Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Arjun Devgan

  • “He knows what we struggle at”: Brooke Van Sickle on facing former coach Koji Tsuzurabara in Nxled’s win

    “He knows what we struggle at”: Brooke Van Sickle on facing former coach Koji Tsuzurabara in Nxled’s win

    The Nxled Chameleons leaned on poise, experience, and late-game execution from their star players to survive a gritty five-set battle against the Farm Fresh Foxies, pulling off a 25-23, 13-25, 21-25, 25-15, 15-12 victory in their opening match of the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference on Tuesday, February 3, at the FilOil Playtime Centre in San Juan.

     

    In a match marked by momentum swings and extended rallies, Nxled showed composure when it mattered most—particularly in the deciding fifth set—snapping Farm Fresh’s resistance and securing a confidence-boosting win to open their campaign.

     

    Reigning PVL Most Valuable Player Brooke Van Sickle led the way in her highly anticipated debut for the Chameleons, delivering an all-around performance with 20 points. Fellow debutant Myla Pablo provided timely scoring and defensive stability, finishing with 19 points and six digs to earn Player of the Game honors, while MJ Phillips chipped in 13 points.

     

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    The trio of former Petro Gazz Angels standouts immediately justified their superstar billing, showcasing chemistry and composure despite limited time together. Their collective experience proved crucial, especially after Nxled dropped the second and third sets and found themselves on the brink of an opening-day loss.

     

    However, the Foxies—under the guidance of Japanese head coach Koji Tsuzurabara—were anything but pushovers.

     

    Tsuzurabara, who previously steered Petro Gazz to the 2024–25 PVL All-Filipino Conference title, is well-acquainted with Van Sickle, Pablo, and Phillips, having coached them during their championship run. That familiarity showed, as Farm Fresh employed disciplined defense and tactical adjustments that frustrated Nxled for long stretches of the match.

    “I didn’t get to talk to them much, but they looked good. As always coach Koji Tsuzurabara knows us, so he knows what we struggle at and what we are good at, so I already knew it was gonna definitely be hard offensive to score, just because he knows the players and he’s been around the game for a long time,” Van Sickle said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    “I feel like he did a really good job developing Farm Fresh and their defense. I thought they had a lot of good plays, soaked up the ball and playing a lot, making good decisions,” he added.

     

    Farm Fresh’s defensive tenacity forced Nxled into longer rallies and tougher shot selections, particularly during the middle sets where the Foxies seized control and threatened to pull away. Still, Nxled responded with renewed urgency in the fourth set, dominating at the net and rediscovering their offensive rhythm to force a decider.

     

    Van Sickle emphasized the importance of patience and mental toughness in grinding out the win.

     

    “I definitely think that it was a long-rally game. We had to be patient and stay calm on the other side of the court. I’m glad we were able to pull this off and get underway,” Van Sickle concluded.

     

    The victory gives Nxled an early boost as they integrate new pieces and establish identity heading into the long conference. For Farm Fresh, despite the loss, the performance offered encouraging signs under Tsuzurabara’s system, particularly on the defensive end.

     

    With the Chameleons off to a winning start, Van Sickle and company will look to build momentum when they face the Capital1 Solar Spikers next on Saturday, February 7, at the Ynares Center in Montalban, as Nxled continues its push to establish itself as an early contender in the All-Filipino Conference.

     

     

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  • Greg Slaughter meets Titan Ultra officials as PBA comeback talks continue

    Greg Slaughter meets Titan Ultra officials as PBA comeback talks continue

    Former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) star Greg Slaughter has taken a significant step toward a possible return to Asia’s oldest professional league, reigniting excitement among Filipino basketball fans eager to see one of the most dominant big men of his generation back on the hardwood.

     

    The 37-year-old veteran center recently made his long-awaited return to competitive basketball after suiting up for the Zamboanga Valientes in preparation for the upcoming Dubai International Basketball Championship. After spending an extended period away from high-level competition, Slaughter welcomed the opportunity to test himself once again against elite opposition, viewing the stint as both a personal challenge and a crucial step toward a larger goal.

     

    That goal, by Slaughter’s own admission, is a full comeback to the PBA.

     

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    Momentum toward that possibility grew after Titan Ultra Giant Risers team owner Bryann Calantoc confirmed that discussions with Slaughter have resumed, reopening the door for the former No. 1 overall pick to return to the league where he enjoyed the most success of his career. Slaughter’s PBA rights remain with Titan Ultra following the company’s acquisition of the NorthPort franchise, making the Giant Risers the natural landing spot should a deal materialize.

     

    Slaughter’s seriousness about a comeback was underscored early Tuesday morning, February 3, when he met with Titan Ultra officials at Victoria Sports Gym in Quezon City. Despite having just arrived from Dubai and with plans tied to his daughter’s birthday later that day, the veteran center made time for the meeting—rescheduling personal commitments to ensure he could be present.

    “It’s kinda nostalgic finally stepping into a venue that’s just about the PBA. Everybody knows, the PBA is the country’s premiere league and playing here is definitely and honor for everyone given the opportunity,” Slaughter said in a media interaction.

     

    “It’s something definitely I want to come back to. PBA has always been a league that I have had a lot of success in individually, but also with the team. I am very confident that I can come back and be a major contributor again,” he added.

     

    A former centerpiece for multiple championship-contending teams, Slaughter built a reputation as an elite interior force during his prime years—anchoring defenses, controlling the paint, and providing a reliable post presence that few could match. While injuries and time away from the league slowed his momentum in recent seasons, Slaughter believes his experience, size, and understanding of the game can still make a meaningful impact.

     

    For Titan Ultra, the interest is mutual. The Giant Risers’ current roster has struggled with size and interior depth, and Calantoc views Slaughter as a potential solution to stabilize the team’s frontcourt and provide leadership both on and off the floor.

     

    “I hope we can get this deal signed. I believe Greg is not what we read about him. He was a gentle giant and easy to talk with. We also saw his sincerity to return to the PBA. If our negotiation turns out well, we can be his ticket back to the league,” Calantoc said.

     

    “I can see naman Greg’s determination to return. Imagine, he just arrived from Dubai, birthday pa ng anak n’ya today, pero he said he will meet with us. Kaya I am looking forward to this. Excited na tayo,” he added.

     

    As negotiations continue, Slaughter’s possible return represents more than just another roster move. It signals the comeback of a former franchise player whose presence once shaped the league’s competitive balance. Should talks conclude successfully, Filipino fans may soon witness a familiar sight once again—a towering center patrolling the paint, wearing PBA colors, and chasing one more meaningful chapter in a storied career.

     

     

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  • Tonyboy Liao confirms talks with Tai Bundit for Alas Pilipinas head coach role

    Tonyboy Liao confirms talks with Tai Bundit for Alas Pilipinas head coach role

    The Philippine women’s national volleyball team has been without a head coach since the conclusion of the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand, where the squad fell short of a podium finish. The disappointing result marked the end of Jorge Souza de Brito’s tenure with the national team, prompting the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) to begin its search for a new leader as the program looks ahead to its next competitive cycle.

     

    Newly elected PNVF president Tonyboy Liao confirmed that the federation is already considering a high-profile replacement, revealing that decorated Thai coach Tai Bundit is being eyed to take over the reins of Alas Pilipinas. Liao noted that initial discussions have already taken place and that formal approval from the federation’s executive board is the next step in the process.

     

    Liao confirmed that the matter will be taken up during the PNVF executive board meeting scheduled for Thursday, February 5, where Bundit’s potential appointment will be presented for approval.

     

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    “It will be discussed in the upcoming board meeting this Thursday. I will have it approved by the PNVF executive board in our meeting on Thursday,” Liao said in a media interaction.

     

    Liao added that Bundit has expressed strong interest in the role and that most of the logistical hurdles have already been addressed, with only final clearances remaining.

    “Actually, I have talked to him about this one. He is very interested. The go-signal now is with the Rebisco management. As for the Thai federation, I have already talked to them and they are very willing to help the Philippines. So that’s one hurdle passed and it’s now up to the Rebisco management,” he added.

     

    Bundit is no stranger to Philippine volleyball, having built a decorated résumé across both the collegiate and professional ranks. The Thai tactician is currently the head coach of the Criss Cross King Crunchers, whom he recently led to the Invitational Conference title in Spikers’ Turf, further underscoring his ability to deliver immediate results.

     

    His local coaching pedigree includes a successful stint with the Ateneo women’s volleyball team from 2014 to 2018, followed by a championship-laden run with the Creamline Cool Smashers from 2017 to 2021. During that span, Bundit guided both programs to multiple Premier Volleyball League (PVL) titles, establishing himself as one of the most respected foreign coaches in the country.

     

    Meanwhile, De Brito leaves behind a meaningful legacy with Alas Pilipinas, having overseen one of the most productive periods in the program’s recent history. Under his leadership, the national team enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2024, capturing three bronze medals across the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Nations Cup and the Southeast Asian Volleyball League legs held in Vinh Phuc and Nakhon Ratchasima.

     

    The Brazilian coach built on that momentum in 2025, steering the team to a silver medal at the AVC Nations Cup and adding two more bronze medals in the V.League, further raising the program’s regional standing. Although the SEA Games podium eluded Alas Pilipinas in Bangkok, De Brito’s tenure helped lay a solid foundation of competitiveness, discipline, and belief within the squad.

     

    As the PNVF moves forward, the combination of De Brito’s groundwork and the potential arrival of Bundit offers renewed optimism for Philippine volleyball. With a coach deeply familiar with the local volleyball landscape and a roster gaining valuable international experience, Alas Pilipinas could soon find itself back on the Southeast Asian podium, poised to challenge the region’s traditional powers once more.

     

     

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  • PHILTA pushes for public access to Rizal Memorial Tennis Center after hosting of historic WTA event

    PHILTA pushes for public access to Rizal Memorial Tennis Center after hosting of historic WTA event

    The inaugural Philippine Women’s Open recently unfolded in Manila, marking a historic milestone for Philippine tennis as the country officially made its debut on the 2026 Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) calendar. The tournament represented a significant leap forward for the sport locally, placing the nation’s capital on the global tennis map by hosting a WTA 125-level event for the first time.

     

    Held at the newly refurbished Rizal Memorial Tennis Court, the weeklong competition featured a total prize purse of $115,000, offering players not only financial incentives but also valuable WTA ranking points and early-season momentum. The event attracted a competitive international field composed of seasoned tour veterans and rising young talents, all eager to compete in a high-level setting in Southeast Asia.

     

    Beyond the matches themselves, the Philippine Women’s Open also served as a showcase for infrastructure development. The Rizal Memorial Tennis Court underwent extensive renovations ahead of the tournament, a move that the Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) hopes will have lasting benefits for the sport well beyond this landmark event.

     

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    PHILTA secretary general John Rey Tiangco confirmed that the upgrades were made with long-term sustainability in mind, emphasizing that the refurbished venue is intended to host future competitions at various levels.

     

    “Well, we fixed, thanks to PSC for relief funding, resurfacing and fixing, not just the tennis courts, the whole facility. And it’s an investment, because after this tournament, we can use it for other tournaments,” Tiangco said in a media interaction.

     

    He added that the improvements now allow the facility to meet international standards for multiple competitions, expanding opportunities for Filipino players and young prospects.

    “And not just local tournaments, because we have been using this for local tournaments. Now we can even have, like for juniors, we already have the ITFs here. We can have ATFs, we can have probably the small DTBs, because it’s already qualified, it would pass the requirements of those tournaments,” he added.

     

    Buoyed by strong public support for the Philippine Women’s Open—and the overwhelming enthusiasm shown for local sensation Alex Eala—PHILTA is now exploring ways to make the Rizal Memorial Tennis Court more accessible to the general public. Tiangco revealed that discussions are underway with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to restore the venue’s role as a community sports facility.

     

    “I also discussed with chairman Patrick Gregorio if we could manage the courts like before. Because before, it was a public court, and a lot of players could just play here. And even not competitive, even our seniors. But now, they go to, I think it’s the CCP now, when they closed it. Before, it was a public court. So, just like what they did in the stadium, a lot of people run there,” Tiangco concluded.

     

    At 53, Tiangco reiterated that PHILTA views the Philippine Women’s Open not just as a standalone event, but as a launching pad to promote tennis nationwide and inspire the next generation to pursue the sport—whether competitively or recreationally.

     

    “It’s not just actually winning medals. I think it’s part of the president’s holistic approach to our Healthy Lifestyle Program that we have to be active. So whether you’re a junior player, you want to be a champion, you’re a junior player, you want to get into a scholarship abroad, we’re here. Or just a club player, or just for health reasons.

     

    “So, we can hopefully use the facility. Because most of the tennis courts, mostly are for membership. So, this is what we need, public courts,” he concluded.

     

    As the curtain falls on the inaugural Philippine Women’s Open, the event leaves behind more than just results and rankings. It has laid the groundwork for sustainable growth, improved facilities, and broader access—key pillars in PHILTA’s vision of building a stronger tennis culture in the Philippines and ensuring that the sport continues to thrive long after the final ball has been struck.

     

     

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  • Philippine Golf Championship to kick off 2026 Asian Tour season with over 130 players

    Philippine Golf Championship to kick off 2026 Asian Tour season with over 130 players

    The Philippines is steadily cementing its reputation as a premier sporting destination in Southeast Asia, a status reinforced by the capital city of Manila recently hosting the inaugural Philippine Women’s Open WTA 125 tennis event. Building on that momentum, the country is now gearing up to welcome some of the region’s top golfers for the Philippine Golf Championship, set to take place from February 5 to 8 at the East Course of the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club in Mandaluyong City. The tournament also marks the start of the 2026 Asian Tour season, signaling the Philippines’ growing influence in international golf.

     

    Over 130 players are expected to compete in this year’s championship, with notable names including former Asian Tour Order of Merit winners John Catlin of the United States, Sihwan Kim of Thailand, and Thailand’s Jazz Janewattananond, all vying for the season-opening crown. Their participation underscores the tournament’s prestige and the country’s rising profile as a competitive golf hub.

     

    This is the second consecutive year that the Philippines will host the season-opening Asian Tour, a milestone that has not gone unnoticed by officials. Patrick Gregorio, chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), believes this recognition demonstrates the international sporting community’s confidence in the country.

     

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    “Hosting the season opener of the Asian Tour for the second straight year reflects the confidence the international sporting community has in the Philippines. The Philippine Golf Championship aligns perfectly with our vision of using major events to inspire excellence, elevate Filipino athletes and strengthen the country’s sports tourism and global sporting profile,” Gregorio said in a media interaction.

    Gregorio’s vision is clear: to make the Philippines a premier destination for sporting events. With the support of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the country has recently hosted a string of high-profile competitions, including the FIVB Men’s World Cup, the inaugural FIFA Futsal World Cup, the World Junior Gymnastics Championships, and top-tier international surfing competitions. These events, combined with the Philippine Golf Championship, reflect a deliberate push to position the Philippines as a hub for global sports.

     

    “The Filipino golfers can compete against the world’s best. We have proven that time and again. The Philippines as a golf destination is likewise comparable with the world’s best. Golf will be one of the pillars of our sports tourism efforts. The PSC and NST-IAC will closely work with NGAP to make sure we are successful,” Gregorio added.

     

    This year, the Philippine Golf Championship will feature 25 professional Filipino golfers, supplemented by 16 invited local players and six national amateurs, ensuring strong local representation alongside international talent. The tournament is open to the general public, reflecting the PSC’s commitment to promoting golf in the Philippines and inspiring the next generation of athletes.

     

    As the country continues to host world-class competitions across multiple sports, the Philippine Golf Championship serves not only as a platform for elite competition but also as a statement of intent: the Philippines is ready to claim its place on the global sporting map. With world-class facilities, growing local talent, and strong government support, the nation is poised to become a go-to destination for international sporting events in Southeast Asia.

     

     

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  • “He is the reason why we have won many championships”: June Mar Fajardo praises Leo Austria

    “He is the reason why we have won many championships”: June Mar Fajardo praises Leo Austria

    From the opening tip, San Miguel Beer signaled that they were in full control on Sunday night, turning what could have been a tense Finals series into a showcase of dominance. By the time the final buzzer sounded at the Mall of Asia Arena, the Beermen had once again cemented their status atop the PBA, defeating TNT, 92–77, to close out the PBA 50th Season Philippine Cup Finals in six games.

     

    At the heart of this triumph was June Mar Fajardo, the nine-time PBA MVP who has become synonymous with championship pedigree. Fajardo produced a performance for the ages, pouring in 29 points while pulling down 23 rebounds, demonstrating the kind of impact that only a generational talent can consistently deliver. His commanding presence on both ends of the floor lifted the Beermen when it mattered most, and it earned him the league’s first-ever Finals MVP trophy, named in honor of PBA legend and former mentor Ramon Fernandez, who watched the milestone moment from courtside.

     

    San Miguel head coach Leo Austria, true to form, deflected praise from himself, instead attributing the team’s success to his players. But Fajardo was quick to highlight the coach’s influence, insisting that Austria doesn’t get nearly enough credit for shaping the Beermen’s winning culture.

     

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    “He is one of the great coaches of the PBA. He hasn’t been given too much credit, but he is such a humble person and he is the reason why we have won many championships,” Fajardo said during the postmatch press conference.

    “He lets us play our game, and I guess that’s why the players were able to show what they can bring on the court. He is so composed, and it starts with practice because he really instills a lot of discipline,” he added.

     

    The path to this title almost seemed preordained. San Miguel dominated the elimination round with a 9-2 record, showcasing the depth and experience that would carry them deep into the playoffs. The Beermen dismantled NLEX in the quarterfinals and survived a tough semifinal battle against Barangay Ginebra, riding a 10-game winning streak that stretched from the eliminations into the playoffs. Even after a surprising loss in Game 1 of the Finals, the team never wavered, leaning on their veteran leadership, strategic depth, and Fajardo’s unparalleled ability to rise in high-stakes moments.

     

    This victory marks San Miguel’s second consecutive Philippine Cup crown, their eighth in the last 11 seasons, and the 31st championship in franchise history. Beyond the numbers, it’s a reaffirmation of an era—the Beermen are not just winning titles; they are defining a dynasty in Philippine basketball.

     

    With Fajardo anchoring the lineup, Austria guiding from the bench, and a roster stacked with both seasoned veterans and emerging talents, San Miguel Beer continues to set the standard in the PBA. As the confetti settled and the Finals MVP trophy was hoisted, one thing became clear: this is a team that doesn’t merely chase championships—they reinvent excellence every season.

     

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  • “He deserves this”: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on Jamal Murray’s first NBA All-Star selection

    “He deserves this”: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on Jamal Murray’s first NBA All-Star selection

    For the first time in franchise history, the Denver Nuggets will be represented by two National Basketball Association (NBA) All-Stars in the upcoming All-Star Game, as three-time NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) Nikola Jokic is joined by teammate Jamal Murray.

     

    While Jokic has long been the face of the Nuggets, Murray’s selection marks a significant milestone in his career. Despite playing a critical role in Denver’s 2023 NBA championship run, this is the first time Murray has earned All-Star honors—a recognition many believe is long overdue. The versatile point guard has carried the team in Jokic’s absence, stepping up during a stretch where the reigning MVP missed over a month due to a hyperextended knee.

     

    Murray has been in phenomenal form this season, averaging 25.5 points, 7.5 assists, and 4.4 rebounds on 48.7 percent shooting per game. His impact has been felt on both ends of the floor, and his fellow Canadian and reigning NBA MVP, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, expressed his excitement over Murray’s selection.

     

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    “Well deserving. He is playing amazing this year, first and foremost. Really good player. He’s earned it for sure. Might be a little late, to be honest with you. Just take what they give you. He deserves this,” Gilgeous-Alexander said in a media interaction.

    The Nuggets’ pair of All-Stars also share a strong connection off the court as teammates for Team Canada, having starred together at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France. Both players represent a new generation of Canadian basketball talent, building on a foundation laid by NBA legend Steve Nash, who for years stood as Canada’s most prominent player on the global stage.

     

    “For Canada basketball, it’s cool. Growing up, never in a million years. Steve Nash was the only one. He was an anomaly. It didn’t make sense. He was short and athletic. It was flukey and shows how good Steve was. It’s amazing. It shows the growth of the game,” Gilgeous-Alexander said.

     

    He continued, highlighting the contributions of Canadian players who paved the way for the current generation:

     

    “Hats off to those guys like Steve, Andrew Wiggins, Cory Joseph, Tristan Thompson. The guys that were in the NBA that paved the way for guys like myself and Jamal. They laid the foundation and we have been able to run with it. It’s our job to carry it on and think we have been able to do a pretty good job,” he concluded.

     

    Murray’s All-Star nod is not only a personal milestone but also a symbol of Canada’s growing influence in the NBA. With Jokic anchoring the Nuggets and Murray rising as a consistent All-Star-caliber performer, the team now boasts one of the most formidable duos in the Western Conference. Their selection underscores Denver’s continued prominence in the league and highlights the emergence of Canadian talent on the global basketball stage.

     

    As the Nuggets head toward the All-Star break, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Jokic and Murray continue to elevate their game, both for their franchise and for their national team. With their combined talent, leadership, and international experience, the duo represents a new era of Canadian basketball poised to leave a lasting mark on the NBA.

     

     

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  • AC Miner to miss ZUS Coffee’s opener against Capital1 due to a recurring shin injury

    AC Miner to miss ZUS Coffee’s opener against Capital1 due to a recurring shin injury

    The ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles are set to open their 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference campaign against the Capital1 Solar Spikers on Tuesday, February 3, at the FilOil EcoOil Center, but the squad will do so shorthanded in their season debut.

     

    The Thunderbelles will be without reigning Rookie of the Conference AC Miner, who has been ruled out of the opener as she continues to recover from a lingering shin injury. Miner’s absence puts the team at an immediate disadvantage as it begins its All-Filipino Conference run against a Solar Spikers side eager to make an early statement.

     

    Strong Group Athletics (SGA) head of volleyball operations Kiara Cruz confirmed in a media interaction that Miner has been dealing with a recurring shin injury since 2025. According to Cruz, team management made the decision to prioritize Miner’s long-term health, opting to give the promising middle blocker ample time to fully recover rather than risk worsening the injury early in the conference.

     

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    “AC Miner has been dealing with a recurring shin injury since last year. She can play through it, but we opted to let her heal so that she can be 100 percent for the rest of the year,” Cruz said in a statement.

    Selected fifth overall in the PVL Rookie Draft last June, Miner quickly established herself as one of the league’s brightest young talents. She capped an impressive debut by winning the Rookie of the Conference award in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference, emerging as a key contributor on both ends of the floor despite her limited experience at the professional level.

     

    Miner finished her first conference with 82 total points, the second-highest output among all rookies, while averaging 10.25 points per match. Her impact was especially evident at the net, where she ranked eighth in the league in blocking with 0.55 blocks per set—numbers that underscored her rapid development into a dependable presence in the middle.

     

    While Miner’s absence will be felt, the Thunderbelles are not without options as they look to shore up their defense and maintain competitiveness at the net. Former No. 1 overall draft pick Thea Gagate is expected to take on a larger role in the middle, supported by the veteran presence of Riza Nogales and Maika Ortiz, along with the athleticism of Caroline Santos. All four are capable of anchoring the front line and providing the blocking stability needed to offset Miner’s temporary absence.

     

    The opener against Capital1 will serve as an early test of the Thunderbelles’ depth and adaptability as they navigate the opening stages of the All-Filipino Conference. With Miner expected to return later in the season once fully healthy, ZUS Coffee’s focus remains on building momentum while ensuring their prized rookie is ready for a sustained run when it matters most.

     

     

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  • Miami Heat’s Terry Rozier wins arbitration ruling in salary dispute with NBA

    Miami Heat’s Terry Rozier wins arbitration ruling in salary dispute with NBA

    Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier found himself at the center of a major off-court controversy last October after being linked to a federal investigation involving alleged mafia-connected sports betting and rigged poker games.

     

    Federal prosecutors accused Rozier of participating in a scheme designed to influence game outcomes, allegations that immediately sent shockwaves through the NBA. Following his indictment, the league placed the veteran guard on leave, holding his salary in escrow pending the resolution of the charges. It was widely understood that Rozier was not paid during the suspension, a move that quickly became a point of contention between the league and the NBA Players Association (NBPA).

     

    On Monday, February 2, however, Rozier received a significant legal victory. ESPN reported that an arbitrator ruled in his favor in a salary dispute with the NBA, determining that the league had violated the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) by placing him on unpaid leave. The ruling clears the way for the release of Rozier’s withheld salary, which totals approximately $26.6 million.

     

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    According to the arbitrator, the CBA permits unpaid suspensions only in cases involving domestic abuse or child abuse, neither of which applied in Rozier’s situation. As a result, the league’s decision to withhold his pay was deemed improper.

    “Terry won today under the principles of contract law and the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the league and the players, but the bigger principle at issue is the presumption of innocence. Today’s arbitration ruling reminds the NBA that they can’t ignore that important concept just because it’s a high-profile case,” Rozier’s attorney Jim Trusty said in a statement.

     

    The NBPA had formally challenged the league’s actions, arguing that suspending a player without pay prior to any adjudication of guilt undermines both due process and the foundational labor agreement between the league and its players.

     

    “We are pleased with the arbitrator’s ruling and remain committed to ensuring Terry’s due process rights are protected and that he is afforded the presumption of innocence throughout this process,” a spokesperson for the NBPA added.

     

    Details surrounding the investigation have continued to draw scrutiny. New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated that Rozier’s alleged involvement dates back to March 2024, when he was still a member of the Charlotte Hornets. Investigators claim Rozier informed associates that he planned to exit a game early due to injury, information that allegedly prompted members of the group to place more than $200,000 in wagers on his “under” performance statistics.

     

    Rozier ultimately left that game after just nine minutes of action, a development that resulted in substantial payouts for those wagers and raised red flags among betting monitors and law enforcement officials.

     

    Despite the ongoing legal process, Rozier remains on the Miami Heat’s roster for the 2025–26 season. However, he has yet to make an appearance on the court, leaving his basketball future uncertain as the investigation continues. For now, the arbitration ruling represents a crucial win for both Rozier and the players’ union, reinforcing contractual protections even as serious allegations remain unresolved.

     

     

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  • LeBron James named 2026 NBA All-Star reserve, extends historic 22-year streak

    LeBron James named 2026 NBA All-Star reserve, extends historic 22-year streak

    The basketball world was taken by surprise when the National Basketball Association (NBA) officially announced its starters for the 2026 All-Star Game, set to be held at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. Among the biggest talking points was the notable absence of LeBron James from the list of starters—marking the first time in 22 years that the four-time NBA Most Valuable Player was not voted in as an All-Star starter.

     

    The development initially led many fans and analysts to speculate that James’ remarkable streak of consecutive All-Star appearances had finally come to an end. However, those fears were quickly put to rest after the 41-year-old superstar was named to the Western Conference reserve pool, ensuring that his unprecedented All-Star run remains intact.

     

    With the selection, James extends his record streak to 22 consecutive All-Star appearances, further cementing his status as one of the most enduring and accomplished players in league history. He also becomes just the second player ever to earn multiple All-Star selections after turning 40, joining NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in an exclusive club that underscores his longevity and sustained excellence.

     

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    James’ continued presence on the All-Star stage is even more impressive given the challenges he faced earlier in the season. The four-time NBA champion missed the first 14 games of the 2025–26 campaign due to a sciatica issue in his back, forcing him to slowly work his way back into peak condition. While the early absence affected his overall counting stats, James has steadily regained form and rhythm as the season progressed.

     

    Over his last 24 games, the Los Angeles Lakers icon has averaged 23.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per contest, while shooting an efficient 52 percent from the field and 34.5 percent from beyond the arc. Those numbers reflect not only his scoring ability but also his continued impact as a playmaker and floor leader, even in his 21st NBA season.

     

    James’ All-Star résumé remains unmatched. He is the NBA All-Star Game’s all-time leading scorer with 434 points and has earned All-Star Game Most Valuable Player honors three times. Across 20 All-Star appearances, he owns career averages of 21.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, 5.7 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. He has also served as an All-Star captain on eight occasions and leads all players in All-Star history in total points (434), field goals made (182), and minutes played (537).

     

    As the league celebrates another showcase of its brightest stars, James’ inclusion—starter or not—serves as a reminder that his influence on the game remains as strong as ever. Even as younger superstars continue to rise, the Lakers forward continues to defy age and expectations, proving that his place among the NBA’s elite is far from symbolic.

     

    Below is the full list of players selected for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game:

    2026 NBA All-Star Game Starters

     

    Eastern Conference

    • Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)
    • Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks)
    • Jaylen Brown (Boston Celtics)
    • Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons)
    • Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers)

    Western Conference

    • Luka Dončić (Los Angeles Lakers)
    • Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets)
    • Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs)
    • Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors)
    • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)

    2026 NBA All-Star Game Reserves

    Eastern Conference

    • Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers)
    • Jalen Johnson (Atlanta Hawks)
    • Karl-Anthony Towns (New York Knicks)
    • Pascal Siakam (Indiana Pacers)
    • Norman Powell (Miami Heat)
    • Scottie Barnes (Toronto Raptors)
    • Jalen Duren (Detroit Pistons)

    Western Conference

    • Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)
    • Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets)
    • Chet Holmgren (Oklahoma City Thunder)
    • Kevin Durant (Houston Rockets)
    • Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns)
    • Deni Avdija (Portland Trail Blazers)
    • LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers)

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