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Category: Basketball

  • “It would be a unique story in NBA history”: Stephen Curry welcomes possibility of teaming up with LeBron James

    “It would be a unique story in NBA history”: Stephen Curry welcomes possibility of teaming up with LeBron James

    The NBA offseason has been dominated by one storyline: LeBron James’ decision to leave the Los Angeles Lakers after eight seasons, a move that has immediately reshaped the league’s landscape and sparked intense speculation over where the four-time NBA champion will continue his legendary career.

     

    As teams across the league position themselves to pursue the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, the Golden State Warriors have emerged as one of the frontrunners. The franchise has long been linked with James, having explored the possibility of pairing him with Stephen Curry in previous seasons, and the opportunity has resurfaced following James’ decision to enter free agency ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season.

     

    Curry recently addressed the growing speculation while competing in the American Century Championship celebrity golf tournament at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course in Nevada. Although he acknowledged that discussions remain in the early stages, the two-time NBA Most Valuable Player admitted that the prospect of finally sharing the court with one of his greatest rivals is an exciting one.

     

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    For more than a decade, Curry and James have defined an era of NBA basketball. Their memorable battles in the NBA Finals helped shape one of the league’s greatest rivalries, and the possibility of the two superstars becoming teammates has captivated basketball fans around the world.

     

    “Up until probably two, three years ago, that was like a pipe-dream question or even a thought. But that’s part of the allure. Him going into his 24th season, me going into my 18th, the battles we have had, that would be such a unique story in NBA history, in sports history. But a little premature right now to talk about it,” Curry said.

     

    While Curry stopped short of predicting where James will ultimately sign, he made it clear that any franchise would do everything possible to acquire a player of his caliber.

     

    “I don’t have a percentage. It’s kind of up to him. I feel like any place he calls and says I want to play there, you move mountains to make it happen,” he added.

     

    According to reports, Curry and James have already spoken during the past week as speculation surrounding the free-agent forward continues to intensify. While there is optimism within the Warriors organization about the possibility of landing the future Hall of Famer, league insiders believe the Cleveland Cavaliers remain among the strongest contenders to secure James’ signature.

    A return to Cleveland would represent an emotional homecoming for James, who has twice played for the Cavaliers and delivered the franchise’s first NBA championship in 2016. Nevertheless, Golden State remains hopeful that the opportunity to compete alongside Curry and chase another title could prove equally attractive.

     

    Curry explained that the Warriors’ sales pitch extends beyond basketball talent, emphasizing the organization’s championship culture, experienced leadership, and stable environment.

     

    “The pitch is: Do you want to play good basketball and be around people that know how to play the game? Hopefully raise our floor and our competitiveness this year. There’s good golf in the Bay. We are an organization that’s been there. He knows that. That’s really self-explanatory. It’s a matter of where he sees himself fitting. At the end of the day, that’s up to him,” Curry continued.

     

    Should James decide against joining Golden State, the Warriors still believe they possess a roster capable of competing in the Western Conference, although questions remain regarding the team’s long-term outlook.

     

    The franchise has continued to invest in experienced veterans by bringing back Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford, and De’Anthony Melton, while also expected to retain longtime defensive anchor Draymond Green. The additions reinforce Golden State’s commitment to remaining competitive, but they also highlight a roster that is increasingly reliant on veteran leadership.

     

    Complicating matters further, the Warriors are expected to begin the season without two key contributors. Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody are both recovering from injuries and are projected to miss a significant portion of the upcoming campaign, placing even greater responsibility on Curry and the rest of the healthy roster during the opening months of the season.

     

    Despite those challenges, Curry remains optimistic that Golden State can remain competitive while awaiting the return of its injured players.

     

    “I mean, it’s to be determined. That’s what free agency is about. LeBron’s in a situation where the league is waiting. It’s great to get KP back, great to get Melt back. We are in a unique situation where Jimmy Butler is hurt, Moses Moody is hurt and they are going to miss a good amount of the season. You have to try to hold the fort down until those guys get back because we do have an idea of what we could be with them,” he concluded.

     

    As the NBA offseason unfolds, James’ decision is expected to have a ripple effect across the league. Whether he chooses to join forces with Curry in Golden State, reunite with the Cavaliers, or pursue another destination entirely, his next move will undoubtedly shape the championship race heading into the 2026-27 season.

     

    For now, the basketball world continues to wait, while the Warriors remain hopeful that one of the sport’s greatest “what if” scenarios could finally become reality.

     

     

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  • Kawhi Leonard’s Toronto Raptors return on hold pending NBA investigation

    Kawhi Leonard’s Toronto Raptors return on hold pending NBA investigation

    The blockbuster trade that would send Kawhi Leonard from the Los Angeles Clippers to the Toronto Raptors remains in limbo as the National Basketball Association (NBA) continues its ongoing investigation into allegations surrounding the veteran superstar’s contract and financial arrangements.

     

    Toronto and Los Angeles recently agreed in principle to a massive deal that would reunite Leonard with the franchise where he captured his first NBA championship in 2019. Under the proposed agreement, the Raptors would acquire Leonard in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, unprotected first-round draft picks in 2031 and 2033, a 2027 first-round pick swap, and two second-round selections.

     

    The transaction, however, cannot be officially completed until the NBA concludes its investigation into whether the Clippers violated league salary cap regulations by allegedly providing Leonard with additional financial benefits through his reported $28 million endorsement agreement with now-bankrupt financial technology company Aspiration.

     

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    League officials are examining whether those endorsement payments effectively served as undisclosed compensation, potentially allowing the Clippers to circumvent NBA salary cap rules. Until the investigation reaches a conclusion, both franchises remain unable to finalize one of the most significant trades of the offseason.

     

    According to both organizations, the deal remains in place in principle, but league approval is required before it can become official.

     

    As scrutiny surrounding the investigation continues, the Clippers once again issued a detailed public statement strongly denying any wrongdoing and reiterating their full cooperation with NBA investigators throughout the process.

     

    “For the past 10 months, our organization has fully cooperated with an NBA investigation, participating in dozens of interviews, providing tens of thousands of documents, and facilitating access to our staff. While the process has been challenging, we have remained committed to transparency,” the statement read.

     

    “On June 30, we reached an agreement in principle to trade Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors. We have since been informed that the trade can only be finalized if the Raptors’ ownership group assumes the risk of penalties related to Kawhi’s contract that could theoretically result from the ongoing investigation. The investigation is ongoing, and we expect the trade to be finalized following its conclusion.

    “At the heart of this investigation are Joe Sanberg and Aspiration. We did not funnel money to Kawhi Leonard through Aspiration. Like many sophisticated investors, financial institutions, and business partners, we were victims of a fraud initiated by Sanberg, who has been convicted and sentenced to 14 years in prison.

     

    “We recognize the uncertainty this has created and the impact it has had on our team, our fans, the Raptors organization, their fans, and the players whose futures remain affected while this process continues.

     

    “We remain confident that, when the facts are evaluated fairly and thoroughly, the NBA will confirm exactly what we have said from the beginning: We have not done what we are accused of doing,” the statement concluded.

     

    The investigation has become one of the league’s most closely watched off-court developments, not only because of Leonard’s stature as one of the NBA’s premier players but also because of the potential implications for both franchises. Depending on the league’s findings, any penalties could range from financial sanctions to restrictions involving Leonard’s contract, making the outcome particularly significant for Toronto’s front office before officially completing the acquisition.

     

    For the Raptors, the delay means uncertainty over a move that could dramatically reshape the team’s championship aspirations. Toronto has already committed substantial future assets in the proposed deal, signaling its determination to add a proven superstar capable of leading another title challenge. Leonard’s previous stint with the Raptors remains one of the most memorable chapters in franchise history after he guided the club to its first NBA championship during the 2018-19 season.

     

    Meanwhile, the Clippers continue to await the league’s final decision while maintaining that they acted within NBA regulations throughout Leonard’s tenure with the organization.

     

    Despite the off-court uncertainty, Leonard is coming off one of the finest individual seasons of his illustrious career. The two-time NBA champion and two-time NBA Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) delivered an outstanding 2025-26 campaign, averaging 27.9 points per game across 65 appearances. The scoring average marked the highest of his NBA career, highlighting that the six-time All-Star remains among the league’s elite two-way players when healthy.

     

    Leonard’s production reinforced his value on both ends of the floor, as he continued to serve as the Clippers’ primary offensive option while providing elite perimeter defense and veteran leadership. His impressive campaign also made him one of the most coveted stars available on the trade market, helping explain Toronto’s willingness to part with multiple first-round draft assets and promising young talent to secure his services.

     

    Until the NBA concludes its investigation, however, one of the biggest trades of the offseason will remain on hold, leaving both the Raptors and Clippers—and Leonard himself—awaiting a final decision that could shape the direction of both franchises for years to come.

     

     

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  • Jerrick Ahanmisi sees San Miguel move as best chance yet to chase first PBA championship 

    Jerrick Ahanmisi sees San Miguel move as best chance yet to chase first PBA championship 

    Jerrick Ahanmisi has built his reputation as one of the PBA’s most dangerous scorers. Now, the challenge is no longer about proving he can put up points—it is about learning how to win championships.


    The newly acquired San Miguel Beer guard believes his transfer to the league’s most decorated franchise gives him the opportunity he has long been waiting for, competing alongside players who have consistently turned talent into titles.

     

    Ahanmisi admitted the trade initially came as a surprise after he learned about it only shortly before it became official.

     

    “My initial reaction was shock because I only found out two days before I got traded,” Ahanmisi said.

     

    That surprise, however, quickly turned into excitement.

     

    “But knowing I was coming here, it was something that I’ve been wishing for and dreaming about for a long time. Now that I’m here, I’m going to take full advantage of it,” he added.

     

    San Miguel acquired Ahanmisi and Paolo Hernandez from Terrafirma in exchange for Juami Tiongson, rookie Chris Miller, and a second-round pick in the PBA Season 52 Rookie Draft.

     

    The move comes on the heels of Ahanmisi’s breakout Commissioner’s Cup campaign, where he emerged as one of the league’s elite offensive weapons. 

     

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    He averaged 21.3 points per game, showcasing his ability to score from deep, including the PBA’s three-point and four-point lines.

     

    At San Miguel, Ahanmisi enters a vastly different environment because instead of being relied upon as the primary scorer every night, he joins a championship-tested roster led by June Mar Fajardo and supported by veteran standouts Marcio Lassiter, Chris Ross, Cjay Perez, Jericho Cruz, and Don Trollano.

     

    For Ahanmisi, sharing the court with accomplished champions is as valuable as any role he will play on the floor.

     

    “I’m hoping that now that I’m here, I can learn from them and ask them how I can get myself a championship as well,” he said. 

     

    With a proven roster and another title run in sight, San Miguel hopes Ahanmisi’s scoring punch will add another dimension to its offense, while the guard looks to absorb the winning culture that has defined the Beermen for years.

     

    Ahanmisi is expected to make his official debut for San Miguel when the Beermen open their PBA Governors’ Cup campaign against the Macau Giant Pandas on July 14 at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

     

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  • Ginebra turns to Riley Grigsby while Justin Brownlee focuses on recovery ahead of PBA Governors’ Cup 

    Ginebra turns to Riley Grigsby while Justin Brownlee focuses on recovery ahead of PBA Governors’ Cup 

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel will begin another PBA Governors’ Cup campaign in unfamiliar fashion.

     

    For the first time in years, the Gin Kings are set to open the import-laden conference without Justin Brownlee leading the charge, opting instead to prioritize the veteran’s health after a physically demanding stretch that saw him play through injuries for both club and country.

     

    Head coach Tim Cone confirmed that 26-year-old American forward Riley Grigsby has been tapped as Ginebra’s temporary reinforcement for the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup while Brownlee works his way back to full fitness.

     

    “He’s 26 years old and has had NBA G League experience and has come with some strong recommendations from his coaches there,” said Cone.

     

    While Grigsby will suit up for the Kings’ opening games, his stay with the franchise is not expected to be permanent.

     

    Cone stressed that Brownlee remains Ginebra’s primary import once he is medically cleared to return.

     

    Brownlee, now the PBA’s only seven-time champion import, was originally expected to spearhead Ginebra’s bid for another Governors’ Cup title—a tournament the franchise has captured four times since 2016. Instead, the team chose to give its longtime cornerstone time to recover after months of playing through lingering injuries.

     

    The decision also explains Brownlee’s absence from Gilas Pilipinas’ final game of the first round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers. Without their naturalized star, the Philippines suffered a 92-49 defeat to Australia in Perth on Monday.

     

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    In explaining Brownlee’s absence, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas released a medical update last July 5.

     

    “Justin Brownlee will miss the game against Australia due to hamstring strain and peroneal tendinopathy on his right leg and left knee swelling and cartilage defects,” the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas said in a statement.

     

    Brownlee had already been dealing with a hamstring issue dating back to the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals against Phoenix. Rather than sit out, he pushed through the pain and eventually helped Ginebra defeat TNT in a seven-game Finals series to capture another championship.

     

    With Brownlee sidelined, Ginebra once again turns to a short-term replacement—something the franchise has rarely needed over the past decade. The last notable instance came during the 2023-24 Commissioner’s Cup when Tony Bishop filled in while Brownlee served a FIBA-imposed suspension.

     

    This time, the responsibility falls on Grigsby as the California-born forward arrives with a diverse basketball resume despite being only 26 years old. A full Division I scholarship athlete at Seattle University, Grigsby first gained experience in FIBA 3×3 competition before moving overseas to play for AB Contern in Luxembourg during the 2024-25 season.

     

    He later earned an opportunity in the NBA G League, beginning the 2025-26 campaign with the Santa Cruz Warriors before finishing the season with the Sioux Falls Skyforce.

     

    Listed at approximately 6-foot-5, Grigsby is expected to arrive in Manila in time for Ginebra’s conference opener against Phoenix on July 19 at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

     

    As Brownlee continues his rehabilitation, the Kings will rely on their new reinforcement to help keep the team competitive during the opening stretch of the tournament.

     

    Barangay Ginebra is part of Group A in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup together with Phoenix, Magnolia, Rain or Shine, Meralco, Blackwater, and guest team Macau.

     

    For now, Grigsby has one clear assignment and that is to keep Ginebra afloat until its most decorated import is ready to reclaim his place.

     

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  • Former UP-star Gerry Abadiano takes next step overseas, signs with Ulsan Hyundai Mobis in KBL 

    Former UP-star Gerry Abadiano takes next step overseas, signs with Ulsan Hyundai Mobis in KBL 

    Gerry Abadiano’s basketball journey is taking him beyond Philippine shores.

     

    After establishing himself as one of the University of the Philippines’ most reliable backcourt players and carving out a solid start to his professional career in the MPBL, the 25-year-old guard is set to begin a new chapter after signing with Ulsan Hyundai Mobis for the 2026-27 Korean Basketball League season.

     

    The South Korean club officially announced Abadiano’s arrival, making him the latest Filipino to earn an opportunity in one of Asia’s top professional leagues.

     

    His signing also continues Ulsan Hyundai Mobis’ growing connection with Filipino talent. Abadiano becomes the fourth Filipino Asian import to suit up for the Phoebus, joining the likes of RJ Abarrientos, Miguel Oczon, and Jake Figueroa.

     

    Before completing the move, Abadiano secured clearance from his current Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League team, San Juan, allowing him to pursue the overseas opportunity.

     

    The move caps a memorable stretch in which the Iloilo City native helped anchor one of the most successful eras in UP men’s basketball.

     

    In his final UAAP campaign, Abadiano embraced the role of the Fighting Maroons’ starting point guard, averaging 8.72 points, 1.94 rebounds, and 1.56 assists per contest during Season 88 while providing leadership and defensive intensity in the backcourt.

     

    He carried that consistency into the MPBL, where he has averaged 9.6 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists through 14 games with San Juan.

     

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    His departure also signals the closing of a significant chapter for UP’s veteran core. Over the years, Abadiano formed the backbone of the Fighting Maroons alongside longtime teammates Harold Alarcon, Reyland Torres, and Terrence Fortea, helping sustain the program’s rise as one of the UAAP’s perennial contenders.

     

    Now, Abadiano follows the growing path of Filipino players seeking opportunities abroad, with the KBL continuing to emerge as a destination where local talents can test themselves against a higher level of competition while further developing their games.

     

    His arrival also comes at an important time for Ulsan Hyundai Mobis, which is looking to rebound from a disappointing 2025-26 campaign after finishing eighth in the league standings with an 18-36 record.

     

    For Abadiano, the opportunity represents more than just his first overseas contract. It is the next step in a career built on steady growth, as he looks to prove he belongs on another international stage while adding his name to the expanding list of Filipinos making an impact in the Korean Basketball League.

     

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  • Yeng Guiao questions PBA’s shift to FIBA rules despite support for Gilas

    Yeng Guiao questions PBA’s shift to FIBA rules despite support for Gilas

    Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao believes the PBA’s transition toward FIBA rules could benefit Philippine basketball in the long run, but not without a few growing pains.

     

    As the league continues aligning its rulebook more closely with international standards ahead of the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup, the veteran mentor acknowledged the intention behind the changes while pointing out several areas he believes still need refinement.

     

    For Guiao, adapting to the new system will take time—not just for players, but for coaches, officials, and teams as a whole.

     

    “Fiba rules are okay, but I think it may take some time for teams to get used to it,” Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao said. “I still think there are PBA rules that can still improve the game. But I guess the PBA is trying to help our national team by leaning towards Fiba rules.

     

    “But there’s no perfect system. We know that some of the PBA rules are lacking by themselves and the same can be said with Fiba rules,” added the outspoken mentor.

     

    Rather than criticizing the league’s decision outright, Guiao recognized the PBA’s effort to better prepare Filipino players for international competition, where FIBA regulations have long been the standard.

     

    Still, one particular change stood out for the longtime coach—the revised Challenge System.

     

    Under the new guidelines, teams are now limited to a single coach’s challenge regardless of whether the original challenge is successful. Previously, coaches who won a challenge were rewarded with another opportunity later in the game.

     

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    Guiao believes the revised rule reduces a coach’s ability to correct crucial officiating errors, especially during tightly contested matches.

     

    He also took issue with another limitation carried over from FIBA rules: the inability to directly challenge foul calls.

     

    “You cannot challenge the fouls,” he said. “You can only challenge whether it would be upgraded or downgraded. So the leverage goes back to the referees. If the referees make a mistake, you cannot do anything about it. Unlike before, as a coach, you can have a remedy.”

     

    For Guiao, the concern is less about resisting change and more about preserving coaches’ ability to seek corrections when critical mistakes occur.

     

    As the PBA embraces a rulebook that mirrors the international game, coaches and teams are expected to adjust throughout the conference. But if Guiao’s observations are any indication, the transition could also spark continued discussions on whether every aspect of the FIBA system is the best fit for the country’s professional league.

     

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  • Kyle Lowry officially retires from NBA after signing one-day contract with Toronto Raptors

    Kyle Lowry officially retires from NBA after signing one-day contract with Toronto Raptors

    Kyle Lowry kept the promise he made to the city that embraced him most.

     

    The six-time NBA All-Star officially ended his decorated 20-year career after signing a one-day contract with the Toronto Raptors, allowing him to retire as a member of the franchise where he cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players in team history.

     

    Lowry announced his retirement on Tuesday, July 7 (Philippine Standard Time), closing the book on a remarkable NBA journey that saw him become one of only 12 players in league history to appear in 20 seasons. The veteran guard walked away from basketball after collecting individual accolades, international success, and the ultimate team achievement—a championship ring.

     

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    The decision to retire as a Raptor was a fitting conclusion for a player who became synonymous with Toronto basketball. After spending nine seasons with the franchise, Lowry established himself as the heart and soul of the team, helping transform the Raptors into a consistent playoff contender and eventually guiding them to their first NBA championship in 2019.

     

    Lowry shared his gratitude in an emotional farewell message, thanking the many people who supported him throughout his career and confirming his desire to retire where his NBA legacy was built.

     

    “Thank you to my family, my friends, my teammates, my coaches, my opponents, the staff, the media and especially the fans. It’s all about you. I appreciate you. Thank you. Thank you, Toronto. Thank you, Canada. And as I always told you all, it’s officially happening. I’m retiring as a Toronto Raptor – 20 years and 1 day. Seven forever. I love you all. Peace,” Lowry said in a post on his social media handles.

     

    Reflecting on his career, Lowry expressed pride in everything he accomplished both on and off the court. Beyond the championships and personal achievements, he emphasized the importance of being able to provide for his family and share his basketball journey with his children.

     

    “I’m happy with my career. I have done a lot of things in my career, I got a gold medal, I have got a championship, an All-Star, All-Star NBA. I was able to provide for my family. I think that’s the one thing that I’m happy about. I got two great kids. They got to see a lot of it, they got to be a part of a lot of it, which is really cool,” he added.

     

    Lowry entered the NBA after being selected 24th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2006 NBA Draft. While he began his career in Memphis, he later developed his game with the Houston Rockets before eventually finding his long-term home in Toronto.

     

    During his time with the Raptors, Lowry evolved from a talented guard into the franchise’s undisputed leader. His toughness, competitiveness, and willingness to sacrifice for the team made him a fan favorite and earned him the nickname “The GROAT” (Greatest Raptor of All Time) from many supporters.

    Alongside players such as DeMar DeRozan and later Kawhi Leonard, Lowry played a central role in one of the most successful eras in Raptors history. His leadership was especially evident during the 2018-19 championship campaign, where Toronto defeated the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals to capture the first title in franchise history.

     

    Lowry also had successful stints with the Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers late in his career, bringing veteran leadership and championship experience to both organizations before returning to Toronto for his final NBA moment.

     

    The 40-year-old Lowry finished his NBA career with impressive statistical achievements, averaging 13.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 6.0 assists over more than 1,178 regular-season games.

    He also left his mark as one of the league’s most productive perimeter shooters, ranking 14th on the NBA’s all-time three-point field goals list with 2,209 made three-pointers.

     

    Lowry’s postseason résumé was equally notable. He reached the playoffs in 12 of his 20 NBA seasons, averaging 13.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game during his playoff appearances. His ability to deliver in high-pressure moments became one of the defining characteristics of his career.

     

    His impact extended beyond statistics. Known for his defensive intensity, leadership, and relentless competitiveness, Lowry earned respect from teammates, coaches, and opponents throughout the league.

     

    The city of Toronto honored Lowry’s contributions by officially recognizing July 7 as “Kyle Lowry Day.”

     

    Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow highlighted the guard’s impact on the franchise and the broader basketball community in Canada, acknowledging his role in helping elevate the sport’s popularity across the country.

     

    “Kyle Lowry holds a special place in Toronto’s story. On Kyle Lowry Day, we thank him for the years he gave to the Raptors, the memories he created for fans and the role he played in the growth of basketball in Toronto and across Canada,” Chow wrote.

     

    As Lowry begins retirement, his legacy remains firmly established—not only as an NBA champion and All-Star, but as the player who embodied the toughness, passion, and determination that defined the Toronto Raptors during one of the most successful periods in franchise history.

     

    After two decades, countless battles, and one unforgettable championship run, Kyle Lowry leaves the NBA exactly the way he wanted: forever a Toronto Raptor.

     

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  • Cebu set to host first-ever FIBA Women’s Asia Cup in the Philippines

    Cebu set to host first-ever FIBA Women’s Asia Cup in the Philippines

    The road to one of the biggest events in Asian women’s basketball officially began to unfold as the Philippines unveiled the branding for the 2027 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup, signaling the country’s readiness to host the continental showcase for the first time.


    The launch ceremony in Cebu City introduced the tournament’s official logo and identity ahead of the competition, which will run from July 10 to 18, 2027, at the city’s newly opened arena.

     

    The event brought together key figures in Philippine basketball and government, including Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) President Ricky Vargas, Executive Director Erika Dy, Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick Gregorio, and Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival Sr., underscoring the significance of the tournament for the country.

     

    For FIBA Asia President Dr. K. Govindaraj, the Philippines provides the perfect stage for the continent’s premier women’s basketball competition.

     

    “The FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2027 provides a platform for the fans in the Philippines to witness the best of women’s basketball right in their own country and for the global fans to experience the passion for the sport in the Philippines,” FIBA Asia President Dr. K. Govindaraj said.

     

    The newly unveiled tournament logo blends FIBA’s visual identity with Cebu’s heritage, incorporating the city’s official colors, seal, and traditional Filipino weaving patterns around the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup trophy design first introduced last year.

     

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    According to FIBA Executive Director-Asia Hagop Khajirian, the tournament remains among the federation’s most prestigious competitions and continues to play a key role in raising the standard of women’s basketball across the region.

     

    “The FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2027 is another step towards consolidating the gains made in the last few years both in terms of excellence in competition and enhancement of women’s basketball,” Khajirian said.

     

    For the SBP, hosting the tournament is both a privilege and a reflection of the country’s reputation as one of basketball’s strongest markets.

     

    “Bringing one of Asia’s premier basketball events to the Philippines reflects the confidence that FIBA has in our ability to organize world-class competitions and in the passion of Filipino basketball fans,” Vargas said.

     

    Beyond staging a successful international event, the federation also sees the tournament as a milestone for the continued rise of Gilas Pilipinas Women, who will have the rare opportunity to compete against Asia’s elite on home soil.

     

    The national team heads into the hosting duties with growing momentum. Gilas Pilipinas Women currently sits 30th in the latest FIBA world rankings, buoyed by its historic victory over Colombia in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournaments last March.

     

    With the tournament now less than a year away, the unveiling of its branding marks the first official step toward welcoming Asia’s top women’s basketball nations to Cebu, where the Philippines hopes to showcase not only its passion for the sport but also the continued progress of its women’s national program.

     

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  • John Amores returns to PBA after signing with Titan Ultra ahead of PBA Governors’ Cup 

    John Amores returns to PBA after signing with Titan Ultra ahead of PBA Governors’ Cup 

    Nearly two years after his basketball career came to a standstill, John Amores is getting another opportunity in the PBA.


    The controversial guard officially returned to the league after signing with Titan Ultra just days before the team’s debut in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup against Terrafirma on Friday, marking his first appearance since his professional license was revoked following a shooting incident in Laguna.

     

    Amores signed his new contract in the presence of his representative, Danny Espiritu, completing a comeback that once seemed unlikely after the PBA suspended him and the Games and Amusements Board (GAB) stripped him of his professional license.

     

    Titan Ultra, which acquired the former NorthPort franchise, retained Amores’ playing rights during the ownership transition, paving the way for his eventual return once he secured clearance to play.

    Welcoming him back, the franchise announced his signing on social media.

     

    “A NEW CHAPTER STARTS NOW. Welcome back to the PBA, John Amores,” the team posted on social media.

     

    The signing came shortly after Amores shared a video of himself at the Games and Amusement Board on Wednesday, appearing to confirm that he had regained the license necessary to resume his professional career.

     

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    Earlier reports had already linked the shooting guard to a possible comeback after he attended tryouts with the Giant Risers before ultimately landing with Titan Ultra.

     

    His return follows a turbulent stretch that began with the Laguna shooting incident, in which both Amores and his brother were later released after posting bail.

     

    The PBA subsequently handed Amores an indefinite suspension without pay in October 2024, citing “conduct detrimental to the league,” while his GAB license was revoked as criminal charges were filed.

     

    However, the Laguna case was only the latest chapter in a career repeatedly overshadowed by controversy.

     

    Amores first made national headlines in 2022 while playing for the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers, when he was indefinitely banned by the NCAA after punching multiple College of Saint Benilde players during a game.

     

    Despite that incident, NorthPort selected him with the 51st overall pick in the 2023 PBA Draft, believing in his potential on the court.

     

    Amores rewarded that faith with a productive rookie campaign, earning a two-year contract extension from the Batang Pier before his career was once again interrupted by the Laguna shooting case.

     

    Now under Titan Ultra following its acquisition of the NorthPort franchise, Amores has been handed another chance to rebuild both his basketball career and his reputation. His return reunites him with former NorthPort teammates Fran Yu, Joshua Munzon, and Cade Flores, giving him a familiar core as he prepares to suit up once again in the PBA. 

     

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  • “I just wanna do my best to uplift my NLEX players”: Jimmy Alapag ready for first PBA coaching challenge

    “I just wanna do my best to uplift my NLEX players”: Jimmy Alapag ready for first PBA coaching challenge

    The NLEX Road Warriors are entering a new chapter with one of Philippine basketball’s most respected figures at the helm.

     

    In one of the biggest coaching acquisitions of the PBA offseason, NLEX officially welcomed Philippine Basketball Association legend and former Sacramento Kings player development coach Jimmy Alapag as its new head coach. The appointment marks Alapag’s first opportunity to serve as a head coach in the PBA after years of building his coaching résumé both locally and overseas.

     

    Alapag succeeds veteran tactician Jong Uichico and inherits a team that emerged as one of the league’s strongest contenders during the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup, where the Road Warriors finished as the No. 1 seed with an impressive 10-2 win-loss record. Expectations are naturally high, but rather than implementing sweeping changes, the six-time PBA champion is focused on strengthening the culture that already exists within the organization.

     

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    Having already conducted his first training sessions and guided the Road Warriors during a tune-up game in preparation for the upcoming Governors’ Cup, the 48-year-old expressed excitement about beginning this new chapter of his coaching career.

     

    “I was able to have conversations with the players. I’m just excited to get to work. Obviously, malapit na yung start of the Governors’ Cup. We have roughly ten days or so. So medyo ipit yung time. But I will do my best,” Alapag said during his introductory press conference.

     

    Despite the limited preparation time, Alapag was encouraged by what he witnessed from his players in their early sessions together. More than systems and tactics, he believes competitiveness and mindset will serve as the team’s foundation.

     

    “I thought the mood was great. They looked excited. I hope that’s a great sign. But I thought this morning, I told them before the game, their competitive spirit was at a high level for a tuneup game. And I think that’s the first battle. Before we get to the X’s and O’s, your competitive spirit. I think us as Filipinos, it’s natural for us. So I just wanna bring that out in all of them. I think everything else will take care of itself,” he added.

    Alapag’s appointment reunites one of the country’s greatest point guards with the PBA in a vastly different capacity. Widely regarded as one of the finest floor generals in league history, he enjoyed an illustrious playing career highlighted by multiple championships, MVP-caliber performances, and years of leadership with both club and country. Since retiring as a player, he has steadily expanded his coaching credentials, including valuable experience in the NBA.

     

    Rather than overhauling the Road Warriors’ identity, Alapag emphasized that his immediate priority is helping his players maximize their potential while fostering a stronger sense of unity inside the locker room.

     

    “I just wanna do my best to uplift my NLEX players. I think as a coach, it’s something that I learned from coach Mike Brown during our time together in Sacramento before he moved on to New York and won an NBA championship. He was all about being positive with the players and really trying to encourage them, uplift them, to allow them to play and perform at their best. That’s one of the things I’m gonna try to implement.

     

    “Growing not just as individual players but more so growing as a family. I want them to get to know me, and I also want to make sure I get to know them on a personal level. ‘Cos I think it’s so important to develop new relationships. Siyempre kilala ko sila. And I think it works both ways because if you do that, you will be able to see it when they play on the court. So just continue to grow as a team and as a family, continue to help the players improve,” he continued.

     

    The emphasis on relationships is a philosophy Alapag developed during his three-year stint as a player development coach with the Sacramento Kings. Working under respected NBA coach Mike Brown, Alapag gained firsthand experience in one of the world’s most competitive basketball environments, learning that player development extends well beyond improving on-court skills.

     

    His NBA experience reinforced the importance of communication, trust, and genuine investment in each player’s growth—principles he now hopes to bring to NLEX as the Road Warriors pursue another deep playoff run.

     

    “I think this is something I learned in my time in Sacramento. I think the relationship part of player development is a huge component. Because at the end of the day, coaches and players are human beings. And so I think it’s important to always come from a perspective of wanting to help and wanting to uplift them in their careers. I’m not playing anymore. Whatever I can do to help them have success in their careers and extend their careers, I think that’s a huge part of player development,” Alapag concluded.

     

    For NLEX, Alapag’s arrival represents more than just a coaching change—it signals the beginning of a new era built around player empowerment, accountability, and a modern approach to team culture. While the Road Warriors have already proven they can compete with the league’s best, the challenge now will be translating regular-season success into a championship breakthrough under new leadership.

     

    The Alapag era officially begins on Friday, July 10, when the Road Warriors take on guest team Macau Giant Pandas in the opening game of the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. All eyes will be on one of Philippine basketball’s most decorated figures as he embarks on the next chapter of an already distinguished career—this time from the sidelines, leading a team eager to contend for a championship.

     

     

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