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  • Dell Palomata eyes comeback with PLDT after Indonesia Proliga stint

    Dell Palomata eyes comeback with PLDT after Indonesia Proliga stint

    PLDT may soon receive a timely boost in the middle as Dell Palomata prepares to rejoin the High Speed Hitters following her pioneering stint overseas.

     

    The 6-foot middle blocker recently wrapped up her campaign with the Medan Falcons in the 2026 Indonesia Proliga, where she made history as the Filipina import to compete in the league. 

     

    Although the Falcons struggled and finished their season with a 0-12 record, Palomata considers the experience a valuable chapter in her career.

     

    The Alas Pilipinas standout was already spotted at the FilOil Centre in San Juan, watching from the sidelines as PLDT battled its way to a thrilling five-set victory over the Farm Fresh Foxies. Her presence alone signaled that a return to the High Speed Hitters lineup could be coming soon.

     

    While the results in Indonesia didn’t fall their way, Palomata said the overseas stint taught her lessons she intends to bring back to the PVL.

     

    “Siguro yung patience pa rin. Kasi parang same-same lang yung laro sa Indonesia at dito sa Philippines. Kailangan talaga ng pasensya sa laban, kaya siguro yun yung pinakamalaking natutunan ko,” said Palomata.

     

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    Despite only recently arriving back in Manila, the 30-year-old middle blocker wasted little time reconnecting with the team. She has already resumed training with PLDT, though she acknowledged that a brief recovery period will help her fully regain rhythm.

     

    “Pumunta ako rito, ready to play naman ako, pero kailangan ko pa ng konting pahinga. Balik uli ako sa training and kailangan ko mag-training pa,” the 30-year-old middle blocker said.

     

    Her eagerness to return didn’t go unnoticed by head coach Rald Ricafort. In fact, the veteran blocker was so eager to help that she initially thought she might be inserted immediately into PLDT’s most recent match.

     

    “Actually, akala niya palalaruin ko siya today. Hindi ko siya nasabihan na ‘di pa siya sasalang pero ganun ‘yung dedication nung bata. Kararating lang niya nung March 1. Naka-isang practice palan samin tapos ready na agad siya sumabak,” Ricafort said.

     

    PLDT has managed to maintain strong momentum even without Palomata in the lineup, currently sitting at the top of the PVL All-Filipino Conference standings with a 5-1 record. Her return, however, could further strengthen the High Speed Hitters’ net defense and blocking presence as the tournament intensifies.

     

    If all goes according to plan, Palomata could make her on-court return when PLDT faces the Galeries Tower Highrisers on Tuesday, March 10 at the FilOil Centre in San Juan — potentially marking the start of her next chapter after a groundbreaking stint abroad.

     

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  • Converge governor praises Mikey Williams’ attitude upon his return to the PBA

    Converge governor praises Mikey Williams’ attitude upon his return to the PBA

    After nearly three years away from competitive basketball in the league, Mikey Williams is beginning a new journey and this time with Converge, as he works his way back toward the PBA spotlight.

     

    The former Finals MVP has already touched down in Manila and wasted no time settling into preparation mode, according to Converge team governor Archen Cayabyab. From the moment he arrived earlier this week, Williams showed eagerness to get back to work.

     

    “Very highly motivated siya. Talagang naka-focus ang bata. Ang unang nga niyang hinanapan, gym. Gym kaagad. He is totally fit. Talagang babawi siya ngayong this coming conference,” Cayabyab said.

     

    Williams has already started participating in team activities with the FiberXers as they gear up for the upcoming PBA Commissioner’s Cup. 

     

    His reintegration into the squad began during the team’s bonding trip in Laguna, where he joined teammates in a recent team-building activity before returning to on-court preparations.

     

    The Converge guard is now working through the early stages of his comeback, focusing not only on conditioning but also reconnecting with the rhythm of team basketball. 

     

    His last appearance in a competitive PBA game dates back to April 21, 2023, when TNT edged Barangay Ginebra, 97-93, in the Finals — a series that saw Williams capture his second Finals MVP award.

     

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    While the talent and experience are unquestioned, Cayabyab acknowledged that the adjustment period is still ongoing, especially with the Commissioner’s Cup approaching quickly.

     

    “Kailangan pa natin chemistry sa mga ka-teammates niya, mga kasama niya. Pero okay naman nakita ko, nag-observe naman ako last night. Talagang kasama niya ang buong team, nag-enjoy siya. At home siya, sa totoo lang,” the team’s governor said.

     

    Building familiarity with the system and establishing chemistry with new teammates remain among the priorities as Williams prepares for his first appearance in a Converge uniform. The FiberXers are scheduled to open their campaign against the Macau Black Bears, giving the returning guard limited time to fully settle in.

     

    Despite the tight timeline, Cayabyab expressed confidence that Williams’ basketball intelligence will help him adapt quickly to the team’s structure.

     

    “Sinabi niya kumbaga hindi siya pumunta sa team para makasira sa team. Pero nandito siya para makatulong sa goal ng team na gusto makarating sa semis muna hanggang sa makarating ng championship,” he said.

     

    Cayabyab admitted the biggest concern lies in the timing and game rhythm Williams needs to regain after such a long layoff.

     

    “Almost three years, ang inaalala ko ang timing niya. Baka manibago pa siya kasi next week na, may laro na kami. So hindi pa siya masyadong familiar sa system pero very high IQ naman si Mikey. Madali niya makukuha ‘yan,” said the amiable Cayabyab.

     

    For Converge, Williams’ arrival represents both a boost in talent and a renewed sense of optimism. For the guard himself, the upcoming conference offers a chance to rediscover his form and prove he can still be a difference-maker in the league.

     

     

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  • Scottie Thompson unveils first low-cut version of his signature shoe

    Scottie Thompson unveils first low-cut version of his signature shoe

    The evolution of Scottie Thompson’s signature footwear line takes a new step forward as World Balance introduces the ST3 Low Ignite, marking the first time the brand has released a low-cut version of Thompson’s ST line.


    Known for his relentless motor and high-energy style of play, Thompson has built a reputation as one of the league’s most dynamic guards. The new ST3 Low Ignite reflects that identity—designed to match the speed, aggression, and versatility that have defined his game.

     

    Presented in a striking yellow-and-black colorway, the latest release mirrors Thompson’s intensity on the court while offering a fresh silhouette for players who prefer a lighter and more agile basketball shoe.

     

    Unlike the earlier mid-cut designs in the ST series, the ST3 Low introduces a lower-profile build aimed at athletes who rely on quickness and mobility. Despite the shift in design, World Balance maintained the structural support that has become a hallmark of the line.

     

    The shoe features an engineered mesh upper reinforced with lightweight TPU threads that provide durability and structure without adding unnecessary weight. This construction helps keep the shoe breathable while ensuring balance and stability during fast-paced play.

     

    To complement Thompson’s aggressive style of attacking the basket and hustling for loose balls, the ST3 Low Ignite also includes a reinforced heel structure that offers a secure lockdown fit. 

     

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    A full-length cushioned midsole absorbs impact with every step, while a midfoot stability system supports controlled movement during sharp cuts and sudden transitions.

     

    Completing the performance package is a high-traction rubber outsole built for multi-directional grip—an essential feature for guards who constantly shift directions on the hardwood.

     

    Thompson, the PBA Most Valuable Player and currently the only Filipino basketball player with a signature performance shoe line designed specifically for him, expressed excitement about expanding his footwear series with a new style.

     

    “Excited ako sa ST3 Low kasi ito yung first low-cut version sa ST line ko. Mas magaan siya sa paa at mas mabilis gumalaw, pero nandun pa rin yung stability at kapit na kailangan sa laro,” he said.

     

    The ST3 Low Ignite will arrive at selected World Balance stores nationwide starting March 2026, expanding availability for athletes and basketball enthusiasts eager to try the newest addition to the signature line.

     

    Fans will also get a chance to experience the shoe up close during its official launch event scheduled on March 14, 2026 at the World Balance branch in Ayala Malls Feliz.

     

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  • PSC urges athletes to avoid overseas travel amid rising Middle East tensions

    PSC urges athletes to avoid overseas travel amid rising Middle East tensions

    Growing tensions in the Middle East have begun to ripple into the world of sports, prompting the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to take precautionary steps to safeguard Filipino athletes competing or traveling overseas.

     

    On Wednesday, the PSC issued a memorandum advising national teams, athletes, and sports personnel to postpone non-essential international trips as uncertainty surrounding the regional conflict continues to affect global travel routes.

     

    PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio said the advisory was prompted by concerns that the escalating situation could disrupt major transportation corridors and create safety risks for athletes traveling abroad.

     

    “In view of the escalating conflict in the Middle East and its potential impact on international air routes and transportation corridors, the PSC strongly discourages national teams, athletes, and sports personnel from undertaking non-essential travel abroad at this time,” said the agency’s chair Patrick Gregorio.

     

    According to Gregorio, the warning is not merely precautionary. Several Filipino national teams already overseas have experienced travel complications and are now receiving assistance from the commission as arrangements are being made for their return to the Philippines.

     

    “The evolving situation raises heightened safety and security concerns, including possible regional escalation, increased military activity, and rapidly changing security conditions, as already experienced by several teams abroad that are currently being assisted in arranging their return home,” said Gregorio.

     

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    One of the athletes currently in the region is Filipino tennis player Francis Casey Alcantara, who had been competing in the ATP Challenger 50 tournament in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates. The event was cancelled after an oil zone fire broke out in Fujairah, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the situation.

     

    The PSC confirmed that Alcantara is among the athletes being closely monitored while coordination efforts are underway with Philippine diplomatic officials.

     

    Gregorio said the commission has formally reached out to the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in the United Arab Emirates to seek guidance and assistance regarding Alcantara’s situation.

     

    In a letter addressed to Ambassador Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver, the PSC conveyed its concern for the safety of the Filipino tennis player and requested the embassy’s support in monitoring developments in the area.

     

    The commission added that it remains in constant communication with Alcantara to track updates on his condition and surroundings.

     

    “Should circumstances warrant, we likewise seek assistance in facilitating their safe and orderly return to the Philippines at the soonest possible time,” Gregorio said in a letter that was sent.

     

    With the situation still evolving, the PSC emphasized that it stands ready to work closely with Philippine embassies, athletes abroad, and other relevant authorities to ensure that Filipino sports personnel remain protected while competing on the international stage.

     

     

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  • Karl Eldrew Yulo, John Ivan Cruz headline PH bid in FIG World Cup in Baku

    Karl Eldrew Yulo, John Ivan Cruz headline PH bid in FIG World Cup in Baku

    The Philippines will once again be represented on the international gymnastics stage as Filipino gymnasts Karl Eldrew Yulo and John Ivan Cruz compete in the 2026 FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Cup at the National Gymnastics Arena in Baku, Azerbaijan from March 5 to 8.


    While Cruz brings experience as a two-time Southeast Asian Games gold medalist, much of the spotlight will be on Yulo, who is stepping into a new chapter of his career — his first appearance in a senior-level World Cup competition.

     

    For the 18-year-old gymnast, the tournament marks more than just another international event. It is his transition from a decorated junior athlete into the highly competitive senior ranks, where the level of difficulty and pressure rises significantly.

     

    Despite the expectations surrounding him, Yulo is approaching the event with humility and a focus on growth rather than results.

     

    “Ngayon po low expectations kumbaga since first. Maraming makakalaban, marami akong matutunanan. Marami akong kailangan i-improve,” he said.

     

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    Yulo last competed in the FIG Junior World Championships held in Manila in November, where he continued to showcase the promise that has made him one of the most dominant young gymnasts in Philippine grassroots competitions such as Batang Pinoy and the Palarong Pambansa.

     

    In Baku, he is set to compete across multiple apparatuses, the floor exercise, vault, rings, parallel bars, and high bars — testing his skills against athletes from more than 30 countries. 

     

    The World Cup series is also significant as it offers ranking points toward qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics.

     

    The younger Yulo has spent part of his preparation overseas, training in Japan under coach Munehiro Kugimiya — the same mentor who guided his older brother, two-time Olympic champion Carlos Yulo.

     

    Philippine gymnastics officials believe Eldrew has the potential to follow a similar path, provided he remains healthy and continues developing his skills.

     

    “I just hope he doesn’t get injured. Without injury, he can really make it. Because he’s very active. I said dahan-dahan lang Eldrew, I don’t want you to get hurt because you’re talagang magaling,” said Gymnastics Association of the Philippines president Cynthia Carrion.

     

    After the Baku leg, Yulo will not have much time to rest. He is also scheduled to compete in another World Cup event in Antalya, Turkey from March 12 to 15, another opportunity to gain valuable experience on the senior stage.

     

    For now, the focus is on Baku, where the young Filipino gymnast begins carving out his own identity in international gymnastics — not just as the younger brother of an Olympic champion, but as an athlete building a career of his own.

     

     

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  • PVL: Cignal, PLDT aim to extend winning streaks as underdogs seek breakthrough

    PVL: Cignal, PLDT aim to extend winning streaks as underdogs seek breakthrough

    The Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference heats up today as four teams take the court at FilOil Centre, each with a distinct mission—some to cement dominance, others to stage a comeback.


    First up at 4 p.m., the Cignal Super Spikers will look to bounce back from last Saturday’s loss to the Akari Chargers and reinforce their claim for a top spot in the Qualifying Round. 

     

    With a 4-2 record, the Super Spikers have demonstrated that teamwork and discipline can rival star power. 

     

    Their attack remains centered on the dynamic duo of Erika Santos and Vanie Gandler, while the team’s strength lies in its speed, seamless ball distribution, and collective defense.

     

    ZUS Coffee, meanwhile, has found itself at the opposite end of the spectrum, struggling with a 1-5 record. 

     

    The Thunderbelles have been further hampered by the injury of top middle blocker AC Miner, a setback that has highlighted the challenge of competing against teams with established chemistry. 

     

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    In a bid for an upset, ZUS Coffee will turn to Chinnie Arroyo, Riza Nogales, Thea Gagate, Jovelyn Gonzaga, Kate Santiago, Renee Peñafiel, and setter Cloanne Mondonedo to spark a turnaround.

     

    Later in the evening at 6:30 p.m., the PLDT High Speed Hitters will face the Farm Fresh Foxies, with both teams looking to dictate their path in the standings. 

     

    PLDT enters the match with a 4-1 record and a reputation for high-powered offense, showcased by Kim Dy’s ability to create scoring runs through smart touches and combination plays. 

     

    The team aims to replicate its strong performance from Saturday against ZUS Coffee and continue its push toward the semifinals.

     

    Farm Fresh Foxies, sitting at 2-3, are eager to rebound after a narrow five-set loss to Capital1. Despite standout performances from Molina, Rizza Cruz, and Royse Tubino, the Foxies are determined to regain momentum and prove that even lower-ranked squads can make a meaningful push under the PVL’s new format, where no team is immediately eliminated.

     

    Under this system, the stakes remain high across the board. The top four teams will advance to the Qualifying Round, with matchups set as No. 1 vs. No. 4 and No. 2 vs. No. 3. The winners automatically secure semifinal berths, making each game not just a contest of skill, but also a strategic step toward postseason positioning.

     

    As Cignal and PLDT look to consolidate their dominance and ZUS Coffee and Farm Fresh strive for breakthrough victories, fans can expect a full evening of high-intensity volleyball where every point could reshape the standings.

     

     

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  • Deal reached between Greg Slaughter and Titan Ultra, PBA now set to approve

    Deal reached between Greg Slaughter and Titan Ultra, PBA now set to approve

    After a five-year absence, Greg Slaughter is on the verge of returning to the PBA — but his comeback hinges on a single critical step, the approval from the league.


    Slaughter and the Titan Ultra Giant Risers, the team holding his playing rights, have agreed on terms for a contract that could finally see the towering seven-footer back on the court.

     

    For Slaughter, the priority is clear, “The first order of business for Greg here is to return to the PBA and re-introduce himself to the fans while at the same time, show his value as a rare 7-0 center,” the source said.

     

    “Greg, in consultation with his wife and advisers, has agreed to receive an amount slightly lower from what he was offered at Northport three years ago,” said a source close to the negotiations.

     

    The contract is reportedly ready for signing, leaving only the PBA’s green light as the final obstacle — especially amid whispers of a ‘silent ban’ following his contentious exit from NorthPort in 2021.

     

    “Basta ang mangyayari dyan, ipapasa ng Titan Ultra yung UPC nil ani Greg sa PBA. Kapag hindi nakalaro si Greg, eh dun na siguro masasagot yung tanong at duda ng marami,” said another PBA insider.

     

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    “Kasi ang illogical naman ng Titan Ultra kung may chance ka to get a 7-footer tapos hindi mo gagawin. Eh yan ang wala sa PBA ngayon. Local na big man na pwede mong itapat kay June Mar (Fajardo),” she added.

     

    Titan Ultra’s interest in Slaughter has been unwavering since meeting him on the first day of team practice last February 3. 

     

    The urgency increased when star player Calvin Abueva demanded a trade, eventually joining the Converge FiberXers, leaving Titan Ultra without a proven big man.

     

    “If hindi tutulungan ng PBA ang Titan Ultra to sign up Greg. kawawa yung bagong team kasi wala silang chance lumakas ulit. This will not bode well for the league. Kasi magiging whipping boys lang sa liga yung team,” said the source.

     

    “The rights of Greg is with Titan Ultra, Titan Ultra wants to use that asset. Tapos hindi mangyayari, unfair yun sa team,” he added.

     

    With the PBA now holding the fate of both Slaughter and Titan Ultra in its hands, the league faces a high-stakes decision. 

     

    Approve the signing, and a former giant returns. Hesitate, and the newest franchise risks starting its journey at a significant disadvantage.

     

    The league’s decision will also set a precedent for how the PBA handles player rights and comebacks, particularly for high-profile stars returning after extended absences. Observers note that approving Slaughter’s signing could signal the PBA’s willingness to support new teams in building competitive rosters

     

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  • NU, FEU delivers a double sweep as UAAP women’s volleyball race tightens

    NU, FEU delivers a double sweep as UAAP women’s volleyball race tightens

    Wednesday UAAP Season 88 Women’s Volleyball match turned into an emphatic response in the volleyball tournament, as defending champion NU Lady Bulldogs and surging FEU Lady Tamaraws authored straight-set victories at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.


    For National University, it was about regaining control. For Far Eastern University, it was about sustaining momentum.

     

    Stung by their first loss of the season to the UP Fighting Maroons last Saturday, the two-time defending champions wasted little time reasserting their authority, dismantling the UE Lady Warriors, 25-19, 25-10, 25-19.

     

    Rather than dwell on setbacks, NU showcased its depth, a hallmark of championship programs. Sophomore Celine Marsh, tapped to start in place of injured rookie Sam Cantada, delivered a composed all-around performance with 11 points off eight spikes, two aces, and a block, on top of 12 excellent digs and four receptions.

     

    “I never really doubted Celine’s performance. I never really feel like na malaki ‘yung mawawala kapag may isang player na hindi makakalaro kasi I have somebody else to help the team. Tulungan lang talaga kami,” said NU head coach Regine Diego.

     

    While team captain Vange Alinsug earned Player of the Game after tallying 10 points, seven digs, and seven receptions, and Arah Panique paced Lady Bulldog’s scoring with 12 points.

     

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    On the other side, Van Bangayan led UE with 12 points and five receptions, while Khy Cepada chipped in 10 points, seven receptions, and six digs. Still searching for their first win, the Lady Warriors dropped to 0-5 and will next face unbeaten La Salle.

     

    With the victory, NU climbed to 4-1, claiming solo second place and sending a clear message that its championship pulse remains steady.

     

    In the 3 p.m. match, FEU proved that resilience can be just as decisive as dominance.

    The Lady Tamaraws secured their second straight win by sweeping the Ateneo Lady Eagles, 25-17, 25-17, 26-24, but the third set demanded grit.

     

    Ateneo pushed FEU to the brink late in the frame, threatening to extend the match before the Tamaraws steadied themselves to close it out in deuce.

     

    Faida Bakanke led FEU with 12 points, while Gerzel Petallo anchored the floor defense with 13 excellent receptions and 11 excellent digs, adding nine points. Jazlyn Ellarina showcased her versatility with 11 points built on five spikes, three aces, and three blocks, while Clarisse Loresco chipped in eight.

     

    For Ateneo, Geezel Tsunashima delivered her best outing of the season with 11 points, aided by Jihan Chuatico’s seven. Despite flashes of competitiveness including handing La Salle its lone set loss of the season last Saturday. The Blue Eagles remained winless after five games and as the tournament heads deeper into the first round, the separation lines are beginning to form.

     

    NU reestablished its championship form. FEU is building rhythm. UE and Ateneo continue to search for answers.

     

    Action resumes over the weekend at the Big Dome, with UE Lady Warriors taking on DLSU Lady Spikers at 1 p.m., followed by Adamson Lady Falcons clashing with UST Golden Tigresses at 3 p.m. on Saturday.

     

    On Sunday, the schedule opens with NU Lady Bulldogs battling the Ateneo Lady Eagles, then UP Fighting Maroons will face FEU Lady Tamaraws.

     

     

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  • Mark Torcaso stays confident despite Korea’s strength in Asian Cup clash

    Mark Torcaso stays confident despite Korea’s strength in Asian Cup clash

    After absorbing a narrow 1-0 defeat to host nation Australia women’s national team last Sunday, the Philippines is choosing belief over disappointment as they march into a pivotal Group A duel against South Korea in the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup at Cbus Super Stadium.

     

    The sting of conceding early to Sam Kerr in the 14th minute still lingers. Yet what followed that goal may have revealed more about the Filipinas’ character than the scoreboard did. 

     

    They regrouped, reorganized, and frustrated one of Asia’s elite sides for the remainder of the contest — a response that has become the foundation of their mindset heading into Thursday’s 11 a.m. (PHT) showdown with the Taeguk Ladies.

     

    Philippine head coach Mark Torcaso knows exactly what awaits his squad, “South Korea is probably the strongest team in the competition. We’re looking forward to the challenge.”

    South Korea arrives brimming with confidence after dismantling Iran, 3-0, in a display of dominance that saw them monopolize 79 percent of possession. 

     

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    Under head coach Shin Sangwoo, the Taeguk Ladies have blended structure with attacking precision and they are intent on keeping their momentum.

     

    “The players have been training for a very tough match. I think our players have adjusted to the field,” Korea’s head coach Shin said.

     

    The Taeguk Ladies are bannered by seasoned veterans Ji So-yun, who has earned 171 international caps, and Kim Hye-ri with 137 caps, providing leadership and stability on both ends of the pitch.

     

    History favors South Korea, which has won five meetings against the Filipinas since 2018. Still, Torcaso believes his squad gained valuable lessons from its opening match against the hosts. Torcaso remains steady, even energized by the scale of the challenge.

     

    “We had a tough game against the host team in the first round. However, our focus is now on playing South Korea. We’ll be facing probably one of the best and strongest teams in the competition,” Torcaso said.

     

    The top two teams in each of the three groups, along with the two best third-placed squads, will advance to the knockout stage. 

     

    The tournament offers six qualification spots for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

    For the Filipinas, Thursday’s fixture represents both a test and an opportunity — a chance to turn resilience into results and keep their Asian Cup campaign firmly on track.

     

     

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  • PBA’s 50th Anniversary takes center stage in Candon as All-Star Weekend heads north

    PBA’s 50th Anniversary takes center stage in Candon as All-Star Weekend heads north

    For a league celebrating 50 years of history, the Philippine Basketball Association is taking the celebration on the road.


    This week, the PBA’s golden anniversary celebration shifts north as Candon City plays host to the PBA All-Star Weekend, transforming the Ilocos Sur province into the country’s basketball capital for four days.

     

    A 160-member delegation, highlighted by 59 players, will leave Manila late Wednesday for the seven-hour trip, a caravan carrying five decades of professional basketball tradition to one of the league’s newest provincial stages. 

     

    It marks the first All-Star showcase since the 2024 edition in Bacolod City and comes a year after the supposed 2025 staging in Davao was scrapped due to security concerns.

     

    Commissioner Willie Marcial will spearhead the delegation, joined by league officials and participants from the North and South All-Star squads, the Rookies/Sophomores and Juniors teams, and competitors. 

     

    Members of the PBA Board led by Chairman Ricky Vargas, along with team executives, are also expected to arrive by the weekend.

     

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    On the court, the North-South rivalry headlines the festivities, as Coach Leo Austria will guide the North All-Stars, whose roster includes Japeth Aguilar, Calvin Abueva, rookie Juan Gomez De Liano, CJ Perez, Stephen Holt, Justine Baltazar, Adrian Nocum, Chris Newsome, CJ Cansino, Gian Mamuyac, Justin Arana, and Don Trollano.

     

    Opposing them is the South squad under veteran coach Chot Reyes, bannered by June Mar Fajardo, RJ Abarrientos, Scottie Thompson, Calvin Oftana, Robert Bolick, Roger Pogoy, JB Bahio, Leonard Santillan, Alec Stockton, Caelan Tiongson, Rey Nambatac, and Jericho Cruz.

    While the star power promises fireworks on Sunday night, the league’s message extends beyond the scoreboard.

     

    The four-day stay will feature a motorcade and parade, school visits, tree-planting activity, meet-and-greet sessions, a court turnover ceremony, and referees’ and coaches’ clinics — underscoring the PBA’s effort to turn its anniversary celebration into a community-driven outreach.

     

    Action tips off Friday at the Candon City Arena with the Skills Event at 5:30 p.m. Sunday’s program begins at 5:30 p.m. with the Daily Fantasy Shooting Star contest before the main All-Star Game takes center stage at 7:30 p.m.

     

    After a year of uncertainty and a canceled showcase in 2025, the league has found its stage once more. As the PBA marks 50 years, it does so not just by looking back at its legacy but by bringing the celebration directly to the fans who have sustained it for generations.

     

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