Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Andre Sotelo

  • Jayson Castro returns for Season 50 as TNT banks on veteran leader in Commissioner’s Cup

    Jayson Castro returns for Season 50 as TNT banks on veteran leader in Commissioner’s Cup

    The TNT Tropang 5G will welcome back a familiar leader as the franchise prepares for the start of the Philippine Basketball Association Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup on Wednesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

     

    Veteran playmaker Jayson Castro returns for his 17th campaign in the league, marking a significant step in his comeback after a serious knee injury sidelined him for months.

     

    Castro suffered a patellar tendon tear during TNT’s semifinal clash against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in last season’s Commissioner’s Cup. The injury forced the longtime star guard to spend the past several months focused on recovery and rehabilitation, eventually missing the entire Philippine Cup.

     

    Without their veteran floor general, TNT still managed to reach the finals of that conference before falling to the powerhouse San Miguel Beermen.

     

    Now healthy enough to return, Castro resumes his role as one of the team’s most important leaders. At 39, the player known as “The Blur” remains a steady presence whose experience could prove crucial for a TNT squad leaning on guards Rey Nambatac and Jordan Heading in the backcourt rotation.

     

    Before the injury, Castro averaged 9.5 points per game during the conference and has maintained a 14.1-point career scoring average across his long tenure with TNT.

     

    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.

    His decorated résumé includes multiple championships and individual honors, with the most recent being named the  PBA Governors’ Cup Finals MVP in 2024, adding to his reputation as one of the league’s most accomplished point guards.

     

    TNT will enter the new conference with high expectations. The team is widely viewed as an early contender after securing NBA veteran Bol Bol as its import, a move expected to strengthen the Tropang 5G’s inside presence.

     

    Meanwhile, the team will open the conference without veteran big man Poy Erram, who was placed on the injury/reserved list.

     

    As the Commissioner’s Cup begins, Castro’s return provides TNT with something that cannot easily be replaced—experience, leadership, and the steady hand of a champion guard who has spent nearly two decades guiding the franchise.

     

    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!  

  • Kevin Quiambao helps Goyang Sono protect KBL playoff spot despite Carl Tamayo effort for Changwon LG

    Kevin Quiambao helps Goyang Sono protect KBL playoff spot despite Carl Tamayo effort for Changwon LG

    A crucial win kept the playoff picture intact for the Goyang Sono Skygunners after they outlasted league leader Changwon LG Sakers, 74-70, in a tense battle in the Korean Basketball League on Wednesday.

     

    The victory allowed Goyang Sono to keep its grip on sixth place—the final postseason berth—with a balanced team effort that included another steady performance from Kevin Quiambao.

     

    Quiambao logged heavy minutes, staying on the floor for 38 minutes while contributing nine points, eight rebounds and five assists. His all-around effort helped the Skygunners improve to a 23-23 record as they continued their push to remain in the playoff zone.

     

    Across the court, fellow Filipino standout Carl Tamayo delivered a solid outing for Changwon LG, leading the Sakers with 13 points along with eight rebounds and three assists. Despite the loss, the Sakers remain on top of the standings with a 31-15 mark.

     

    Elsewhere in the league, the Anyang KGC tightened its hold on second place after edging the Seoul Samsung Thunders, 84-79.

     

    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 matchup featured several Filipino players, though playing time was uneven. Rhenz Abando saw limited action for the Red Boosters, playing just five minutes and finishing with a rebound, while Justin Gutang tried to spark Seoul with 14 points, four rebounds and four assists.

     

    The win pushed Anyang to a 29-16 record, keeping them within striking distance of Changwon in the standings, while Seoul fell deeper with a 13-32 slate.

     

    In another tight contest, the Busan KCC Egis escaped the Ulsan Hyundai Mobis Phoebus, 90-89, to extend their winning streak to three games and maintain fifth place.

     

    Filipino imports had minimal impact in that matchup. William Navarro played just two minutes and recorded two points and an assist for Busan, while Jake Figueroa did not see action for the third straight game for Ulsan.

     

    Busan improved to 24-21 with the narrow victory, while Ulsan slipped to 16-29 as the KBL season continues to tighten with the playoffs drawing closer.

     

    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 center Ramon Cao eager for another showdown with June Mar Fajardo

    Macau Black Knights center Ramon Cao eager for another showdown with June Mar Fajardo

    The arrival of guest teams in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup brings fresh matchups for the league’s established stars, and one of the most anticipated could take place in the paint.

    Ramon Cao, the towering center of the Macau Black Knights, has already circled a potential battle with June Mar Fajardo of the San Miguel Beermen.

    For Cao, the prospect of matching up again with the league’s most decorated center is more of a challenge than a concern.

     

    “From my experience last season, I definitely want to compete against June Mar Fajardo,” Cao said in an interview with Bilyonaryo News Channel’s sports program The Scorecard on Tuesday night.

     

    “He’s one of the biggest and strongest players I’ve played against, so I would love to give that a go again this season,” he added.

     

    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.

    Cao is no stranger to the physicality of the PBA. Last season, he suited up for Hong Kong Eastern during its stint in the midseason conference, giving him firsthand experience against some of the league’s premier big men.

     

    Still, facing Fajardo presents a different kind of test. The San Miguel cornerstone has long been regarded as one of the most dominant forces in the league, having captured a record nine Most Valuable Player awards while anchoring the Beermen’s interior play.

     

    Known for his size, strength, and polished post game, Fajardo has often dictated matchups inside the paint, forcing opposing centers to match both his physicality and endurance.

     

    With the Black Knights entering the conference as one of the guest squads, Cao believes the opportunity to go up against players of Fajardo’s caliber is part of what makes the tournament appealing.

     

    If their teams eventually meet on the court, the clash between the two big men could easily become one of the conference’s most intriguing battles in the low post.

     

    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!  

  • Ka Ching Boom Slot Review on OKBet: Fireworks-Themed Game With Wilds, Free Spins, and Bonus Rounds

    Ka Ching Boom Slot Review on OKBet: Fireworks-Themed Game With Wilds, Free Spins, and Bonus Rounds

    Developed by Playtech, Ka Ching Boom is a vibrant online slot that captures the excitement of fireworks and celebration through colorful visuals and rewarding gameplay mechanics. The game blends classic slot features with engaging bonus rounds, creating a festive atmosphere where players can chase big wins while enjoying lively graphics and sound effects.


    Available on OKBet, the slot features a 5×3 reel layout with multiple paylines that deliver frequent action. With its bright fireworks theme, lucky coins, and lantern symbols, the game offers a visually immersive experience designed to keep players entertained throughout every spin.


    With a competitive RTP and flexible betting options, Ka Ching Boom caters to both casual players and experienced slot enthusiasts looking for dynamic gameplay and exciting bonus features.


    Betting System and Gameplay Basics

    Ka Ching Boom follows a classic 5-reel slot structure with easy-to-understand mechanics that make it accessible for new players while still offering depth for seasoned slot fans.

    How to play:

    • Choose your preferred bet size based on your playing style.

    • Press Spin to start the reels.

    • Match symbols across the paylines from left to right to create winning combinations.

    • Watch for Wild symbols that substitute for regular symbols to complete winning lines.

    • Land Scatter symbols to trigger the Free Spins bonus round.

    The straightforward gameplay ensures players can jump right into the action while still enjoying exciting bonus opportunities.


    Symbols and Standard Payouts

    Ka Ching Boom features a mix of thematic and classic slot symbols that align with its festive celebration theme.


    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.



    High-value symbols:

    • Fireworks symbols – among the top-paying icons

    • Lucky coins and lanterns – premium symbols that offer bigger rewards

    Special symbols:

    • Wild Symbol – substitutes for other symbols to help complete winning paylines

    • Scatter Symbol – triggers Free Spins when enough appear on the reels

    Lower-value symbols:

    • Traditional slot icons and themed decorations that generate smaller payouts but help create frequent wins.

    Bonus Features

    Free Spins Feature


    Landing the required number of Scatter symbols activates Free Spins, giving players extra chances to win without using additional credits. During this bonus round, multipliers can appear, increasing the payout potential of winning combinations.


    Wild Symbol Advantage


    Wild symbols play a key role in boosting winning chances by replacing regular symbols on the reels, helping players complete paylines more easily.


    Interactive Bonus Rounds


    Ka Ching Boom includes special bonus mini-games that interrupt the base gameplay with interactive sequences where players can win additional rewards and prizes.


    Gamble Feature


    Players also have the option to risk their winnings through the gamble feature. By correctly guessing the outcome of a card-based game, players can potentially double their rewards — but a wrong guess means losing the prize.


    Gameplay Experience

    Ka Ching Boom stands out thanks to its lively fireworks theme and engaging sound design that creates a celebratory atmosphere. Combined with colorful visuals and interactive bonuses, the slot delivers a fast-paced and entertaining experience from start to finish.


    The game also offers adjustable betting and paylines, allowing players to tailor their strategy depending on their risk tolerance and budget.


    Play Ka Ching Boom on OKBet

    Whether you enjoy classic slot mechanics or exciting bonus rounds, Ka Ching Boom delivers a balanced mix of entertainment and winning potential.


    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!  

  • Hamstring injury delays Calvin Abueva’s Converge debut, FiberXers await scoring boost

    Hamstring injury delays Calvin Abueva’s Converge debut, FiberXers await scoring boost

    Fans eager to see Calvin Abueva suit up for the Converge FiberXers will have to wait a little longer.

     

    Head coach Delta Pineda revealed that the fiery forward is still nursing a hamstring injury, forcing the team to keep him sidelined for at least a few more games in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup of the Philippine Basketball Association.

     

    “Maybe two or three more games. Rest na muna,” Pineda said, explaining the team’s cautious approach as Abueva continues his recovery.

     

    Abueva missed Converge’s conference opener against the Macau Black Knights, a game the FiberXers still managed to take, 102-94, to begin their campaign on a winning note.

     

    Despite the absence of one of their most explosive weapons, Converge knows the kind of offensive punch waiting once Abueva finally takes the floor.

     

    Last season, the veteran forward emerged as the league’s top scorer during his stint with the Titan Ultra, averaging an impressive 23 points per game. His scoring spree included a massive 41-point outing, the highest single-game total of his career, highlighting the kind of firepower he can bring when fully healthy.

     

    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.

    That offensive ability is exactly what the FiberXers hope will elevate their game once Abueva returns. Known for his relentless energy and fearless attacking style, the 38-year-old could provide the scoring boost needed to push Converge to another level as the conference progresses.

     

    Pineda, however, chose to keep the mood light when discussing his veteran forward’s recovery, joking that time may finally be catching up with the longtime fan favorite.

     

    “Wala na may edad na. Akala niyo lang malakas pa, pero nangangatog na yung tuhod,” Pineda said with a chuckle.

     

    “Buti nga hindi uric acid.”

     

    The same hamstring issue also limited Abueva’s minutes during the recent PBA All-Star Game, where he only logged a brief appearance while representing the North Team.

     

    For now, Converge continues its early push in the conference while waiting for the moment Abueva can finally make his much-anticipated debut in a FiberXers uniform — a return the team hopes will ignite its offense and strengthen its bid in 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!  

  • Gilas Women overwhelmed by France, shift focus to Germany in World Cup qualifiers

    Gilas Women overwhelmed by France, shift focus to Germany in World Cup qualifiers

    The Philippines women’s national basketball team encountered a harsh welcome on the world stage after falling to powerhouse France women’s national basketball team, 115-66, to open their campaign in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament in Villeurbanne on Wednesday night (early Thursday morning in Manila).

     

    Facing the reigning 2024 Summer Olympics silver medalists, the Filipinas struggled to keep pace early as France imposed its size, speed and firepower from the opening quarter.

     

    The host nation quickly created separation and never looked back, building a commanding lead that reached as many as 51 points. France set the tone right away with a dominant first period that left the Philippines trailing, 24-9.

     

    One of the highlights of the night came from Dominique Malonga, who showcased her athleticism with a dunk against Gilas on her way to finishing with 21 points, nine rebounds and two steals.

     

    Malonga, who suits up for the Seattle Storm in the Women’s National Basketball Association, spearheaded the balanced French attack as the team began its push to return to the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup after placing seventh in the 2022 tournament.

     

    Despite the lopsided result, Gilas Women continued to battle through the final buzzer.

     

    Sumayah Sugapong paced the Philippines with 13 points, while veteran Afril Bernardino added 12 points and a team-high six rebounds in an effort to keep the Filipinas competitive.

     

    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 focus now quickly shifts to their next assignment against Germany women’s national basketball team, which opened its campaign with a convincing 76-49 victory over South Korea women’s national basketball team.

     

    Germany has already secured its place in the 2026 World Cup as tournament host but opted to compete in the qualifiers nonetheless, adding another formidable opponent for Gilas.

     

    The Philippines is battling in a tough group that also includes Nigeria women’s national basketball team and Colombia women’s national basketball team, with only two slots available for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup set to be held in Germany.

     

    Nigeria already holds a berth in the global tournament after ruling the FIBA Women’s AfroBasket.

     

    For Gilas Women, simply reaching the qualifying stage already marked a milestone. 

     

    The team secured its historic entry after finishing sixth in the 2025 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup, earning the Philippines its first-ever appearance in the World Cup qualifiers.

     

    Now facing some of the world’s elite teams, the Filipinas aim to use the experience as they continue their pursuit of a breakthrough 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!  

  • Poyos, Jurado rebounds UST; Canino triple-double keeps La Salle perfect over Nitura, Adamson 

    Poyos, Jurado rebounds UST; Canino triple-double keeps La Salle perfect over Nitura, Adamson 

    The scoring punch of Angge Poyos and Reg Jurado fueled a much-needed response from the UST Golden Tigresses as they turned back the UP Fighting Maroons women’s volleyball team in four sets, 16-25, 25-13, 25-19, 25-20, in UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament action Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    Still reeling from a straight-sets defeat to the Adamson Lady Falcons days earlier, UST leaned heavily on its offensive tandem to halt the slide and regain its rhythm in the tournament.

     

    Poyos spearheaded the charge with 24 points while contributing on the floor with seven digs and six receptions. Jurado complemented her teammate with 16 points as the Tigresses steadied themselves after dropping the opening set and eventually seized control of the match.

     

    The win lifted UST to its third victory in six outings, with Jurado commending the team’s response after the previous setback.

     

    Support also came from Jonna Perdido, who added 13 points along with steady floor defense, while Julia Balingit chipped in four points at crucial moments. Setter Cassie Carballo orchestrated the offense with 18 excellent sets while also contributing a point and three digs.

     

    UST’s composure late in the fourth set proved decisive. Protecting a slim advantage, the Tigresses strung together three straight points courtesy of Balingit, Perdido and Avril Bron to widen the gap and put the match out of reach.

     

    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.

    Although service miscues from both sides briefly halted the momentum, the Tigresses maintained their edge long enough to secure the bounce-back victory.

     

    For UP, Niña Ytang delivered 14 points while Jelai Gajero added 12 markers. Their efforts, however, could not prevent the Fighting Maroons from absorbing their second straight defeat and third loss in their last four games.

     

    Earlier in the day, the De La Salle Lady Spikers preserved their perfect record, surviving a gritty challenge from Adamson in a five-set thriller, 19-25, 25-20, 25-21, 13-25, 15-5.

     

    Shevana Laput delivered a career-best 26 points built on 19 attacks, six blocks and a service ace, while Angel Canino added 19 points along with all-around contributions on defense and reception.

     

    The Lady Spikers struggled to establish rhythm early but rediscovered their form in the deciding frame. Holding a narrow 7-5 advantage, La Salle unleashed a dominant finishing run, scoring eight unanswered points capped by consecutive attacks from Shane Reterta to seal their sixth consecutive victory.

     

    Despite committing more errors than Adamson, La Salle still managed to keep its unbeaten campaign intact, having dropped just three sets throughout the season so far.

     

    Adamson drew strong performances from Frances Mordi, who poured in 22 points, and Shaina Nitura, who finished with 21 points to go along with solid reception and defensive numbers.

     

    However, the Lady Falcons struggled to generate consistent offense in the deciding set, allowing the Lady Spikers to pull away and escape with the victory.

     

    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!  

  • Veteran core powers Gilas Women roster for FIBA World Cup qualifiers 

    Veteran core powers Gilas Women roster for FIBA World Cup qualifiers 

    Experience will be at the heart of the Philippines women’s national basketball team campaign as it heads into the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament in Lyon-Villeurbanne, France.

     

    With the challenge of facing some of the world’s top teams ahead, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas leaned on a veteran-heavy lineup, highlighting players who have already built chemistry through years of international competition.

     

    Among those expected to anchor the squad are longtime national team standouts Louna Ozar and Angel Surada, two key figures who have grown into dependable presences in the Gilas rotation. Their experience in high-pressure regional tournaments is seen as crucial as the Filipinas step onto a bigger global stage.

     

    Both players were part of the Philippines’ triumphant run in the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, where Gilas Women reclaimed the gold medal and reaffirmed their dominance in Southeast Asia. That championship core largely remains intact, with nine members of that squad returning for the upcoming qualifiers.

     

    Veteran leadership will also come from players such as Afril Bernardino, Janine Pontejos and Trina Guytingco, all of whom bring valuable international exposure and stability to the roster.

     

    The team’s blend of experience and youth is further complemented by emerging talents including Kacey Dela Rosa, Sophia Dignadice, Sarah Heyn and Ann Pingol, who are expected to provide energy and versatility.

     

    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.

    One of the most intriguing inclusions is Stefanie Berberabe. Previously classified as a naturalized player under the SEA Games eligibility rules, Berberabe was unable to suit up during the Philippines’ title run in Thailand. Her presence now gives Gilas an additional scoring and playmaking option heading into the qualifiers.

     

    Completing the lineup are Kent Pastrana, the Most Valuable Player of the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Basketball Finals, and fellow rising prospect Sumayah Sugapong.

     

    Gilas Women begin their campaign against host squad France women’s national basketball team, the first of several daunting matchups against elite opponents.

     

    For Ozar, Surada and the rest of the veteran core, the upcoming tournament represents another opportunity to lead the Philippines beyond regional success and closer to the sport’s biggest 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!  

  • Streaking Creamline, surging Akari collide in pivotal PVL showdown for Top 4 race

    Streaking Creamline, surging Akari collide in pivotal PVL showdown for Top 4 race

    Momentum meets urgency when the Creamline Cool Smashers and the Akari Chargers square off in a crucial battle in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference on Thursday at the FilOil Playtime Centre.

     

    The 4 p.m. matchup carries significant implications in the race for the coveted Top 4 positions, with both teams entering the contest on contrasting yet equally compelling runs as the elimination round nears its critical stretch.

     

    Creamline heads into the clash as one of the tournament’s hottest teams. The 10-time champions have strung together five straight victories since absorbing a straight-sets defeat to the PLDT High Speed Hitters last Feb. 5, regaining the rhythm that has long defined the league powerhouse.

     

    Still, the Cool Smashers were recently reminded that nothing comes easy in the conference. Their most recent outing turned into a test of resolve as they survived a gritty five-set encounter against the Nxled Chameleons last weekend, pushing their record to 5-1 and keeping them firmly in the upper tier of the standings behind PLDT (6-1) and the Cignal HD Spikers (5-2).

     

    Waiting for them this time, however, is an Akari side that has rediscovered its form at just the right moment.

     

    After stumbling through a three-game skid earlier in the conference, the Chargers have steadied themselves with three consecutive victories, the latest a four-set win over the Capital1 Solar Spikers. The surge has allowed Akari to climb back into contention despite holding a 3-3 record that currently places them seventh in the standings.

     

    That position, however, remains far from secure — or hopeless.

     

    A victory over Creamline could dramatically reshape the standings and propel the Chargers into the fourth spot, keeping their qualifying round aspirations very much alive as they prepare for their remaining elimination matches against the Galeries Tower Highrisers and the Farm Fresh Foxies.

     

    Akari coach Tina Salak stressed that the team’s resurgence has come from a collective effort and a renewed commitment to their standards.

     

    “Again, total team effort. Not because nag-start kami ng bad, all throughout na ‘yun. Nag-set kami ng standards na hindi kami dapat aabot na papahirapan ‘yung sarili namin at the end. Dapat, pare-pareho kami ng goal. Kung ma-achieve namin yun, pahirapan kami pataas,” Salak said.

     

    On the opposite bench, Creamline mentor Sherwin Meneses remains cautious despite his team’s impressive winning run, acknowledging there are still areas the Cool Smashers must refine as the competition tightens.

     

     

    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 nightcap at 6:30 p.m. will feature another matchup with teams eager to reverse their fortunes.

     

    The Nxled Chameleons aim to halt a troubling four-game losing streak when they face the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles, who are also looking to end a similar slump.

     

    Nxled came close to snapping its skid in its last outing, pushing Creamline to a demanding five-set duel before falling short in the decisive moments where experience ultimately tipped the balance.

     

    Coach Ettore Guidetti is expected to lean on the core that powered the Chameleons to three straight wins at the start of the conference, led by Brooke Van Sickle, MJ Phillips and Myla Pablo, with support from EJ Laure and the rest of the rotation.

     

     

    Meanwhile, ZUS Coffee will rely on a determined mix of veterans and rising talents, including Jovelyn Gonzaga, Thea Gagate and playmaker Cloanne Mondonedo, as the Thunderbelles attempt to climb out of the bottom of the standings with their 1-6 record.

     

    With no team facing elimination yet, every match in the closing stretch of the preliminaries carries added weight.

     

    The tournament’s unique format will send teams ranked fifth to tenth into a Play-In phase, where they will battle in knockout matches for the final two semifinal spots. Meanwhile, the Top 4 squads will duel for the first two Final Four berths, with the losers getting another chance against the Play-In survivors.

     

    With positioning becoming increasingly crucial, Thursday’s clashes could play a defining role in shaping the path to the semifinals.

     

    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!  

  • Terrafirma guard Mark Nonoy considered AWOL ahead of PBA Commissioner’s Cup

    Terrafirma guard Mark Nonoy considered AWOL ahead of PBA Commissioner’s Cup

    The Terrafirma Dyip are heading into the new conference with a cloud of uncertainty surrounding one of their young guards.

     

    Team sources revealed that Mark Nonoy has not reported to practices for months and is now considered AWOL (Absent Without Official Leave) as the franchise prepares for its campaign in the Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup.

     

    According to insiders, the 5-foot-9 playmaker has been absent from team activities since the Dyip resumed preparations in early January. His prolonged absence has also meant that he remains unavailable as Terrafirma opens its conference schedule against Titan Ultra at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

     

    “Si Nonoy considered AWOL since January,” said a source familiar with the situation.

     

    The 25-year-old guard has reportedly been unreachable for much of that stretch, leaving the team without clarity regarding his status just days before the season tips off.

     

    Nonoy’s absence is not the only roster concern for Terrafirma. The Dyip’s 14-man lineup for the conference opener will also be without forward Louie Sangalang, who has emerged as one of the club’s most reliable big men in recent seasons.

     

    Neither the team nor the league has officially addressed Sangalang’s situation, although sources said the rugged forward is currently serving a suspension related to an unspecified violation.

     

    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.

    Meanwhile, speculation has swirled around Nonoy’s whereabouts. Unverified posts circulating on social media appear to show the former De La Salle Green Archers and UST Growling Tigers guard playing in unsanctioned local tournaments in Iloilo during the league break.

     

    Under PBA rules, active players are prohibited from participating in so-called “ligang labas” unless they receive clearance from both the league and their mother team.

     

    Sources confirmed that Nonoy traveled to Iloilo during the holiday period, though the circumstances behind his extended absence remain unclear.

     

    There have also been whispers suggesting that frustration over delayed compensation may have played a role in his decision to stay away from the team, though neither the Dyip nor league officials have commented on the claim.

     

    “Last time ko siyang nakausap sabi niya pabalik na siya ng Manila,” said one person close to the former UAAP Rookie of the Year.

     

    In the meantime, Terrafirma has already withheld the salary of Nonoy, who still has one year remaining on his contract with the franchise.

     

    The guard was selected 10th overall by the Dyip in the Season 49 rookie draft but only joined the team after completing his prior commitment with the Iloilo United Royals in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League.

     

    As the Dyip begin another conference, the team now faces an unexpected storyline off the court — one involving a young guard whose absence continues to raise more questions than answers.

     

    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!