall of Fame chances

    “I loved drugs”: Lamar Odom admits drug addiction hurt his NBA Hall of Fame chances

    Basketball Association (NBA), capturing two championships and earning a reputation as one of the league’s most versatile talents of his era.

     

    Yet while Odom’s résumé includes significant on-court achievements, his post-playing narrative has often been defined by highly publicized off-court struggles — from his marriage to reality television star Khloe Kardashian to his long battle with substance abuse, including a near-fatal overdose in 2015 that forced him into intensive medical care.

     

    Now 46, Odom has spoken candidly about how addiction shaped — and in his view, limited — what could have been a Hall of Fame career. During a recent appearance on the podcast Cousins with Vince Carter & Tracy McGrady, hosted by fellow former NBA stars Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady, Odom reflected on the grip drugs had on his life, even at the height of his professional success.

     

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    “I loved drugs. You are talking to a real addict. If I don’t have to play ball, then I don’t have responsibilities. Summertime I did drugs I ain’t gonna front. If you got caught for sniffing cocaine, that suspension is gonna be crazy. I had some great cocaine summers, though. I should be where you all are in the Hall of Fame. Off of straight talent. In an addict mind you think about how you are going to beat the system,” Odom said.

     

    Odom’s raw admission underscored the internal battle he fought throughout his playing days — a tension between immense natural ability and destructive habits that he believes ultimately prevented him from reaching true all-time status.

    “I had people coming to me before when I made it to the NBA. I was like 13 years old, saying, ‘No doubt in my mind you will be a Hall of Famer.’ Let’s keep it real, I have a shot at a reality show in season. That meant I was playing in the games and still won Sixth Man of the Year, shooting a reality show. So I know I had the grit and makeup to do it. But I’m thinking about overall greatness and legacy, yeah, I hurt that by abusing drugs. 100 percent,” he added.

     

    Selected with the fourth overall pick in the 1999 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Clippers, Odom quickly showcased his rare skill set. At 6-foot-10 with guard-like ballhandling and passing ability, he was one of the league’s earliest prototypes of the modern positionless forward — capable of initiating offense, rebounding, and defending multiple positions.

     

    Odom later had stints with the Miami Heat and the Dallas Mavericks, but it was during his time with the Los Angeles Lakers that he experienced the pinnacle of team success. As a key contributor off the bench, Odom helped the Lakers secure back-to-back NBA championships in 2009 and 2010. His impact was formally recognized in 2011 when he was named the NBA Sixth Man of the Year — an award that highlighted his value as one of the league’s premier reserves.

     

    Throughout his career, Odom averaged 13.3 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, numbers that only hint at his all-around influence. Coaches and teammates often praised his basketball IQ and unselfishness, qualities that made him a vital piece on contending teams.

     

    Still, Odom’s recent reflections reveal lingering regret. While he achieved more than most professional athletes ever do, he openly acknowledges that his ceiling was higher — and that addiction stood in the way of sustained greatness.

     

    Today, Odom has increasingly used his platform to speak about recovery and accountability, offering insight into the mental and emotional challenges that can accompany professional sports stardom. His story serves as both a cautionary tale and a testament to resilience — a reminder that even championship rings cannot shield athletes from deeply personal battles.

     

    In revisiting his journey, Odom’s honesty adds depth to a career that was as compelling as it was complicated — one marked by brilliance, vulnerability, and hard-earned self-awareness.

     

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  • PFF pays tribute to Gianni Infantino on 10th year as FIFA president

    PFF pays tribute to Gianni Infantino on 10th year as FIFA president

    The Philippine Football Federation (PFF), led by president John Anthony Gutierrez and FIFA Council Member and former PFF president Mariano V. Araneta, paid tribute to Gianni Infantino as he marks his 10th anniversary as president of FIFA, lauding what they described as a transformative decade for global football and for the Philippines in particular.

     

    Over the past several years, Philippine football has experienced significant progress, both on and off the pitch. Federation officials credit much of that momentum to FIFA’s expanded development programs under Infantino’s leadership — initiatives that have provided funding, infrastructure support, and governance reforms aimed at elevating emerging football nations.

     

    The Philippines’ growing stature in international football has been underscored by its increasing role as a host of global competitions. The most notable milestone came when FIFA awarded the hosting rights of the inaugural FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup to the country in 2025. The decision signaled strong confidence in the Philippines’ organizational capability and its potential to help drive the sport’s expansion across Southeast Asia.

     

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    “President Infantino’s trust in our nation to host the first-ever Women’s Futsal World Cup was a watershed moment for us. It proved that FIFA views the Philippines as a leader capable of organizing world-class events. His generous assistance throughout the hosting process underscored a deep belief in the capability of Filipino football leaders and our passionate community,” Gutierrez said in a statement.

     

    For the PFF, hosting the tournament represents more than a singular event. It is viewed as a catalyst for long-term growth — stimulating investment in facilities, strengthening domestic leagues, and inspiring greater youth participation, particularly among women and girls.

     

    Gutierrez emphasized that while recent achievements of the national teams have captured headlines, the federation’s deeper focus is on building sustainable foundations.

     

    “Behind the resurgence of our national teams with historic performances in the past years, it is the bricks and mortar – modern facilities, modernization of governance, and grassroots development support – that will define our future. President Infantino understands that for football to truly be global, every member association must have the tools to professionalize and grow. We are now better equipped than ever to nurture the next generation of talent,” he added.

    Central to that progress has been FIFA’s flagship development initiative, the FIFA Forward program, which has played a pivotal role in modernizing Philippine football infrastructure and administrative systems.

     

    Among the major milestones:

     

    World-Class Facilities: The establishment of the first-ever FIFA Arena in Balanga, Bataan — a landmark project aimed at raising training and competition standards. The initiative is expected to expand further, with plans to roll out at least 20 world-class pitches nationwide by 2026, significantly widening access to quality playing surfaces.

     

    A New Home for Football: The construction of a new five-story PFF National Headquarters and Training Center in Carmona, Cavite. Designed as a high-performance hub, the facility will serve as the central base for national teams, coaching education, and federation operations.

     

    Modernization in All Spheres: Beyond infrastructure, FIFA has extended guidance in coaching education, grassroots development, and governance reforms, helping the PFF strengthen transparency, accountability, and long-term strategic planning.

     

    Araneta highlighted the broader regional impact of Infantino’s leadership, particularly in empowering Asian member associations.

     

    “President Infantino has been a true partner for Asian football and for the Philippines in particular. His commitment to equal opportunity and global growth empowered nations like ours to accelerate football development,” Araneta added.

     

    Women’s football, in particular, has benefited from structural reforms introduced during Infantino’s tenure. FIFA’s decision to expand the FIFA Women’s World Cup from 24 teams in 2019 to 32 in 2023 created greater competitive opportunities for emerging nations and strengthened the sport’s global reach. For countries like the Philippines, expanded pathways to elite competition have provided both exposure and belief — fueling a surge of interest and participation at the grassroots level.

     

    As Infantino reaches a decade at the helm of world football’s governing body, Philippine football leaders see their country’s upward trajectory as part of a larger vision: a more inclusive, better-resourced global game where developing federations are equipped not just to participate, but to thrive.

     

     

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  • Alyssa Valdez and PNVF partner for nationwide youth volleyball camps

    Alyssa Valdez and PNVF partner for nationwide youth volleyball camps

    Alyssa Valdez remains the face of Philippine volleyball — an icon whose influence stretches far beyond the court. As a cornerstone of Alas Pilipinas and long-time star of the Creamline Cool Smashers, Valdez has been instrumental in propelling the sport into the national mainstream over the past decade.

     

    Now, the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), under newly elected president Tonyboy Liao, is looking to harness Valdez’s immense popularity to spark a new wave of grassroots development across the country.

     

    The federation recently reached an agreement with the 32-year-old superstar to organize a nationwide youth volleyball camp aimed at identifying and nurturing young talent, particularly in provinces and regions outside Metro Manila. The initiative underscores PNVF’s commitment to decentralizing access to high-level training and ensuring that promising athletes in far-flung areas are given the same opportunities as their counterparts in urban hubs.

     

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    Liao emphasized that Valdez’s presence alone could inspire participation on a massive scale.

    “So I decided to talk to Alyssa Valdez. Since she is the face of volleyball in the Philippines, I thought that if we bring her to these areas, a lot of kids would probably join,” Liao said.

     

    The federation’s plan was formalized during a recent board meeting, where regional representatives expressed strong support for the project.

    “In our last board meeting, we decided to hold youth camps in the regions. I suggested to the board members from different regions that we organize camps there. They said it was a good idea. They will coordinate with their respective mayors so we can get support from the local government units,” he added.

     

    Adding further prestige to the program is the involvement of legendary coach Roger Gorayeb. His inclusion effectively reunites one of the most celebrated player-coach tandems in Philippine volleyball history — a partnership that helped elevate the Ateneo Blue Eagles into a powerhouse program in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).

     

    The reunion of Valdez and Gorayeb is expected to add both technical expertise and nostalgic appeal to the camps, blending elite instruction with the inspirational narrative of their collegiate success.

     

    For Valdez, the initiative is a natural extension of her long-running grassroots efforts. She already operates the Alyssa Valdez Youth Volleyball Camp in key Metro Manila cities, including Pasig, Makati, Quezon City, Marikina, and Parañaque. Rather than maintain separate programs, the volleyball star proposed integrating her camp with the federation’s broader vision.

     

    “She suggested that instead of just using her name, we should partner. We can call it PNVF in partnership with the Alyssa Valdez Youth Camp. She is very willing to do it. In the next few days, maybe tomorrow or Thursday, we will meet again and sit down to plan when we will start. Usually, these camps are held during the summer,” Liao concluded.

     

    If finalized in the coming weeks, the collaboration could mark a significant step forward for Philippine volleyball development. With Valdez’s drawing power, Gorayeb’s technical mastery, and federation backing, the camps aim not only to sharpen skills but also to inspire the next generation of national team hopefuls.

     

    As volleyball continues to surge in popularity nationwide, the PNVF’s grassroots push signals a long-term investment in sustaining that growth — ensuring that the next Alyssa Valdez may well emerge from any corner of the country.

     

     

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  • “The NBA G-League gave me all I can take”: Converge’s new import Kylor Kelley on PBA move

    “The NBA G-League gave me all I can take”: Converge’s new import Kylor Kelley on PBA move

    The Converge FiberXers have made a major statement ahead of the 2025–26 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner’s Cup by signing towering former NBA talent Kylor Kelley as their import. Standing at a formidable 7 feet, Kelley adds a rare combination of size, athleticism, and rim-protecting instincts that the FiberXers hope will transform their defensive presence in the mid-season tournament.

     

    Kelley, 28, made the bold decision to cut short his stint with the South Bay Lakers in the NBA G-League in order to join Converge, signaling his desire to embrace a new challenge and pursue championship glory in the PBA. He already had a glimpse of life in Philippine hoops when he made his unofficial debut for the FiberXers in a tune-up game against the Blackwater Bossing, helping his team secure a 92-87 victory on Wednesday, February 25, at Hoops Gym in Mandaluyong City.

     

    “The G-League gave me all I can take from them, and I think it’s time to move on to another team and try to win a championship out here,” Kelley said after the game. “I had a couple of chasedown blocks, protected the rim, and I think that’s the big reason why I’m here — to be that defensive anchor, hold down the paint, and be that voice in the back line.”

     

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    The American center’s presence is expected to provide Converge with much-needed defensive stability, particularly in the paint, where the team has historically struggled to contain opposing big men. Kelley’s towering frame, combined with his experience in the NBA and G-League, gives the FiberXers a unique weapon on both ends of the court.

    Already, Kelley has gotten a taste of the kind of competition he will face in the Commissioner’s Cup. During his tune-up outing, he matched up against Blackwater’s star import Daniel Ochefu, who stands at 6-foot-11 — a figure that hints at the imposing opponents awaiting him once the official games begin. Converge fans can expect Kelley to face a slew of other giants, including 7-foot-3 Bol Bol of TNT Tropang Giga, 7-foot-6 Sam Deguara of Macau Black Bears, 7-foot Mubasha Ali of Terrafirma Dyip, and 6-foot-11 Marcus Lee of San Miguel Beermen.

     

    Despite the intimidating size of his future adversaries, Kelley remains unfazed. “It’s a little bit different for me. I think the tallest guy I have played against was 7-foot, so playing against a 7-foot-3 guy and a 7-foot-6 guy will be a little different. I just have to use my advantages, be able to run the floor, and outrun them,” he explained.

     

    Coaching staff and teammates have already noted Kelley’s professionalism and leadership on the court. His presence not only bolsters Converge’s defense but also provides a model for younger players, showing how athleticism, skill, and basketball IQ combine to dominate in the paint. With the Commissioner’s Cup now just weeks away, all eyes will be on Kelley to see if he can translate his NBA and G-League experience into tangible results for the FiberXers.

     

    If Kelley can establish himself as the defensive anchor he envisions, Converge could significantly alter the dynamics of the Commissioner’s Cup. The PBA will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how this new addition measures up against some of the tallest and most skilled imports in recent memory — a challenge Kelley seems ready and eager to embrace.


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  • Philippines aims to uncover young talent as it hosts the inaugural ASTAF U19 Asian Sepaktakraw Championship

    Philippines aims to uncover young talent as it hosts the inaugural ASTAF U19 Asian Sepaktakraw Championship

    The Philippines is set to host the inaugural 2026 ASTAF Under-19 Asian Sepaktakraw Championship later this year, and the Philippine Sepaktakraw Association Inc. (PSTAI) is using the event to unearth young talent while promoting sepaktakraw as a serious competitive sport.

     

    The tournament is expected to feature over 600 athletes aged 15 to 17 from 10 to 12 countries. Competitions will be held across men’s and women’s regu, quad, and mixed quadrant categories, providing a platform for the continent’s best youth players to showcase their skills.

     

    PSTAI president Karen Tanchanco-Caballero stressed that the association is leaving no stone unturned in preparing the national team. “So as we speak, we are already in motion coordinating with all the clubs and regional directors across the country to ensure that talents are all considered. So there will be a lot of inter-town, inter-barangay,” she said during a press conference at the Rizal Memorial Stadium Media Hall.

     

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    She added, “But we are also collecting the CVs of these kids. We know them from a few years ago in Palarong Pambansa, Batang Pinoy. So we already know them, but we still want to dig deeper and see more talents.”

    The Philippines secured the rights to host the championship in December 2025, marking a historic moment as the first-ever youth-focused international sepaktakraw tournament. “We had a meeting in Bangkok last December with leaders from different countries, and they are very excited that finally there is a big event specifically for youth sepak. So it wasn’t challenging for us to encourage participation and support from Asian countries,” Tanchanco-Caballero said.

     

    International Sepaktakraw Federation Deputy President and Asian Sepaktakraw Federation Deputy Secretary General Muhammad Fariq Abdul Halim believes the Philippines has the potential to become a top contender in Asia with the right training and support. “If you ask me whether the Philippines are in the top five in Asia, I say yes. And now with Quadrant, they can be the next champion if proper training and education are given to all the athletes, plus mental preparedness and readiness — that’s the most important,” he said.

     

    Abdul Halim added, “If we have a proper program with the support of the PSC, I don’t think the Filipino Sepaktakraw Association will have a problem grabbing at least a top-four medal. I’m saying a top-four medal.”

     

    For Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) president Patrick Gregorio, the event also reinforces the country’s position as a hub for international sports in Southeast Asia. Renovations are planned for the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila to accommodate the tournament, with benefits extending to other sports as well.

     

    The Philippine national team is expected to be finalized in July, with young athletes training alongside the senior squad at a regional center in Bukidnon. The 2026 ASTAF Under-19 Asian Sepaktakraw Championship is scheduled for November 18 to 24, 2026, marking a key milestone for the growth of sepaktakraw in the country and across Asia.

     


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  • “Still the same kind of game style”: Blackwater Bossing import Daniel Ochefu on PBA comeback

    “Still the same kind of game style”: Blackwater Bossing import Daniel Ochefu on PBA comeback

    The Blackwater Bossing have pulled off a noteworthy acquisition in their bid to climb up the standings in the upcoming 2025–26 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner’s Cup, securing former National Basketball Association (NBA) big man Daniel Ochefu as their import for the mid‑season conference.

     

    At 6‑foot‑11 and 32 years old, Ochefu brings a rare blend of size, experience and athleticism to the Bossing roster. While Blackwater has struggled for consistency in recent seasons, the addition of a seasoned international big man signals the franchise’s intent to be more competitive in the import‑laden portion of the PBA schedule.

     

    Ochefu is no stranger to Philippine basketball circles. He first drew local attention when he suited up for the TNT Tropang Giga as a late replacement import during the 2023 East Asia Super League (EASL) Champions Week in Japan. Though flashes of his physicality and skill were evident, the Tropang Giga ultimately fell short of a Final Four berth in that outing.

     

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    His familiarity with Philippine hoops goes back even further. Ochefu was originally tapped by the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters under then‑coach Chris Gavina as their import for the 2022–23 Commissioner’s Cup, but he was released before the tournament began when coaching philosophies shifted under new head coach Yeng Guiao. That experience underscored just how much a coach’s system can influence import decisions in the PBA.

    Now back on Philippine shores and eager to make his mark, the Baltimore‑native has expressed excitement about the opportunity to contribute to Blackwater’s campaign. “I have been here for like a week, so I’m getting to learn all the players, everybody’s getting to learn me, so it’s been cool so far,” Ochefu said in a media interaction, highlighting the adjustment process and his growing comfort within the team setup.

     

    Reflecting on his past PBA experience, he added, “I think that was a little different because I had another import playing with me at the same time. But it’s still the same kind of game style and stuff like that.”

     

    Ochefu’s professional journey is a testament to perseverance. After going undrafted in the 2016 NBA Draft, he earned a spot with the Washington Wizards through the Las Vegas Summer League and made his NBA debut during the 2016–17 season. Although his time in the league was limited — including a brief stint with the Wizards — the experience of competing at the sport’s highest level has informed his journey across global leagues.

     

    Since leaving the NBA, Ochefu has built a true international résumé, showcasing his talents across multiple countries and competitive environments. His professional stops have included spells in Spain, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Lebanon, Venezuela, Taiwan, Mongolia and Syria — experience that he now brings to Blackwater as the Bossing prepare for one of the most important stretches of their season.

     

    With no height restrictions in place for the Commissioner’s Cup, teams are increasingly turning to big, physical imports to bolster their inside presence, and Blackwater’s decision to tap Ochefu reflects that trend.

     

    As the Bossing gear up for their mid‑season campaign, all eyes will be on how Ochefu’s blend of NBA pedigree, international experience and physical dominance translates into results on the court. For a franchise eager to rise out of the lower rungs of the standings, his performance could be a defining factor in their quest for respectability in the season’s next chapter. 

     

     

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  • Ettore Guidetti points to Petro Gazz blueprint as Nxled navigates rough patch in PVL

    Ettore Guidetti points to Petro Gazz blueprint as Nxled navigates rough patch in PVL

    The Nxled Chameleons opened their 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference campaign in impressive fashion, racing to three straight victories and positioning themselves as one of the early contenders in the tournament.

     

    However, momentum has stalled in recent days after the Chameleons absorbed back-to-back defeats, the latest a four-set setback at the hands of the Akari Chargers, 25-18, 25-23, 23-25, 25-22, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre on Tuesday, February 24.

     

    Despite the dip in form, head coach Ettore Guidetti remains composed, choosing perspective over panic as the tournament enters a critical stretch.

     

    “I consider the game against Galeries a mistake. This one is not a mistake. This one, we played our volleyball – but not at our best. And honestly, Akari played a very, very, very good game,” Guidetti said after the match.

     

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    The Italian tactician acknowledged that consecutive losses inevitably bring added scrutiny and pressure, especially in a tightly contested conference where every win carries weight in the race for playoff seeding. Still, Guidetti stressed that the situation is far from dire and pointed to recent league history as proof that early setbacks do not necessarily define a team’s ceiling.

     

    “Yes, sure, there is pressure. But I don’t think that is a mental problem. In this moment, we have to focus on playing good together and being ready to play our best in the final part. We don’t have to forget that the Petro Gazz Angels are not famous for winning every single game. Last season, for example, they lost four games, but they arrived to win the Final,” he added.

     

    Guidetti’s comparison is rooted in fact. During the 2025 All-Filipino Conference, Petro Gazz entered the playoff phase as the sixth seed — hardly the profile of a favorite — yet surged at the right time and eventually captured the championship. Their run underscored the importance of peaking late rather than dominating the elimination round.

    For Nxled, the challenge now is rediscovering the cohesion and sharp execution that defined their early victories. Against Akari, the Chameleons showed flashes of resilience, particularly in the third set where they extended the match, but struggled to sustain consistency in key stretches. Service pressure and defensive discipline — hallmarks of their opening wins — wavered at crucial moments.

     

    Guidetti, however, remains unwavering in his belief in the roster he has assembled. With new additions bolstering depth and internal competition in training, he sees the current adversity as an opportunity for growth rather than a red flag.

     

    “I know that they can do it. With the addition of very good players in Nxled, we have the possibility to train better. We just have to train a little better and be ready, because it looks like everybody is playing really, really good against us.

     

    “We know if we play to our standard, we can beat basically anyone. But if we don’t, we can lose like anyone else – because this is volleyball,” Guidetti concluded.

     

    Currently sitting fourth in the standings, Nxled remain firmly in the mix as the conference heads toward its decisive phase. With parity across the league and contenders trading blows weekly, the margin for error remains slim — but so does the gap between teams.

     

    The Chameleons will look to halt their slide and regain momentum when they take on the Choco Mucho Flying Titans on Tuesday, March 3, once again at the FilOil EcoOil Centre. The matchup presents both a test and an opportunity: a chance to steady their campaign, reaffirm their identity, and prove that their early-season promise was no fluke.

     

    If Guidetti’s faith proves well-placed, Nxled’s recent losses may ultimately serve as the spark that sharpens them for a deeper postseason push.

     

     

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  • Los Angeles Lakers hire Tony Bennett as NBA draft advisor to Rob Pelinka

    Los Angeles Lakers hire Tony Bennett as NBA draft advisor to Rob Pelinka

    The Los Angeles Lakers have bolstered their front office with a significant addition, hiring former University of Virginia head coach Tony Bennett as an NBA Draft advisor to president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka. The move signals the franchise’s continued commitment to strengthening its scouting infrastructure and long-term roster construction strategy.

     

    Bennett, one of the most respected figures in college basketball over the past two decades, brings a championship résumé and a reputation for culture-building to one of the league’s most storied organizations. His addition comes at a time when the Lakers are placing renewed emphasis on maximizing draft value and identifying high-character prospects who fit the franchise’s standards both on and off the court.

     

    “We are thrilled and honored to welcome Tony as an advisor to the Lakers basketball operations department. As we refine and build out our NBA draft and scouting process, we could think of no better basketball mind than Tony Bennett to have as a resource. Tony’s track record of forming culture, with high-character, high-skill and high-IQ players is revered and respected across all basketball circles.Tony will be an incredible asset to our basketball leadership, to our scouts and to our draft department as a whole. We are truly excited,” a statement from Pelinka read.

     

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    Bennett’s coaching pedigree is deeply rooted at the National Collegiate Athletic Association level, where he built Virginia into a perennial powerhouse from 2000 to 2024. During his tenure, the Cavaliers captured six ACC regular-season championships and established a national identity centered on disciplined defense, deliberate tempo and player development. His ability to cultivate cohesion and accountability became a hallmark of the program.

    Over the course of his career, Bennett was named national coach of the year three times — in 2007, 2015 and 2018 — reflecting the consistent excellence and competitive edge his teams displayed. His crowning achievement came in 2019, when he guided Virginia to the NCAA championship, completing one of the most remarkable redemption arcs in college basketball history. In doing so, Bennett joined rare company, becoming just the fourth NBA player to win the NCAA title as a head coach.

     

    Beyond wins and accolades, Bennett is widely praised for his emphasis on character, leadership and basketball IQ — traits that align closely with the Lakers’ stated goal of building sustainable success through smart drafting and player evaluation. His experience assessing collegiate talent, understanding developmental trajectories and fostering winning habits is expected to provide valuable insight as the Lakers navigate future draft cycles.

     

    “When Rob and I began talking, what stood out to me was the chance to help out such a storied organization. The Lakers carry a tradition that speaks for itself, so to be connected to it and assist Rob and the Lakers in any way I can is exciting,” Bennett added.

     

    The Lakers currently hold a 2026 first-round draft pick, and Bennett’s evaluative eye could prove instrumental in identifying a prospect capable of contributing to the franchise’s next competitive window. With the Western Conference landscape evolving and roster-building increasingly dependent on hitting on draft selections, the organization’s investment in experienced basketball minds reflects a forward-thinking approach.

     

    For a franchise defined by championships and iconic figures, the addition of Bennett represents another calculated step toward blending tradition with strategic innovation. As the Lakers continue refining their draft and scouting processes, all eyes will be on how Bennett’s philosophy and expertise translate from the collegiate sidelines to the NBA front office.

     

     

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