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Category: Basketball

  • Kiefer Ravena retires from Gilas Pilipinas after long international career

    Kiefer Ravena retires from Gilas Pilipinas after long international career

    Veteran guard Kiefer Ravena has officially closed the chapter on his international basketball career, announcing that his time representing the Philippine men’s national basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, has come to an end.

     

    After more than a decade of wearing the national colors at various levels, Ravena said he is ready to step aside and make way for the next generation of Filipino players. The 32-year-old guard reflected on his journey with the national team, describing his experience as a memorable and rewarding chapter of his career.

     

    “I’m done with my career with the national team. It has been fun,” Ravena said to the media while attending Alex Eala’s “Play Mind Games” meet-and-greet event at Nike Fort in Taguig on Monday, July 13.

     

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    Ravena’s Gilas Pilipinas journey began long before he became a fixture in the senior national team. He first represented the country at the youth level in 2009 with the Philippine men’s national Under-17 basketball team, beginning a long association with international basketball that would see him compete in major tournaments across different age groups and formats.

     

    Over the years, Ravena became one of the most recognizable figures in Philippine basketball, known for his leadership, competitiveness, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations. He eventually made the transition to the senior national team, becoming a key contributor in Gilas Pilipinas’ campaigns in international competitions.

     

    His final appearance for the national team came during the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, which was hosted by the Philippines. Ravena played five games in the tournament, averaging 2.6 points and 1.8 assists per game as part of the Gilas squad that competed against some of the world’s top basketball nations.

     

    However, following the transition from former head coach Chot Reyes to current mentor Tim Cone, Ravena found himself outside the national team rotation. Despite calls from some supporters for his return due to his experience and familiarity with international basketball, the veteran guard acknowledged that the program had moved in a different direction.

     

    Ravena accepted the decision and expressed his understanding that the national team is focused on developing a new generation of players who can carry Philippine basketball forward.

    “A lot of people said na hindi pa kailangan, pero nag-retire na nga. That’s the direction that they are going, so for me, there’s no problem with that,” he added.

     

    Although he has made his decision public, Ravena clarified that he has not formally communicated his retirement from Gilas Pilipinas to the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP). For the veteran guard, his decision was personal and did not require an official announcement beyond sharing his intentions.

     

    “I don’t think I have to do that. I don’t think I have to tell anybody at this point of my career, where I am,” Ravena continued.

     

    While his national team career has ended, Ravena’s professional basketball journey continues. The former NLEX Road Warriors standout recently signed with the Ryukyu Golden Kings in the Japan B. League, opening a new chapter as he focuses on extending his club career overseas.

     

    Ravena said he remains fully supportive of Gilas Pilipinas and believes the country’s future remains bright with the emergence of younger players who will take on the responsibility of representing the Philippines on the international stage.

     

    “I’m very happy that I was able to have that opportunity. I’m just in full support for the national team and the next generation of athletes who will represent the Philippines. It’s not that I wasn’t able to represent the country in my career. I have done it in the past. Walang kulang, no regrets, and just full of love. Pro career, and pro family,” he concluded.

     

    During his time with Gilas Pilipinas, Ravena collected numerous achievements and became one of the country’s most decorated national team players. He was part of five Southeast Asian Games gold medal-winning campaigns from 2011 to 2019, helping the Philippines maintain its dominance in regional basketball.

     

    Beyond his medal haul, Ravena’s impact on the national program extended beyond statistics. He served as a veteran presence in the locker room, offering leadership to younger teammates while representing the competitive spirit associated with Philippine basketball.

     

    As he moves forward with his professional career in Japan, Ravena leaves Gilas Pilipinas with a legacy built on commitment, consistency, and pride in representing the country. Though his national team chapter has ended, his influence on Philippine basketball is expected to continue as he enters the next phase of his career.

     

     

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  • Mike Phillips set for reported Japan move after abrupt San Juan exit  

    Mike Phillips set for reported Japan move after abrupt San Juan exit  

    One of the biggest names expected to headline the PBA Season 51 Rookie Draft may no longer hear his name called.

     

    Mike Phillips, widely regarded as one of the most coveted prospects in this year’s class, is reportedly headed overseas after agreeing to a lucrative three-year contract with a team in Japan’s B.League, a move that could dramatically alter the complexion of the upcoming draft.

     

    The development not only signals a major career decision for the former De La Salle standout but also leaves the San Juan Knights scrambling to recover from the unexpected departure of one of their cornerstone players in the middle of a strong MPBL campaign.

     

    San Juan team manager Jun Usman confirmed that Phillips has already parted ways with the club, expressing disappointment over how the separation unfolded.

     

    “Sadly, he left us. What’s unfair is he didn’t even have the balls to talk to us. It was only his brother Ben who informed us of his sudden departure,” said Usman.

     

    According to San Juan, Phillips’ contract included an opt-out clause that allowed him to pursue overseas opportunities. Sources added that his reported B.League deal includes a seven-figure monthly salary along with benefits such as a fully furnished condominium, a dedicated service vehicle, and business-class travel.

     

    While the Knights acknowledged Phillips exercised a provision in his contract, Usman lamented that the organization was caught off guard by the timing and manner of his exit.

     

    “It was so unprofessional of him,” he said. “At nakakalungkot lang na nangyari ito at a time na mismong si Sen eh may pinagdadaanan.”

     

    “Sobrang unfair lang nito sa amin kasi binigla na kami, parang iniwan kami sa ere. Pano kami ngayon,” Usman, whose team owns an impressive record of 14 wins and 1 loss, added.

     

    San Juan officials also revealed that communication with Phillips became difficult following his recent stint with Gilas Pilipinas during the FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers in Australia.

     

    Under B.League regulations, his appearance for the Philippine national team qualifies him for Asian Quota eligibility, making him an attractive target for clubs in Japan’s top division.

     

    Usman said the organization repeatedly attempted to reach Phillips before eventually receiving confirmation of his decision through his brother.

     

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    “Wala, hindi na siya sumasagot sa amin. Ilang tawag at text na ang ginagawa namin, until recently, yung kapatid pa n’ya na si Ben ang nagsabi sa amin na they are terminating their contract [under the opt-out clause],” he said.

     

    Phillips has been one of the MPBL’s most productive big men this season, averaging 8.4 points, 10.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game while anchoring one of the league’s top teams.

     

    His impact was perhaps most evident in San Juan’s statement victory over defending champion Abra Solid North Weavers last May, when he played a key role in a crucial 66-58 triumph that strengthened the Knights’ title aspirations.

     

    Despite expressing frustration over the circumstances, Usman acknowledged that Phillips leaves a significant void on the roster.

     

    “Malaking bagay talaga sa amin si Mike pero ano pa ba ang magagawa namin,” said Usman. “Pero para sa amin, sana man lang nagpaalam ng maayos. Nagkaroon man lang sana kami ng chance na makahirit for him to stay.”

     

    The San Juan executive also maintained that the organization fulfilled its commitments to the high-flying forward, noting that Phillips received his compensation on time through the support of the team’s financial backers.

     

    Should the reported B.League move push through, Phillips would forgo the PBA Rookie Draft altogether and instead continue his rapid rise on the international stage, marking another high-profile Filipino talent choosing an overseas opportunity before beginning a professional career in the PBA.

     

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  • Tirrell Brown finally cleared as Titan Ultra ends import search ahead of crucial NLEX clash

    Tirrell Brown finally cleared as Titan Ultra ends import search ahead of crucial NLEX clash

    Titan Ultra’s search for stability finally has an answer. After opening the PBA Season 50 Governor’s Cup without an import and absorbing two lopsided defeats, the Giant Risers are set to field reinforcement, Tirrell Brown for the first time after the American officially completed the league’s mandatory height measurement last Saturday.

     

    Brown was confirmed to be within the PBA’s 6-foot-6 import limit, clearing the final hurdle for his much-awaited debut when Titan Ultra takes on NLEX on Tuesday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

     

    His arrival comes at a critical time for a squad still looking for its first victory of the conference. Titan Ultra stumbled out of the gates with a 113-100 loss to Terrafirma in its season opener before suffering an even tougher 105-74 defeat against Converge on Sunday.

     

    More than simply adding another scorer, Brown gives the Giant Risers the import’s presence they have been missing through the opening stretch of the tournament.

     

    The team initially explored another route by attempting to bring in James Milton, who was available to immediately join the club. However, the plan never materialized after Milton failed to secure the required FIBA clearance despite having the rest of his documentation in order.

     

    Brown’s own arrival had also been delayed—not because of his playing credentials—but due to paperwork. While he had already obtained his FIBA clearance upon reaching the Philippines, he still needed to complete his Immigration requirements, medical clearance and other league-related documents before becoming eligible.

     

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    Faced with the possibility of entering a third straight game without an import, Titan Ultra weighed its options. League officials ultimately advised management against activating Milton without FIBA clearance, noting that the sanctions from FIBA would outweigh the PBA’s penalty.

     

    Brown’s approval ultimately saves Titan Ultra from incurring the P50,000 fine imposed on teams that compete without an import in three consecutive games under league rules.

     

    Now officially available, the 32-year-old brings a wealth of international experience accumulated across South America, where he has built the majority of his professional career.

     

    Brown has played for clubs in Colombia, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Bolivia and Ecuador, suiting up for Caimanes del Llano, Centenario de Venado Tuerto, GEPU San Luis, Villa San Martin, Ameghino, Asociacion Mitre Tucuman, Quilmes de Mar del Plata, Deportivo Valdivia, ABA Ancud, Toros, Colon, Tabare, 25 de Agosto, Amistad, Kinwa and Barcelona.

     

    Before turning professional overseas, Brown suited up for Central Arkansas before finishing his collegiate career at Ouachita Baptist University.

     

    With their reinforcement finally in uniform, Titan Ultra hopes Brown’s debut marks the beginning of a turnaround after an opening week that has left the Giant Risers searching for answers.

     

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  • Ja Morant eager to prove himself after joining Portland Trail Blazers

    Ja Morant eager to prove himself after joining Portland Trail Blazers

    The Portland Trail Blazers have made one of the boldest moves of the NBA offseason, acquiring star point guard Ja Morant from the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for veteran forward Jerami Grant and young forward Kris Murray. The blockbuster trade signals Portland’s intent to accelerate its rebuilding process by bringing in one of the league’s most dynamic playmakers, despite the questions that have surrounded Morant in recent years.

     

    When healthy, Morant remains among the NBA’s most electrifying guards. His explosive athleticism, elite playmaking ability, and knack for taking over games instantly elevate the Trail Blazers’ backcourt. Capable of attacking the rim with relentless aggression while creating opportunities for teammates, the 26-year-old gives Portland a legitimate franchise centerpiece as the organization looks to return to playoff contention in the highly competitive Western Conference.

     

    While Morant’s talent has never been in doubt, his career has been marked by significant challenges away from the court. The former All-Star became one of the league’s most controversial figures following two separate suspensions by the NBA in 2023 for brandishing a firearm on social media. Those incidents dominated headlines and, for many, overshadowed his accomplishments as one of basketball’s brightest young stars.

     

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    Now presented with a fresh start in Portland, Morant believes the narrative surrounding him no longer reflects the person he has become. Speaking during a media session after joining the Trail Blazers, the point guard expressed his frustration that his past continues to define public perception despite years without further incidents.

     

    “I have done what I have done in the past, but it has been addressed and handled already. I don’t see why years later that’s still the topic when nothing has happened since. If I was ‘that guy,’ you all wouldn’t be talking to me now. I wouldn’t be here,” Morant said.

     

    For both Morant and the Trail Blazers, the move represents more than just a basketball transaction. It is an opportunity for one of the league’s most gifted players to rebuild his reputation while helping lead a franchise eager to establish a new identity. Portland is betting that Morant’s maturity and renewed focus will allow his performances on the court to once again become the defining storyline of his career.

    The past season was another frustrating chapter for the former Grizzlies star, as injuries severely limited his availability. Morant battled a series of physical setbacks throughout the 2025-26 campaign, including calf, elbow, and ankle injuries that restricted him to just 20 appearances. His interrupted season was further complicated by an off-court disciplinary issue when the Grizzlies suspended him for one game last November following a confrontation with head coach Tuomas Iisalo.

     

    Despite the difficult campaign, Morant insists he has fully recovered physically and is eager to remind fans across the league of the player who emerged as one of the NBA’s premier young guards earlier in his career.

     

    “My body feels great. I get to show the fans in Portland a different Ja. It’s like starting all over again. Over the years I have grown a lot and learned a lot. I go into things differently now. I feel more mature, and I’m ready to work,” he added.

     

    Those comments will undoubtedly encourage Trail Blazers supporters, who hope Morant can remain healthy over a full season and provide the leadership needed to guide Portland’s young core. If he can recapture the form that made him one of the league’s most feared offensive threats, the Trail Blazers could emerge as one of the Western Conference’s most intriguing teams.

     

    Morant entered the NBA as the second overall selection in the 2019 NBA Draft after a standout collegiate career at Murray State. He quickly established himself as the face of the Memphis Grizzlies franchise, spending the first seven seasons of his professional career with the organization while developing into one of the league’s premier point guards.

     

    Across his tenure in Memphis, Morant averaged 22.4 points, 7.4 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game, combining spectacular scoring ability with elite court vision. Under his leadership, the Grizzlies reached the NBA playoffs on four occasions, transforming from a rebuilding franchise into a consistent postseason contender.

     

    His individual résumé is equally impressive. Morant captured the NBA Rookie of the Year Award in 2020 after an outstanding debut season before earning the NBA’s Most Improved Player Award in 2022. He has also been selected as an NBA All-Star twice, highlighting the immense talent that has made him one of the league’s most recognizable players.

     

    The trade to Portland now marks the beginning of a new chapter in Morant’s career. For the Trail Blazers, it is a calculated gamble on a player whose ceiling remains among the highest in the league. For Morant himself, it is an opportunity to leave behind the setbacks of recent years, redefine his legacy, and once again let his performances on the court speak louder than the headlines off it.

     

     

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  • Juan Gomez de Liano stays grounded despite earning bigger Gilas role 

    Juan Gomez de Liano stays grounded despite earning bigger Gilas role 

    Juan Gomez de Liano may have emerged as one of the biggest revelations for Gilas Pilipinas in the latest FIBA window, but the rookie guard isn’t ready to assume anything.

     

    Fresh from turning heads in the national team’s hard-fought battles against New Zealand and Australia, Gomez de Liano returned to PBA action with Converge on Sunday carrying newfound confidence—but also the same mindset that earned him his opportunity in the first place.

     

    The 24-year-old guard was back in uniform as the FiberXers cruised to a 105-74 victory over Titan Ultra at the Ynares Center in Montalban, days after making what many considered a breakthrough performance in a Gilas jersey.

     

    Against New Zealand, Gomez de Liano delivered under pressure, knocking down two clutch three-pointers that nearly helped the Philippines steal a road victory.

     

    His first triple forced overtime, while his second gave Gilas a chance to complete the upset before the Tall Blacks eventually escaped with a double-overtime win.

     

    The performance quickly sparked conversations about whether Gomez de Liano had secured a permanent place in Tim Cone’s rotation moving forward.

     

    The Converge rookie believes he made a strong case, but knows the decision ultimately rests with the coaching staff.

     

    “Performance-wise, I hope so,” Gomez de Liano said.

     

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    Rather than looking too far ahead, the former UP standout insisted his focus remains on controlling what he can every time he receives a national team call-up.

     

    “Those things are pretty much out of my control,” said the PBA rookie. “If I said it’s out of my control, If I get a call up, I’ll just do my thing and show up and just be there for the guys.

    “It’s out of my control, but you know, I can’t say I’ll screw the spot. So, I’ll just stay calm,” added Gomez de Liano.

     

    The challenge for Gilas only becomes tougher from here.

     

    The Philippines advanced to the second round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers with a 2-4 record and now finds itself fifth in Group E behind Australia, New Zealand, Iran, and Jordan.

     

    With only three qualifying windows remaining, every game has taken on added significance.

     

    Gilas will face Jordan and Iran at home in late August before taking on Syria later in the qualifying campaign, with each of the three Middle Eastern teams scheduled to meet the Philippines twice.

    For Gomez de Liano, the path to the World Cup leaves little room for error.

     

    “I feel like must win games for us,” Gomez de Liano said. “I don’t think we can afford to lose, you know, those Middle Eastern teams. They know how to play basketball the right way.”

     

    His recent performance may have strengthened his case for a larger role, but Gomez de Liano knows the bigger objective extends beyond individual recognition.

     

    As Gilas enters the most critical stretch of its World Cup campaign, the young guard hopes to turn one impressive qualifying window into a lasting role in the national team’s pursuit of a place on basketball’s biggest stage.

     

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  • Gilas U21 3×3 teams begin Nations League bid with World Cup berth on the line 

    Gilas U21 3×3 teams begin Nations League bid with World Cup berth on the line 

    The road to the 2026 FIBA 3×3 Under-23 World Cup begins this week for the Philippines.


    Both the Gilas Pilipinas men’s and women’s under-21 squads will kick off their campaigns in the FIBA 3×3 Nations League on Monday, carrying the opportunity to qualify directly for this year’s Under-23 World Cup through one of the sport’s most demanding qualification tournaments.

     

    The week-long competition, scheduled from July 13 to 19 at Hextar World Empire City in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, features six tournament stops where every result contributes to the overall standings.

     

    Unlike a traditional tournament, consistency across all six stops will determine which nation emerges on top of the Asia-2 conference.

     

    Representing the Philippines in the men’s division are Cabs Cabonilas of FEU, Jedric Daa of FEU, Earl Medina of Adamson, Koji Buenaflor of UST, and Jhuniel Dela Rama of San Beda.

     

    The women’s squad, meanwhile, welcomes back one of its familiar faces as Kristan Yumul returns to national team duty for the first time in two years.

     

    The Cal State San Marcos standout headlines a lineup that also includes Elaine Patio of FEU, Alyssa Rodriguez of Ateneo, Marga Villanueva of National University, and Nadine Muñoz of Adamson.

     

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    Both Philippine teams have been drawn into a competitive Asia-2 conference alongside New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, and Belarus, setting up a challenging week of back-to-back contests.

     

    The Gilas Girls begin their campaign against Japan and Belarus, while the Gilas Boys open against New Zealand before facing host Malaysia in Monday’s first stop.

     

    Every game will carry added significance because only the overall conference champion after all six stops will earn an automatic berth in the 2026 FIBA 3×3 Under-23 World Cup, scheduled from September 15 to 19 in Wuhan, China.

     

    Teams that fall short this week will still have another chance to qualify through the second pathway when the Under-23 qualifying event takes place next month.

     

    For the young Filipinos, however, the objective is clear—capitalize on the Nations League and avoid leaving their World Cup hopes to a second opportunity.

     

    With a blend of established collegiate standouts and returning national team talent, both Gilas squads now look to put together a week-long run that could send the Philippines back to the biggest stage in international under-23 3×3 basketball.


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  • Japan beckons again as Dwight Ramos stays with Levanga, Thirdy Ravena returns to B.League 

    Japan beckons again as Dwight Ramos stays with Levanga, Thirdy Ravena returns to B.League 

    The Philippines’ growing footprint in Japan’s B.League will become even stronger next season, with Dwight Ramos choosing continuity in Hokkaido while Thirdy Ravena secures a return to familiar territory.


    Levanga Hokkaido announced that Ramos has signed a new contract, ensuring the Gilas Pilipinas guard will remain with the club for another campaign after becoming one of its cornerstone players since joining in 2022.

     

    “I want to thank Levanga for bringing me back for another season. I’m very excited to be coming back and continue to grow with the team,” Ramos said in a statement.

     

    “We had a lot of success in our last season and because of that I want to experience more with the team and get a step farther this season in the playoffs and shoot for a championship. Thank you everyone for your support always.”

     

    Ramos first entered the B.League with the Toyama Grouses before moving to Levanga, where he has steadily developed into one of the team’s most reliable contributors.

     

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    His return comes after Hokkaido posted a 37-23 record last season, narrowly falling short of a playoff berth. Levanga finished four games behind Alvark Tokyo, which claimed the final quarterfinal spot with a 41-19 record.

     

    The organization believes Ramos still has another level to reach.

     

    “Last season, he was one of the key players supporting the team’s success and contributing to our victories, but his potential is far greater than what we’ve seen so far,” said Levanga general manager Ryota Sakurai.

     

    Ramos’ extension also sets the stage for his return to Manila in September, when Levanga Hokkaido takes part in the B.League Manila Games. He is expected to face fellow Gilas standout AJ Edu and the Gunma Crane Thunders in a preseason matchup at the Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    While Ramos opted to continue his journey with the same club, Thirdy Ravena will be writing a new chapter after the Toyama Grouses officially welcomed him back to Japan.

     

    The former Ateneo standout returns to the B.League after spending the 2024-2025 season in the ABA League with Dubai, where he appeared in 18 games and saw limited playing time.

     

    “I’m excited to come back to Japan and play my best for the Grouses this season,” Ravena said in the team’s announcement, while also posting on Instagram. “Back in the Land.”

     

    The move fulfills the goal Ravena openly shared during the recent B.League Final Week in Manila, where he spoke about wanting another opportunity to compete in Japan.

     

    “Japan B.League has been my first professional league and they’ve always welcomed me with open arms, they’ve treated me like family since the first day I got there so I’d love to play in the B.League once again,” he said then.

     

    His signing with Toyama officially makes that return a reality.

     

    The Ravena brothers will also have another representative in the B.League next season, with older brother Kiefer Ravena beginning his stint with the Ryukyu Golden Kings after an impressive campaign with the Yokohama B-Corsairs.

     

    With Ramos remaining in Hokkaido, Thirdy making his comeback, and Kiefer starting fresh in Ryukyu, Filipino talent will once again have a prominent presence across Japan’s top professional basketball league.

     

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  • NBA Trade Report: Victor Wembanyama signs record five-year, $251M extension with San Antonio Spurs

    NBA Trade Report: Victor Wembanyama signs record five-year, $251M extension with San Antonio Spurs

    Victor Wembanyama has reaffirmed his long-term commitment to the San Antonio Spurs after agreeing to a massive rookie maximum contract extension, securing the franchise cornerstone for years to come in one of the biggest deals in NBA history.

     

    The Spurs have reached an agreement with the 22-year-old superstar on a five-year, $251 million rookie maximum extension, with the total value of the contract expected to surpass $300 million should Wembanyama achieve the designated performance incentives built into the deal. The agreement marks the richest contract in franchise history and further cements the French phenom as the centerpiece of San Antonio’s championship ambitions.

     

    Despite being eligible to pursue an even larger payday, NBA insider and ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Wembanyama opted for the 25 percent maximum salary instead of the 30 percent supermax. The decision gives the Spurs greater salary cap flexibility as they continue building a roster capable of competing for an NBA title around their generational talent.

     

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    Shortly after the agreement became public, Wembanyama delivered a clear message to Spurs fans about his commitment to the organization.

     

    “Spurs family, I’m here to stay. Whatever it takes,” Wembanyama wrote in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter).

     

    The statement quickly resonated throughout the NBA, with many praising the young star’s willingness to prioritize the team’s long-term success over maximizing his own earnings. By accepting a smaller percentage of the salary cap, Wembanyama has provided the Spurs with additional financial flexibility to retain key contributors and pursue elite talent in free agency, a move that reflects both his maturity and desire to compete for championships.

     

    His decision has not gone unnoticed inside the Spurs organization.

     

    Rookie forward Carter Bryant said Wembanyama’s sacrifice was entirely consistent with the personality that teammates have come to know since his arrival in San Antonio.

    “I don’t think anybody was surprised on that in terms of the type of person he is. He’s a winner, so whatever he can do to make the team better, that’s what he’s going to do every time,” small forward Carter Bryant stated.

     

    San Antonio Summer League head coach Corliss Williamson echoed those sentiments, emphasizing that Wembanyama’s selfless approach speaks volumes about his upbringing and leadership qualities despite his young age.

     

    “It just says a lot about his character. It says a lot about his family, how he was raised, to be able to sacrifice like that and think about the bigger picture rather than thinking about himself. You don’t meet many like that. And when you do, you got to count that as a blessing, especially when they are on your side,” San Antonio’s Summer League head coach Corliss Williamson added.

     

    The extension represents another major milestone in what has already become one of the most remarkable starts to an NBA career. Since being selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, Wembanyama has not only lived up to the enormous expectations surrounding him but has arguably exceeded them through his rapid development into one of the league’s premier two-way players.

     

    Standing at 7-foot-4 with an unprecedented combination of size, mobility, ball-handling, and perimeter shooting, Wembanyama has transformed the Spurs on both ends of the floor. His unique skill set has made him nearly impossible to defend offensively while allowing him to dominate defensively as both a rim protector and versatile perimeter defender.

     

    The 2025-26 campaign was arguably his finest season yet. Wembanyama averaged 25.0 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists, a league-leading 3.1 blocks, and 1.0 steal per game while playing just 29.2 minutes per contest. He also showcased remarkable efficiency, shooting 51.2 percent from the field, 34.9 percent from beyond the arc, and 82.7 percent from the free-throw line.

     

    His production placed him among some of the greatest centers in NBA history. Wembanyama became just the sixth player ever to average at least 25 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, and three blocks over an entire season, joining Hall of Famers Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Patrick Ewing, Hakeem Olajuwon, David Robinson, and Shaquille O’Neal. He also became the first player to accomplish the feat since O’Neal during the 1999-2000 season, further underscoring the historic nature of his campaign.

     

    Those numbers translated into individual accolades as well. Through just three NBA seasons, Wembanyama has already assembled one of the league’s most impressive résumés for a player his age. His accomplishments include winning the 2026 NBA Defensive Player of the Year award, capturing the 2024 NBA Rookie of the Year honor, leading the league in blocked shots for three consecutive seasons, and earning two NBA All-Star selections.

     

    More importantly for the Spurs, Wembanyama’s extension provides long-term stability as the franchise seeks to return to championship contention. With one of basketball’s brightest young stars now under contract for the foreseeable future, San Antonio can continue building around a player widely regarded as the face of the NBA’s next generation.

     

    For Spurs fans, the message could not have been clearer. Wembanyama is committed to San Antonio, believes in the organization’s vision, and is willing to sacrifice financially in pursuit of sustained success. As the franchise continues its rebuild, securing the signature of its generational superstar may prove to be the most important victory of all.

     

     

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  • LA Tenorio wants Magnolia to break a familiar cycle after opening-day loss in Governors’ Cup 

    LA Tenorio wants Magnolia to break a familiar cycle after opening-day loss in Governors’ Cup 

    For LA Tenorio, Magnolia’s opening-game defeat in the PBA Governors’ Cup was about more than just the final score. It was a reminder of a problem the Hotshots have yet to solve.


    Magnolia stumbled to a 98-86 loss against the Phoenix Fuel Masters on Saturday night, wasting a promising first-half performance before fading after the break in its debut in the season-ending conference.

     

    The setback immediately brought back memories of the team’s previous campaign, where Magnolia often found itself digging out of early deficits. Tenorio believed those experiences should have already shaped the team’s mindset entering a new tournament.

     

    “Of course, it’s only the first game. But we have to learn from the last conference na lagi kaming naghahabol,” Tenorio said.

     

    Instead, the Hotshots followed a familiar script. After taking a halftime lead, Magnolia lost control in the third quarter as Phoenix seized the momentum and never looked back, forcing the Hotshots into another unsuccessful comeback attempt.

     

    Tenorio was visibly disappointed with how his team approached the second half, believing Magnolia lost its edge once the game tightened.

     

    “Nung simula na ng laro, champion na kami. Pag sa simula lang ng laro kami magaling,” Tenorio said after the game.

     

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    The coach also refused to pin the defeat on the early foul trouble of import KJ Buffen, who finished with 15 points. 

     

    While Buffen’s limited availability affected Magnolia’s rotation, Tenorio insisted the team should have responded better instead of becoming too dependent on its reinforcement.

     

    “We can’t rely on our import all the time. If we need to play all-Filipino, then so be it. We fell into the trap na kanya-kanya,” said the Magnolia coach. 

     

    For Tenorio, the bigger concern was how Magnolia’s collective effort disappeared after halftime. He pointed to the team’s lack of energy and urgency, particularly at the start of the third quarter, when Phoenix wrestled control of the game.

     

    “We were outhustled at the start of the third quarter,” Tenorio said. “I don’t know if we were affected by the foul trouble of our import, but it’s not an excuse.”

     

    The opening loss puts added importance on Magnolia’s next assignment as the Hotshots try to avoid falling further behind in a competitive Group B that also features Barangay Ginebra, Meralco, and Rain or Shine.

     

    Magnolia will look to regroup on Friday when it faces Blackwater at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. The Bossing head into the matchup with momentum after pulling off a 131-108 upset victory over Rain or Shine, giving the Hotshots another early challenge as they search for their first win of the conference.

     

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  • “It feels good to be home”: Jimmy Alapag guides NLEX to franchise-record win in PBA coaching debut

    “It feels good to be home”: Jimmy Alapag guides NLEX to franchise-record win in PBA coaching debut

    Jimmy Alapag could not have scripted a better start to his head coaching career in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).

     

    The PBA legend enjoyed a winning debut as NLEX opened its 2026 Governors’ Cup campaign in emphatic fashion, dismantling the Macau Giant Pandas, 114-75, at the Ynares Center in Montalban on Friday, July 10. The convincing victory not only handed Alapag his first win as a PBA head coach but also entered the franchise record books as the Road Warriors’ largest winning margin in league history.

     

    NLEX wasted little time asserting its dominance, controlling the contest on both ends of the floor behind an impressive all-around team performance. Import Daequan Jones spearheaded the attack with a double-double of 23 points and 11 rebounds while adding three assists, providing the steady presence expected of the team’s reinforcement. Local standouts L. Gonzales and J. Bahio complemented Jones’ production with 19 and 13 points, respectively, as the Road Warriors overwhelmed the Giant Pandas with their balanced offense and disciplined defense.

     

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    The victory represented an ideal beginning for Alapag, who returned to Philippine basketball after spending the past three years in the NBA as a player development coach for the Sacramento Kings. Widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards in PBA history, Alapag now embarks on a new chapter as a head coach, bringing with him years of experience accumulated both in the local professional scene and at basketball’s highest level.

     

    Following the historic victory, Alapag admitted that the result made his homecoming even more meaningful, emphasizing how much it meant to once again be part of Philippine basketball after several years abroad.

    “Saya, just to be home. Obviously, before I left in 2020, my wife and our family were here for 19 years. And the last six years, like I told you guys at the press conference when I arrived, I have seen a lot, learned a lot in my time in the NBA. That’s where fulfillment now is,” Alapag said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    The former Gilas Pilipinas captain explained that while his playing days are behind him, he now finds fulfillment in passing on everything he has learned throughout his basketball journey to the next generation of Filipino players.

     

    “I’m far removed from play, but to take everything that I have learned from my experience here, Kasama sa Gilas, and now my experience being back in the States, to pour that into this group and this generation of Philippine basketball, that’s the exciting part. And again, I’m grateful for this opportunity and excited to continue to coach this group,” he added.

     

    Alapag’s return to the PBA also featured a nostalgic reunion with one of his longtime teammates, former league Most Valuable Player Asi Taulava, who is now part of the NLEX coaching staff. The two enjoyed tremendous success together during their championship years with Talk ‘N Text, and Alapag spoke warmly about reconnecting with one of the league’s most dominant big men.

     

    “I mean, it’s great. Obviously, you guys know, you know, way, way, way back in 2003 when my, when my career started. You know, we had a lot of success together. He’s one of the most dominant guys to ever play in the PBA. So great to see him. Just like I said, being back home and being able to see everyone around the PBA, getting a chance to see you guys. It’s funny. It’s only been six years, but it felt longer. But it feels good to be home,” Alapag concluded.

     

    The Road Warriors quickly proved that their opening-night triumph was no fluke. Alapag followed up his successful debut with another victory as NLEX edged Terrafirma Dyip, 101-100, in a tense contest that showcased the team’s resilience under its new mentor. Unlike the one-sided rout of Macau, the Road Warriors had to battle until the final buzzer before escaping with the narrow one-point win, preserving their unbeaten start to the conference.

     

    With back-to-back victories, NLEX sits atop the early Governors’ Cup standings with a perfect 2-0 record, giving Alapag an ideal beginning to his first season at the helm. The Road Warriors will look to extend their winning streak to three games when they take on the Titan Ultra Giant Risers on Tuesday, July 14, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, as Alapag continues to make an immediate impact in his long-awaited return to Philippine basketball.

     

     

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