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Category: Basketball

  • Josh Reyes refuses to give excuses after TNT suffers first PBA loss to Titan Ultra

    Josh Reyes refuses to give excuses after TNT suffers first PBA loss to Titan Ultra

    TNT Tropang Giga suffered its first setback of the 2026 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Governors’ Cup after absorbing a 103-87 defeat to the Titan Ultra Giant Risers at the Ynares Center in Antipolo on Wednesday, July 22.

     

    The loss snapped TNT’s unbeaten start to the conference, with the defending powerhouse struggling to match Titan Ultra’s relentless pace throughout the contest. Playing with a depleted roster due to injuries to several key players, the Tropang Giga found themselves chasing the game for long stretches before eventually running out of answers against the Giant Risers’ transition attack.

     

    Adding to TNT’s woes was the ejection of head coach Chot Reyes with 9:29 remaining in the fourth quarter after being assessed two technical fouls. His departure forced assistant coach Josh Reyes to take over the coaching duties as the Tropang Giga attempted to mount a late rally, but Titan Ultra continued to control the tempo and pulled away for a convincing 16-point victory.

     

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    Despite the difficult circumstances, Josh Reyes refused to use injuries or the absence of several regulars as an excuse for the team’s first loss of the season. Instead, he credited Titan Ultra for dictating the pace of the game and exposing TNT’s lack of conditioning following an extended offseason.

     

    “Hindi. Parati naman emotions high yun eh. I think it’s as simple as we are not in shape yet. And we couldn’t keep up with the running. Titan did a good job turning the game into a track meet, taking advantage of their quickness and they got a lot of fastbreak points,” Reyes said after the game.

     

     

    Reyes acknowledged that while TNT’s offensive execution was not entirely problematic, its inability to slow down Titan Ultra’s transition offense ultimately proved costly.

    “It just snowballed from there. Our offense wasn’t as bad as it may seem. But we just couldn’t keep up with the running game. In the end, we couldn’t defend the next group anymore. It’s easy to have that as an excuse, we are not complete, we are not in shape yet coming off our extended break. I think that’s the biggest challenge eh. It’s not basketball per se, it’s the tediousness of everything.”

     

     

    The veteran assistant explained that the physical and mental demands of competing almost continuously over the past several conferences have taken their toll on the franchise. Rather than focusing solely on the tactical aspects of the game, Reyes emphasized that maintaining motivation and consistency has become one of the team’s biggest challenges after enjoying sustained success over recent seasons.

     

    “We have been going on without breaks for five conferences. So the challenge for us is how to get up every day, practice and get better. That we still have that eagerness and hunger to make ourselves better every day despite going through this for five or six conferences already,” he added.

     

     

    Fortunately for TNT, relief is on the horizon. The PBA will observe a lengthy break from August 15 to October 6 to accommodate the 19th Asian Games, providing teams with an opportunity to recover, regroup, and address areas that need improvement before the conference resumes.

     

    Reyes believes the upcoming hiatus will be invaluable for the Tropang Giga, particularly as they work toward getting their injured players healthy while improving the team’s overall conditioning. However, he stressed that TNT must first navigate the remaining games before the league pauses and remain in a favorable position in the standings.

     

    “Good thing there’s a break coming up. But kailangan namin matawid yun eh. So from tomorrow till the break we need to be able to hold the fort and still manage a respectable record,” Reyes concluded.

     

     

    Despite suffering its first defeat of the conference, TNT remains one of the early contenders in the Governors’ Cup and will be eager to quickly bounce back. The Tropang Giga will have little time to dwell on the loss as they prepare for another crucial assignment against the Terrafirma Dyip on Saturday, July 25, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

     

    A victory over Terrafirma would allow TNT to regain momentum and reinforce its position near the top of the standings before entering the stretch leading up to the league’s extended break.

     

     

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  • LeBron James still undecided as long-time agent Rich Paul addresses NBA future

    LeBron James still undecided as long-time agent Rich Paul addresses NBA future

    LeBron James’ next move remains one of the biggest storylines of the NBA offseason, with speculation continuing to surround the four-time NBA champion after his departure from the Los Angeles Lakers.

     

    The NBA’s all-time leading scorer has been linked with several franchises as he weighs the next chapter of his illustrious career. Among the teams reportedly interested are his former clubs, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, as well as the Philadelphia 76ers, all of whom could offer James an opportunity to contend for another championship.


    Despite the growing rumors, James has yet to announce where he intends to play next season.
    The 41-year-old recently addressed his future during a live appearance for his podcast, Mind the Gap, telling fans that he has not made a final decision but expects to do so in the near future.

     

    While he acknowledged the widespread interest surrounding his free agency, James emphasized that he intends to carefully evaluate his options before making one of the most significant decisions of his career.

     

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    Adding further clarity to the situation, James’ longtime agent, Rich Paul, stressed that there is no timetable for the superstar’s decision and that no outside pressure will influence the process.
    Speaking on the Game Over podcast, Paul reiterated that James will make his decision on his own terms.

    “We are not going to be rushed. It’s his choice to make, and when he makes the choice, he will make it. There’s been several people to call and say, ‘Hey, Rich, is there anything more we should be doing? We could be doing?’ And my answer is, ‘No. We don’t need you to go above and beyond about anything. We understand it. It’s clear. All the messages have been sent,’” Paul said.


    Paul’s comments suggest that while multiple organizations have already expressed serious interest in signing the future Hall of Famer, James and his camp are taking a measured approach before committing to a franchise.


    Wherever James lands, the move is expected to reshape the NBA landscape. Even entering his 24th professional season, he remains one of the league’s most productive players and an elite playmaker capable of transforming a team’s championship aspirations.


    Last season, James once again defied expectations by producing All-NBA-caliber numbers while continuing to serve as the focal point of the Lakers’ offense. His durability, basketball IQ, and ability to impact games on both ends of the floor have allowed him to remain among the NBA’s elite despite being the oldest active player in the league.


    A return to Cleveland would mark a homecoming to the franchise where he won the Cavaliers’ first NBA championship in 2016, while a reunion with Miami would see him rejoin the organization with which he captured back-to-back titles in 2012 and 2013. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia 76ers have also emerged as a potential destination as they continue their pursuit of another superstar to bolster their championship ambitions.


    For now, however, James appears content to let the process unfold naturally. With Rich Paul making it clear that no decision will be rushed, the basketball world will continue to wait as one of the greatest players in NBA history determines where the final chapter of his legendary career will be written.

     

     

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  • Gilas Pilipinas falls in FIBA rankings, eyes August window for rebound 

    Gilas Pilipinas falls in FIBA rankings, eyes August window for rebound 

    The cost of a difficult July has now been reflected in the latest FIBA Men’s World Rankings.

    After enduring a winless campaign in the third window of the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers, Gilas Pilipinas slipped three spots to No. 39 in the updated global rankings.

     

    The drop came after the Filipinos suffered consecutive defeats against two of Oceania’s powerhouses, first falling 106-102 in overtime to New Zealand before absorbing a 92-49 setback against Australia.

     

    Despite the slide, the Philippines remains among Asia’s higher-ranked nations, sitting seventh in the continental standings.

     

    Australia continues to lead the Asian zone after staying at No. 7 in the world, although the Boomers also slipped one place despite victories over Guam and Gilas during the qualifying window.

     

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    The Philippines, meanwhile, avoided a steeper decline compared to some of the biggest movers in the latest rankings. Kuwait experienced one of the sharpest drops, falling from No. 109 to No. 118, while South Africa slipped from No. 110 to No. 119.

     

    With the rankings now updated, Gilas quickly shifts its attention to the next opportunity to regain lost ground.

     

    The national team returns to action during the fourth qualifying window in August, where it will host Jordan on Aug. 28 before facing Iran two days later.

     

    Strong performances in those two crucial home games would not only boost the Philippines’ World Cup qualifying campaign but also give Gilas a chance to climb back up the FIBA rankings after its July setback.

     

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  • Converge’s blazing start faces biggest test yet against San Miguel 

    Converge’s blazing start faces biggest test yet against San Miguel 

    Four wins against struggling teams can build confidence, but beating San Miguel would send a far stronger message.

     

    That opportunity now stands in front of Converge as the unbeaten FiberXers put their flawless start on the line against the equally undefeated Beermen in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup on Wednesday night at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

     

    Tip-off is set at 7:30 p.m., with both clubs entering the marquee Group A showdown still without a loss. Converge carries a 3-0 record, while San Miguel has opened its campaign at 2-0.

     

    The FiberXers have looked like a rejuvenated squad after their disappointing exit in the Commissioner’s Cup eliminations, rolling past the Titan Ultra Giant Risers, surviving Terrafirma in a thriller, and then overwhelming the Macau Giant Pandas with a 149-point explosion.

     

    But none of those opponents possessed the pedigree of a San Miguel squad loaded with proven stars and reinforced by high-scoring import George King.

     

    The Beermen have also enjoyed a comfortable start, dispatching Macau, 123-109, before fending off Terrafirma, 109-104, to set up what could be the first true measuring stick game for both contenders.   

     

    At the heart of the contest will be a battle that could define the evening.

     

    Justin Arana has emerged as arguably the hottest local player in the conference, erupting for back-to-back career-best performances with 31 points and 11 rebounds against Terrafirma before raising the bar again with 39 points and 12 boards against Macau.

     

    Alongside fellow young big man Justine Baltazar, Arana now gets the opportunity to test himself against the league’s gold standard at center—nine-time MVP June Mar Fajardo.

     

    Converge, however, will need more than Arana’s brilliance if it hopes to remain unbeaten.

     

    Import Jalen Hudson has struggled to find consistency despite the team’s perfect record, averaging only seven points over his last two outings, including a quiet two-point performance against Terrafirma.

     

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    The FiberXers have managed to overcome those struggles thanks to their balanced local production and relentless energy, qualities that were evident even during Arana’s animated exchange with Archie Concepcion on the bench in their previous game.

     

    “We just had an argument but it was nothing, not a big deal,” Arana said, underscoring the competitive environment within Converge.

     

    Against San Miguel, though, internal intensity alone won’t be enough.

     

    The Beermen boast one of the deepest lineups in the league, with King expected to shoulder the scoring load alongside a veteran core that has repeatedly delivered on the biggest stage.

     

    For Converge, Wednesday presents more than another chance to improve to 4-0.

     

    It is an opportunity to prove that its unbeaten run is more than a product of favorable matchups and that it belongs among the league’s legitimate championship contenders.

     

    Only one unbeaten team will leave Antipolo still perfect. The winner may also walk away with something just as valuable—the belief that it can stand atop Group A.

     

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  • Beau Belga opens up on Gian Mamuyac trade: ‘Malalim pinagsamahan namin’ 

    Beau Belga opens up on Gian Mamuyac trade: ‘Malalim pinagsamahan namin’ 

    For Beau Belga, Rain or Shine’s recent trade of Gian Mamuyac was more than just another roster move—it meant saying goodbye to someone he had come to treat like family.

     

    Having spent four seasons together with the Elasto Painters, Belga admitted that Mamuyac’s departure to Phoenix Super LPG left an emotional void inside the team, even if he understands that trades are simply part of life in the PBA.

     

    “Malalim pinagsamahan namin,” the veteran forward said. “That kid is very close sa akin.”

    The trade sent Mamuyac, along with a Season 53 second-round pick, to the Fuel Masters in exchange for Phoenix’s first-round selection in the same draft.

     

    Just days later, the two sides met for the first time since the deal, with Rain or Shine coming away with a 105-98 victory over Phoenix. While the game marked Mamuyac’s first matchup against the franchise that drafted him, it also became a reunion with teammates who had shared the court—and the locker room—with him for years.

     

    Before tip-off, Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao even joked that Belga had requested to be on the floor whenever Mamuyac checked into the game, just to match up against his former teammate.

     

    The veteran, however, never got that opportunity after remaining on the bench throughout the contest.

     

    Instead, Belga settled for another kind of interaction—one that reflected the friendship they had built long before the trade became official.

     

    He revealed that, looking back, he had unknowingly been teasing Mamuyac during practices in the days leading up to the deal.

     

    “Binibiro ko nga siya the past few days before he got traded. Parang out of nowhere, bigla ko na lang kinakanti. Sabi ko, ‘Kaya pala sinasaktan na kita kasi mate-trade ka na.’ ‘Yun ang biro ko sa kanya. Sabi niya, ‘Oo nga, bakit mo ako sinasaktan nung mga nakaraang araw,’” Belga said.

     

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    Even after the final buzzer, the playful relationship remained unchanged.

     

    Belga was seen jokingly throwing a knee toward Mamuyac before pulling him toward the Rain or Shine bench, drawing laughs from those nearby and showing that while uniforms may change, friendships do not.

     

    “I’m really close to everybody in this team,” Belga said. “Kumbaga masakit na mawalan ka ng teammate na close sayo but that’s how life is sa PBA.”

     

    Belga knows that reality better than most.

     

    Before finding a long-term home with Rain or Shine, the 39-year-old went through multiple trades himself. Those experiences helped him understand that player movement is part of the business, even when emotions are involved.

     

    Rather than dwelling on Mamuyac’s exit, Belga chose to remember everything the former team captain brought to the franchise, particularly the leadership he displayed during his four-year stay.

     

    “Maganda pinagsamahan namin ni Gian. Nothing to be like sasama ang loob. Magkasama kami matagal. Kami nag-draft sa kanya. Walang masamang tinapay. And that’s how life is sa PBA.”

    “Eh ako, bago ako nag-settle sa Rain or Shine, tatlong beses ako na-trade. Walang masamang tinapay sa kanya,” Belga said.

     

    For Belga, the trade may have ended their partnership as teammates, but it did nothing to change the respect and friendship they built over the years.

     

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  • Jordan Clarkson embraces championship role with New York as Knicks resign veteran guard for minimum 

    Jordan Clarkson embraces championship role with New York as Knicks resign veteran guard for minimum 

    Jordan Clarkson’s career has entered a new chapter—one defined less by scoring titles and more by championship basketball.

     

    Just weeks after helping the New York Knicks capture the 2026 NBA championship, the Filipino-American guard wasted little time committing to another run, re-signing with the franchise on a one-year, $3.9 million veteran’s minimum contract.

     

    For Clarkson, the move says plenty about where he is in his career.

     

    Once known as one of the league’s premier microwave scorers and the NBA Sixth Man of the Year with the Utah Jazz, the 34-year-old has fully embraced becoming a veteran presence on a title contender, sacrificing individual numbers for a chance to keep winning.

     

    The shift was evident throughout the Knicks’ championship campaign.

     

    Although his role was smaller than in previous seasons, Clarkson consistently provided valuable minutes off the bench with his experience, shot-making, and composure. One of his biggest moments came in Game 3 of the NBA Finals, where he scored 10 points to help New York secure a pivotal victory that swung momentum in the series.

     

    His timely production throughout the playoffs gave the Knicks another reliable option in the backcourt, complementing a roster built around its younger stars.

     

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    Clarkson finished the 2025-26 regular season averaging 8.6 points in 17 minutes per game, both career lows since entering the NBA. Rather than chasing a larger contract or a bigger offensive role elsewhere in free agency, he chose continuity with the reigning champions.

     

    The decision reflects a player who now values fit and winning over statistics.

     

    A little more than a month after celebrating the first NBA championship of his career, Clarkson ensured he would remain in New York as the Knicks begin preparations for their title defense.

     

    The veteran guard also continues to be one of the Philippines’ biggest basketball ambassadors, with fans closely following every step of his NBA journey while hoping to see him wear the Gilas Pilipinas jersey again in future international competitions.

     

    Now entering another season with championship expectations, Clarkson’s mission has changed. Instead of carrying the scoring load, he will once again be tasked with providing leadership, stability, and timely contributions for a Knicks team looking to build a dynasty.

     

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  • Gian Mamuyac falls short against former team as Rain or Shine beats Phoenix

    Gian Mamuyac falls short against former team as Rain or Shine beats Phoenix

    Gian Mamuyac’s first game against his former team ended in disappointment as the Phoenix Fuel Masters absorbed their first loss of the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup, falling 105-98 to the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters at the Ynares Center in Antipolo on Tuesday, July 21.


    Facing the franchise he represented for the past four seasons, Mamuyac logged 21 minutes and finished with eight points, two rebounds, and two assists. While the 27-year-old showed flashes of his trademark energy and versatility, his efforts were not enough to prevent Phoenix from suffering its first setback of the conference against a Rain or Shine squad that executed more efficiently down the stretch.

     

     

    Despite the emotional nature of the matchup, Mamuyac remained composed after the game, acknowledging that the Elasto Painters simply played the better brand of basketball on the night.

               

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    “Of course, it’s a different feeling because I have been with them for the last four years. They were the better team. Hopefully we will be better the next time we face them,” Mamuyac said.

     

     

    The contest marked Mamuyac’s first meeting with Rain or Shine since being traded to Phoenix just days earlier after contract negotiations between the two sides failed to produce a new agreement. The move ended a four-year stint with the Elasto Painters, where he established himself as one of the team’s most dependable two-way guards and became a key contributor under veteran head coach Yeng Guiao.

     

    Although he now wears Phoenix colors, Mamuyac made it clear that his respect and appreciation for his former organization remain unchanged. Before tip-off, he took time to approach Guiao, exchanging greetings and wishing his longtime mentor well in a gesture that reflected the strong relationship they built throughout his stay with the franchise.


    “Off the court, we obviously have a good relationship. When I went to coach Yeng, I wished him good luck and blessed him to show my respect and he smiled back. And during the game, I can hear Kuya Beau shout something. But off the court, we have a good relationship,” he added.


    Those friendships, however, were put on hold once the opening whistle sounded. Mamuyac competed with the same intensity that characterized his years with Rain or Shine, but the Elasto Painters ultimately had enough firepower to fend off Phoenix and hand the Fuel Masters their first defeat of the conference.


    For Phoenix, the loss serves as an early test after a promising start to its Governors’ Cup campaign. With Mamuyac still adjusting to a new system and building chemistry with his teammates, the Fuel Masters remain optimistic that their performances will improve as the tournament progresses.


    Mamuyac echoed that optimism, expressing confidence that Phoenix will be in a stronger position should the two teams meet again later in the conference.

     

     

    The Fuel Masters will look to bounce back and return to the win column when they take on the Blackwater Bossing on Tuesday, July 28, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, while Rain or Shine aims to build on the momentum generated by its victory over one of the conference’s early contenders.

     

     

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  • Chris Newsome’s last-second heroics rescue Meralco after Blackwater’s furious fightback 

    Chris Newsome’s last-second heroics rescue Meralco after Blackwater’s furious fightback 

    For nearly three quarters, Meralco looked poised to cruise to another victory. Instead, the Bolts found themselves clinging to survival before Chris Newsome delivered the decisive blow.

     

    Newsome scored the go-ahead basket with just 3.9 seconds remaining as Meralco escaped with a tense 116-114 victory over Blackwater in the PBA Season 50 Governor’s Cup on Tuesday, July 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

     

    The win was anything but comfortable for the Bolts, who squandered an 18-point advantage before relying on a perfectly executed final possession to improve to 2-1 in Group B.

     

    After seeing their once-commanding 110-92 lead disappear, Meralco turned to its veterans in crunch time. Chris Banchero pushed the ball up the floor following a defensive stop and found a cutting Newsome for an inside finish that restored the lead at 116-114 with only three seconds left.

     

    Blackwater had one last opportunity, but Meralco’s defense held firm to preserve the victory and hand the Bossing their first defeat in Group B.

     

    Newsome finished with 16 points, four assists, and three rebounds, but his final basket proved to be the difference in a game that shifted dramatically in the closing minutes.

     

    Import Antonio Hester paced the Bolts with a double-double of 25 points and 12 rebounds, knocking down three four-pointers to anchor the offense. CJ Cansino chipped in 15 points, while Clifford Hodge added 14.

     

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    The game appeared headed toward a comfortable Meralco win after the Bolts built a 17-point cushion entering the closing stretch. However, Blackwater refused to fold.

     

    Trailing 113-103 with 5:23 left, the Bossing mounted a spirited comeback behind import Kentrell Barkley, whose basket sparked a 7-0 run that trimmed the deficit to 113-110 with 3:56 remaining. The rally set up a frantic finish that erased nearly all of Meralco’s earlier dominance.

     

    The Bolts, however, came up with their biggest defensive play of the night by stopping Barkley on Blackwater’s final offensive possession before Banchero ignited the fast break that led to Newsome’s winning basket.

     

    “I saw New and it was natural. I threw it to him and he had a good finish. I thought New did a great job tonight as well, defending their import,” Banchero said.

     

    Despite the victory, Meralco acknowledged there were lessons to be learned after allowing Blackwater back into the contest.

     

    “When you’re up 17 and crumble, that’s not what we want to do. We’ll look at everything in the next practice. When you’re up by 17, you have to figure out how to put that team away,” Banchero added.

     

    Head coach Luigi Trillo also credited Blackwater’s resilience after nearly pulling off the comeback.

    “You have to give Blackwater credit. We were up 17 points in the third and they didn’t quit. Good na lang that we’re able to shoot the ball from that pass to New (Newsome),” said Trillo.

     

    For Blackwater, Sedrick Barefield led all local scorers with 29 points, while Barkley contributed 28. RK Ilagan finished with 20 points, and Dalph Panopio added 11 as the Bossing slipped to their first loss of the conference.

     

    Both teams return to action on Friday, July 24. Blackwater faces Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in the main game, while Meralco takes on Magnolia as the Bolts seek to build on their second straight victory.

     

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  • Reunion with a twist: Gian Mamuyac braces for emotional showdown against Rain or Shine

    Reunion with a twist: Gian Mamuyac braces for emotional showdown against Rain or Shine

    Just days after being traded, Gian Mamuyac finds himself in unfamiliar territory as he prepares to face the only PBA team he had ever known. But with the Phoenix Fuel Masters chasing a fourth straight victory, sentiment will have to take a backseat when they battle the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters on Tuesday.

     

    The matchup marks Mamuyac’s first game against the franchise that selected him fifth overall in the 2022 PBA Draft and helped shape him into one of the league’s premier two-way guards. After spending four seasons with the Elasto Painters, the Ateneo standout was dealt to Phoenix in exchange for a future first-round pick, ending an era that few saw coming.

     

    While the emotions are inevitable, Mamuyac insists his focus remains on helping Phoenix continue its impressive start to the Governors’ Cup. The Fuel Masters have opened the conference with three consecutive victories, and the newest addition is eager to contribute to a team that has quickly emerged as one of the early contenders.

     

    “It’s definitely going to be different,” Mamuyac admitted ahead of the reunion, acknowledging that facing former teammates and coaches won’t be easy. Despite the familiarity, he expects no favors from the squad he once called home.

     

    That sentiment is shared by Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao, who coached Mamuyac throughout his PBA career. Known for his demanding style, Guiao joked that there would be no warm welcome for his former player once the opening tip is tossed. Instead, the veteran mentor promised the same physical, hard-nosed defense that has long defined the Elasto Painters.

     

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    Former teammates have also been quick to remind Mamuyac that friendships will be put on hold for 48 minutes. Some even teased the former team captain about making sure he earns every basket, a sign of the mutual respect built during their years together.

     

    For Phoenix, however, the timing of Mamuyac’s arrival couldn’t be better. The Fuel Masters have looked revitalized under head coach Charles Tiu, combining disciplined defense with balanced offense to race to a 3-0 record. Adding a versatile defender and proven playmaker like Mamuyac only strengthens a roster that has quickly become one of the league’s biggest surprises.

     

    Mamuyac’s familiarity with Rain or Shine’s system could also prove valuable. Having practiced under Guiao for years, he understands the Elasto Painters’ defensive schemes, tendencies, and personnel as well as anyone on the Phoenix roster. Still, he knows that knowledge alone won’t guarantee success against a team that prides itself on preparation and toughness.

     

    Beyond the tactical battle, Tuesday’s contest carries plenty of personal significance. Mamuyac recently posted a heartfelt farewell to Rain or Shine, thanking the organization, coaches, teammates, and fans for believing in him throughout his first four professional seasons. Now, he’ll stand on the opposite bench for the first time, hoping to begin a successful new chapter while honoring the memories he made with his former club.

     

    As Phoenix looks to stay unbeaten and Rain or Shine aims to spoil the Fuel Masters’ momentum, all eyes will be on Mamuyac. For one night, the former Elasto Painter becomes the opponent and one of the biggest storylines of the young PBA Governors’ Cup season.

     

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  • Mike Phillips begins Japan chapter, signs with Kyoto Hannaryz in B.League 

    Mike Phillips begins Japan chapter, signs with Kyoto Hannaryz in B.League 

    Mike Phillips’ rapid rise has taken him from the UAAP hardwood to the Gilas Pilipinas frontcourt. Now, it has opened the door to one of Asia’s top professional leagues.

     

    The 24-year-old Filipino-American forward officially signed with the Kyoto Hannaryz for the 2026-27 B.League season, marking another milestone in a career that has gathered momentum over the past year.

     

    The Japanese club announced Phillips’ arrival on Tuesday, making him the latest Filipino talent to continue his development overseas.

     

    “I’m truly honored and grateful for the opportunity to join the Kyoto Hannaryz organization and the B.LEAGUE,” said Phillips.

     

    His move became possible after representing Gilas Pilipinas during Window 3 of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, fulfilling the requirements to compete in the B.League as an Asian Quota player.

     

    Phillips made the most of his opportunity with the national team, averaging 4.0 points and 8.5 rebounds while earning praise for his relentless energy and hustle. Earlier this year, FIBA also granted him local player status, officially clearing him to suit up for the Philippines in international competitions.

     

    Before making the jump overseas, Phillips built an impressive collegiate résumé with De La Salle University.

     

    During his five-year stay with the Green Archers, he helped deliver two UAAP championships and ended his collegiate career on a high note by capturing the Finals MVP award. In his final season, he averaged 12.58 points, 14.58 rebounds, 2.68 assists, and 1.32 steals per contest.

     

    Japan is also familiar territory for Phillips.

     

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    He previously competed there with La Salle during the World University Basketball Series, an experience that left a lasting impression and ultimately made his return even more meaningful.

     

    “During my college years, I had the chance to play in several tournaments in Japan, and those experiences left a strong impression on me. I’m excited to return and experience the passion of basketball in Japan once again,” he recalled.

     

    Phillips also began his professional career with the San Juan Knights in the MPBL, where he averaged 8.4 points and 10.7 rebounds in 10 appearances before deciding to pursue an overseas opportunity.

     

    His family believes the move is another important step in his long-term development.

     

    “The Phillips Family is immensely grateful to everyone from La Salle who has poured knowledge and support into Mike over the years, SBP for allowing the great honor to represent the flag and country, and San Juan Knights for their utmost professionalism and support with this decision,” expressed Mike’s older brother, Ben.

     

    “We believe this will allow Mike to take a great step forward in his career to develop as a player and as a young man, and be able to bring a heightened level of play whenever he is called to serve Gilas, and when he will be able to return to the PBA in the future if hopefully they would accept him.”

     

    Phillips also adds another Filipino connection to the Kyoto franchise, becoming the third Asian Quota player in Hannaryz history after Matthew Wright and Jamie Malonzo.

     

    The Hannaryz are coming off a 28-32 campaign that saw them finish 20th in the 26-team B.League, and Phillips hopes to help the club climb the standings while continuing his own growth as a professional.

     

    “I’m looking forward to giving my all every day alongside my teammates and competing hard for the Kyoto fans and community throughout the season,” expressed Mike, who is represented by Tre Sports Management.

     

    “Thank you very much for your support. I can’t wait to see everyone in Kyoto, and I hope we can have a great season together.”

     

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