Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: junsanchez

  • PBA Commissioner’s Cup opens with Titan–Terrafirma clash, Converge faces Macau

    PBA Commissioner’s Cup opens with Titan–Terrafirma clash, Converge faces Macau

    The stage is set for the return of action as the PBA Commissioner’s Cup officially tips off on Wednesday, March 11, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.


    With teams bringing in reinforcements from overseas and retooled rosters eager to make an early statement, opening day promises a mix of unfamiliar matchups and high-powered performances. Two games will serve as the curtain-raiser for the conference, featuring established PBA teams and a guest squad looking to make an immediate impact.

     

    The opening game will see the Titan Ultra Giant Risers take on the Terrafirma Dyip.

     

    Titan Ultra, which officially took over the former NorthPort franchise last October, hopes to improve on its respectable 4–7 record in its debut conference. The Giant Risers showed flashes of promise during the Philippine Cup but ultimately fell short of a playoff berth, prompting several roster adjustments heading into the Commissioner’s Cup.

     

    One of the most notable changes was the departure of Calvin Abueva, who had emerged as Titan’s top performer during the previous conference. Abueva has since been traded to the Converge FiberXers in exchange for King Caralipio, Mark Omega, and Rey Suerte.

     

    Titan also enters the tournament under the guidance of new head coach Rensy Bajar, who will rely on a mix of veterans and newcomers including Joshua Munzon, Von Pessumal, Cade Flores, CJ Austria, Mark Sangco, and Bryan Sajonia.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.


    The Giant Risers will also lean on their import Michael Gilmore, whose presence adds a new dimension to the squad as they aim to establish themselves as a competitive force in the conference.

     

    Terrafirma, meanwhile, hopes the Commissioner’s Cup will provide a chance to reset after a challenging run in previous conferences. Known for their hardworking core and willingness to compete against bigger lineups, the Dyip will rely heavily on their import Mubashar Ali, a towering seven-footer expected to anchor both ends of the floor.

     

    The Dyip will also showcase new additions, including top rookie pick Geo Chiu and Ben Adamos, who was acquired from Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.

     

    The evening’s marquee game will feature the Macau Black Knights going up against the Converge FiberXers.

     

    Macau enters the tournament as one of the foreign guest teams invited to compete in the Commissioner’s Cup. The squad is expected to rely heavily on American reinforcement Tony Mitchell, who brings scoring ability and experience from multiple international leagues.

     

    Originally, the Black Knights planned to alternate Mitchell with 7-foot-6 center Sam Deguara, but the towering big man has since joined a Taiwanese club in the P. LEAGUE+, leaving Mitchell as the team’s primary reinforcement.

     

    Converge, on the other hand, will bank on its energetic core and depth to counter the visiting squad. The FiberXers boast a strong lineup featuring Justin Arana, Justine Baltazar, Mikey Williams, Abueva, Alec Stockton, Schonny Winston, and Juan Gomez de Liaño.

     

    Anchoring their inside presence is seven-foot import Kylor Kelley, who is expected to form a formidable frontline alongside Arana and Baltazar.

     

    The matchup could turn into a battle of tempo—Macau relying on Mitchell’s versatility and inside scoring, while Converge attempts to push the pace and stretch the defense with its deep and athletic roster.

     

    As the Commissioner’s Cup begins, opening day could offer an early glimpse of which teams are ready to contend in what promises to be a competitive and import-driven conference.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

      Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans! 

  • Alex Eala faces familiar rival Linda Noskova at Indian Wells

    Alex Eala faces familiar rival Linda Noskova at Indian Wells

    Filipina tennis star Alex Eala continues her impressive run at the BNP Paribas Open, but her next challenge carries a touch of history.


    Eala has moved into the Round of 16 following a walkover victory against world No. 4 Coco Gauff, who was forced to retire from their Round of 32 match with an apparent left arm or shoulder injury. The match ended with the Filipina leading 6-2, 2-0 when Gauff could no longer continue.

     

    The result sends Eala into a highly anticipated clash against world No. 14 Linda Noskova on Wednesday in California—a matchup that reunites two players who once crossed paths regularly on the junior circuit.

     

    Although it will be their first meeting as professionals, Eala carries positive memories from their earlier encounters. 

     

    She defeated Noskova during the French Open girls’ quarterfinals in 2020, 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, and also prevailed in their first meeting at Les Petits As in 2018, 5-7, 6-3, 7-6.

     

    Now both players arrive at the matchup as established professionals on the WTA Tour. Eala recently climbed to a career-high ranking of No. 28, while Noskova enters the contest as the higher-ranked player at No. 14.

     

    The Czech star secured her place in the Round of 16 after outlasting Romania’s Sorana Cirstea in a three-set battle, 6(5)-7, 6-4, 6-4. 

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.


    Noskova, brings an impressive résumé that includes the 2021 French Open girls’ title, a quarterfinal appearance at the Australian Open in 2024, and a runner-up finish at last year’s China Open.

     

    For Eala, the opportunity to face another top-ranked opponent represents another step in her growth on the world stage.

     

    “I think I’ve gained certain experience over the years to handle these high pressure situations. It’s taken up a notch when you’re playing (against) big players and playing in big courts,” the world No. 32 said.

     

    The stakes for their upcoming match are significant. A victory would propel Eala into the quarterfinals, where she would face the winner between seventh seed Jasmine Paolini and qualifier Talia Gibson. 

     

    The Filipina holds a psychological edge there as well, having previously beaten both players, including Paolini in the Round of 32 of the Dubai tournament.

     

    Beyond the rankings and statistics, the match also symbolizes the journey of two former junior standouts now competing on one of tennis’ biggest stages. What began as a rivalry in youth tournaments has evolved into a clash between rising professionals, each seeking to push deeper into one of the sport’s most prestigious events.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

      Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!  

  • Stefanie Berberabe back in Gilas Women lineup for FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers 

    Stefanie Berberabe back in Gilas Women lineup for FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers 

    After sitting out last year’s Southeast Asian Games due to eligibility rules, Stefanie Berberabe is back in the fold for Gilas Pilipinas Women. 


    The 25-year-old Tagaytay ‘Tol Patriots standout leads a 12-player squad unveiled for the FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament in France, bringing a mix of experience and continuity to a team preparing for a tough international stretch.

     

    Berberabe’s return marks a boost for the Filipinas, who will rely on a core of holdovers from the 2025 SEA Games gold-medal-winning squad, including Kacey Dela Rosa, Afril Bernardino, and seven others. 

     

    Joining them are veterans Kent Pastrana and Sumayah Sugapong, returning after representing the country in the 2025 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup. 

     

    Other familiar names like Janine Pontejos, Louna Ozar, Angel Surada, Sophia Dignadice, Saray Heyn, Ann Pingol, and Trina Guytingco round out the roster, ensuring a blend of youth and experience.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.


    Gilas Women face a challenging schedule, opening against reigning Olympic silver medalist France, ranked No. 3 in the world, at 3:30 a.m. Philippine time on Thursday, March 12. 

     

    The team then takes on Germany, Nigeria, South Korea, and Colombia across a grueling six-day period, testing their endurance and skill against some of the world’s elite squads.

     

    For Berberabe, the qualifiers represent more than a chance to compete—it’s an opportunity to prove her value on the global stage after missing the SEA Games. 

     

    Her experience, defensive versatility, and scoring ability will be key assets as the Filipinas seek to secure a berth in the FIBA Women’s World Cup.

     

    The team also hopes to use the tournament as a platform to inspire young Filipino basketball players, showcasing that dedication and perseverance can open doors to international opportunities. 

     

    With a balanced mix of veteran leadership and rising stars, Gilas Women will look to punch above their weight, aiming to leave a mark on a stage dominated by basketball powerhouses. 

     

    The upcoming matches in France are expected to be a true test of their cohesion, resilience, and determination.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

      Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans! 

  • Filipino golfer Pauline Del Rosario rockets into Top 10 at Epson Tour 

    Filipino golfer Pauline Del Rosario rockets into Top 10 at Epson Tour 

    Filipino golfer Pauline del Rosario capped off a spectacular final round at the Epson Tour Atlantic Beach Classic in Florida, finishing tied for ninth alongside Kaleiya Romero. 


    Her closing 6-under-par 65 not only vaulted her into the top 10 but also showcased her resilience after starting the final round even par.

     

    Del Rosario’s performance over the three-day tournament included rounds of 69-73 before her final surge, leaving her at 6-under overall with a total of 207. 

     

    Her impressive finish earned her $7,054 in prize money, a promising boost for her campaign in the Epson Tour, the official LPGA Qualifying circuit.

     

    Other Filipinos in the field also made their mark. Dottie Ardina ended up in 29th place, while Clariss Guce tied for 36th alongside Bianca Pagdanganan. Tomita Arejola finished 59th, rounding out the strong Filipino presence in the tournament.

     

    The event was dominated by Mexico’s representatives, with Isabella Fierro claiming the title with a four-stroke lead, posting a final-day 4-under 67 and finishing 13 under at 200. 

     

    Her compatriot Maria Fassi followed closely in second place. Fierro pocketed $37,500 and 500 points, giving her a strong head start in the season-long Epson Tour standings.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.


    Del Rosario’s performance not only signals her growing competitiveness but also her potential to secure an LPGA Tour card for 2027. 

     

    With only the top 15 in season-long points earning LPGA status, her top-10 finish at the opening event is a critical step toward achieving that goal.

     

    The Atlantic Beach Classic also highlighted the depth of talent in women’s golf, with multiple international competitors challenging for the title. 

     

    Fierro’s dominance underscores the high level of play, while Del Rosario’s comeback in the final round exemplifies the grit and determination required to compete at this level.

     

    For Del Rosario, this tournament could serve as a springboard, both in confidence and ranking. If she can maintain this form in the upcoming events, she could emerge as a consistent presence on the Epson Tour leaderboard and a serious contender for a future LPGA Tour card.

     

    Beyond individual performances, the strong Filipino presence in the Epson Tour reflects the rising standard of women’s golf in the Philippines, with players like Del Rosario, Ardina, Pagdanganan, and Arejola proving that they can compete on an international stage. Their collective effort highlights a promising future for Philippine golf in the professional arena.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

      Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans! 

  • Macau Black Knights open PBA campaign without Sam Deguara as giant center heads to Taiwan

    Macau Black Knights open PBA campaign without Sam Deguara as giant center heads to Taiwan

    A towering presence expected to headline the Macau Black Knights’ campaign in the upcoming Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup will no longer be part of the team’s plans.


    When the Black Knights revealed their roster on their official social media page ahead of the conference, one name stood out for its absence—Sam Deguara, the 7-foot-6 center who had been anticipated to anchor the visiting squad.

     

    The Macau franchise, previously known as the Black Bears, is among the foreign guest teams set to compete in the mid-season tournament. 

     

    But instead of battling inside the paint in the Philippines, Deguara appears to have taken his talents elsewhere.

     

    Reports indicate the towering big man has signed with Yankey Ark in Taiwan’s P. LEAGUE+, with the deal believed to have been finalized as early as the first week of February. 

     

    The move was later confirmed by head coach Garret Kelly in response to a fan inquiry online about the center’s whereabouts.

     

    For teams preparing for the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, Deguara’s absence means one less towering matchup in the paint.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.


    Instead, Macau will rely heavily on its other reinforcement, Tony Mitchell, who had originally been expected to share import duties with Deguara. 

     

    The plan was for the two to rotate throughout the tournament—a setup allowed for guest teams since the league began inviting foreign squads.

     

    With Deguara now out of the picture, Mitchell could shoulder the import responsibilities alone unless the Black Knights decide to bring in another reinforcement. So far, the team has not announced whether a replacement is on the way.

     

    Despite shifting teams, Deguara wasted no time making an impact in Taiwan. He debuted for Yankey Ark over the weekend, producing 20 points and 12 rebounds to help secure a victory.

     

    Back in Manila, the focus now shifts to Macau’s opening assignment in the PBA conference. The Black Knights will headline opening day on March 11, facing the Converge FiberXers in the 7:30 p.m. game at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

     

    Whether Mitchell alone will be enough to carry the visiting team remains to be seen—but one thing is certain, the Commissioner’s Cup will unfold without one of the tallest players expected to take part. 

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

      Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans! 

  • Sara Eggesvik remains confident while the Filipinas await their Asian Cup bid

    Sara Eggesvik remains confident while the Filipinas await their Asian Cup bid

    The Philippine women’s national football team kept its AFC Women’s Asian Cup campaign alive with a decisive 2–0 victory over Iran last Sunday at Robina Stadium in Gold Coast, Australia, but their journey to the next round remains uncertain.


    Heading into the match, the Filipinas knew only one thing—they had to win.

     

    The result pushed the Philippines to a Group A record of one win, two draws, and no losses, keeping them in contention for one of the tournament’s coveted knockout spots. Meanwhile, the defeat marked Iran’s third straight loss in the competition.

     

    Midfielder Sara Eggesvik emerged as the difference-maker for the Filipinas, providing the breakthrough in the 29th minute during a tense first half where the team pushed relentlessly for a goal.

     

    Positioned near the far post, Eggesvik controlled the ball before shifting it onto her stronger foot and calmly sending it past the goalkeeper. 

     

    The strike initially faced a prolonged Video Assistant Referee review, briefly putting celebrations on hold, before the goal was officially confirmed.

     

    The moment proved crucial for the Philippines, which finished third in Group A after three matches and now waits to learn whether that position will be enough to advance.

    “We came into this game not knowing how many goals we needed, just knowing that we had to win,” Player of the match, Eggesvik said.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Despite controlling large stretches of the game and creating numerous opportunities, the Filipinas struggled to fully capitalize on their chances—something Eggesvik acknowledged after the match.

     

    “We had a lot of chances, so I think we could have been more clinical. Then we would feel safer about securing that third place. It was important for us to get that goal and take the early lead,” the 28-year-old midfielder said.

     

    The second goal eventually arrived later in the match when defender Sofia Harrison McDaniel found the back of the net from inside the box after receiving a pass from Ariana Markey, giving the Philippines breathing room and sealing the victory.

     

    While the win kept their hopes alive, the Filipinas’ fate now rests on how other groups unfold. In the tournament format, group winners automatically advance, while the two best third-place teams from Groups A, B, and C also move on to the next stage.

     

    “We want to build a good team atmosphere and culture, and bring the right standards and values to this team,” she said.

     

    As the team awaits the remaining results, Eggesvik hopes the Filipinas’ efforts on the international stage will leave a lasting impact beyond the tournament.

     

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

      Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans! 

  • Christine Hallasgo, Arlan Arbois Jr. set personal bests at 2026 Tokyo Marathon

    Christine Hallasgo, Arlan Arbois Jr. set personal bests at 2026 Tokyo Marathon

    The Philippines’ presence in global marathon running received another boost after Filipino runners Christine Hallasgo and Arlan Arbois Jr. delivered impressive performances at the Tokyo Marathon, one of the most prestigious long-distance races in the world.

     

    Competing against an elite international field in the 42.195-kilometer race, the two athletes showcased the steady progress of Filipino distance running as they both achieved major personal milestones on the streets of Tokyo.

     

    Backed by Pocari Sweat Philippines, Hallasgo and Arbois Jr. entered the race aiming to test their limits against world-class competition. By the end of the marathon, both runners left with performances that signaled their readiness for bigger stages ahead.

     

    For Hallasgo, the race became a statement of progress. The Filipina marathoner clocked a personal best of 2:42:13, a massive improvement from her previous best of 2:49:27, finishing 43rd overall in the women’s field.

     

    Her race strategy paid off as she maintained a controlled pace throughout the grueling course before finishing strong. The result highlighted the months of preparation she invested in training and reinforced her status as one of the country’s leading female marathoners.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.


    The breakthrough performance also reflects the growing competitiveness of Filipino runners in major international marathons, where consistent improvement is often the clearest indicator of elite development.

     

    While Hallasgo celebrated a personal milestone, Arbois Jr. achieved something even more historic.

     

    The Filipino runner surged to a new Philippine men’s marathon record, finishing with a time of 2:19:57. The mark surpassed his previous best of 2:24:23 and placed him 103rd among 8,240 runners in the men’s division.

     

    Maintaining a steady rhythm for much of the race, Arbois executed a disciplined run that ultimately rewrote the national record books.

     

    Meanwhile, at the front of the race, Ethiopian runner Tadese Takele captured the men’s title with a time of 2:03:37, narrowly edging out Kenya’s Geoffrey Toroitich and Alexander Mutiso in a tightly contested finish.

     

    In the women’s race, Kenya’s Brigid Kosgei topped the podium with 2:14:29, followed by Ethiopian runners Bertukan Welde and Hawi Feysa.

     

    Beyond the times and placements, the Tokyo Marathon served as an important measuring stick for both Filipino runners as they continue preparing for the 2026 Asian Games.

     

    Their performances added another proud moment for Philippine athletics and demonstrated that the country’s marathon program is steadily gaining momentum on the international scene.

     

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

      Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans! 

  • Sibol strengthens Asian Games campaign with Pokémon Unite, Honor of Kings, and PUBG Mobile rosters

    Sibol strengthens Asian Games campaign with Pokémon Unite, Honor of Kings, and PUBG Mobile rosters

    The Philippines’ national esports program is expanding its lineup for the continental stage as Sibol revealed additional players who will represent the country in more titles at the 2026 Asian Games.


    Following the earlier announcement of representatives for other games, the national squad confirmed its rosters for Pokémon Unite, Honor of Kings, and PUBG Mobile (Asian Games version)—three titles where the Philippines hopes to strengthen its presence in the rapidly growing esports scene.

     

    For the Pokémon Unite event, the Philippine team will be guided by head coach Albert “Berty” Camp and will feature Rence “Rubixx” Gatmaitan, Robert “SynC1” Mempin, Ducke “Dylan” Leoncio, Kim “Kyy” Salazar, Michael “Miva” Ocio, and Lance “Lance” David.

     

    The roster enters the Asian Games cycle with strong credentials. Several members have previously competed in the Pokémon Unite World Championship, showcasing their experience on the global stage. More recently, the squad demonstrated its regional dominance by winning the Pokémon Unite Winter Tournament 2026 – SEA East last February, a victory that further solidified its reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s top teams in the game.

     

    The Philippine lineup for Honor of Kings will feature Chammy “Chammy1” Nazarrea, Justine “Juschie” Tan, Dragon “Dragon” Dajao, Golden “Goldenk1te” Dajao, Charles “Chazz” Esguerra, and Jhon “Xyliath” Tungol under the leadership of head coach Gerald “Tgee” Gelacio.

     

    This roster has built a reputation for consistency in global competitions, regularly appearing in international tournaments for the game. Their best performance came last year when they secured a third-place finish at the Honor of Kings International Championship.

     

    For the Asian Games version of PUBG Mobile, Sibol selected Gerald “FV” Leanillo, Jamesdavid “Lion” Tacson, Steven “MICHI” Jimenez, Abdul “Monboy” Barode, and Francis “RANGE” Fusingan, with Dean “DehJeh” Mata serving as head coach.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.


    Many of the players have built their reputation through strong performances in the PUBG Mobile National Championship Philippines, while others have already gained valuable international experience in the PUBG Mobile Challengers League – Southeast Asia.

     

    While several titles now have confirmed lineups, one major game remains without a finalized roster: Mobile Legends: Bang Bang.

     

    Earlier announcements revealed that Francis “Ducky” Glindro, Denver “Yeb” Miranda, and Michael “Arcadia” Bocado will form part of the team’s support coaching staff. However, a new set of open qualifiers scheduled this month will determine the next head coach and eventually finalize the roster.

     

    The coaching position became vacant after former national team head coach Anthony “Ynot” Senedrin moved to Indonesia to join NAVI, stepping down from his role with Sibol.

     

    Despite the pending lineup, the Philippines enters the Asian Games esports competitions with strong expectations—especially in Mobile Legends, where the country has built a dominant legacy.

     

    The Philippines has captured five titles in six editions of the M-Series World Championship, the most prestigious tournament for the game. The national team has also established regional dominance by completing a three-peat gold medal run in Mobile Legends at the Southeast Asian Games.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

      Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans! 

  • Marvin Jones in as Meralco parts ways with Ismael Romero for PBA Commissioner’s Cup

    Marvin Jones in as Meralco parts ways with Ismael Romero for PBA Commissioner’s Cup

    The Meralco Bolts are heading into the Philippine Basketball Association Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup with a new reinforcement, opting to bring in veteran big man Marvin Jones as their import.

     

    The decision effectively ends the team’s plans to field Ismael Romero in the midseason tournament, which opens on March 11. The move also clarified why Meralco’s import slot remained vacant when the league released its official team lineups last Friday.

     

    Initially, Romero was expected to continue his partnership with the Bolts after previously suiting up for the club during the 2025–26 campaign in the East Asia Super League. His familiarity with the system made him an early choice for the Commissioner’s Cup.

     

    However, circumstances changed following an incident during the Dubai International Basketball Championship earlier this year. While playing for Al Ahli Tripoli against the Zamboanga Valientes, Romero drew controversy after kicking former PBA winger Nick Demusis.

     

    Meralco team manager Paolo Trillo confirmed the team’s decision during the radio program Power & Play.

     

    “We just felt it was time for him and for us not to line him up this conference,” said Trillo.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.


    Instead, the Bolts are banking on Jones’ size and defensive presence as they prepare for the grueling midseason tournament. Standing at 7 feet, the Chicago-born center is known for his rim protection and international experience.

     

    Jones recently captured the FIBA Europe Cup title with Spanish club Bilbao Basket, helping the team defeat Greece’s PAOK mateco in the championship round. 

     

    Meralco believes Jones’ defensive ability will complement a core group led by Chris Newsome, Bong Quinto, and rising guard CJ Cansino as the team looks to make a strong push in the conference.

     

    The Bolts will open their campaign in the Commissioner’s Cup on March 18 against the Converge FiberXers at the Ynares Center Antipolo.

     

    For Meralco, the arrival of Jones signals a reset heading into the new conference — one that emphasizes defensive presence and veteran stability as the team chases another deep playoff run in PBA Season 50.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

      Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans! 

  • Sophia Dignadice, Sumayah Sugapong, and Sarah Heyn join Gilas Women ahead of FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers

    Sophia Dignadice, Sumayah Sugapong, and Sarah Heyn join Gilas Women ahead of FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers

    A mix of experience and youthful promise defines the Gilas Pilipinas Women as they set off for Lyon, France on Sunday evening, ready to tackle the challenges of the FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament.


    Leading the Philippine delegation is Erika Dy, alongside head coach Patrick Aquino, who have meticulously prepared the squad for a tournament that will test their mettle against some of the world’s top-ranked teams.

     

    Fil-Am stars Sumayah Sugapong, and teen talents Sophia Dignadice and Sarah Heyn, flew directly from the United States to join the squad.

     

    Sugapong, who previously played at Arizona and committed to UC San Diego early in her career, has been on Aquino’s radar since the pandemic as he recruited US-based talent. 

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    The inclusion of teenagers Dignadice and Heyn brings fresh energy to the roster. Dignadice, daughter of former PBA star Yves Dignadice, was a key member of the gold-medal-winning squad at the 33rd SEA Games who is also attending California State University, Northridge. 

     

    Heyn, a 5-foot-9 Fil-Nation Select standout and sister of Gilas Girls’ Sydney Heyn, recently committed to UC Santa Barbara and also contributed to the SEA Games victory.

     

    The tournament will test the Philippines against some of the world’s elite, starting with No. 3 France on Thursday, followed by No. 12 Germany, No. 8 Nigeria, No. 15 Korea, and No. 19 Colombia. 

     

    The Gilas Pilipinas Women are currently ranked No. 39 globally, face a steep challenge as only the top two teams from Tournament D will advance to the World Cup in Berlin this September.

     

    For Gilas, the trip is more than just competition—it’s a reunion of sorts. Many of the players, including Bernardino, Pontejos, Surada, Ozar, Dignadice, Pingol, Guytingco, Dela Rosa, and Heyn, were part of the squad that captured gold in last year’s SEA Games. This mix of veteran leadership and young talent could prove vital as they aim to punch their ticket to the World Cup and make a statement on the international stage.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

      Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!