Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Arjun Devgan

  • PPC eyes strong medal run for 216-strong Philippine delegation at ASEAN Para Games 2026

    PPC eyes strong medal run for 216-strong Philippine delegation at ASEAN Para Games 2026

    The Philippines is set to compete in the 13th edition of the ASEAN Para Games, scheduled from January 20 to 26 in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, sending a 216-strong delegation of Paralympic athletes for the region’s premier para-sports event.

     

    Philippines chief of mission Goody Custodio, who also serves as secretary general of the Philippine Paralympic Committee (PPC), expressed confidence in the country’s chances, citing the dedication and discipline of the athletes in the lead-up to the competition.

     

    Custodio revealed that despite the holiday season, the Philippine Paralympic team continued their training, a testament to their passion and commitment.

     

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    “Well, they are excited and ready because after this holiday season or Christmas season, they went back to their training. They did not maximize the holidays. Same goes for the athletes. I’m happy that they are all in high spirits. We have 216 athletes competing in the ASEAN Para Games in Thailand on January 20,” Custodio said in a media interaction.

    Two-time Paralympic wheelchair racer Jerrold Mangliwan will carry the Philippine flag during the opening ceremony at Chatchai Hall. Mangliwan is expected to be among the top medal contenders, alongside swimmers Angel Otom and Gary Bejino, as well as chess masters Cheyzer Mendoza and Darrey Bernardo, who have consistently performed at the highest level in their respective sports.

     

    Team Philippines comes into the 2025 edition with a strong track record. At the 2023 ASEAN Para Games, the country finished fifth overall, amassing 33 golds, 33 silvers, and 50 bronzes for a total of 116 medals. Custodio and PPC president Michael Barredo remain optimistic that this year’s contingent can surpass that achievement, even with the emergence of younger and highly competitive athletes from neighboring countries.

     

    “As I remember, before Christmas break, we had a meeting with coaches together with Sir Mike Barredo. Sir Mike asked for their forecasted medals for ASEAN in Thailand. The results are good. Even if we think that the competition has changed and there are many new and young athletes, the coaches’ forecasts are still good. So I guess we can do well this time,” Custodio added.

     

    With a mix of experienced medalists and promising young talent, Team Philippines is aiming not only to challenge for podium finishes but also to inspire the next generation of para-athletes across the country. Their preparation, discipline, and determination set the stage for an exciting and competitive ASEAN Para Games, and the nation will be eagerly watching as these athletes showcase their skills, resilience, and sportsmanship on the international stage.

     

    The upcoming Games in Thailand offer a platform not just for medals but for representation, empowerment, and growth of para-sports in the Philippines. As the athletes take the field, the country’s hopes rest on their hard work and dedication, with expectations high that Team Philippines will deliver a performance that honors their training and continues the nation’s proud legacy in regional para-sport competitions.

     

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  • PFF honors unsung heroes behind successful hosting of FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup

    PFF honors unsung heroes behind successful hosting of FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup

    The Philippines made history by hosting the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup, and the event was nothing short of a resounding success. Fans flocked to venues in impressive numbers, bringing energy and excitement, while organizers ensured that every aspect—from facilities to logistics—was up to international standards. The tournament not only highlighted the country’s love for football but also showcased that the Philippines has the capability to host world-class sporting events beyond the familiar realms of basketball and volleyball. Much of the credit for this accomplishment goes to the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) and the individuals working tirelessly behind the scenes.

     

    In recognition of these efforts, the PFF recently paid tribute to the “unsung heroes” whose dedication and teamwork made the Futsal Women’s World Cup possible. President John Gutierrez emphasized the critical role of those who operate outside the spotlight, while also acknowledging the support provided by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the national government, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), and other government sporting federations.

     

    “We commend and congratulate the 500-strong unsung heroes who made the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025 a success. With you, we showed the world that Filipinos can host a truly world-class sporting event,” Gutierrez said during a media interaction.

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    PFF General Secretary Gelix Mercader, who oversaw the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), echoed these sentiments, highlighting the contributions of volunteers, staff, and auxiliary personnel.

     

    “Kayo po ang mga tunay na bayani ng World Cup na ito. Maraming salamat po sa inyong dedikasyon, sipag at tibay. It was very humbling to host the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup—and even more humbling to see it succeed. We dedicate this to all the futsal and football players across the country who made this possible,” Mercader said, acknowledging the 300 volunteers, 150 LOC staff, and 100 auxiliary personnel who worked around the clock to ensure the tournament ran smoothly.

     

    The success of the inaugural event reflects more than just logistical competence; it symbolizes the Philippines’ growing stature in international sports. By delivering a seamless, high-quality tournament, the PFF and its partners have sent a clear message to the world: the country is ready and capable of hosting major football and futsal competitions at the global level.

     

    As the fans and players return home inspired and energized, the legacy of the tournament extends beyond the matches themselves. The event has not only elevated the profile of women’s futsal in the Philippines but has also strengthened the nation’s reputation as a reliable host for international sporting events. With lessons learned and infrastructure proven effective, the Philippines is now poised to continue its rise on the global sporting stage, proving that the passion, skill, and dedication of its people can turn ambitious visions into reality.

     

     

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  • Capital1 Solar Spikers sign eight new players in major PVL roster overhaul

    Capital1 Solar Spikers sign eight new players in major PVL roster overhaul

    The Capital1 Solar Spikers have gone on an aggressive signing spree in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) offseason, with management opting for a full roster overhaul ahead of the upcoming conference.

     

    Over the past two days, the Solar Spikers have brought in eight new players—Shaya Adorador, Jasmine Nador, Rachel Jorvina, Ezra Madrigal, Pauline Gaston, Cherry Nunag, Ysa Jimenez, and France Ronquillo. The fresh additions are expected to bolster the supporting cast around rising talents Leila Cruz and Roma Doromal, as the franchise builds its long-term core around No. 1 rookie pick and projected future star of Philippine volleyball, Bella Belen.

     

    Among the new recruits, the signing of veteran middle blocker Cherry Nunag stands out. The 33-year-old brings championship pedigree, having previously anchored the Choco Mucho Flying Titans for four seasons, helping them reach the PVL Finals. She also won a PVL Reinforced Conference title in 2019 with the Petro Gazz Angels.

     

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    Nunag shared that joining a young and developing roster appealed to her at this stage in her career.

    “I chose Capital1 because I see a young team with so much potential and a strong desire to grow. I want to be part of a team that is still building its identity, learning together, and creating something meaningful over time. Being in an environment where growth, trust, and commitment matter is important to me, and I believe Capital1 is a place where those values are present,” she said in a media interaction.

     

    A member of Alas Pilipinas in 2024, Nunag will also reunite with former national team head coach Jorge Souza de Brito and fellow national standout Bella Belen. She emphasized that her leadership and consistency are the qualities she intends to bring to the squad.

     

    “What I can contribute to the team is my experience, consistency, and love for the game. I show up every day with a growth mindset and discipline, whether in training or during competition. I want to be someone my teammates can rely on, to support them through challenges, and to lead by example not just on the court, but in how we carry ourselves as a team. I hope my dedication and presence can inspire trust, unity, and belief in what we can achieve together,” Nunag added.

     

    With a blend of young talent and seasoned leadership now in the fold, Capital1 is clearly positioning itself for long-term competitiveness. The upcoming conference will reveal how quickly the rebuilt roster can establish chemistry—and whether the Solar Spikers’ bold offseason moves can translate into on-court success.

     

     

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  • Luigi Trillo takes the blame after Meralco falls to a 0-2 deficit against TNT in the PBA semifinals

    Luigi Trillo takes the blame after Meralco falls to a 0-2 deficit against TNT in the PBA semifinals

    The Meralco Bolts’ struggles in the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals continued on Wednesday, January 7, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, as they absorbed a 109-92 defeat to the TNT Tropang Giga in Game 2.

     

    Jordan Heading and Calvin Oftana powered TNT’s victory, combining for 50 points and leaving Meralco head coach Luigi Trillo with major adjustments to consider. Trillo took full responsibility for the loss, acknowledging that the Tropang Giga outclassed his team across the board.

     

    “We didn’t play well today, obviously. They hit a lot of their threes. I just felt that their intensity was on another level, that’s why they are Talk ‘N Text. They are hitting every shot. They were on point. Their defense was bar none. Oftana played like he is Calvin Oftana, the best forward right now. And Jordan Heading played well. Hats off to Talk ‘N Text. They outplayed us today in every quarter. More than anything, that’s on me first,” Trillo said in the postmatch press conference.

     

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    Meralco’s shooting woes underscored their off-night, connecting on just one three-pointer and finishing with a 41.7 percent field-goal clip. The Bolts did earn more opportunities from the line—35 free throws compared to TNT’s 11—but failed to capitalize on the advantage in momentum and energy.

     

    “We only had 14 fouls. We had a lot of free throws. It’s funny, we complained about the free throws. We had a lot of free throws but our energy was not here whatsoever,” Trillo added.

    The coach also noted the impact of playing without team consultant Nenad Vučinić, whose presence on the sidelines typically influences Meralco’s execution. Vučinić is currently in New Zealand for his daughter’s wedding and is expected to miss Game 3 as well.

     

    “Yeah I think when a coach is in his flow. And obviously, he has the pulse of the team and we are winning, that’s very hard. When somebody comes in, it’s different. But you know, I will take this one. It’s on me.

     

    “He will be back soon. The next couple of games he will still be there. We will see, he has some family things to attend to,” Trillo continued.

     

    Despite falling into a 0-2 hole in the best-of-seven series, Trillo remains optimistic that Meralco can regroup and respond.

     

    “At this point, there’s still a lot of games to be played. Just moving forward, we need to play better. Just from the start, when you give 29, 28, 25, and 27 points in four quarters, we don’t deserve to win. That’s not our calling card.

     

    “No excuses here. We need to be better. We have to see the video. If we are gonna even have a chance, we are going to need to up everything that we are doing. Because right now we don’t look like a well-oiled machine,” he said.

     

    Meralco will aim to stay alive in the series when the semifinals resume with Game 3 on Friday, January 9, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

     

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  • Luka Dončić, Giannis Antetokounmpo maintain lead in second NBA All-Star Fan returns

    Luka Dončić, Giannis Antetokounmpo maintain lead in second NBA All-Star Fan returns

    Luka Dončić and Giannis Antetokounmpo continue to dominate the fan voting for the 2025-26 NBA All-Star Game, remaining the top overall vote-getters in the latest update released Tuesday. The two international superstars also led the initial returns on Dec. 29, and their positions atop the Western and Eastern Conferences remain unchanged eight days later.

     

    Dončić, now in his first full season with the Los Angeles Lakers following last year’s blockbuster trade, leads all players with 2,229,811 votes. Antetokounmpo, in his 13th campaign with the Milwaukee Bucks, follows closely with 2,092,284 votes. Fan voting accounts for 50% of the selection process for All-Star starters, with NBA players and a media panel each contributing 25%.

     

    Voting will close on Jan. 14 at 11:59 p.m. ET, and both Tuesday and Wednesday are designated as the final “3-for-1 Days,” during which each fan vote counts triple.

     

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    The All-Star starters will be officially revealed on Jan. 19 during a special broadcast on NBC and Peacock. The All-Star Game itself is set for Feb. 15 at the Los Angeles Clippers’ Intuit Dome, where the league will debut a brand-new format: a USA vs. World round-robin tournament—an appropriate stage considering the current leaders are both global icons.

    Dončić has been sensational throughout the season, averaging a league-best 33.7 points per game to go along with six 40-point performances in just 26 appearances. He opened the campaign with back-to-back 40-point outings, becoming only the fourth player in NBA history to do so.

     

    Antetokounmpo, despite the Bucks’ disappointing 16-20 record and his own injury-related absences, remains dominant. The two-time MVP is putting up 29.3 points, 10 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game in his 22 contests, even as Milwaukee once again navigates swirling trade rumors around its franchise star.

     

    Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokić and New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson currently rank second in fan voting in their respective conferences. Brunson, averaging 31.2 points since Dec. 5, has surged past Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey, who slipped from second to third in the East in the updated tally.

     

    Top 10 NBA All-Star fan vote leaders (Second Returns):

    1. Luka Dončić — 2,229,811 

       

    2. Giannis Antetokounmpo — 2,092,284 

       

    3. Nikola Jokić — 1,998,560 

       

    4. Jalen Brunson — 1,916,497 

       

    5. Tyrese Maxey — 1,908,978 

       

    6. Stephen Curry — 1,844,903 

       

    7. Cade Cunningham — 1,752,801 

       

    8. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander — 1,554,468 

       

    9. Donovan Mitchell — 1,530,237 

       

    10. Jaylen Brown — 1,514,259 

       

    With voting soon coming to a close and several players making strong late-season pushes, the race for All-Star starter spots is heating up—and the final days could see major shifts before lineups are officially announced.

     

     

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  • “I don’t see myself as a coach”: Lionel Messi reveals post-retirement plans

    “I don’t see myself as a coach”: Lionel Messi reveals post-retirement plans

    Argentina and Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi, widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time, continues to add to his illustrious legacy — but with his 38-year-old body inching closer to the twilight of his career, the football icon is now openly discussing life beyond the pitch.

     

    The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, whose resume includes a World Cup triumph, multiple UEFA Champions League titles, and countless individual honors, has long been the benchmark for excellence in global football. However, as he gears up for a new Major League Soccer (MLS) campaign, Messi has revealed that his focus is gradually shifting toward what comes next after retirement.

     

    In a candid interview with Luzu TV, Messi admitted that he has no desire to become a coach once he hangs up his boots — a path taken by many former stars.

     

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    “Honestly, I don’t see myself as a coach. I would like to be a sporting director, but if I have to choose one option, I like the idea of being an owner more,” Messi shared.

    The Argentine maestro confirmed he is intrigued by the possibility of team ownership, following a similar route to David Beckham, who transitioned from global football icon to successful club owner with Inter Miami.

     

    “I would like to have my own club, to help a team grow, start from the bottom and give opportunities to young players and people so they can develop. I would like to build an important club. If I have to choose a direction, I think it’s the idea I like the most,” he added, highlighting a desire to contribute to the sport’s growth from a leadership and developmental standpoint.

     

    Messi, who has achieved virtually every accolade available in world football, was also asked whether he still has any athletic goals left to pursue. His response was as reflective as it was emotional.

     

    “No, what could I still be missing? I was able to do everything. As I always say, God gave me much more than I ever imagined. And then Qatar happened… After that, we could all be at peace knowing we had done everything. Everything that comes from now on is a gift,” he said, referencing Argentina’s unforgettable 2022 World Cup win.

     

    Despite winding down his playing years, Messi continues to dominate in MLS. He was recently named the 2025 MLS Cup Most Valuable Player, becoming the first player in league history to capture back-to-back MVP awards. Messi delivered a sensational season, finishing with a league-best 29 goals and 19 assists and joining Preki as only the second two-time MVP winner in league history.

     

     

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  • LeBron James breaks down NBA offense evolution and the end of “iso-ball”

    LeBron James breaks down NBA offense evolution and the end of “iso-ball”

    The National Basketball Association (NBA) is widely regarded as the biggest and most popular basketball league in the world, with countless young players dreaming of playing at the highest level and achieving fame and success.

     

    For decades, the league has been home to some of the greatest basketball legends. In the 1990s and 2000s, the NBA was dominated by “iso-ball” players — stars given the ball and the freedom to create scoring opportunities on their own. Icons such as Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Tracy McGrady, Allen Iverson, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and James Harden all thrived in this style.

     

    Yet, some teams even during that era emphasized movement and team-oriented basketball. The San Antonio Spurs, for instance, relied heavily on ball movement, while the Golden State Warriors, under the leadership of Stephen Curry, revolutionized offensive spacing and pace.

     

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    In the latest episode of the Mind the Game podcast, hosted by LeBron James and fellow NBA legend Steve Nash, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar opened up about the evolution of NBA tactics and suggested that the days of traditional iso-ball are over.

    “We didn’t have this many defenses and nuances of how to play defense vs. iso, isolated players back, I would say 5-to-7 years ago,” LeBron said. “Now there’s so many different ways to get the ball out of a guy’s hands. If he is just sitting there isoing on the wing, you can flood the whole side and bring another guy to the elbow. You could literally run a guy and just go trap him and now you got three defenders.”

     

    He added, “You got the guy that’s guarding the ball, the guy that came over to trap him and you have the sideline. There’s so many different ways, and in our game of pace-and-space and rhythm, you are out of rhythm. You kind of want the ball popping or you want the trigger to happen, either by the pass or by pick-and-roll. You have a dynamic pick-and-roll player that can attract two on the ball, now you’re playing the 4-on-3 game, you are playing the numbers game. That’s the game right now, it’s the numbers game.”

     

    LeBron explained further, highlighting how modern NBA offenses revolve around creating movement and spacing rather than relying on one-on-one isolation plays:

     

    “How can you start the blender? Is the blender being started with the pass and cut? Is it what the Miami Heat are doing? Or is it what the Lakers are doing, where we start a lot of our plays with pick-and-roll because we have such a dynamic pick-and-roll player in Luka? The trigger, how do you create the blender? Creating the trigger used to be where guys catch the ball at the elbow in the Karl Malone-area, face up, jab and jab. You need it a little bit, but it’s definitely on the lower side of that pie chart now. It is not a big piece of the demographic of winning basketball, in my case. I don’t see it.”

     

    LeBron’s observations reflect the broader evolution of basketball tactics. Successful dynasties often adapt and innovate, and today’s NBA emphasizes pace, spacing, and numbers advantages over isolation scoring. For the Lakers, players like LeBron and Austin Reaves enjoy freedom to operate in multiple areas of the court, a stark contrast to the rigid iso-heavy systems of the early 2000s.

     

    As the league continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see what new offensive systems emerge and whether older iso-ball strategies will make a comeback or remain largely a relic of the past. One thing is certain: the game of basketball will always reward innovation, adaptability, and players capable of thriving in ever-changing systems.

     

     

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  • Philippine tennis pioneer Marissa Sanchez dies at 69

    Philippine tennis pioneer Marissa Sanchez dies at 69

    Philippine tennis legend Marissa “Maris” Sanchez, a trailblazer who left an indelible mark on the sport in the country, passed away at the age of 69 on Sunday, January 4, in her hometown of Angeles City, Pampanga.

     

    The news was confirmed by her nephew, DFA Secretary Elmer Cato, through a heartfelt post on Facebook, paying tribute to Sanchez’s remarkable contributions to Philippine tennis.

     

    “Long before Alex Eala, there was Marissa Dizon Sanchez who brought prestige and honor to the Philippines and the Filipino people as one of the top tennis sensations of her era. This evening, Maria Socorro ‘Marissa’ Sanchez passed away in Angeles at the age of 69. Please join us in praying for the eternal repose of her soul,” Cato wrote.

     

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    Born in 1956, Sanchez began playing tennis at the age of 12 and quickly distinguished herself in a sport that, at the time, was heavily male-dominated in the Philippines. By 1975, she had already made her mark, capturing both the National Tennis Open and the Philta Open, achievements that set the stage for her rise to national prominence.

    Sanchez’s status as a trailblazer was cemented at the 1977 Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where she earned a silver medal — becoming the first Filipino tennis player to medal at the prestigious event. The following year, she played a pivotal role in leading the Philippine national team to the main draw of the Federation Cup, now known as the Billie Jean King Cup, further establishing her as a pioneer in women’s tennis.

     

    Though Sanchez retired from competitive play in her early 30s, her passion for tennis never waned. She dedicated herself to developing the next generation of players by organizing training camps and mentoring young athletes. Her influence extended beyond the courts, as she also served as a sports consultant for Angeles City from 2010 to 2019, contributing to the growth of local sports programs and initiatives.

     

    Sanchez’s legacy is felt not only in her trailblazing achievements on the international stage but also in the countless Filipino players she inspired and guided. Her contributions helped pave the way for future stars, including rising talents like Alex Eala, ensuring that Philippine tennis continues to thrive.

     

    Marissa Sanchez will be remembered as a pioneer, mentor, and national icon whose dedication to tennis helped elevate the sport in the Philippines. Her impact on and off the court ensures that her legacy will endure for generations of Filipino athletes to come.

     

     

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  • Strong Group Athletics signs Imee Hernandez ahead of 2026 PVL season

    Strong Group Athletics signs Imee Hernandez ahead of 2026 PVL season

    Strong Group Athletics has continued its aggressive signing spree in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) offseason, securing the services of former Chery Tiggo Crossovers star Imee Hernandez and adding another crucial piece to its rapidly strengthening roster. The move underscores the organization’s intent to reshape the competitive landscape of the league heading into the 2026 season.

     

    The multi-team franchise — which operates the Farm Fresh Foxies and ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles — formally introduced Hernandez on Tuesday, January 6, through a social media announcement. Strong Group welcomed the veteran middle blocker with a message that highlighted not just her physical tools but also the leadership and defensive impact she is expected to provide: “Strong Will. Imee Hernandez adds power and presence to Strong Group’s wall, ready to lock it down at the net. Welcome home, Imee!”

     

    Hernandez, a former University of Santo Tomas standout in the UAAP, turned professional in 2023 when she joined Chery Tiggo for the PVL Invitational Conference. A consistent performer known for her height, mobility, and blocking instincts, she quickly carved a role with the Crossovers. However, her progress was slowed by a significant left knee injury that she sustained during her rookie season, causing her to miss extended time and limiting her opportunities to build momentum.

     

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    Despite the setback, Hernandez fought her way back into competitive shape and returned during the 2025 PVL On Tour preseason tournament, which ultimately became her final outing with Chery Tiggo before the franchise disbanded. Her availability on the market immediately drew interest, and she now becomes the sixth former Crossover to secure a contract with a new club.

    The addition of Hernandez further reinforces Strong Group’s offseason overhaul, joining an incoming class headlined by veteran scorer Royse Tubino, seasoned setter Chie Saet, and middle blocker Remy Palma. Collectively, these signings reflect a clear strategy: pair experience with emerging talent to build well-rounded rosters capable of contending on both ends of the floor.

     

    At this point, Strong Group Athletics has yet to disclose which of its two PVL squads — Farm Fresh or ZUS Coffee — Hernandez will join. The lack of clarity has fueled speculation among fans and analysts, as both clubs present compelling pathways. Farm Fresh, anchored by a youthful core, could benefit from Hernandez’s stability and leadership, while the rebuilding Thunderbelles could lean on her defensive presence to establish a stronger identity at the net. Either way, her arrival promises to elevate internal competition and add versatility to training rotations.

     

    Strong Group’s aggressive approach this offseason also signals a shifting dynamic in the PVL. With multiple franchises undergoing roster changes and new contenders emerging, teams are taking bold steps to solidify their competitive footing. For Strong Group, the strategy is clear: strengthen every position, deepen its talent pool, and create lineups that can adapt to the evolving pace and physicality of the league.

     

    With Hernandez now part of their expanding arsenal, Strong Group Athletics is positioning itself as a formidable force ahead of the 2026 All-Filipino Conference. Whether she ends up with the Foxies or Thunderbelles, her experience, resilience, and defensive prowess make her a valuable asset — and her arrival signals that Strong Group is not just filling holes, but actively building a roster capable of challenging the PVL’s elite from Day 1.

     

     

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  • Chot Reyes hopes TNT will avoid another poor start in Game 2 of the PBA semifinals

    Chot Reyes hopes TNT will avoid another poor start in Game 2 of the PBA semifinals

    TNT Tropang Giga seized the early upper hand in their best-of-seven semifinal duel, pulling off a hard-earned 100-95 comeback victory over the Meralco Bolts in Game 1 on Sunday, January 4, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

    The win, however, was anything but smooth. TNT had to claw back from a disastrous first half that saw the team fall behind by as many as 21 points. Meralco controlled the opening quarters with crisp ball movement and suffocating defense, building a commanding 52-31 advantage at halftime and appearing firmly in charge of the series opener.

     

    Tropang Giga head coach Chot Reyes took responsibility for the sluggish start but expressed confidence that his squad would open stronger in Game 2.

     

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    “Hopefully in Game 2, we are more ready to play from the start. I don’t think we can bring this kind of game again and expect to come up with the same result. We have to definitely be better in Game 2,” Reyes said in the prematch press conference.

    Reyes’ halftime adjustments paid dividends as TNT stormed out of the locker room with renewed energy and urgency. The Tropang Giga tightened up defensively and found their rhythm on offense, with Roger Pogoy and Rey Nambatac igniting the rally. The duo combined for 18 points in the pivotal third quarter, where TNT outscored Meralco 28-13 to erase most of the deficit and shift momentum heading into the final period.

     

    Calvin Oftana then delivered a poised, star-caliber finish. The versatile forward tallied a game-high 28 points, capping his performance with two clutch free throws that extended TNT’s lead to 98-95 with just 21.1 seconds left. Oftana’s steadiness on both ends helped fend off Meralco’s late-game push.

     

    Despite securing the crucial 1-0 lead, Reyes remained cautious of the Bolts’ competitiveness moving forward.

     

    “We told them, put yourselves in the position of Meralco. Put yourselves in their shoes. They are chomping at the bit to get back at us. You saw that with the kind of energy, execution and even their three-point shooting in the first half. They were really primed for the win. We got a first-hand taste of that,” he noted.

     

    With Game 2 set for Wednesday, January 7, also at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Reyes hopes the Tropang Giga can avoid another slow start and build on their strong second-half showing to tighten their grip on the series.

     

     

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