Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Arjun Devgan

  • Leo Austria returns after heart procedure, guides San Miguel to victory

    Leo Austria returns after heart procedure, guides San Miguel to victory

    The San Miguel Beermen continued their impressive campaign in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup, overpowering the Converge FiberXers, 126-114, on Wednesday, August 5, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

    Leading the charge was import George King, who delivered a dominant all-around performance to help the Beermen secure their fifth victory of the conference. King erupted for a game-high 46 points while grabbing 14 rebounds and dishing out six assists, bouncing back in emphatic fashion after a disappointing outing in San Miguel’s previous loss to the TNT Tropang 5G.

     

    King dictated the tempo from the opening quarter, attacking the basket relentlessly while knocking down timely perimeter shots. He also made his presence felt on the defensive end and in transition, allowing the Beermen to maintain control despite several comeback attempts by the FiberXers.

     

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    His stellar performance was complemented by San Miguel’s balanced offensive execution, as the Beermen capitalized on efficient ball movement and timely contributions from their local core to keep Converge at bay throughout the contest.

     

    The victory was made even more meaningful by the return of veteran head coach Leo Austria, who was back on the sidelines after missing the team’s previous six games while recovering from a heart procedure.

    Austria recently underwent an angioplasty, a minimally invasive procedure performed to restore blood flow by opening blocked coronary arteries. Although he was away from game-day coaching duties, the 68-year-old mentor remained actively involved in the team’s preparations by attending practices and providing guidance behind the scenes.

     

    Speaking after the game, Austria expressed gratitude for being given another opportunity to coach.

     

    “Thanks God I was able to have another opportunity to coach the team. I would like to thank the people who helped me, for saving my life,” Austria said during the postgame press conference.

     

    The veteran tactician admitted that returning to the bench was an emotional experience, particularly during the opening minutes of the game.

     

    “At the start, I was really nervous because I’m trying to feel the rhythm of the game. And I’m so happy because even though I’m not coaching in the past six games, I’m always in the practice, trying my best to be with the team, to inspire them. They wanted me to coach, I’m here. I’m thankful dahil baka I think baka 99 percent na okay ako,” he added.

     

    Austria’s return provided an emotional boost for the Beermen, who have maintained their strong form despite his temporary absence. The players responded with a disciplined performance on both ends of the floor, giving their longtime coach a memorable victory in his first game back.

    With the win, San Miguel improved to a 5-2 record, strengthening its hold on second place in the Group A standings and further establishing itself as one of the top contenders in the Governors’ Cup.

     

    The Beermen will now look to build on their momentum when they face the Macau Giant Pandas on Saturday, August 8, at the Ynares Center in Montalban. With King rediscovering his dominant form and Austria back calling the shots from the bench, San Miguel hopes to continue its winning run as the race for playoff positioning intensifies.

     

     

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  • Philippine senate files resolutions honoring Alex Eala’s historic WTA breakthrough

    Philippine senate files resolutions honoring Alex Eala’s historic WTA breakthrough

    Philippine tennis sensation Alex Eala continues to cement her status as one of the brightest stars in international tennis after achieving another groundbreaking milestone that has elevated the country’s presence on the global stage.

     

    Already regarded as one of Southeast Asia’s most promising talents, Eala has built a remarkable career defined by perseverance, consistency, and historic achievements. From her dominant junior career to her rise among the world’s top professional players, the 21-year-old has repeatedly demonstrated that Filipino athletes can compete against the best in the world.

     

    Eala added another landmark achievement to her growing list of accomplishments after defeating World No. 3 and Mubadala DC Open top seed to capture the biggest title of her career. The victory marked her first-ever WTA 500 championship and made her the first Filipino player to break into the Top 20 of the WTA singles rankings.

     

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    Her historic triumph immediately drew recognition from Philippine lawmakers, with several senators filing resolutions honoring Eala for bringing pride and inspiration to the country through her achievements in international tennis.

     

    Senators Bam Aquino, JV Ejercito, Mark Villar, and Erwin Tulfo each filed separate resolutions celebrating Eala’s breakthrough. Villanueva filed Senate Resolution No. 554, while Ejercito, Aquino, Villar, and Tulfo filed Senate Resolutions Nos. 562, 560, 564, and 565, respectively, in recognition of her accomplishment.

     

    Ejercito praised Eala’s success as a defining moment for Philippine tennis, highlighting the impact of her victory beyond the sport itself.

     

    “For the first time, the Philippines became known in the world of tennis because of the skill, determination, and sportsmanship of Alex Eala,” Ejercito said in a statement.

    “She has brought immense honor to our country and made every one of us proud. She is proof that Filipino heart and talent can stand toe-to-toe with the best in the world.”

     

    The senator also emphasized the importance of using Eala’s achievement as motivation to further improve sports development programs in the country.

     

    “The success of Alex Eala shows what Filipino talent can achieve when it is nurtured and supported,” Ejercito added. “Her victory should inspire us to improve our sports development programs and expand opportunities for young Filipino athletes to train, compete, and excel on the world stage.”

     

    Villar echoed the sentiment, saying Eala’s accomplishments have inspired a new generation of Filipino athletes to dream bigger and believe they can compete internationally.

     

    “Vamos, Alex! Your victory is proof that Filipino athletes are truly world-class,” Villar said.

     

    “You are already a champion, but I believe you still have even greater heights to reach. Once your journey of success begins, there’s no stopping you. Keep dreaming, keep working hard, and continue making the Philippines proud in every match. The entire Filipino nation stands behind you, cheering you on every step of the way.”

     

    Eala’s achievement also received recognition from the House of Representatives, which lauded the young Filipina for reaching a historic milestone at just 21 years old.

     

    The House described her accomplishment as “unprecedented in Philippine tennis,” noting that her success highlights the talent, resilience, and competitive spirit of Filipino athletes on the global stage.

     

    Beyond the rankings and championship trophies, Eala’s rise represents a significant moment for Philippine sports. Her journey has provided young Filipino athletes with a powerful example of what dedication, proper development, and international exposure can achieve.

     

    As she continues her professional career, Eala remains focused on reaching even greater heights while carrying the hopes of a nation eager to witness the continued rise of one of its greatest sporting talents.

     

     

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  • Philippines to build 25-court Helios Pickleball Center in bid to become Southeast Asia’s pickleball hub

    Philippines to build 25-court Helios Pickleball Center in bid to become Southeast Asia’s pickleball hub

    Pickleball continues to experience rapid growth in the Philippines, with the sport gaining popularity among recreational players, young athletes, and sports communities across the country. As more courts open in urban areas and provinces, the Philippines is now taking a significant step toward establishing itself as one of Southeast Asia’s leading destinations for pickleball.

     

    The country recently moved closer to that goal following the announcement of a major partnership involving international pickleball stars Ben and Collin Johns, who will help design and technically plan the upcoming Helios Pickleball Center—a state-of-the-art facility expected to open in 2028.

     

    The ambitious project aims to become one of the premier pickleball destinations in the region, featuring 25 tournament-grade courts and a championship venue capable of accommodating 2,000 spectators. Organizers envision the facility as a venue capable of hosting major international competitions, including events sanctioned by the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Major League Pickleball (MLP).

     

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    Beyond providing a world-class playing environment for Filipino athletes, the Helios Pickleball Center is expected to strengthen the country’s position as a potential host for global pickleball events while creating more opportunities for local players to compete and develop.

     

    Former Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Richard Bachmann, who is involved in the project as head of operations of Kosmas Athletic Ventures Corporation (KAVC), believes the facility can play a major role in sustaining the sport’s rapid expansion in the country.

     

    “We have seen the sudden rise of the sport in the country and we are aware of new courts appearing everywhere. If we can sustain this popularity, maybe we can also give the Philippines an instant foothold in the sport worldwide,” Bachmann said during a media interaction.

     

    Pickleball has grown significantly in recent years, attracting players from different age groups due to its accessibility, fast-paced action, and relatively low barrier to entry. In the Philippines, the sport has quickly gained a following, with communities forming in various cities and more facilities being developed to accommodate growing demand.

    The involvement of Ben and Collin Johns adds further credibility to the project. Widely recognized as two of the most successful names in international pickleball, the brothers have played a major role in elevating the sport’s global profile.

     

    Through Johns Design and Consulting (JDC), a firm co-founded by the Johns brothers, they will provide architectural design, facility planning, and technical consulting services to ensure that the Helios Pickleball Center meets international standards.

     

    Their expertise will be used to create a venue designed not only for everyday play but also for high-level competitions, ensuring that the facility can meet the requirements of professional tournaments.

     

    “Pickleball is experiencing explosive growth globally, and the Philippines is poised to become a major hub for the sport in Asia,” Collin Johns said.

     

    For Philippine pickleball advocates, the development represents more than just the construction of a new sports facility. It signals a commitment to building the necessary infrastructure needed to nurture local talent, attract international events, and introduce more Filipinos to the sport.

     

    Bachmann emphasized that the Helios Pickleball Center is only the beginning of a broader vision to expand pickleball facilities throughout the country.

     

    “This is just the start,” he said, as organizers expressed their intention to develop similar venues in different regions to make the sport more accessible nationwide.

     

    With the combination of growing local interest, increasing international recognition, and investments in world-class infrastructure, the Philippines hopes to position itself as a key player in the global pickleball landscape.

     

    As the sport continues its upward trajectory, projects like the Helios Pickleball Center could serve as a foundation for the next generation of Filipino pickleball athletes while helping establish the country as a premier destination for international competitions in Asia.

     

     

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  • PTTF looks to unearth future national team stars through Intercollegiate and Interscholastic Challenge

    PTTF looks to unearth future national team stars through Intercollegiate and Interscholastic Challenge

    The Philippine Table Tennis Federation (PTTF) is continuing its commitment to developing the next generation of Filipino paddlers through the staging of the 2026 Intercollegiate and Interscholastic Challenge, a tournament that has grown into one of the country’s premier grassroots competitions.

     

    Set to take place from August 28 to 30 at Home Court, Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque City, the tournament will bring together some of the nation’s top student-athletes from leading educational institutions. Schools from the UAAP, NCAA, UCAL, CESAFI, and the National Academy of Sports are all expected to compete in the fourth edition of the event, which has become an important fixture on the Philippine table tennis calendar.

     

    The annual competition forms part of the PTTF’s long-term vision of expanding the reach of table tennis across the country while providing young athletes with more opportunities to compete at a high level and pursue their sporting ambitions.

     

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    PTTF president Ting Ledesma believes the steady growth of the tournament reflects the increasing interest in table tennis among student-athletes and schools nationwide.

     

    “We are very proud of how the Intercollegiate and Interscholastic Challenge has grown over the past four years,” Ledesma said during a media interaction.

     

    “What started as an opportunity to bring together the country’s best student-athletes has now become an annual tradition on the Philippine table tennis calendar.”

     

    Ledesma also acknowledged the role of Home Court in helping the federation sustain and elevate the competition over the years.

    “We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Home Court for its unwavering support through the years. Their partnership has been instrumental in helping us sustain and elevate this tournament for our young athletes,” she added.

     

    The tournament has consistently served as a showcase for the country’s brightest young talents. In last year’s edition, the University of Santo Tomas emerged as the most successful school after collecting seven gold medals, highlighting the depth of its table tennis program.

     

    Beyond the medals and team titles, however, the PTTF sees the competition as an avenue for aspiring athletes to unlock greater opportunities both on and off the table.

     

    Secretary-General Pong Ducanes emphasized that the federation’s objective extends beyond identifying champions, with the tournament designed to help student-athletes earn scholarships and eventually represent the Philippines on the international stage.

     

    “Our goal has always been to provide student-athletes with a platform where they can showcase their talents,” Ducanes said.

     

    “We hope this tournament opens doors for them to earn athletic scholarships through table tennis in UAAP, NCAA, UCAL, or CESAFI schools. Beyond college, we also hope that many of these young players eventually represent our national team in international competitions.”

     

    Longtime tournament supporter William Yap, founder of the Huaching Foundation, echoed the federation’s commitment to investing in grassroots development and nurturing future national team players.

     

    “The future of Philippine table tennis begins with our youth, and we are happy to continue supporting a tournament that gives them opportunities to compete, improve, and pursue their dreams,” Yap said.

     

    “We look forward to seeing the tournament continue to grow for many more years.”

     

    As the fourth edition of the Intercollegiate and Interscholastic Challenge approaches, the PTTF hopes the event will continue to strengthen the country’s grassroots pipeline, inspire more young Filipinos to embrace the sport, and help shape the next generation of athletes capable of succeeding on both the collegiate and international stage.

     

     

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  • PSC invites Timor-Leste to Tour of Luzon, Mindanao Youth Games to strengthen sports ties

    PSC invites Timor-Leste to Tour of Luzon, Mindanao Youth Games to strengthen sports ties

    The Philippines and Timor-Leste have taken another step toward strengthening their sporting ties after the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) invited the Southeast Asian nation to participate in two major events scheduled for next year—the Tour of Luzon and the inaugural Mindanao Youth Games in Lanao del Norte.

     

    PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio extended the invitation during a meeting with Timor-Leste’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Marciano Octavio Garcia Da Silva, as both sides discussed expanding sports cooperation between the two countries.

     

    Gregorio emphasized that the initiative is about more than just competition, highlighting sports as a platform for youth development, cultural exchange, and regional unity.

     

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    “This is more than just competition. It is about building bridges, discovering talent and using sports as a platform for peace and development. Timor-Leste’s participation will enrich the Games and strengthen our ties as Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) neighbors,” Gregorio said during a media interaction.

     

    The Tour of Luzon remains one of the country’s premier cycling events, while the Mindanao Youth Games aim to provide young athletes with greater opportunities to compete and develop their skills. The PSC hopes Timor-Leste’s participation will further strengthen sporting relations within the ASEAN community.

     

    For Ambassador Da Silva, the partnership demonstrates the power of sports in bringing nations together beyond the playing field.

    “Sports is a universal language. By joining these events, Timor-Leste and the Philippines are not only competing but also sharing culture, friendship, and mutual respect,” he said.

     

    Beyond competition, the PSC is also exploring long-term collaboration with Timor-Leste through sports development programs. Among the areas being discussed are Arnis, the Philippines’ national martial art, and football, the most popular sport in Timor-Leste.

     

    “Arnis represents our heritage, while football is deeply rooted in Timorese culture. By sharing expertise, we can learn from each other and elevate both sports across our nations,” Gregorio added.

     

    To formalize the partnership, the PSC is working with the Department of Foreign Affairs to establish a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two countries. The agreement is expected to create a framework for sustained cooperation in athlete development, coaching exchanges, and sports administration.

     

    “This agreement will institutionalize our cooperation. It will ensure continuity, sustainability, and shared growth in sports development,” Gregorio said.

     

    The partnership comes as Timor-Leste continues to strengthen its presence within ASEAN after officially becoming the organization’s 11th full member on October 26, 2025. The country is also preparing to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2029.

     

    “As we prepare for our ASEAN Chairmanship in 2029, partnerships like this with the Philippines will help us showcase our identity and strengthen our role in the region,” Da Silva said.

     

    With both nations looking to expand cooperation beyond competition, the initiative highlights the growing role of sports diplomacy in fostering regional collaboration and creating new opportunities for athletes across Southeast Asia.

     

     

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  • Jerry Yee sees room for improvement despite ZUS Coffee’s perfect PVL On Tour start

    Jerry Yee sees room for improvement despite ZUS Coffee’s perfect PVL On Tour start

    The ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles have made an emphatic statement at the start of the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour preseason conference, opening their campaign with back-to-back victories to emerge as one of the early pace-setters in the tournament.

     

    After reaching the finals of last season’s Reinforced Conference, the Thunderbelles have carried that momentum into the preseason, showcasing a more polished and versatile squad under head coach Jerry Yee. Their perfect 2-0 record has placed them atop the standings and strengthened optimism that the franchise is ready to challenge for its maiden PVL championship.

     

    ZUS Coffee began its campaign in dominant fashion with a four-set victory over the Akari Chargers, winning 25-11, 25-23, 26-28, 25-17 in Ilagan City, Isabela on July 8. The Thunderbelles followed that up with an equally convincing performance just three days later, sweeping crowd favorites Choco Mucho Flying Titans, 25-14, 25-20, 25-23, in Batangas City.

     

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    The two victories highlighted the team’s growing chemistry, depth, and defensive discipline, with multiple players stepping up throughout both matches as ZUS Coffee continued to fine-tune its systems ahead of the regular season.

     

    Despite the unbeaten start, Yee insists there is little room for complacency. While pleased with his team’s progress, the veteran coach believes the preseason is more about development than results and remains focused on ironing out weaknesses before the campaign that truly matters.

     

    “I would like to start by saying that I’m happy they are responding well to the changes, but we still have a lot of work to do,” Yee said during a media interaction.

    “If you are a coach, what you really see are the lapses, the shortcomings, and the things that your team needs to improve on.”

     

    Yee has approached the On Tour tournament as an opportunity to experiment with different lineups and rotations. Taking full advantage of the competition’s all-to-play rule, he has ensured every member of the roster receives meaningful court time, allowing players to gain valuable experience while helping the coaching staff evaluate different combinations.

     

    The 52-year-old mentor has also deployed several players in unfamiliar roles, believing positional flexibility will become one of the team’s biggest strengths once the regular season begins.

     

    “We are trying to practice our rotation,” Yee explained. “We have many new players and positional changes. So, we would like to practice those and get our players some playing time.”

     

    That willingness to experiment reflects ZUS Coffee’s long-term vision. Rather than simply chasing victories in the preseason, the Thunderbelles are focused on building a deeper and more adaptable roster capable of sustaining a championship challenge throughout the season.

     

    Another encouraging development for Yee has been the recent international exposure gained by several of his players. AC Miner, Chinnie Arroyo, Zam Nolasco, Alyssa Eroa, Riza Nogales, and Cloanne Mondonedo all suited up for Strong Group Athletics at the 2026 Formosa Women’s Volleyball Invitational Tournament in Taiwan.

     

    Competing against international opposition provided the players with invaluable experience in a high-level environment, something Yee believes will accelerate both their individual growth and the team’s overall development. Exposure to different playing styles and higher-intensity competition is expected to pay dividends as the Thunderbelles continue to mature into one of the PVL’s rising contenders.

     

    With an increasingly deep roster, improved chemistry, and valuable experience gained both domestically and internationally, expectations surrounding ZUS Coffee continue to grow. However, Yee remains committed to his process, emphasizing steady improvement over early-season hype.

     

    The Thunderbelles will have another opportunity to test themselves when they face the PLDT High Speed Hitters on Saturday, August 8, in the City of Santiago. A victory would not only preserve their unbeaten record but also provide another indication that ZUS Coffee is building the consistency required to transform last season’s breakthrough campaign into a genuine championship-winning year.

     

     

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  • “My teammates make things easier for me”: DeQuan Jones credits local players for extending NLEX’s unbeaten run

    “My teammates make things easier for me”: DeQuan Jones credits local players for extending NLEX’s unbeaten run

    The NLEX Road Warriors continue to establish themselves as the team to beat in the 2026 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Governors’ Cup after extending their unbeaten run to six games with another impressive victory.

     

    The Road Warriors maintained their perfect start to the conference on Tuesday, August 4, overcoming defending champions TNT Tropang 5G, 88-83, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. The victory not only preserved NLEX’s spotless record but also further strengthened their credentials as legitimate title contenders in one of the league’s most competitive conferences.

     

    Leading the way once again was import DeQuan Jones, who delivered another all-around performance with a game-high 27 points, seven rebounds, and one assist. Jones provided the offensive spark throughout the contest while also making key plays on the defensive end as NLEX held off a determined TNT side in the closing minutes.

     

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    Despite his standout display, Jones was quick to deflect the praise toward his Filipino teammates, emphasizing that NLEX’s success has been built on collective effort rather than individual brilliance.

     

    “We know and understand that the key to longevity is evening our workload,” Jones said after the game. “For me personally, my job is to give the team whatever it needs to win. When you play with Berto (Bolick), Schonny (Winston), and LJ (Gonzales), it’s tiring chasing them up and down, but they make things easier for me.”

    Jones’ comments reflected the chemistry that has developed within the NLEX squad during its remarkable start to the tournament. Rather than relying solely on their import, the Road Warriors have consistently received meaningful contributions from their local core, making them one of the deepest and most balanced teams in the conference.

     

    LJ Gonzales continued his solid run of form by contributing 11 points, while veteran floor general Robert “Berto” Bolick added 10 points and orchestrated the offense with his usual composure. Schonny Winston, JB Bahio, and Enoch Valdez each chipped in with nine points, highlighting the balanced scoring attack that has become a hallmark of coach Jimmy Alapag’s side.

     

    That offensive balance proved crucial against a TNT team that repeatedly threatened to erase NLEX’s advantage. Every time the Tropang 5G mounted a rally, another Road Warrior stepped up with a timely basket or defensive stop, underscoring the team’s growing confidence and resilience.

     

    With six consecutive victories to open the conference, NLEX has quickly become the biggest talking point of the Governors’ Cup. However, Jones insists that the team’s flawless record has not changed its approach or created unnecessary pressure within the locker room.

     

    “Honestly, the only time we are reminded of the pressure is after the game,” Jones said. “In the first talk we had with coach Jimmy Alapag, he told us to have a next-play mentality. We will take every game one at a time, we will focus and hone our craft. We know what we want to achieve. Rome wasn’t built in a day.”

     

    That mindset has become a defining characteristic of the Road Warriors’ campaign. Rather than getting caught up in their unbeaten streak or outside expectations, the team has remained committed to its process, with Alapag consistently stressing discipline, defensive intensity, and unselfish basketball.

     

    As the conference progresses, maintaining that level of consistency will become increasingly important. Opposing teams will undoubtedly be eager to end NLEX’s winning run, making every game a fresh challenge for the league leaders.

     

    The Road Warriors will have another opportunity to protect their perfect record when they return to the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Friday, August 7, to face the Terrafirma Dyip. With momentum firmly on their side and confidence continuing to grow, NLEX will be aiming to extend its unbeaten start to seven games and further cement its status as one of the favorites to capture the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup championship.

     

     

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  • “Take your medicine”: Chris Bosh warns Victor Wembanyama about blood clot risks after health scare

    “Take your medicine”: Chris Bosh warns Victor Wembanyama about blood clot risks after health scare

    San Antonio Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama has quickly emerged as one of the brightest young stars in basketball and is widely viewed as a potential future face of the NBA. However, behind his meteoric rise is a serious health challenge that has required careful management and constant monitoring.

     

    The 22-year-old French superstar played a pivotal role in guiding the Spurs to the 2025-26 NBA Finals, where they fell to the New York Knicks in five games. While Wembanyama’s continued development has captivated basketball fans around the world, his journey has also been marked by a major setback after he was forced to miss the remainder of the 2024-25 season due to a blood clot issue.

     

    Wembanyama appeared in 46 games during the 2024-25 campaign before being sidelined after doctors discovered deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder in February 2025. The condition, which involves the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, is commonly treated with blood-thinning medication and can present significant challenges for athletes competing in high-contact sports such as basketball.

     

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    Although Wembanyama has since returned to the court and continued his ascent as one of the league’s most dominant players, two-time NBA champion Chris Bosh offered a cautionary message based on his own experience dealing with the same medical condition.

     

    Bosh, who was forced to retire prematurely after suffering multiple blood clot episodes during his career, emphasized the importance of following medical advice and maintaining strict discipline when managing the condition.

     

    “I had an episode in January. I almost dropped dead pretty much and came back to life. I’m not joking. I had another pulmonary embolism,” Bosh said during a media interaction.

     

    “I was in the hospital for a week. But take your medicine. So, I’m taking my medicine every day, taking care of myself every day, and watching it. No symptoms came either.”

     

    The former Miami Heat star also directly addressed Wembanyama’s situation, urging the young superstar to remain vigilant and prioritize his health above all else.

    “Take your medicine. Make sure that he is staying on top of his regimen to make sure that doesn’t happen again because it only takes one more time. It happened one more time for me, it happened twice, and I couldn’t play anymore,” Bosh added.

     

    Bosh’s warning carries significant weight given his own experience. During an accomplished NBA career, he won two championships with the Miami Heat alongside LeBron James and Dwyane Wade and established himself as one of the league’s elite big men.

     

    However, his career was abruptly altered after he first suffered a blood clot in February 2015, forcing him to miss the remainder of the 2014-15 season. A second episode in 2016 ultimately prevented him from returning to competitive basketball, despite his attempts to make a comeback before the 2016-17 season.

     

    Bosh officially announced his retirement in 2019, ending a Hall of Fame-caliber career that included 11 All-Star selections and two NBA titles.

     

    “Yeah, you got to deal with it for the rest of your life. I thought I was past it. I am not. So, you know, it’s just making sure I stay on top of my regimen,” Bosh said.

     

    For Wembanyama, the diagnosis was an emotional moment that forced him to confront uncertainty at an early stage of his career. The Spurs star admitted that learning about his condition initially took a heavy toll on him, but he eventually shifted his mindset toward recovery and resilience.

     

    “When I first learned the news, I broke down. I didn’t know how long I was going to be out for. For a while, I allowed myself to feel totally vulnerable and defenseless,” Wembanyama said.

     

    “But then I pivoted my mind and started looking at it as a challenge. If this is my lottery ticket in life, I’m going to do everything that I can to get the most out of it.”

     

    Now regarded as one of the NBA’s premier two-way players and the reigning 2026 Defensive Player of the Year, Wembanyama continues to work closely with a specialized team of trainers, therapists, physicians, and medical experts to manage his condition and maintain his long-term health.

     

    With expectations surrounding his career continuing to grow, Wembanyama’s ability to remain healthy will be a major focus moving forward. While his talent has placed him among basketball’s brightest stars, the experiences of players like Bosh serve as a reminder that even elite athletes must prioritize their well-being to sustain success at the highest level.

     

     

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  • Former UAAP standout Jules Samonte retires from volleyball at 27 to embrace motherhood

    Former UAAP standout Jules Samonte retires from volleyball at 27 to embrace motherhood

    Former Ateneo standout and Premier Volleyball League (PVL) veteran Jules Samonte has announced her retirement from professional volleyball at the age of 27, bringing the curtain down on a career that spanned more than a decade as she prepares for a new chapter in her life—motherhood.

     

    Samonte, who is expecting her first child with Rain or Shine Elasto Painters guard Felix Lemetti, shared the emotional news through a heartfelt post on Facebook, reflecting on the journey that transformed her from a young aspiring athlete into one of the country’s respected volleyball players.

     

    The versatile outside hitter described volleyball as more than just a sport, saying it became a defining part of her identity from the time she first picked up the game as a teenager.

     

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    “As I prepare to enter a new chapter of my life, I can’t help but look back with a heart full of gratitude. Volleyball has been my source of joy, motivation and escape since I was maybe 13 years old. For almost half my life, it has been so much more than a sport. It gave me purpose, discipline, lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and countless incredible opportunities. It has shaped me into the person I never knew I could become,” Samonte wrote.

     

    Looking back on her playing career, Samonte acknowledged both the triumphs and setbacks that helped shape her as an athlete and as a person.

     

    “There were wins that made all the sacrifices worth it, losses that taught me resilience, and countless moments that made me into the woman I am today. I will carry every early morning call time, every training session, every bus/plane ride, every tear, every celebration forever.”

     

    She also expressed gratitude to everyone who became part of her volleyball journey, from coaches and teammates to team staff, organizations, and the fans who supported her throughout the years.

     

    “I am forever grateful for all the relationships I have created through this sport—my coaches, teammates, staff, organizations and the fans who became part of this journey. Thank you for believing in me, cheering for me, challenging me, and allowing me to live a dream I once only imagined.”

    Although stepping away from the sport was an emotional decision, Samonte said she is ready to embrace what she described as the most meaningful role of her life.

     

    “Now, as I step into my greatest role yet—becoming a mother—I’m choosing to close this chapter with nothing but gratitude. It’s bittersweet to say goodbye to the game that has been such a huge part of my life, but my heart is so full knowing that this ending is making way for a beautiful new beginning.”

     

    She ended her message by sharing her hopes for her growing family and the legacy she wants to leave behind.

     

    “Volleyball will always be a part of me and one day, I hope my daughter grows up knowing that her mom chased a dream with all her heart—and that because of it, she is learning to become the best mom she could possibly be. All for you, and all because of you. Here’s to the next chapter.”

     

    Samonte first rose to national prominence during her collegiate career with the Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP). Bursting onto the scene in Season 79, she immediately established herself as one of the country’s brightest young talents, earning Rookie of the Year honors after an impressive debut campaign.

     

    Her development continued over the next several seasons as she became an important piece of Ateneo’s championship core. The highlight of her collegiate career came in UAAP Season 81 in 2019 when she helped the Lady Eagles capture the league title, cementing her place in one of the most successful eras in the program’s history.

     

    Following her collegiate success, Samonte transitioned to the professional ranks, beginning her career with Perlas before joining the Premier Volleyball League. Throughout her time in the country’s top professional league, she suited up for several clubs, including the PLDT High Speed Hitters, Cherry Tiggo Crossovers, and most recently the Galeries Tower Highrisers.

     

    Known for her versatility, work ethic, and team-first mentality, Samonte became a dependable presence wherever she played, earning the respect of teammates, coaches, and opponents alike. While she may not have always been the biggest star on the court, her consistency and professionalism made her a valuable contributor throughout her professional career.

     

    Her retirement also marks the end of a volleyball journey that began in her early teens and blossomed into a career filled with memorable achievements, lifelong friendships, and experiences that extended well beyond the game itself.

     

    As she steps away from competitive volleyball, Samonte leaves behind a legacy defined not only by championships and individual accolades but also by perseverance, humility, and dedication.

     While fans will no longer see her competing on the court, the former Lady Eagle begins a new and equally meaningful journey—one centered on family and motherhood, a role she says she is ready to embrace with the same passion that defined her volleyball career.

     

     

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  • Aboitiz Football Cup continues national expansion through grassroots program

    Aboitiz Football Cup continues national expansion through grassroots program

    Football continues to gain momentum in the Philippines, with more young Filipinos embracing the sport through school programs, community leagues, and grassroots competitions inspired by global superstars such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. While basketball remains the country’s most popular sport, football’s steady rise has been driven by initiatives that provide aspiring players with opportunities to develop from an early age.

     

    Leading that effort is the Aboitiz Football Cup, the country’s longest-running grassroots football league, which officially kicked off its 26th season at the Dynamic Herb-Borromeo Sports Complex in Talisay City, Cebu.

     

    For more than two decades, the tournament has played a vital role in nurturing young football talent, providing thousands of children with an organized platform to compete, improve their skills, and experience the values that the sport promotes. What started as a regional competition in Cebu has evolved into one of the Philippines’ premier grassroots football programs, helping strengthen the country’s football development pipeline.

     

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    This year’s edition places a strong emphasis on introducing football to even younger participants through the Players 6 and Players 8 divisions. By engaging children at an early age, organizers hope to cultivate a lifelong passion for the sport while building the technical and personal foundations needed for future success.

     

    The opening festivities drew strong support from key figures in Philippine football, highlighting the tournament’s growing importance within the local football community.

     

    Among those in attendance were Philippine Football Federation (PFF) General Secretary Angelico Gelix Mercader, Cebu Regional Football Association officials Rodney Orale, Jose Guy Ceniza, and Nimrod Quiñonez, along with executives from Aboitiz and several league partners who reaffirmed their commitment to grassroots football development.

     

    Speaking during the opening ceremony, AboitizPower Chief Operating Officer for Distribution Anton Perdices emphasized that the tournament’s mission extends far beyond competition.

    “The Aboitiz Football Cup has always been about creating opportunities for young athletes to grow—not only as football players but as individuals. I encourage every player to play with courage, play with discipline, and most importantly, play with respect,” Perdices said.

     

    His message reflected the tournament’s long-standing philosophy of developing not only talented footballers but also responsible young leaders through the values of teamwork, discipline, respect, and sportsmanship.

     

    Cebu Regional Football Association representative Chad Songalia likewise encouraged Filipinos to continue supporting local football, especially as interest in the sport continues to grow following major international tournaments.

     

    “After the World Cup, what better way to deepen your love for football than by supporting local football—and that’s the Aboitiz Football Cup,” Songalia said.

     

    Beyond Cebu, the Aboitiz Football Cup has significantly expanded its reach in recent years. The 26th season will once again include tournament legs in Batangas, Davao, and Tarlac, allowing more young footballers from different regions to compete in a structured and highly competitive environment.

     

    The expansion reflects the tournament’s transformation from a Cebu-based competition into a nationwide grassroots football program, providing aspiring players across the country with greater opportunities to showcase their talent and gain valuable match experience.

     

    Earlier this year, organizers also reached another major milestone with the successful staging of the inaugural Aboitiz Football Cup Champions League at the Aboitiz Pitch in Lipa City, Batangas. The event brought together champion teams from Cebu, Batangas, Davao, and Tarlac for the first time, creating a true national championship that showcased the best grassroots talent from each regional leg.

     

    The Champions League marked another significant step in Philippine football development by giving young athletes the chance to compete against the strongest teams from different parts of the country while raising the overall standard of grassroots competition.

     

    As the Aboitiz Football Cup enters its 26th season, organizers remain committed to expanding opportunities for aspiring footballers and strengthening the foundation of Philippine football. With continued support from the Philippine Football Federation, regional football associations, and private-sector partners, the tournament continues to play a crucial role in discovering future national team players while fostering a deeper football culture across the country.

     

    More than just a competition, the Aboitiz Football Cup has become a symbol of grassroots development—one that continues to inspire the next generation of Filipino footballers to dream bigger and pursue excellence both on and off the pitch.

     

     

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