Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Arjun Devgan

  • Rachel Daquis joins ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles after leaving Farm Fresh Foxies

    Rachel Daquis joins ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles after leaving Farm Fresh Foxies

    In a move that has sent ripples through the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles pulled off what many are calling a coup by signing Filipino volleyball veteran Rachel Daquis from sister team Farm Fresh Foxies. The versatile hitter became a free agent in 2025, opening the door for a high-profile transfer between the two teams.

     

    Daquis, a standout for the Far Eastern University (FEU) Lady Tamaraws in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), initially signed with Farm Fresh in October 2024 amid high expectations following more than a year-long hiatus from competitive play. However, despite her vast experience and decorated career, she struggled to find regular playing time with the Foxies, who opted to give younger attackers a chance to develop.

     

    The move was closely monitored by league officials, with PVL control committee chairman Sherwin Malonzo clarifying why the transfer was approved despite the two teams being sister squads.

     

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    “Dumaan sa akin ‘yung move last year. Finished contract si Daquis. Nag-free agent siya after pero she decided to sign with ZUS. As a free agent, she is free to choose the team she wants to transfer to,” Malonzo explained, emphasizing that Daquis’ status as a free agent made the transfer fully compliant with league rules.

    The PVL has long maintained a structured “showcase period” to manage free agent movements and prevent conflicts of interest, particularly between sister teams. Initially set at one month at the end of 2024, the period was eventually reduced to 15 calendar days to streamline player transitions and ensure competitive balance.

     

    “Ang huling usapan namin, isang buwan ang showcase period pero masyadong matagal. Tapos nauwi nga sa 15 calendar days. I think that was the last, so we will just publish it and then eventually release it by the end of the year in 2024,” Malonzo added, underscoring the league’s efforts to maintain transparency and fairness in player movements.

     

    Daquis’ resume speaks volumes about her impact on the court. Beyond her FEU exploits, she has accumulated numerous individual and team honors throughout her career and represented the Philippine women’s national volleyball team from 2015 to 2017. Her combination of skill, leadership, and experience makes her a major asset for the Thunderbelles as they aim to climb the PVL standings.

     

    Off the court, Daquis has already begun laying the groundwork for life after volleyball. In September 2023, she attended a prestigious coaching clinic in the United States, gaining insights into advanced training methods and team management. She has also pursued her passion for culinary arts, enrolling at the International School for Culinary Arts and Hotel Management (ISCAHM) in Quezon City—an institution founded by the father of her former Cignal teammate, Vanie Gandler.

     

    With her unique blend of experience, versatility, and off-court ambition, Rachel Daquis’ arrival at ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles is more than just a player transfer—it signals a renewed competitive push for the franchise, and a veteran presence capable of mentoring younger players while elevating the team’s championship aspirations.

     

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  • Chris Ross playing through Achilles injury for San Miguel in Philippine Cup finals

    Chris Ross playing through Achilles injury for San Miguel in Philippine Cup finals

    Just when it appeared that TNT had finally wrestled control of the night, CJ Perez reminded everyone that the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals still belonged to him.

     

    In a pulsating Game 3 that swung wildly from quarter to quarter, Perez delivered one of the most ruthless closing performances of the series, erupting for 17 of his 20 points in the fourth quarter to lift San Miguel Beer to a 95–89 victory over TNT. The win, achieved in front of a loud and energized Sunday crowd at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, pushed the Beermen to a 2–1 lead in the best-of-seven Finals and reaffirmed their championship pedigree.

     

    While Perez grabbed the headlines with his late-game heroics, San Miguel’s victory also came with a quieter, grittier storyline—one defined by sacrifice and toughness. Veteran guard Chris Ross has been playing through pain in his Achilles tendon as he continues to suit up for the Beermen in their title push.

     

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    Despite clearly not being at full strength, Ross has remained determined to contribute however he can, leaning on experience and leadership as San Miguel battles through a tightly contested series.

    “It’s still tight, but I just have to fight through it. The good thing is, we have two more days before the next game, so I can get a bit healthier to try and help the team,” Ross said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    The injury is not new. Ross has been dealing with the Achilles issue since the semifinals, and his condition appeared to worsen during Game 3. At the 11:08 mark of the third quarter, the 40-year-old guard took a hard fall that left him visibly limping as he made his way to the bench. He did not return to the game after the incident, raising concerns about his availability moving forward.

     

    Even from the sidelines, Ross remained focused on the bigger picture, praising his teammates for stepping up and stressing the importance of staying grounded despite the series lead.

     

    “My guys got my back, they played well tonight, we got the win. That’s all that matters. We take it game by game. The series is far from over, they are a really good team and we know they will make adjustments,” he added.

     

    Ross’ leadership has long been a cornerstone of San Miguel’s success, and his willingness to play through pain reflects the urgency and stakes of the Finals. Whether he can return to action will be closely monitored as the series progresses, especially with TNT expected to respond with renewed intensity.

     

    San Miguel will hope that the veteran guard can recover enough to take the floor when Game 4 between the two teams tips off on Wednesday, January 28, once again at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, as the Beermen look to tighten their grip on the Philippine Cup crown while TNT fights to level the series.

     

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  • “My concern is our fatigue”: Rey Nambatac wants TNT to work on their stamina ahead of Game 4

    “My concern is our fatigue”: Rey Nambatac wants TNT to work on their stamina ahead of Game 4

    Just when it appeared that TNT had finally seized control of the night, CJ Perez made it clear that the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals still ran through him.

     

    In a gripping Game 3 that swung sharply from quarter to quarter, Perez delivered a ruthless closing performance, erupting for 17 of his 20 points in the fourth quarter to carry San Miguel Beer to a 95–89 victory over TNT before a raucous Sunday crowd at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The win pushed the Beermen to a 2–1 lead in the best-of-seven championship series and once again highlighted their ability to execute under pressure.

     

    Perez was relentless down the stretch, attacking the defense, finishing through contact, and knocking down timely baskets as San Miguel erased TNT’s late advantage. His fourth-quarter takeover flipped the momentum of the game and underscored why he remains one of the most feared closers in the league.

     

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    Despite falling behind in the series, TNT guard Rey Nambatac expressed confidence that the Tropang Giga can still rebound and reclaim control of the Finals. However, he did not shy away from identifying fatigue as a growing concern for his team, particularly in high-pressure moments late in games.

    “For me, we only need to adjust a little because our coaches have laid out the plans. My concern is our fatigue. We couldn’t take care of the lead and when we try to protect our lead, the tendency is we get tired and we lose our advantage,” Nambatac said after the game.

     

    The physical toll of the contest was evident in the closing minutes, especially for TNT’s frontline. Star big man Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser showed clear signs of exhaustion after logging more than 40 minutes of action. While he still produced a solid double-double of 15 points and 13 rebounds, his fatigue late in the game limited TNT’s ability to match San Miguel’s intensity and execution when it mattered most.

     

    As the Beermen ramped up their defensive pressure and pace in the final period, TNT struggled to generate quality looks and secure crucial stops, allowing San Miguel to dictate the tempo down the stretch.

     

    With little room for error moving forward, Nambatac emphasized the need for improved stamina and conditioning as the series progresses. Facing a must-win situation, TNT knows it cannot afford another late-game fade.

     

    “In this next game or our next practice, we need to prepare more on stamina and our conditioning,” he added.

     

    The Finals now shift to a pivotal stretch, with TNT looking to even the series and San Miguel aiming to tighten its grip on the championship. Game 4 of the Philippine Cup Finals between the two teams is scheduled for Wednesday, January 28, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, where intensity, execution, and endurance are once again expected to decide the outcome.

     

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  • “Alex is your best role model hero”: Former national team tennis coach lauds Eala

    “Alex is your best role model hero”: Former national team tennis coach lauds Eala

    Manila is poised to deliver a landmark moment for Philippine tennis as it gears up to host its first-ever Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) tournament — a breakthrough that could reshape the sport’s local landscape for years to come.

     

    The Philippine Women’s Open has officially been included in the 2026 WTA calendar, bringing a WTA 125-level event to the country and placing the capital firmly on the international tennis map. For a nation that has long produced passionate tennis supporters but has rarely enjoyed elite-level tournaments on home soil, the announcement represents both a major step forward and a long-awaited opportunity to elevate tennis in the Philippines.

     

    Set to run from January 26 to 31, 2026, the tournament will be played on hard courts and will feature a 32-player singles draw and a 16-team doubles bracket. With a total prize commitment of $115,000, the Philippine Women’s Open will offer valuable ranking points and provide a competitive stage typically designed for rising talents, seasoned professionals seeking match sharpness, and players looking for a pathway back into higher-tier WTA events.

     

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    Beyond the logistics and prize pool, the historic staging carries a deeper meaning: the Philippines will finally have a global women’s tennis event that can inspire young athletes, energize local supporters, and put homegrown talent in the spotlight.

     

    Former national team coach Karl Santamaria described the tournament as a major turning point not only for the sport but also for Filipino fans, who now get the chance to show how tennis can thrive in a traditionally basketball-dominated country.

     

    “For the Filipino fans, I know you are all excited to watch world-class tennis and also very excited to watch Alex. So I think this is a way to show the players who are going to participate and the fans watching from other countries, to see that this is how we support the players,” Santamaria said as quoted by The Inquirer.

     

    While much of the buzz around the event will naturally revolve around Alex Eala — the country’s most recognizable tennis talent and one of Asia’s brightest prospects — Santamaria believes the tournament’s full impact will depend on how fans embrace the entire field, including other Filipinos who could earn places in the draw.

    Santamaria stressed that support should extend beyond a single star if the sport is to grow into something sustainable.

     

    “I think the impact of this now is a bit more global. We will give more support to Alex, but let’s give support to the other Filipino players and also the other players. Because they will give you world-class tennis,” he added.

     

    Santamaria, 46, brings vast experience and credibility within Philippine tennis circles. Over the years, he has coached prominent players such as Clarice Patrimio and Francis Casey Alcantara, handled collegiate programs at University of Santo Tomas and National University, and has even assisted Eala during the 2020 preseason. Having watched Eala closely over the past several years, Santamaria believes the 20-year-old has become the strongest role model Filipino tennis has had in decades.

     

    “Our culture is always searching for a hero. I think Alex is your best role model hero that you could possibly have. She has very good family values. She understands the responsibility of being not only a celebrity but an emerging global superstar. And she represents what it is to be a Filipino,” Santamaria continued.

     

    Eala’s rise has already proven that Filipino tennis can command attention on the world stage. At the Australian Open, Filipino fans traveled in droves and turned the stands into a largely Filipino-heavy crowd during her match against American Alycia Parks. The crowd’s energy was unmistakable — and at times overwhelming — drawing repeated reminders from the umpire, a moment Santamaria pointed to as evidence of the growing passion surrounding the sport.

     

    With that enthusiasm also comes responsibility, and Santamaria reminded supporters that cheering for Eala on a global stage also means representing the country’s image in a sport where the Philippines is still building its reputation.

     

    “We are not known in the sport of tennis. So when you watch Alex live, you are also representing the Philippines,” he concluded.

     

    As the Philippine Women’s Open draws closer, the spotlight will not only be on the players competing for ranking points and prize money, but also on the Filipino crowd that will help define the tournament’s identity. With Manila finally hosting a WTA event, the Philippines has a rare chance to showcase its passion, hospitality, and readiness for world-class tennis — and if fans embrace the moment with the same energy and respect Santamaria emphasizes, the 2026 Philippine Women’s Open could be the start of a new era for the sport in the country.

     

     

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  • Titan Ultra owner Bryann Calantoc says negotiations with Greg Slaughter are ongoing for a potential PBA return

    Titan Ultra owner Bryann Calantoc says negotiations with Greg Slaughter are ongoing for a potential PBA return

    Former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) star Greg Slaughter is set to make a highly anticipated return to competitive basketball after signing with the Zamboanga Valientes for the upcoming Dubai International Basketball Championship. The 37-year-old veteran center, one of the most dominant big men of his generation in Philippine basketball, welcomed the opportunity to return to action and once again test himself at a high level of competition.

     

    Slaughter, who last saw extended action in the PBA several seasons ago, described the chance to compete internationally as a refreshing step in his comeback journey. His stint with the Valientes also reunites him with several familiar faces and places him in a talent-laden roster assembled to contend in the prestigious Dubai tournament.

     

    Joining Slaughter on the Valientes’ lineup are former Gilas Pilipinas teammate Vic Manuel, PBA scoring ace Terrence Romeo, Barkley Ebona, Nick Demusis, former NBA No. 1 overall pick Anthony Bennett, and collegiate standout Forthsky Padrigao. The blend of seasoned veterans, international experience, and youthful talent has generated buzz around the team’s prospects in the tournament.

     

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    Beyond his immediate return with Zamboanga, Slaughter has also expressed strong interest in making a full comeback to the PBA, a development that could excite Filipino basketball fans eager to see the former top overall pick back in Asia’s oldest professional league. That possibility gained further traction after Titan Ultra Giant Risers team owner Bryann Calantoc confirmed that management is once again in discussions with Slaughter regarding a potential return.

    It is worth noting that Slaughter’s PBA signing rights remain with Titan Ultra following the company’s acquisition of the NorthPort franchise. With the current Giant Risers roster lacking size and interior presence, Calantoc sees Slaughter as a possible solution to bolster the team’s frontcourt moving forward.

     

    “Well, we are looking at the possibility of activating Slaughter for our next conference, hopefully the negotiations turn out positive this time,” Calantoc said in a media interaction.

     

    The Pureblends Corp. president also revealed that Slaughter continues to draw interest across the league, with multiple teams reportedly exploring the possibility of acquiring the veteran center. While Calantoc declined to identify the teams involved, reports have linked franchises such as the Phoenix Fuel Masters, NLEX Road Warriors, and Converge FiberXers to inquiries about Slaughter’s availability.

     

    “I’d rather not divulge the names of the teams because basically those are just exploratory. But right now, the priority is to see how Slaughter will complement our current roster. We will observe the Valientes’ games in Dubai and see how he will fit in our system. We heard Slaughter has been working out so much to improve his game,” he added.

     

    For Slaughter, the Dubai International Basketball Championship represents more than just a short-term assignment. It serves as a proving ground — a chance to demonstrate that he still has the conditioning, skill, and physical presence to compete at a high level. Strong performances in Dubai could accelerate his path back to the PBA and solidify his place in the league once again.

     

    As the Valientes prepare to take on international competition, all eyes will be on Slaughter and how he anchors the team’s interior. Whether this return marks the beginning of a full-fledged PBA comeback or simply another chapter in his professional journey, the veteran center’s reemergence has already reignited excitement among fans and teams alike.

     

     

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  • “It’s the nature of the business”: Draymond Green on LeBron James–Jeanie Buss tensions

    “It’s the nature of the business”: Draymond Green on LeBron James–Jeanie Buss tensions

    Former Los Angeles Lakers owner and current governor Jeanie Buss recently found herself at the center of controversy following a report that detailed alleged behind-the-scenes tensions between her and Lakers superstar LeBron James — tensions that reportedly predate the franchise’s landmark sale.

     

    The report, published by ESPN’s Baxter Holmes, suggested that Buss privately felt James should have expressed more gratitude after the Lakers selected his son, Bronny James, with the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. The draft pick created one of the most historic storylines in league history, as LeBron and Bronny became the first father-son duo to share the court in the NBA.

     

    “And when the Lakers drafted James’ son, Bronny, with the 55th pick in the 2024 draft, Jeanie privately remarked that James should be grateful for such a gesture, but she felt that he wasn’t, people close to the team told ESPN,” the report stated.

     

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    However, Buss swiftly pushed back against the narrative, issuing a statement to The Athletic defending James and calling the report “completely unfair.”

     

    “It’s really not right, given all the great things LeBron has done for the Lakers, that he has to be pulled into my family drama,” Buss said. “To say that it wasn’t appreciated is just not true and completely unfair to him.”

    The report also suggested that Buss’ alleged frustration with James dates back several years, with some speculation pointing to the aftermath of the Lakers’ blockbuster trade for Russell Westbrook in 2021. That trade, which was intended to pair Westbrook with James in a superteam scenario, ultimately fell short of expectations, leaving the roster with limited flexibility and the organization searching for solutions. According to the ESPN report, Buss privately considered drastic options at the time, including the possibility of not offering James a contract extension, and even exploring hypothetical trade scenarios that could have sent him to the Los Angeles Clippers.

     

    Golden State Warriors star and longtime friend of James, Draymond Green, weighed in on the situation during a recent episode of his podcast, The Draymond Green Show. Green expressed shock at the report and questioned its accuracy, while also suggesting that some friction may have been amplified by family dynamics and the franchise sale.

     

    “Someone in the Buss family is very pissed off at Jeanie. Probably they didn’t agree with the sale. Probably didn’t have much control of it, and this is their way of getting back,” Green said.

     

    “Could Jeanie have had some problems with LeBron? I’m sure. It’s the nature of the business. I’m sure she had some issues,” he added, but emphasized that the claims about Bronny’s draft pick were likely misinterpreted or exaggerated.

     

    The controversy has sparked debate among fans and analysts, with many defending James’ professionalism and long-standing commitment to the Lakers. Since joining Los Angeles in 2018, James has led the team to multiple playoff runs and a championship in 2020, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in franchise history.

     

    Despite the swirling rumors, Buss’ statement makes it clear that she holds James in high regard, praising his contributions both on and off the court and condemning the notion that he did not appreciate the organization.

     

    As the Lakers continue to navigate a new era under recent ownership changes, this episode serves as a reminder of the complex dynamics that exist behind the scenes in professional sports — where family, business, and basketball intersect. While tensions may occasionally surface in the media, the mutual respect between James and the organization appears to remain intact, underscoring the superstar’s enduring impact on one of the NBA’s most storied franchises.

     

     

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  • “Sharper, stronger, more dangerous”: Filipino MMA star Danny Kingad promises statement fight at ONE Fight Night 40

    “Sharper, stronger, more dangerous”: Filipino MMA star Danny Kingad promises statement fight at ONE Fight Night 40

    Danny Kingad has firmly established himself as one of the Philippines’ brightest Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) talents, consistently competing at the highest level in ONE Championship and representing the country on the international stage. Known for his relentless work rate and technical skill, the 30-year-old fighter has emerged as one of the most exciting Filipino prospects in the sport today.

     

    Kingad is set to make his return to the ONE Championship cage on Saturday, February 14, at ONE Fight Night 40, where he will face China’s Hu Yong in a flyweight bout at the iconic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

     

    The Sadaga-born fighter is eager to show that he still belongs among the elite of the ONE Flyweight division and to reestablish himself as a legitimate title contender after setbacks in his last two fights.

     

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    Kingad last competed at ONE 169 in a World Title eliminator rematch against Adriano Moraes, where he succumbed to a second-round guillotine choke. Determined to bounce back, the Filipino MMA star promises fans a sharper, stronger, and more dangerous version of himself in Bangkok.

     

    “I’m extremely fired up to be back inside the Circle this February 14. This fight means a lot to me because it’s an important step toward my goal. I have been training with intensity, focus, and purpose, and I’m ready to show a sharper, stronger, and more dangerous version of Danny Kingad,” he said in a recent media interaction.

    Kingad acknowledges that a dominant performance against Hu Yong is essential to regain momentum and make the rest of the flyweight division take notice.

     

    “Fans will see a different fire in me this time. I’m fighting with urgency and hunger because this bout is crucial in putting me back in position for a title shot. Every athlete dreams of fighting for the belt, and this fight is part of that journey. That goal pushes me through every hard round and every sacrifice in training,” he added.

     

    Hu Yong, meanwhile, also comes off consecutive defeats, having lost to Reece McLaren and Sanzhar Zakirov at ONE Fight Night 36 in October. Despite this, Kingad is fully aware of the threat his opponent poses. Hu Yong’s first-round knockout of former ONE Flyweight World Champion Geje Eustaquio at ONE 164 highlights the danger he brings into the cage.

     

    “Hu Yong is a tough and dangerous opponent, and I respect what he brings to the table. At the same time, I trust my preparation, my team, and the work I have been putting in. We are studying his style carefully and building a game plan that allows me to control the fight, show my improvements, and earn the win,” Kingad continued.

     

    Kingad also remains grateful for the support of Filipino fans throughout his career. He most famously captured a bronze medal in the 60-kilogram full contact event at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Phnom Penh, Cambodia — a testament to his consistency and dedication in the sport.

     

    “Thank you to everyone who continues to support and believe in me. Your support gives me strength. On February 14, expect a focused, hungry, and determined Danny Kingad inside the Circle. I’m ready to give everything I have to take this next step toward the belt,” he concluded.

     

    As Kingad prepares for this crucial bout, the stage is set for a high-stakes clash that could define the next chapter of his career. With determination, skill, and experience on his side, the Filipino MMA star has the opportunity not just to rebound from recent setbacks, but to make a statement to the entire ONE Flyweight division — proving that Danny Kingad remains a serious contender on the world stage.

     

     

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  • PSC chief Gregorio optimistic about growth of Philippine tennis with maiden WTA 125 event

    PSC chief Gregorio optimistic about growth of Philippine tennis with maiden WTA 125 event

    Manila is poised to deliver a landmark moment for Philippine tennis as it gears up to host its first-ever Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) tournament, a milestone that could reshape the sport’s local landscape for years to come.

     

    The Philippine Women’s Open has officially been included in the 2026 WTA calendar, bringing a WTA 125-level event to the country and placing the Philippine capital firmly on the international tennis map. For a nation that has long produced passionate tennis supporters but rarely enjoyed elite-level tournaments on home soil, the announcement signals both a breakthrough and a long-awaited opportunity for the sport to grow.

     

    Set to run from January 26 to 31, 2026, the tournament will be played on hard courts and will feature a 32-player singles draw and a 16-team doubles bracket. With a total prize commitment of $115,000, the Philippine Women’s Open will offer valuable ranking points and a competitive platform typically designed for emerging talents and established tour players seeking momentum, match play, or a pathway back into higher-tier WTA tournaments.

     

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    Beyond the numbers and the format, the event carries major significance for Filipino fans and athletes alike. It will give local supporters the rare chance to watch world-class women’s tennis up close, while also providing Philippine players an invaluable stage — one that comes with the added advantage of playing in familiar conditions and with home-crowd support.

     

    Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick Gregorio visited the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex on Thursday, January 22, to inspect preparations and speak about what the tournament could mean for the future of tennis in the country. Gregorio expressed optimism that this initial step could eventually lead to bigger WTA-level events in Manila.

    “Right now, it’s 125. Next year, it could be 250. By 2028, it might be 500 or 1,000. So this is good for Philippine tennis,” Gregorio said.

     

    WTA tournaments are categorized by tier, with the number reflecting the ranking points awarded to the champion — an indicator of the level of competition and the prestige attached to the event. As it currently stands, the Philippine Women’s Open will debut as a WTA 125 tournament, a category often populated by rising stars, developing prospects, and players working their way toward the main WTA Tour.

     

    Gregorio also emphasized that hosting an international tournament is not only about staging matches but about creating momentum around national sports programs and allowing Filipino athletes to gain more recognition from the public. He believes events like this can bridge the gap between global success and local appreciation, ensuring that athletes competing internationally also get meaningful exposure at home.

     

    “This is what we have been waiting for. If we have Filipino athletes succeeding in the international field, on the world stage, it is a must that we organize something to host them in the Philippines. It’s what we wanted for Senator Manny Pacquiao, it’s what we requested for Gilas Pilipinas and for Alas Pilipinas,” he added.

     

    The Philippine Women’s Open could also serve as a strong platform for the country’s brightest tennis talent, especially with fan interest expected to surge around Filipina sensation Alex Eala, who has continued to draw attention with her performances on the international stage. With Eala becoming one of the country’s most recognizable names in tennis, the inaugural WTA tournament in Manila is likely to generate strong turnout and renewed excitement for the sport.

     

    To ensure the Rizal Memorial courts are ready for the demands of elite competition, the PSC is currently spearheading renovations aimed at meeting international standards. Improvements include upgrades to the playing surface, facilities, and player areas — key requirements for a tournament carrying WTA sanctioning. In addition, an extra 2,000 seats have been installed to accommodate the crowd expected to flock to the historic venue, turning the complex into a showcase arena capable of staging one of the biggest tennis events ever held in the Philippines.

     

    With the countdown to January 2026 underway, the Philippine Women’s Open represents more than just another entry on the global calendar. It marks a statement of intent — that Manila is ready to host, support, and celebrate top-level tennis, and that Philippine tennis is entering a new era built on visibility, opportunity, and international relevance.

     

     

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  • “May chance pa naman kami”: June Mar Fajardo stays optimistic after Game 1 loss

    “May chance pa naman kami”: June Mar Fajardo stays optimistic after Game 1 loss

    For three quarters, TNT Tropang Giga seemed to have Game 1 of the Philippine Cup Finals firmly under control. The Tropang Giga dictated the tempo, executed their game plan with precision, and built what looked like a comfortable lead against the San Miguel Beermen. But as is often the case in championship basketball, early dominance is rarely enough to secure victory. When the pressure mounted in the fourth quarter and the margin for error shrank, it was TNT’s composure, discipline, and timely execution that ultimately carried the day.

     

    TNT survived a furious late rally by the defending champions to escape with a 96–91 win in Game 1 of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The victory gave the Tropang Giga a critical 1–0 lead in the best-of-seven series and immediately set the tone for what promises to be a hard-fought, tightly contested championship matchup.

     

    Offensively, TNT leaned on a balanced team effort, with six players scoring in double figures. The Tropang Giga consistently punished San Miguel whenever defensive lapses occurred, ensuring they stayed ahead despite the Beermen’s relentless push. While the scoring was evenly distributed, veteran forward Kelly Williams quietly anchored TNT’s performance on both ends of the floor. The former PBA Most Valuable Player finished with 15 points, nine rebounds, and three assists — numbers that only partially reflected his overall impact. Williams’ calm leadership and ability to make crucial plays under pressure helped keep TNT in control during San Miguel’s late surge.

     

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    For the Beermen, record-holding PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo continued to assert his dominance in the paint, delivering a monster 24-point, 17-rebound performance. Despite his valiant efforts, San Miguel fell short in the end. Still, Fajardo remains optimistic about the series, acknowledging that a single game does not determine the championship.

    “Long series ‘to. ‘Di magiging madaling series ‘to para sa’min. May chance pa naman kami. Malayo pa ‘yan. So kailangan naming mag-bounce back. Kailangan naming mag-regroup,” Fajardo said after the game.

     

    The Beermen found themselves trailing by as much as 19 points in the first half, but they showed why they are the reigning champions. With improved defensive pressure, sharper execution, and a renewed sense of urgency, San Miguel clawed their way back in the second half, eventually cutting TNT’s lead to a single possession in the final moments. The rally, while ultimately not enough, demonstrated the team’s resilience and ability to adjust mid-game.

     

    Fajardo drew inspiration from his team’s comeback effort and believes San Miguel can carry that momentum into Game 2.

     

    “Yong bigs nila, tumitira sa labas. Ang dami nilang na-shoot na threes and ang laki ng hinabol naming noong first half. Talo kami sa first half pero panalo kami sa second half. Bawi na lang,” he said, highlighting the adjustments his team made in the second half and the lessons they will carry forward.

     

    Game 2 is scheduled for Friday, January 23, once again at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The Beermen will look to respond and level the series, while TNT will aim to build on its early momentum and tighten its grip on the championship. With both teams showcasing their depth, talent, and championship pedigree, fans can expect another thrilling encounter as the Philippine Cup Finals continues.

     

    As the series unfolds, attention will likely remain on TNT’s veteran leadership, San Miguel’s ability to adjust defensively, and how stars like Fajardo and Williams influence the series’ pivotal moments. One thing is certain: the battle for the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup is just beginning, and Game 2 promises to be another showcase of skill, strategy, and sheer determination.

     

     

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  • Leo Austria admits San Miguel’s bench struggles contributed to its Game 1 loss to TNT

    Leo Austria admits San Miguel’s bench struggles contributed to its Game 1 loss to TNT

    For three quarters, TNT Tropang Giga appeared to be firmly in control, dictating the pace and building what looked like a commanding cushion in the opening game of the Philippine Cup Finals. But as championship basketball often reminds, early dominance alone is rarely enough. When the pressure mounted and the margin for error shrank, it was TNT’s composure, discipline, and timely execution that ultimately sealed the result.

     

    The Tropang Giga survived a furious late rally by the San Miguel Beermen to escape with a 96–91 victory in Game 1 of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The win handed TNT a 1–0 lead in the best-of-seven series and immediately underscored the tone of what promises to be a grueling, tightly contested championship duel.

     

    TNT leaned on a collective offensive effort throughout the night, placing six players in double figures and consistently punishing San Miguel whenever defensive breakdowns occurred. While the scoring was spread evenly, it was veteran forward Kelly Williams who quietly anchored TNT’s performance on both ends of the floor. The former PBA Most Valuable Player finished with 15 points, nine rebounds, and three assists, numbers that only partially reflected his influence.

     

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    Williams’ most pivotal contributions came in the closing minutes of the fourth quarter, when San Miguel was threatening to complete a dramatic comeback. With the Beermen gaining momentum, Williams calmly orchestrated the offense from the high post, delivering back-to-back drop passes to Aaron Ganuelas-Rosser for two crucial interior baskets. Those plays stretched TNT’s lead to 90–83, momentarily halting San Miguel’s surge and giving the Tropang Giga just enough breathing room to steady themselves down the stretch.

     

    After the game, San Miguel head coach Leo Austria pointed to the early stages of the contest as the decisive factor, particularly the inability of his second unit to match TNT’s energy and production.

     

    “I think it’s very clear, you know, the first quarter or the first half you know is the culprit. Because we didn’t play the way we played before. They have a very clear game plan to stop our bench, especially ‘yung mga perimeter shooters namin,” Austria said post the game.

    The numbers backed up Austria’s assessment. TNT’s bench poured in a decisive 48 points, nearly doubling the 27 produced by San Miguel’s reserves. Don Trollano, typically the catalyst of the Beermen’s second unit, was effectively neutralized for most of the night and did not score until the final quarter.

     

    “Credit to the game plan of TNT, they were able to contain our shooters. If you noticed, ang gumawa sa amin ay puro big me. But our wingmen, especially the bench namin hindi sila masyado nag-score,” Austria added.

     

    Despite the struggles from the perimeter, San Miguel still found production from its frontline. June Mar Fajardo, Mo Tautuaa, and Rodney Brondial carried much of the offensive load, repeatedly scoring inside and controlling stretches of the rebounding battle. However, the limited output from veteran guards Chris Ross and Marcio Lassiter, coupled with the bench’s quiet night, proved costly against a TNT side that rarely let its focus waver.

     

    Even so, the Beermen showed exactly why they are the defending champions. After trailing by as many as 19 points in the first half, San Miguel clawed its way back with improved defensive pressure and sharper execution in the second half, eventually cutting the deficit to just one possession in the final moments.

     

    “The mere fact na we are able to get that kind of production in the second half, the chance is still there. It’s a matter of mindset. This is a championship game. Every possession is very important, especially in the first quarter.

     

    “I think next time siguro mai-address namin lahat and we should have a better plan. This is a best of seven and we have to adjust,” Austria concluded.

     

    With adjustments expected on both sides, Austria will be banking on a stronger showing from Trollano and the rest of San Miguel’s bench when the series resumes. Game 2 is set for Friday, January 23, once again at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, where the Beermen will look to respond and level the Finals, while TNT aims to build on its early momentum and tighten its grip on the championship series.

     

     

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