Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Dorothy Del Rosario

  • PSC keeps focus on national team development amid PNVF governance issues 

    PSC keeps focus on national team development amid PNVF governance issues 

    With Philippine volleyball facing another period of institutional turmoil, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is choosing to redirect attention away from controversy and toward long-term national team development.

     

    PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio confirmed that issues surrounding the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) are now being handled at the international and Olympic governance level, effectively placing the matter under the jurisdiction of the FIVB and the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC). 


    The situation surrounding the PNVF has been placed under review by the FIVB and the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), following reported governance concerns and internal issues within the federation. But for Gregorio, the priority is ensuring that the noise off the court does not disrupt the progress of the athletes representing the country.

     

    At the center of that vision is Alas Pilipinas and the broader national team program, which Gregorio believes must already be shaped with a long-term lens toward the country’s hosting of the 2029 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship.

     

    “Ang sa akin po, programa. We are hosting the World Championship in 2029. Before you know it, it’s 2029. Kailangan i-focus natin ‘yung suporta natin sa development ng mga atleta,” Gregorio said.

     

    His message reflects a broader attempt to stabilize focus amid ongoing controversy surrounding the PNVF, which has recently been suspended by the FIVB over reported “serious governance concerns and multiple purported violations of the FIVB Code of Ethics.” 

     

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    Adding to the instability is internal friction, including the reported withdrawal of support from a majority of the federation’s executive board for its leadership under Tonyboy Liao—an issue that has intensified calls for resolution and reform.

     

    Gregorio made it clear that the PSC will not be drawn into administrative disputes, emphasizing that governance decisions are already being addressed by the appropriate bodies.

     

    “I don’t want to comment on that because nandoon na po ‘yan sa FIVB and assignment po ‘yan ng Philippine Olympic Committee. Basta sa amin lang po, kami sa Philippine Sports Commission, gusto lang namin na talagang ang focus is on the national team program,” Gregorio said.

     

    He stressed that unity and focus are essential, especially given the scale of investment from government and private stakeholders.

     

    “Pag ganitong mga hosting, gumagastos po ang pamahalaan, gumagastos ang probinsya, maraming gumagastos na sponsors. So ayaw namin ng hidwaan, lalo na kung ang hidwaan ay tungkol lang sa mga personalidad,” the PSC chairman said.

     

    Even as national-level issues continue to unfold, Gregorio pointed to encouraging developments at the grassroots and regional level, particularly the ongoing 2026 AVC Women’s Cup in Candon City, which he described as an example of strong local hosting capability.

     

    “Obviously, talaga namang expected ko na ‘to — it will be a very beautiful hosting. Candon City, sila Mayor Eric Singson, sanay na sanay mag-host ng international events,” said Gregorio.

     

    The PSC chief also reaffirmed his intention to decentralize Philippine sports hosting, pushing more international and national competitions outside Metro Manila to strengthen provincial sports ecosystems and broaden public engagement.

     

    “Kailangan maramdaman din ng taumbayan, ng mga probinsiya natin, na kaya naman talaga nila mag-host e. Kayang-kaya. Sa totoo lang, excited sila. So we have to do more sporting events outside of Metro Manila in the years to come. Pangako ko po ‘yan as PSC chairman,” he said.

     

    In the middle of governance disputes and organizational uncertainty, the PSC’s message is increasingly centered on continuity over conflict, keeping the focus on athletes, and expanding the country’s hosting footprint.

     

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  • NBA round up: Spurs rally behind Victor Wembanyama to steal Game 3, trim Knicks’ lead to 2-1 in NBA Finals thriller

    NBA round up: Spurs rally behind Victor Wembanyama to steal Game 3, trim Knicks’ lead to 2-1 in NBA Finals thriller

    The NBA Finals delivered another tense, back-and-forth battle in Game 3, as the San Antonio Spurs held off the New York Knicks 115-111 to claw back into the series and make it 2-1.

    With the series shifting intensity on both sides, San Antonio leaned into its home crowd and its rising superstar. 


    Victor Wembanyama once again stood at the center of everything, finishing with a commanding 32 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, impacting the game beyond scoring with his playmaking and defensive presence in crucial stretches.

     

    The Spurs also received a valuable boost from Stephon Castle, who continued to show poise beyond his years with 21 points, five rebounds, and five assists, helping stabilize the offense when New York threatened to take control late.

     

    New York, meanwhile, leaned heavily on its established star duo to keep the pressure on. 

    Jalen Brunson delivered another elite postseason performance with 32 points, five rebounds, and five assists, consistently attacking the defense and creating opportunities in tight half-court possessions. 

     

    OG Anunoby added strong support with 28 points, five rebounds, and one assist, giving the Knicks a crucial second scoring option throughout the night.

     

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    For much of the game, neither team could create lasting separation. Runs were quickly answered, and momentum swung repeatedly as both squads traded punches in a high-stakes chess match. 

    The Knicks appeared poised to potentially seize full control late, but San Antonio’s execution in the closing stretch proved the difference.

     

    The Spurs tightened up defensively in key possessions and found timely buckets when it mattered most, allowing them to survive a late Knicks push and secure a critical home win that keeps their championship hopes alive.

     

    Beyond the box score, Game 3 felt like a turning point in competitiveness—less about dominance and more about resilience. 

     

    San Antonio showed it could absorb pressure from a Knicks team that had been controlling the series, while New York was forced to confront the reality that nothing will come easy on the road to a title.

     

    With the series now at 2-1, Game 4 becomes a pivotal swing game. The Knicks still hold the advantage, but the Spurs have shown they are far from out of the fight.

     

     

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  • NBA Finals: New York Knicks vs San Antonio Spurs — Game 3 preview, predictions, & betting odds 

    NBA Finals: New York Knicks vs San Antonio Spurs — Game 3 preview, predictions, & betting odds 

    The NBA Finals shifts to the world’s most famous basketball stage as Madison Square Garden hosts Game 3 for the first time in nearly three decades, with the New York Knicks aiming to move one step closer to a championship while the San Antonio Spurs fight to stay alive in the series.


    The Knicks hold a commanding 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven Finals, riding a 13-game winning streak and coming off a narrow 105-104 victory in Game 2. New York survived a furious Spurs comeback that saw San Antonio erase a 14-point fourth-quarter deficit before Victor Wembanyama’s potential game-winning jumper rimmed out at the buzzer.


    That resilience has defined the Knicks throughout the playoffs, including their stunning 22-point fourth-quarter comeback against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Head coach Mike Brown credited his team’s composure under pressure.


    “It’s an amazing feeling as a coach to know how mentally tough your team is, no matter what the situation is in front of them,” Knicks head coach Mike Brown said.


    For San Antonio, the challenge is steep. The Spurs now find themselves in a must-win situation after dropping the first two games at home, becoming only the third team in NBA Finals history to do so. Despite strong efforts, their offense has struggled, with just 199 total points through two games—their lowest two-game output of the playoffs.


    Wembanyama continues to lead the Spurs’ attack, averaging 27.5 points in the Finals, but his efficiency has dipped under heavy defensive attention, shooting just 40.5% on 21 attempts per game. The 7-foot-4 star acknowledged the team’s missed opportunities.


    “We need to capitalize — actually use all the efforts we (used). It felt like we did a lot, we did a lot of things wrong. But we also were relentless and kept pushing, but kind of wasted that effort,” Wembanyama said.


    Match: San Antonio Spurs vs New York Knicks

    Event: NBA Finals – Game 3

    Date & Time: Tuesday, 8:30 AM (PHT)

    Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY


    Head-to-Head Context

    • Knicks lead series 2-0
    • Knicks on a 13-game winning streak
    • Spurs trailing after back-to-back close losses, including a 105-104 Game 2 defeat
    • Spurs have struggled offensively, averaging just 99.5 points across the first two games

    Key Storylines


    Knicks’ Momentum vs Spurs’ Survival Mode


     New York enters Game 3 with confidence at an all-time high, while San Antonio faces elimination pressure despite competitive performances.


    Wembanyama Under Pressure


    The Knicks’ defense has limited the Spurs’ offensive rhythm, forcing Wembanyama into higher shot volume but lower efficiency.


    Madison Square Garden Factor


    With the Finals returning to MSG for the first time in decades, the Knicks will look to feed off a roaring home crowd.


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    Predictions & Betting Odds


    New York Knicks enter as the slight favorite, but San Antonio Spurs remains a strong contender, with expectations pointing to a closely fought and highly competitive Game 3. 


    Moneyline Odds:


    The Knicks are listed at 1.73, while the San Antonio Spurs are at 2.03 (OKBET), wherein the odds reflect New York’s strong momentum, home-court advantage at Madison Square Garden, and its ability to close out tight games throughout the playoffs. However, the relatively narrow gap between the two sides suggests bookmakers still view the Spurs as a legitimate threat despite their series deficit.


    Probability Estimates


    Based on the latest projections, the San Antonio Spurs hold a 61% chance of winning Game 3, while the New York Knicks are given a 39% probability, suggesting expectations of a competitive matchup despite New York carrying the momentum into Madison Square Garden. 


    Predictions & Outlook


    The Knicks enter Game 3 as slight favorites due to momentum, home-court advantage, and their ability to close out tight games late. However, the Spurs’ competitiveness in the first two games suggests they are not far off from shifting the series momentum.


    San Antonio’s best chance lies in improving offensive efficiency and easing pressure on Wembanyama, who remains their focal point but has faced constant defensive traps.

    New York, meanwhile, will look to extend its winning streak and move within one win of the NBA title.


    What’s at Stake


    Game 3 could be a defining moment in the NBA Finals, with the New York Knicks looking to strengthen their grip on the series at home, while the San Antonio Spurs aim to get back into the championship race and prevent the Finals from slipping further away.


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  • Kiefer Ravena extends Japan stint, moves to third team in B.League 

    Kiefer Ravena extends Japan stint, moves to third team in B.League 

    Kiefer Ravena’s run in Japan is far from over, with the Filipino guard confirming he will remain in the B.League and continue his professional career with a new team following the end of his stint with the Yokohama B-Corsairs.


    His contract with Yokohama officially concluded after the 2026 Japan B.League regular season, closing a two-year chapter that saw him play a key role for the club. 

     

    But rather than signaling a return elsewhere, Ravena made it clear that another opportunity in Japan is already waiting—just not yet revealed.

     

    “I’m staying in Japan, just transferring teams, continuing my growth as a player and as a man,” Ravena said.

     

    The 32-year-old guard averaged 11.9 points, 3.3 assists, and 1.8 rebounds per game for the B-Corsairs, who finished the season with a 26-34 record. 

     

    While the numbers reflect his steady contribution, Ravena’s impact has also been defined by his leadership and consistency as one of the team’s primary backcourt options.

     

    This next move extends a Japanese journey that began in 2021, when Ravena first joined the Shiga Lakestars, now known as the Shiga Lakes. 

     

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    He spent three seasons there before making the switch to Yokohama in 2024, where he continued to build his reputation as one of the most recognizable Filipino imports in the league.

     

    Now, with a third B.League stop on the horizon, Ravena remains one of the key figures in the steady rise of Filipino talent in Japan’s top professional basketball league.

     

    For Ravena, however, his decision to stay overseas goes beyond statistics or team changes. The experience itself continues to be the driving force behind his career.

     

    “Not that I have more motivation to play basketball, to represent Jordan Brand, play for my family, and my own family in the future, pero sobrang rejuvenating,” the former Gilas Pilipinas guard said.

     

    Since leaving the PBA in 2021, Ravena has helped pave the way for more Filipino players to take their talents globally, becoming one of the early faces of the B.League’s growing international presence.

     

    While his next destination remains under wraps, one thing is clear—Ravena’s Japan story is still being written, with another chapter set to begin soon in a new jersey.

     

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  • This Week’s Sports Fixtures: PBA, NBA, Alas Pilipinas, and Alex Eala’s HSBC Championships (June 8 – 14)

    This Week’s Sports Fixtures: PBA, NBA, Alas Pilipinas, and Alex Eala’s HSBC Championships (June 8 – 14)

    A busy stretch of sports action unfolds from June 8 to 14, 2026, with major competitions across volleyball, tennis, basketball, and the NBA Finals all taking center stage. From Alas Pilipinas’ AVC Women’s Cup campaign to Alex Eala’s continued rise on the WTA Tour, and the high-stakes PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals between TNT and Ginebra, fans are set for a week packed with must-watch matchups across multiple arenas.

     

    AVC Women’s Volleyball Nations Cup

     

    June 8 (Monday) 

    • 3:00 PM – Alas Pilipinas vs Kyrgyzstan

      June 9 (Tuesday)
    • 3:00 PM – Alas Pilipinas vs South Korea

    June 11 (Thursday)

    • 3:00 PM – Alas Pilipinas vs Chinese Taipei

    Tennis – HSBC Championships (Women’s Singles)

     

    June 9 (Tuesday)

    • 5:00 PM – Alex Eala vs Zhang Shuai (Round of 32)

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    PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup Finals

     

    Game 4 – June 10 (Wednesday) Smart Araneta Coliseum

    • 7:35 PM – TNT Tropang 5G vs Barangay Ginebra San Miguel

    Game 5 – June 12 (Friday) Smart Araneta Coliseum

    • 7:30 PM – TNT Tropang 5G vs Barangay Ginebra San Miguel

    NBA Finals

     

    June 9 (Tuesday)

    • 8:30 AM PHT – San Antonio Spurs vs New York Knicks

    June 11 (Thursday) 

    • 8:30 AM PHT – San Antonio Spurs vs New York Knicks

    June 14 (Sunday) 

    • 8:30 AM PHT (if necessary) – San Antonio Spurs vs New York Knicks

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  • Alyssa Solomon drops 23 points, eyes improvement after Alas Pilipinas’ loss to Australia

    Alyssa Solomon drops 23 points, eyes improvement after Alas Pilipinas’ loss to Australia

    Alyssa Solomon’s long-awaited debut in the 2026 AVC Women’s Cup showcased both her scoring prowess and the challenges that still lie ahead for a developing Alas Pilipinas squad.


    Returning to the lineup after sitting out the Philippines’ opening victory over Uzbekistan, Solomon immediately made her presence felt on Sunday, delivering a game-high 23 points. 

     

    Despite her offensive explosion, the national team could not complete the job as Australia stormed back to claim a 22-25, 25-23, 25-18, 15-25, 11-15 victory in a grueling five-set match.

     

    Solomon provided the firepower that kept the Filipinas in control. She finished with 23 points from 22 attacks and one block, helping Alas build momentum and move within striking distance of a crucial win in front of the home crowd.

     

    Yet while the statistics reflected a productive return, Solomon was far from satisfied with her overall performance.

     

    “Actually, ‘di ako nakontento sa naging game ko kanina, lalo na ’yung fourth set ata. Parang ‘di na ako gano’n naka-contribute, so parang ‘yun talaga ‘yung gusto kong i-improve pa,” the former NU Lady Bulldogs standout said.

     

    The loss unfolded as a tale of shifting momentum. After securing the opening set and eventually moving ahead two sets to one, Alas Pilipinas appeared poised to notch another victory. Australia, however, responded with a dominant fourth set before completing the comeback in the deciding frame as the Filipinas struggled to maintain their energy in the closing stages.

     

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    Solomon was not alone in carrying the offensive load. Middle blocker Niña Ytang continued her impressive tournament form with 13 points, while team captain Alyssa Valdez contributed 11 markers, all coming from attacks. 

     

    While the defeat halted the team’s momentum, Solomon viewed the match as another important step in the national team’s growth.

     

    “Maraming learnings na nakuha sa game na to,” Solomon said on the loss to Australia.

     

    The 23-point performance was particularly encouraging considering Solomon joined the squad only days before the tournament. Despite the limited preparation time, she said adjusting to the national team environment was not difficult because of her familiarity with several teammates.

     

    “Actually, ‘di naman siya naging mahirap since kilala ko naman ‘yung iba, and Creamline naman, and naki-training din naman kami sa Creamline dati. Hindi siya gano’n kahirap,” said Solomon.

     

    As one of the newest additions to the current Alas setup, Solomon believes the team still has significant room for improvement as chemistry continues to develop.

     

    “Magi-improve pa rin naman kami, since ilang weeks pa lang kami magkasama. Gagawin din namin to as (a way for) team (bonding),” the former Osaka import said.

     

    Rather than dwelling on the disappointment of letting a five-set match slip away, Solomon and the rest of Alas Pilipinas are turning their attention to the lessons gained from the defeat.

     

    The schedule offers little time for reflection, with the Philippines returning to action against Kyrgyzstan on Monday.

     

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  • Gilas Pilipinas Girls storm to perfect campaign in FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers

    Gilas Pilipinas Girls storm to perfect campaign in FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers

    The mission may have already been accomplished before the opening tip, but the Gilas Pilipinas Girls made sure to leave no doubt about who ruled the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers 2026.


    The young Filipinas capped a flawless campaign with an 88-62 victory over Indonesia on Saturday, completing a four-game sweep and stamping their status as one of Southeast Asia’s premier youth programs heading into the continental tournament.

     

    The championship-clinching performance was a fitting conclusion to a week of dominance in Bacolod, where Gilas overwhelmed every opponent it faced and won all four games by an average margin of 36.25 points.

     

    Leading the charge once again was Tournament MVP Rhiane Perez, who delivered 18 points, five rebounds, four assists, and a steal in the finale. 

     

    Sophia Dignadice provided another all-around effort with 14 points, four rebounds, two assists, and three steals, while Tiffany Reyes added 12 points and Zuzzane Singson chipped in 11.

     

    The hosts wasted little time asserting control, turning an early advantage into a 25-14 lead after the first quarter before unleashing a second-quarter barrage that pushed the gap to 57-28 by halftime.

     

    Any hopes of an Indonesian comeback quickly disappeared after the break as Gilas stretched the lead to 64-30 early in the third quarter. The Philippines eventually built a 34-point cushion and cruised through the final stages of the contest.

     

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    Indonesia, which entered the game unbeaten as well, found itself overwhelmed by the depth and pace of the Gilas Girls. Angelina Welly scored 18 points to lead the Indonesians, while Joanne Giovanni contributed 11 points, three rebounds, and a steal.

     

    The victory capped a remarkable tournament run for Gilas, which opened with a 93-42 dismantling of Vietnam before defeating Singapore, 83-53, and routing Thailand, 86-48.

     

    With the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup set to be held in Malaysia, Gilas heads into the continental meet carrying significant momentum after producing one of the most convincing performances of any team in the region.

     

    Meanwhile, Malaysia will automatically compete in Division A as tournament host, while Singapore secured the SEABA berth for the Division B competition after finishing third in the qualifiers with a 2-2 record.

     

    Indonesia, relegated from Division A following the 2024 edition, will look to regain its place in the top division when it competes in the Division B tournament scheduled from July 13 to 19 in Bangkok, Thailand.

     

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  • Calvin Oftana shrugs off sideline exchange with Chot Reyes, focuses on TNT’s Game 4 response 

    Calvin Oftana shrugs off sideline exchange with Chot Reyes, focuses on TNT’s Game 4 response 

    Calvin Oftana insisted there was no issue between him and TNT head coach Chot Reyes following their animated fourth-quarter exchange during the Tropang 5G’s 116-102 loss to Barangay Ginebra in Game 3 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals on Sunday at Mall of Asia Arena.


    The moment quickly caught attention after Reyes was seen standing and shouting toward Oftana following a turnover with TNT attempting to trim Ginebra’s lead late in the game.

     

    But the veteran forward clarified after the contest that the incident was simply part of the accountability expected within the team.

     

    “Normal naman ‘yun sa team eh, na pagsabihan ako. Sabi ko nga, ‘Nagkamali, Coach, nagkamali.’ Pero normal ‘yun, nirerespeto ko ‘yung Coach ko,” Oftana said.

     

    The exchange stemmed from a costly possession in the closing minutes when Oftana tried to force a pass to Chris McCullough. The ball was intercepted by Justin Brownlee, resulting in a momentum-killing turnover as TNT sought to rally from a 22-point deficit.

     

    Reyes immediately voiced his displeasure from the sidelines, while Oftana responded as cameras captured the interaction.

     

    Shortly afterward, Oftana was substituted out with 2:58 remaining and replaced by Rey Nambatac. He returned in the final minute, but by then Ginebra had already secured control of the game.

     

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    The turnover was one of three committed by TNT in the final five minutes, a stretch that ultimately derailed any hopes of a late comeback.

     

    Rather than distancing himself from the mistake, Oftana openly acknowledged his role in the sequence.

     

    “Maganda lang din diyan, doon kayo magkakaintindihan talaga e. Yung mali ko inaako ko, nag-turnover ako tapos converted, nagra-run na sana kami,” the 30-year-old said.

     

    The difficult finish capped an uncharacteristically quiet night for Oftana, who managed just two points after erupting for a season-high 31 points and 10 rebounds in TNT’s Game 2 victory.

     

    His sharp drop in production mirrored TNT’s struggles as Ginebra tightened its defense and took command en route to the 14-point win before 18,000 fans.

     

    Still, Oftana is already looking ahead rather than dwelling on what went wrong. With the Tropang 5G seeking to level the Finals once again, the former NCAA MVP said his focus is firmly on bouncing back in the pivotal Game 4 on Wednesday.

     

    “Hindi araw-araw, Pasko. Masama ‘yung tulog ngayon. Sabi ko nga sa inyo, ganda ng tulog ko last game,” Oftana said.

     

    For TNT, a quick recovery will be crucial and for Oftana, Game 4 presents an opportunity to put both the turnover and the sideline exchange behind him while helping the Tropang 5G regain momentum in the championship series.

     

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  • Sports PH News Predicts the 2026 FIFA World Cup Award Winners 

    Sports PH News Predicts the 2026 FIFA World Cup Award Winners 

    As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches on June 11, 2026, the conversation is already narrowing around a few elite nations and familiar superstar names. With 48 teams set to compete, the scale is bigger than ever—but the outcome, at least on paper, still feels like it may belong to the traditional powerhouses.

     

    World Cup Winner: France

     

    France are the most complete team heading into the tournament and the clearest pick to win it all. Few squads in world football can match the sheer volume of elite-level options available to Didier Deschamps. Kylian Mbappé remains the central figure, but the supporting cast has evolved into a multi-layered attacking unit featuring players such as Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, Désiré Doué,and Rayan Cherki. This is not a team dependent on one system or one star—they can win in multiple ways.

     

    In knockout tournaments, versatility often matters more than dominance in qualifying, and France have repeatedly shown they can manage different match states. Their defensive structure and midfield balance also make them less vulnerable across seven high-pressure matches. 

     

    What further strengthens their case is continuity: France have reached the final in back-to-back editions of the FIFA World Cup, winning the 2018 title and finishing runners-up in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where they narrowly lost to Argentina 4–2 on penalties after a dramatic 3–3 draw in extra time. That consistency at the highest level highlights a squad core that has largely been retained across cycles, with strong chemistry built from repeated deep tournament runs.

     

    With Deschamps expected to be in his final World Cup cycle, the motivation factor adds another layer. After coming so close again in 2022, France enter the next tournament with both the experience of handling finals pressure and the hunger to complete the job, giving them a strong argument as the leading contenders once more.

     

    Golden Ball: Kylian Mbappé

     

    The Golden Ball award is given to the most influential player of the tournament, and Kylian Mbappé is the most logical pick.

     

    He has already proven he can dominate World Cup finals, most notably with his hat-trick in the 2022 final against Argentina. What makes him the standout again is not just scoring ability, but timing—Mbappé delivers in the biggest moments, particularly in knockout football where single actions decide entire tournaments.

     

    With France expected to go deep, likely into the semi-final or final stage based on squad strength, Mbappé will have both the platform and responsibility to define matches. Even with other elite contenders like Lionel Messi and Jude Bellingham in the mix, Mbappé’s combination of pace, finishing, and big-game consistency gives him the edge.

     

    Golden Boot: Kylian Mbappé

     

    The Golden Boot often belongs to players in teams that reach at least the semi-finals, and that immediately strengthens Mbappé’s case again.

     

    Unlike traditional out-and-out strikers who rely heavily on service patterns, Mbappé operates in a system built to maximize his goal output in transition and open space—an ideal fit for World Cup football. France’s supporting attackers also increase his chances, with players like Dembélé and Olise capable of creating chances from wide areas.

     

    Harry Kane remains a strong challenger due to his penalty responsibility and central role, while Erling Haaland’s finishing ability keeps him in the conversation. However, tournament structure matters: England and Norway (or similar setups) may not offer the same deep-run probability as France. Given both form and team projection, Mbappé stands out again. 

     

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    Golden Glove: Emiliano Martínez

     

    The Golden Glove is often decided by moments in knockout football rather than clean-sheet totals, and Emiliano Martínez has repeatedly proven decisive in exactly those situations.

     

    For Argentina, Martínez is not just a goalkeeper but a psychological weapon in penalty shootouts and late-match pressure scenarios. His role in their triumph at the 2022 FIFA World Cup remains a defining factor in modern international football narratives.

     

    Overall, the early outlook for the 2026 FIFA World Cup points to France as the most complete and balanced squad, giving them the edge in the race for the title. While Argentina’s winning pedigree and Spain’s technical evolution keep them firmly in contention, France’s depth and attacking versatility stand out as key advantages. 

     

     

    On the individual stage, Kylian Mbappé emerges as the central figure expected to dominate both the Golden Ball and Golden Boot discussions, while Emiliano Martínez leads the way among goalkeepers, setting up a tournament shaped by familiar stars at the highest level. 

     

     

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  • Khy Cepada’s PVL dream continues with powerhouse Capital1 squad 

    Khy Cepada’s PVL dream continues with powerhouse Capital1 squad 

    For years, Khy Cepada watched Bella Belen from afar as one of the PVL stars she admired most. Now, the former University of the East standout is preparing to share the same court and team with her idol after being selected by Capital1 in the 2026 PVL Rookie Draft.


    In a draft class where only 11 aspirants heard their names called, Cepada emerged as one of the fortunate few, going ninth overall to the Solar Spikers in the second round.

     

    What made the moment unforgettable was realizing she would be joining a franchise that has quickly transformed itself into one of the league’s most talent-loaded teams.

     

    “Yung PVL idol ko po ngayon is si Ate Bella po, so parang sabi ko po, hala, nung shine-shake ko po yung hand niya doon sa stage, parang sabi ko, ‘Oh my God, totoo ba ’to?’ So yun po, parang na-shock po talaga ako. Parang nothing but gratitude po sa Capital1 kasi na-pick po nila ako,” Cepada said.

     

    For the 22-year-old outside hitter, draft day was filled with uncertainty. Despite an impressive showing during the Draft Combine, she admitted she did not expect her name to be called as early as the second round.

     

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    Instead, she found herself becoming part of a franchise that has been one of the busiest teams in the offseason.

     

    “Very excited po na maka-training po sa kanila, makalaro yung ibang teams and ma-represent po yung Capital1, kasi hindi ko po talaga ini-expect na matatawag po talaga yung pangalan ko agad this second round. Very happy po sobra,” she said.

     

    Capital1’s roster makeover has positioned the team as one of the league’s emerging contenders. Alongside Cepada, the Solar Spikers selected former University of Santo Tomas libero Detdet Pepito with the second overall pick. 

     

    The team also strengthened its core by acquiring former league MVPs Erika Santos and Vanie Gandler from the now-defunct Cignal squad.

     

    Veterans Pauline Gaston, Pia Abbu, and Roma Mae Doromal further bolster a lineup that suddenly boasts experience and star power.

     

    For Cepada, however, the challenge is not getting overwhelmed by the names around her but finding ways to contribute.

     

    “Palagi ko pong sinasabi lalaban po ako, magiging mas palaban pa po ako, kasi sila ‘yung kasama ko pa sa lineup si Ate Belle, ate Vanie (Gandler), so laban pa rin.”

     

    That fighting mindset has defined much of her volleyball journey. Before entering the professional ranks, Cepada carried the responsibility of leading the UE Lady Warriors through one of the program’s most difficult stretches. 

     

    While the team endured back-to-back winless UAAP campaigns to close her collegiate career, Cepada continued to produce individually, finishing as Season 88’s 12th Best Scorer with 171 points built on 153 attacks, 14 aces, and four blocks.

     

    Those numbers may not have translated into victories, but they showcased the resilience that kept her among the league’s most productive hitters despite difficult circumstances.

     

    The transition from collegiate leader to rookie role player will not be easy, but the former Lady Warrior believes the lessons learned during UE’s toughest years have prepared her for the next challenge.

     

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