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Author: Arjun Devgan

  • Legendary or Humble? Scottie Thompson downplays career-best performance

    Legendary or Humble? Scottie Thompson downplays career-best performance

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel roared back in emphatic fashion to even its best-of-seven semifinal series against longtime rival San Miguel Beermen, taking Game 4 with a commanding 105–91 victory on Sunday, January 11, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The win not only restored Ginebra’s momentum but also showcased the brilliance of star point guard Scottie Thompson, who delivered a performance for the ages.

     

    Thompson erupted for a career-high 35 points, while adding 11 rebounds and 11 assists, powering the Gin Kings to a comfortable win. His triple-double was a display of offensive dominance, but it also highlighted his all-around contributions—facilitating teammates, creating opportunities, and anchoring Ginebra’s defense.

     

    Significantly, Thompson’s feat marked the first time since the early 1990s that a local Filipino player scored more than 30 points in a triple-double game. The last to achieve this rare milestone was Alaska rookie—and current Ginebra assistant coach—Johnny Abarrientos, who accomplished it in the 1993 All-Filipino Conference. Thompson’s performance thus cemented itself as a historic moment in PBA history.

     

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    Despite making history, Thompson remained humble, crediting teamwork and timing for his standout night.

     

    “Luckily, it was a good night for me. We just fought hard and battled every quarter. We found our rhythm as a team, and that’s what is most important. We lifted each other and stayed together,” Thompson said in the postgame press conference.

    “Every game is different, but our approach and intensity remain the same,” he added.

     

    However, Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone didn’t hold back in praising Thompson’s effort, calling it “legendary.”

     

    “It was a legendary performance. I think we are going to remember this for a very long time. There is no doubt it was legendary. He was more aggressive tonight, and that made him more of a threat, which opened up passing lanes for him,” Cone said.

     

    Thompson’s dominance allowed Ginebra to control the pace of the game, while the team’s defense stifled San Miguel’s key scorers, keeping the Beermen from closing the gap. Beyond Thompson, supporting players stepped up in critical moments, showing the depth and resilience of the Gin Kings roster.

     

    With the semifinal series now tied 2-2, all eyes turn to the pivotal Game 5 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, January 14. The winner will seize momentum heading into the latter half of the series, making Thompson’s form and Ginebra’s collective effort all the more vital.

     

    If Game 4 proved anything, it’s that Barangay Ginebra possesses the talent, cohesion, and star power to rise to the occasion. With Thompson leading the charge and the team firing on all cylinders, fans can expect an electrifying showdown in the next chapter of this storied PBA rivalry.

     

     

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  • “Barangay to the Olympics”: PSFI launches grassroots initiative to build future sambo stars

    “Barangay to the Olympics”: PSFI launches grassroots initiative to build future sambo stars

    The Pilipinas Sambo Federation Inc. (PSFI) is gearing up to further strengthen its grassroots development programs in 2026 through partnerships and expanded collaboration with its affiliated clubs. With a clear goal of attracting more Filipino youth to take up sambo, the federation continues to broaden its reach at the community level while preparing the next generation of national athletes.

     

    As part of this commitment, the PSFI recently staged a free sambo clinic for young athletes, organized in cooperation with the Manila City Sambo Club. The activity was held on Saturday, January 10, at the Patricia Paraiso Sports Complex in Tondo, Manila, drawing dozens of children eager to learn the basics of the combat sport.

     

    Philippine sambo head coach Ace Larida emphasized the significance of grassroots expansion, noting that sustained athlete development is essential for long-term competitiveness.

     

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    “This is very beneficial for the kids. We already had a chapter in Makati with Alexander Li and coach Godwin Langbayan, and now we have conducted one here in Manila with the help of Rommel Miranda and Samson Bernales. Grassroots development is the most important because our national team members will not remain strong forever. We need to continuously look for young athletes with potential,” Larida said in a media interaction.

    Coach Rommel Miranda, who helped facilitate the event, echoed Larida’s views and underscored the importance of community-based programs as a pathway toward elite competition.

     

    “Paolo Tancontian and I both come from a judo background, so we help each other in grassroots development. We want to extend this initiative from judo to sambo to provide more opportunities for children. I fondly call this program ‘Barangay to the Olympics’—starting at the barangay level and working our way toward the Olympics. That’s the vision of our program,” Miranda added.

     

    The clinic also received a morale boost from the presence of 2025 Southeast Asian Games gold medalist Sy-Tancontian, whose achievements served as inspiration to the young participants. Her attendance highlighted the potential career pathways that sambo can offer to dedicated athletes.

     

    Meanwhile, the Philippine Sambo Team continues its preparation for major international tournaments, with particular focus on the Asia Oceania Sambo Championships, which the country is set to host in June this year. The upcoming event marks a significant milestone for the federation, providing an opportunity to showcase both local talent and the progress of sambo development in the Philippines.

     

    “We are always prepared. Our training never stops, especially with the Asian Championship set to be held here in the country,” Larida concluded.

     

    With intensified grassroots efforts, strengthened partnerships, and the support of decorated national athletes, the Pilipinas Sambo Federation is positioning the sport for substantial growth in 2026 and beyond. By nurturing talent at the community level and providing clear pathways toward elite competition, the PSFI aims to build a sustainable pipeline of young athletes capable of representing—and excelling—the Philippines in regional and global sambo events. As the federation continues to widen its reach and elevate its programs, the future of sambo in the country appears both promising and firmly grounded in grassroots development.

     

     

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  • Barangay Ginebra’s Scottie Thompson named PBA Player of the Week for January 4 to 11

    Barangay Ginebra’s Scottie Thompson named PBA Player of the Week for January 4 to 11

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel roared back in emphatic fashion to even its best-of-seven semifinal series against longtime rival San Miguel Beermen, taking Game 4 with a commanding 105–91 victory on Sunday, January 11, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The win not only restored Ginebra’s momentum but also showcased the brilliance of star point guard Scottie Thompson, who delivered a historic performance for the ages.

     

    Thompson exploded for a career-high 35 points, complemented by 11 rebounds and 11 assists, powering the Gin Kings to a comfortable victory. His triple-double display was not only a dominant offensive show but also highlighted his all-around contributions in facilitating teammates and anchoring the team’s defense.

     

    Thompson’s feat is the first time since the early 1990s that a local Filipino player has scored more than 30 points in a triple-double game. The last to achieve the rare milestone was Alaska rookie—and current Barangay Ginebra assistant coach—Johnny Abarrientos, who accomplished it in the 1993 All-Filipino Conference, cementing Thompson’s performance as a historic moment in PBA history.

     

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    For his exceptional showing, Thompson earned the PBA Press Corps’ Player of the Week honors for the period of January 4 to 11, averaging 20.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game during the week. He edged out notable rivals including San Miguel Beermen’s Don Trollano, TNT Tropang Giga’s Calvin Oftana, and Poy Erram, earning unanimous recognition from the scribes covering Asia’s oldest professional basketball league.

    “I think we fought hard, we battled every quarter. Luckily, I think it’s just a good night for me. Yung rhythm namin as a team is important especially on the defensive end and that’s the main key. Overall, we got the W and lucky for me. We lifted up each other, we helped each other and we stayed through ups and downs,” Thompson reflected after the win, emphasizing the importance of teamwork alongside his personal brilliance.

     

    Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone heaped praise on Thompson, calling his display a “legendary performance” and underscoring the guard’s humility despite the historic feat.

     

    “It was a legendary performance. I think we are going to remember this one for a long time. Scottie is the most humble guy you would meet, maybe outside of June Mar Fajardo. No doubt it’s a legendary performance. I think he came out and he was more aggressive tonight. He was looking for things and the more he became a threat, the more he was able to open the lanes and make passes as well,” Cone said.

     

    Thompson’s dominance allowed Ginebra to control the pace of the game, while the team’s defense limited the Beermen’s key scorers, preventing San Miguel from closing the gap. Alongside Thompson, supporting players stepped up at crucial moments, showing the depth and resilience of the Gin Kings roster.

     

    With the semifinal series now tied 2-2, all eyes turn to the pivotal Game 5, scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. The winner of the next game will seize momentum heading into the latter half of the series, making Thompson’s form and Ginebra’s collective effort all the more critical.

     

    If Game 4 proved anything, it is that Barangay Ginebra has the talent, cohesion, and star power to rise to the occasion. With Thompson leading the charge and the team firing on all cylinders, fans can expect an electrifying showdown in the next chapter of this storied rivalry.

     

     

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  • Jaylen Brown fined $35,000 for criticizing officiating after Celtics’ loss

    Jaylen Brown fined $35,000 for criticizing officiating after Celtics’ loss

    The Boston Celtics continue to put together a strong 2025–26 NBA campaign, carrying a 24–14 record that places them third in the Eastern Conference. Their balanced roster, sharpened offensive execution, and improved defensive cohesion have kept them among the conference’s top-tier teams despite injuries and constant lineup shuffling.

     

    However, Boston’s momentum hit a setback on Sunday, January 11 (PST), following a 100–95 loss to the San Antonio Spurs at TD Garden. The defeat stung not only because it came on home court, but also because of the officiating—at least according to Celtics star Jaylen Brown.

     

    Throughout the game, Brown showed visible frustration with the calls he felt were being missed. After the final buzzer, he took to X (formerly Twitter) and posted: “Fine me I’m sick of this st.” The tension carried into his postgame media session. As reported by Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe, Brown doubled down, saying, “I will take the f*g fine. The inconsistency is crazy. Give me the fine.”

     

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    The league responded swiftly. On Monday, the NBA announced that Brown had been fined $35,000 for his comments.

    “Boston Celtics guard-forward Jaylen Brown has been fined 35,000 for his public criticism of the officiating, it was announced today by James Jones, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations. Brown made his comments to the press and on social media following the Celtics’ 100–95 loss to the San Antonio Spurs at TD Garden,” the NBA’s statement read.

     

    Despite the controversy, Brown delivered an impressive performance on the court, finishing with 27 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists while shooting 11-of-28 overall and 5-of-11 from long range. Still, one stat highlighted his frustration: he did not attempt a single free throw. As a team, Boston attempted just four free throws the entire night—an uncharacteristically low number for a squad known for attacking the basket. The Spurs, by contrast, went to the line 20 times and used those opportunities to maintain control of the matchup.

     

    Even amid the officiating concerns and the recent loss, Brown has been a stabilizing force for the Celtics in the absence of franchise cornerstone Jayson Tatum, who remains sidelined by injury. The 29-year-old wing is producing one of the best all-around seasons of his career, averaging 29.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 5.0 assists on 49.9 percent shooting from the field and 37.2 percent from three.

     

    His ability to carry the scoring load, create for teammates, and defend multiple positions has kept Boston firmly in the upper echelon of the East. Brown’s frustration highlights broader questions about officiating consistency across the league, but it also underscores the weight he carries as the team’s leader during Tatum’s absence.

     

    As the Celtics navigate the heart of the season, cooler heads and continued elite play from Brown will be crucial. If Boston can stay healthy and maintain its form, the team remains a legitimate contender in a competitive Eastern Conference race.

     

     

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  • “Reminds me of Jimmy Butler”: Jayson David earns high praise from Tim Cone

    “Reminds me of Jimmy Butler”: Jayson David earns high praise from Tim Cone

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel bounced back in emphatic fashion to knot its best-of-seven semifinal series against long-time rival San Miguel Beermen, taking Game 4 with a 105–91 victory on Sunday, January 11, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    Star point guard Scottie Thompson delivered a performance for the ages, exploding for a career-high 35 points alongside 11 rebounds and 11 assists, powering Ginebra to a comfortable win.

     

    While Thompson stole the spotlight, head coach Tim Cone also highlighted the contributions of wingman Jayson David, who provided a crucial spark off the bench. David finished with 12 points on 4-of-6 shooting, three rebounds, three steals, and seven assists in roughly 27 minutes, posting a game-high plus-minus of +22.

     

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    Cone shared that David’s style of play has long reminded him of NBA and Golden State Warriors superstar Jimmy Butler.

    “I had a short conversation with Jayson before the game. I just told him that he has got to let the game come to him a little bit. Sometimes he gets so excited and plays a little bit beyond himself. But when he allows the game to come to him, he is so dynamic,” Cone said in the post-match press conference.

     

    “I always tell him that he reminds me of Jimmy Butler. And the kind of game he plays. He is wide-bodied. Can play bigger than he is. And very versatile, so he has always reminded me of Jimmy way back when. But now he’s getting an opportunity to show that at this point,” he added.

     

    David has steadily earned a vital role for Ginebra this conference, averaging 8.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.0 steal per game across four semifinal outings.

     

    “He is not as good as Jimmy Butler. But relative to our league, he plays a very similar game. Similar type game,” Cone concluded.

     

    For his part, David downplayed the praise, saying he is simply focused on helping the team win.

    “Wala naman nang pressure yung ganoon. Kumbaga, pinuri niya ako, e di thank you. Gusto ko lang talaga makatulong sa team namin. Yun lang, gusto ko lang ibigay ko yung best ko. Kumbaga andito na ako, sayang punta,” David said.

     

    With the series now tied at 2-2, the pivotal Game 5 is set for Wednesday, January 14, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

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  • Michael Jordan to LeBron James: Ranking the NBA’s all-time richest stars

    Michael Jordan to LeBron James: Ranking the NBA’s all-time richest stars

    The NBA is one of the most recognizable sports leagues on the planet—a global brand built on elite talent, iconic franchises, and a massive commercial ecosystem. With the league generating an estimated $10.58 billion in revenue last season, it continues to be a financial powerhouse for sponsors, investors, and athletes alike.

     

    Given that success, it’s no surprise that the NBA has produced some of the wealthiest figures in sports history. Whether through record-breaking contracts, global endorsements, or smart business ventures, several NBA stars have built fortunes that extend far beyond their playing careers.

     

    Below is a look at the five richest players ever to come out of the NBA, and how each one built their empire.

     

    1. Michael Jordan – $3 Billion Net Worth

    Regarded by many as the greatest basketball player of all time, Michael Jordan has long transcended sports. While he earned $90 million in NBA salary across 14 seasons with the Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards, the bulk of his wealth came from endorsements and investments.

     

    Jordan partnered with global brands such as McDonald’s, Hanes, Gatorade, and Chevrolet. But nothing compares to his historic partnership with Nike. His Air Jordan line redefined athlete branding and generated extraordinary revenue—bringing Jordan an estimated $2.4 billion in pre-tax earnings from Nike.

     

    His business empire continued to grow with investments in DraftKings, ownership in a NASCAR team, and most notably, the $3 billion sale of his majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets, which significantly boosted his net worth. Jordan remains the wealthiest athlete in sports history.

     

    2. LeBron James – $1 Billion Net Worth

    The richest active player in the league today, LeBron James is one of only two NBA players to achieve billionaire status while still playing. Now in his 21st season, LeBron has earned $479 million in NBA salary, but his off-court ventures have truly elevated his financial legacy.

     

    LeBron’s lifetime deal with Nike anchors his endorsement portfolio, while his business investments span multiple industries—fast food (Blaze Pizza), entertainment (SpringHill Company), and alcohol (Lobos 1707 tequila).

     

    He has also invested in sports franchises, previously holding a stake in Liverpool FC via Fenway Sports Group. His diverse holdings and global marketability make him one of the most influential business athletes in the world.

     

    3. Magic Johnson – $800 Million Net Worth

    A five-time NBA champion and Hall of Famer, Magic Johnson has long been recognized not only for his on-court brilliance but for his entrepreneurial impact. Despite earning $39.3 million across 12 seasons—boosted by a unique long-term Lakers contract—Magic’s business acumen propelled him into the upper tier of sports wealth.

     

    Through Magic Johnson Enterprises, now valued at over $1 billion, he expanded aggressively into real estate, entertainment, and sports ownership. His impressive portfolio includes stakes in:

    • Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA)

    • Los Angeles Football Club (MLS)

    • LA Dodgers (MLB)

    • Washington Commanders (NFL)

    • Team Liquid (eSports)

    He also holds a major interest in EquiTrust Life Insurance, further diversifying his financial empire.

     

    4. Junior Bridgeman – $600+ Million Net Worth (Estimated)

    One of the most surprising names on this list, Junior Bridgeman earned no more than $350,000 per season during his 12-year NBA career. But retirement marked the beginning of his rise as a business titan.

     

    Bridgeman invested in fast-food franchises, initially purchasing a single Wendy’s store. That grew into a massive network of over 160 Wendy’s and multiple franchise brands, operated under Bridgeman Foods Inc.

     

    He later sold the company and shifted to becoming a Coca-Cola bottler, eventually becoming CEO and president of Coca-Cola Heartland. His strategic investments and franchise empire established him as one of the wealthiest former NBA players.

     

    5. Vinnie Johnson – $500 Million Net Worth

    Rounding out the top five is Vinnie Johnson, a two-time NBA champion with the Detroit Pistons. Although he earned just over $3 million during his 14-season career, his post-basketball journey is a masterclass in entrepreneurship.

     

    Johnson founded the Piston Group, an automotive supply company that has become a major partner for giants such as General Motors and Ford. Today, the company generates nearly $3 billion in annual revenue, and Johnson — as CEO and chairman — has built a personal net worth estimated at around $500 million.

     

    The financial success of these NBA legends highlights how the league serves as a launching pad for long-term wealth—not merely through contracts but through entrepreneurship, branding, and strategic investments.

     



    From Michael Jordan’s historic Nike empire to Junior Bridgeman’s fast-food dominance and Vinnie Johnson’s automotive powerhouse, these former players prove that greatness in the NBA doesn’t end at retirement.

     

    Their stories set a blueprint for future athletes looking to turn basketball stardom into lifelong financial success.


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  • PVL analyst says Eya Laure is the missing piece Choco Mucho needs for a title run

    PVL analyst says Eya Laure is the missing piece Choco Mucho needs for a title run

     

    While fireworks lit up the sky to welcome the New Year across the country, the biggest spark came from the volleyball world—Eya Laure is officially back. After spending a year away from the Premier Volleyball League spotlight, one of Philippine volleyball’s brightest and most marketable stars opened 2026 by signing with the Choco Mucho Flying Titans, ending months of speculation and finally confirming the move fans had long been anticipating.

     

    Laure’s return instantly reshapes the PVL landscape, giving Choco Mucho a powerful offensive weapon and a fierce competitor known for her energy, leadership, and emotional intensity. For a team still searching for its breakthrough championship, Laure’s signing represents not just a roster upgrade, but a potential identity shift.

     

    PVL analyst Noreen Go, speaking on The Scorecard, emphasized the magnitude of Laure’s arrival and how it could redefine the Flying Titans’ direction this season.

     

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    “We saw Eya Laure going down with a sprain, but she really wanted to play, and that’s what her fans and Choco Mucho fans are hoping she brings to the team because I feel they are lacking the identity now of Choco Mucho,” Go said.

    Laure’s move to Choco Mucho also reunites her with familiar faces. She re-joins former University of Santo Tomas teammates Cherry Rondina, Alina Bicar, and Caitlyn Viray, bringing back the chemistry that once made UST a collegiate powerhouse. She also teams up with former rivals such as Maddie Madayag and Deanna Wong, creating a star-studded lineup that blends collegiate history with professional experience.

     

    Go believes this reunion could be explosive for the Flying Titans if the pieces come together.

    “And they are hoping that the combination—Maddie Madayag, Eya Laure, Sisi Rondina, and the new acquisitions—they are hoping that they play well together with the lot of passion that we know,” she added.

     

    Choco Mucho has been aggressive this offseason in restructuring its roster. The team parted ways with Aduke Agunsanya, Bia General, Royse Tubino, and Cherry Nunag, signaling a major overhaul aimed at addressing consistency and depth issues. In addition to Laure, the Flying Titans secured former Nxled Chameleons standout Jalia Atienza, further strengthening their rotation and adding more versatility on both ends of the court.

     

    The combination of fresh talent, reunited teammates, and strategic acquisitions shows that Choco Mucho is pushing hard to finally break through and capture its maiden PVL championship. With Laure’s arrival, expectations—and the pressure—are higher than ever.

     

    Eya Laure’s signing marks more than just a high-profile transfer; it is a turning point for Choco Mucho and a major storyline for the entire PVL heading into 2026. Whether her return leads to a long-awaited championship remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Flying Titans now have the star power, chemistry, and momentum to make a serious run. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Choco Mucho—and on Laure, who is poised to make an explosive comeback in the purple and white.

     

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  • Meralco suffers major blow as Chris Newsome will miss Game 5 due to MCL sprain

    Meralco suffers major blow as Chris Newsome will miss Game 5 due to MCL sprain

    The TNT Tropang Giga moved one win away from securing a spot in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup Finals after dismantling the Meralco Bolts, 102-83, in Game 4 on Sunday, January 11, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The victory gave TNT a commanding 3–1 lead in the best-of-seven semifinal series.

     

    Central to TNT’s win was Poy Erram, who delivered his strongest performance of the conference, anchoring the Tropang Giga with 27 points on an efficient 9-of-11 shooting, while also adding nine rebounds and two assists. Jordan Heading and Calvin Oftana provided additional firepower with 15 and 14 points, respectively, helping TNT seize control early and maintain it throughout the game.

     

    Meralco, meanwhile, struggled without their star player and captain Chris Newsome, who missed the game due to a medial collateral ligament (MCL) sprain on his left knee. Newsome confirmed he will also miss Game 5.

     

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    “Right now it’s just going through the recovery process, taking the precautions I need to do for me to be able to get back on the court. So listening to the team doctors and the team physicians and just taking it one step at a time till I am able to get back on the court,” Newsome told reporters.

     

    The 35-year-old guard added that he expects to be sidelined for at least three to five weeks, depending on how his injury heals.

     

    “There is a possibility it could be shorter, depending on the severity of the sprain. Right now we are just waiting for the inflammation to go down a bit. And I will be able to clear things up to where we have a better timeline for my return.

    “Game 5 that will be a tough one to try to reach. But it does help that we have an extra day between the game. So, I will be doing my share of recovery work from now until Wednesday so I can get out on the court. But it’s already a good sign I am able to work and stand on my own,” he added.

     

    Meralco head coach Luigi Trillo also confirmed Newsome’s status, noting that the situation “doesn’t look too good.”

     

    “You know, the MRI showed that it’s clear. But at this point, I think his priority has to be his health. We will see. So, I don’t see him playing the next game also. If ever, it might be next week,” Trillo said.

     

    Despite the injury setback, both Newsome and Trillo remain confident that Meralco can stage a comeback in the semifinal series.

     

    “It’s gonna take a complete team effort to try to get this, to try to turn this thing around. But again, it’s not impossible. It’s just gonna be really tough. We just gotta take it one possession at a time, one game at a time,” Newsome said.

     

    “We have to be better. It’s not over. We have to just focus on that next Wednesday game. We have to do things better,” Trillo added.

     

    Meralco will look to bounce back in Game 5, scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, hoping to extend the series and keep their Finals hopes alive.

     

     

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  • Kevin Durant surpasses Wilt Chamberlain to move 7th on NBA all-time scoring list

    Kevin Durant surpasses Wilt Chamberlain to move 7th on NBA all-time scoring list

    The Houston Rockets fell short of expectations against the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday, January 10 (Philippine Standard Time) at the Moda Center, dropping a 111-105 decision in the ongoing 2025-26 NBA season.

     

    Despite the loss, the night belonged to Kevin Durant, who etched his name further into NBA history by surpassing Wilt Chamberlain to move into seventh place on the league’s all-time scoring list. Durant achieved the milestone with a jumper at 7:57 remaining in the third quarter. Entering the game needing 15 points to pass Chamberlain’s 31,422 career points, Durant now trails only Dirk Nowitzki, who sits sixth with 31,560 points.

     

    “To be amongst the greats is always an honor. Wilt is somebody I studied and tried to look up to as much as I can, a player like that. Like I always say, he set a standard for NBA players and I’m grateful to reach that and inspired by what he produced for the game of basketball. These milestones always have me reflecting on the people that helped me get to this point, the journey that I have been through, the close calls, and the things that could have gone wrong plenty of times in my life,” Durant said after the game.

     

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    “So to be here, very, very grateful, and Portland is such a classy, classy city for recognizing me in that moment and honoring me,” he added.

    Durant, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation, also passed the 8,000-rebound mark during the game, adding another milestone to his illustrious career. Selected as the second overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft by the Seattle SuperSonics, Durant has also played for the Golden State Warriors, Brooklyn Nets, Phoenix Suns, and now the Houston Rockets.

     

    At 37 years old, Durant’s resume speaks for itself. He is a two-time NBA champion, two-time NBA Finals MVP, 2014 NBA MVP, two-time NBA All-Star Game MVP, 2008 NBA Rookie of the Year, four-time NBA scoring champion, and a 15-time NBA All-Star, among many other honors.

     

    Top 10 All-Time NBA Scorers

    1. LeBron James – 42,575 points 
    2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 38,387 points 
    3. Karl Malone – 36,928 points 
    4. Kobe Bryant – 33,643 points 
    5. Michael Jordan – 32,292 points 
    6. Dirk Nowitzki – 31,560 points 
    7. Kevin Durant – 31,435 points 
    8. Wilt Chamberlain – 31,419 points 
    9. Shaquille O’Neal – 28,596 points 
    10. James Harden – 28,563 points 

    While the Rockets will look to regroup after Saturday’s setback, Durant’s personal achievement served as a bright spot for Houston and a reminder of his enduring greatness in the league.

     

     

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  • Carlo Bumina-ang aims for career comeback against Marcos Aurelio at ONE Fight Night 39

    Carlo Bumina-ang aims for career comeback against Marcos Aurelio at ONE Fight Night 39

    Carlo Bumina-ang has firmly established himself as one of the Philippines’ top Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) talents, currently competing in ONE Championship and representing the country on the international stage. The 31-year-old fighter has built a reputation for his aggressive striking, relentless work rate, and resilience inside the cage, making him one of the most exciting Filipino prospects in the sport today.

     

    Bumina-ang is set to return to the ONE Championship cage on Friday, January 23, at ONE Fight Night 39: Rambolek vs. Dayakaev, where he will face undefeated Marcos Aurelio in a bantamweight clash. The bout presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the Filipino star, who is eager to rebound and regain momentum in his professional career.

     

    The fight comes on the heels of a disappointing setback for Bumina-ang at ONE Fight Night 37: Kryklia vs. Agdeve on November 8, when he suffered a second-round submission loss to Russia’s Elbek Alyshov. The defeat marked a rare stumble in his otherwise promising career, dropping his professional record to 8-2. Reflecting on the loss, Bumina-ang admitted that body shots disrupted his rhythm and ultimately contributed to the outcome.

     

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    “In the first round, the momentum was mine. But he snuck in some slick body shots on me. Those knees to the body took their toll, and I felt it weighing down on me as the fight progressed. Once I sat on the stool after the first round, my knees felt stiff. I tried to tough it out in the second round but couldn’t,” he said in a media interaction.

    Despite the setback, Bumina-ang remains focused and motivated, fully aware that his upcoming bout against Aurelio will be a stern test. The Brazilian fighter enters the contest with a perfect 8-0 record, bringing a reputation as a skilled Muay Thai specialist with strong counterstriking and pressure-fighting abilities. Bumina-ang, however, believes that Aurelio’s style could play into his hands.

     

    “His ground game is good, but he is more of a Muay Thai specialist. He is a good counterstriker and pressure fighter as well. It plays to my style, actually, because I prefer aggressive opponents. He is a striker, but I won’t underestimate him on the ground. I need to be wary because I believe he will try to test my grappling. My two losses were by submission, so he will probably think he can take me there. But I will prove him wrong if he tries.

     

    “I feel like my back is against the wall since I now have two losses in ONE. My mentality right now is simply kill or get killed. He will probably be fired up because he is making his debut, and he wants to keep his undefeated record. But I respect him. He is a well-rounded opponent, and I’m excited to face him,” he added.

     

    Bumina-ang’s mindset reflects a fighter who has learned from adversity. His willingness to analyze his losses, understand his weaknesses, and adapt his strategy demonstrates the maturity of a veteran athlete in one of the world’s most competitive MMA promotions. Fans can expect a focused and highly motivated fighter when he steps into the cage, ready to prove that setbacks do not define his career.

     

    As Carlo Bumina-ang prepares to face Marcos Aurelio, the stakes could not be higher. A win would reaffirm his status as one of the Philippines’ top MMA exports and keep him in contention in the bantamweight division, while a loss would force him to recalibrate and work even harder to stay among the sport’s elite. With a combination of experience, aggressive striking, and a steely determination forged through adversity, Bumina-ang is poised to make this bout a defining moment in his career. Filipino fight fans will be watching closely, hoping that their star can turn the page and reclaim his winning momentum on the global stage.

     

     

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