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Category: Basketball

  • Gilas Pilipinas falls short in double-overtime heartbreaker against New Zealand 

    Gilas Pilipinas falls short in double-overtime heartbreaker against New Zealand 

    Gilas Pilipinas came within seconds of pulling off a massive road victory, but the Tall Blacks survived two overtime periods to escape with a 106-102 win in the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers on Friday in Auckland.

     

    The Nationals erased a 12-point second-half deficit and held multiple late leads behind the stellar play of Juan Gomez de Liano, Kevin Quiambao, Carl Tamayo, and Dwight Ramos, but New Zealand made the crucial plays down the stretch to defend its home floor.

     

    Gomez de Liano finished with a team-high 23 points, while Quiambao added 21. Ramos chipped in 18 points, and Tamayo contributed 17 in a valiant losing effort.

     

    Tamayo immediately put Gilas on the board with a three-pointer before Gomez de Liano found his rhythm early, scoring seven points in the opening quarter to keep the Philippines within striking distance.

     

    Despite the offensive spark from the young guards, New Zealand capitalized on second-chance opportunities and controlled the boards to build a 23-17 advantage after the first period.

     

    Quiambao ignited Gilas in the second quarter, knocking down back-to-back three-pointers to cut the deficit to just one, 26-25. Gomez de Liano and Quiambao combined for 17 first-half points, but the Tall Blacks continued to punish the Filipinos with offensive rebounds.

     

    Tamayo then took over offensively, scoring 11 first-half points, highlighted by a perfect 3-for-3 shooting from beyond the arc. Still, New Zealand entered halftime with a 44-39 lead.

     

    Tamayo opened the third quarter with another basket before the Tall Blacks uncorked a 6-0 run to stretch their lead to 52-41, their largest of the game.

     

    Gomez de Liano answered with a step-back triple to spark Gilas, while AJ Edu helped trim the deficit through aggressive interior play. Ramos also found his rhythm late in the period as the Nationals slowly clawed their way back.

     

    Mike Phillips provided a huge lift with relentless offensive rebounding and hustle plays, including drawing an unsportsmanlike foul that shifted the momentum.

     

    RJ Abarrientos eventually tied the game at 60-all from the free-throw line before Gomez de Liano buried another three-pointer to hand Gilas its first lead in a long while.

     

    The Philippines completed its comeback and entered the fourth quarter ahead, 64-63.

    The two teams traded baskets throughout the final period.

     

     

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    Ramos and Tamayo opened the scoring before Abarrientos gave Gilas another lead with a crafty drive. Edu later converted an unsportsmanlike foul opportunity, while Quiambao drilled another triple to extend the Nationals’ advantage to 74-68.

     

    Ramos followed with a three-pointer for a 77-70 cushion, but New Zealand responded with five unanswered points before eventually tying the game at 77-all after Gomez de Liano was assessed an unsportsmanlike foul.

     

    Quiambao answered with a mid-range jumper after forcing a turnover to restore the lead, but Tai Webster responded with consecutive baskets to put the Tall Blacks ahead.

     

    With Gilas trailing late, Gomez de Liano came through in the clutch, knocking down a huge three-pointer that forced overtime.

     

    New Zealand grabbed an early edge in the extra period before Justin Brownlee finally scored his first basket of the night, tying the game at 87-all.

     

    Quiambao gave Gilas a slim advantage from the free-throw line before adding a floater to make it 90-87.

     

    Reuben Te Rangi answered with consecutive baskets to put New Zealand back in front, but Gomez de Liano once again delivered under pressure, sinking another clutch triple with 8.3 seconds left to give Gilas a two-point lead.

     

    The Tall Blacks, however, answered at the other end to send the contest into a second overtime deadlocked at 93-all.

     

    The second extra period featured another series of momentum swings.

     

    Edu threw down a dunk to put Gilas ahead before Brownlee connected on a three-pointer to extend the lead to 100-96.

     

    New Zealand refused to fold as Te Rangi, Tohi Smith-Milner, and Davison combined for four straight free throws before another basket completed a 6-0 run to regain the lead.

     

    Quiambao tied the game one final time with a floater at 102-all, but Sam Mennenga scored on a crucial putback in the closing moments before the Tall Blacks added insurance from the free-throw line to secure the hard-fought victory.

     

    Despite the defeat, Gilas showcased its resilience after battling back from double digits on the road and pushing one of Asia-Oceania’s toughest teams to two overtime periods behind another impressive performance from its young core.

     

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  • PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup imports: Veterans, newcomers set to headline title chase 

    PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup imports: Veterans, newcomers set to headline title chase 

    The countdown to the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup has entered its final stretch, and with every team now unveiling its reinforcement, the race for the season-ending championship is beginning to take shape.

     

    When the conference opens on July 10 at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, all 13 participating teams—including guest club Macau Giant Pandas—will parade imports who comply with the league’s 6-foot-6 height limit. The field features a familiar blend of proven PBA stars, former NBA players, and first-time reinforcements looking to make an immediate impact.

     

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel


    Leading the returning cast is Justin Brownlee, whose résumé in the league remains unmatched among active imports. The four-time PBA Best Import returns after steering the Gin Kings to the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup championship, where they outlasted TNT Tropang 5G in a grueling seven-game Finals series. Brownlee also powered Ginebra to its most recent Governors’ Cup title in 2022, earning his second Best Import award during that campaign.

     

    TNT Tropang 5G

     

    Defending Governors’ Cup champion TNT enters the tournament with a different reinforcement as Rondae Hollis-Jefferson continues his recovery. The Tropang 5G have turned to former NBA forward Darius Days, who was originally slated to play for TNT in the 2024 Governors’ Cup before Hollis-Jefferson decided to return. Since then, Days has helped the Illawarra Hawks capture a National Basketball League championship in Australia.

     

    Rain or Shine Elasto Painters

     

    Rain or Shine is banking on continuity by bringing back Aaron Fuller, who guided the Elasto Painters to the semifinals of last season’s Governors’ Cup before eventually bowing to TNT. Fuller returns after his latest stint in Mexico.

     

    NLEX Road Warriors

     

    NLEX will also keep a familiar face in DeQuan Jones, who rejoins the Road Warriors under new head coach Jimmy Alapag. The former Orlando Magic forward first suited up for NLEX midway through last season as Myke Henry’s replacement and now returns to a squad that topped the elimination round of the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup before its playoff run ended in the quarterfinals against TNT.

     

    Converge FiberXers

     

    Converge welcomes back one of the league’s most explosive scorers in Jalen Hudson. Returning to the PBA for the first time in three years, Hudson previously played for TNT in the 2023 Governors’ Cup, highlighted by a spectacular 56-point, 12-rebound, four-assist performance against his current team.

     

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    Magnolia Hotshots

     

    Magnolia has signed American forward KJ Buffen, who played collegiate basketball at the University of Alabama at Birmingham before building a professional career in Finland, New Zealand, and most recently Indonesia with RANS PIK.

     

    Blackwater Bossing

     

    Blackwater reinforced its roster with Kentrell Barkley, an accomplished import who arrives after winning the Most Valuable Player award in both the Indonesian Basketball League and the Vietnam Basketball Association. Barkley has also captured championships in Vietnam and Taiwan and now joins the Bossing under interim coach Pat Aquino.

     

    Meralco Bolts

     

    Meralco will finally get a full conference with Jordon Varnado, who is already familiar with the Bolts after helping the team reach the quarterfinals of the 2025 Basketball Champions League Asia.

     

    San Miguel Beermen

     

    San Miguel acquired George King after his release from Blackwater, bringing back one of the most prolific scorers to have played in the PBA. During last season’s Governors’ Cup, King erupted for a career-high 64 points for the Bossing before continuing his overseas career with stops in Lebanon, Egypt, Iraq, Taiwan, and Germany.

     

    Terrafirma Dyip

     

    Terrafirma introduces Justin Strings, a Sacramento State product who has played professionally in Canada, Germany, Argentina, and Uruguay.

     

    Phoenix Fuel Masters

     

    Phoenix turns to former NBA swingman BJ Johnson, who previously suited up for the Orlando Magic, Sacramento Kings, and Atlanta Hawks before most recently playing for Lokomotiv Kuban in Russia’s VTB United League.

     

    Titan Ultra Giant Risers

     

    Expansion club Titan Ultra Giant Risers has entrusted its campaign to Tirrell Brown, whose professional career has taken him across Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Uruguay.

     

    Macau Giant Pandas

     

    Guest team Macau Giant Pandas, formerly known as the Black Knights, will be reinforced by De’Vondre Perry. The Temple University product heads to the PBA after competing in Belgium, the Dominican Republic, and Germany, where he last played for SBB Baskets Wolmirstedt.

     

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  • NBA offseason reshapes league as stars switch teams and contenders reload

    NBA offseason reshapes league as stars switch teams and contenders reload

    The NBA offseason has quickly evolved into a league-wide reset.

     

    From franchise icons changing uniforms to contenders making aggressive roster upgrades, teams across the league have wasted little time reshaping their futures. Some are chasing another championship, others are trying to return to contention, while a few are betting on familiar faces to revive old success.

     

    No move has been more symbolic than LeBron James’ departure from Los Angeles, but it is only one piece of an offseason that continues to redefine the NBA landscape.

     

    LeBron closes Lakers chapter

     

    One of the NBA’s most successful partnerships has officially come to an end.

     

    After eight seasons in Los Angeles, LeBron James informed the Lakers that he will continue his career elsewhere, ending a tenure that delivered the franchise’s 2020 championship, an NBA Cup title, and countless milestones—including becoming the league’s all-time leading scorer and forming the NBA’s first father-son duo with Bronny James.

     

    James averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds during his 23rd season while helping Los Angeles navigate injuries throughout another playoff campaign.

     

    Lakers governor Jeanie Buss paid tribute to the four-time champion.

     

    “LeBron James is one of the greatest athletes in history. We will always be thankful for his eight years with the Lakers—including the title he led us to in 2020 under the toughest imaginable circumstances and the countless records he broke in purple and gold,” Buss said.

     

    James responded with gratitude.

     

    “No, THANK YOU! Truly an honor to wear the purple and gold while trying to continue the greatness & legacies that came before me! Hope I made a few proud during my stint.”

     

    Toronto brings Kawhi home

     

    Seven years after delivering the Raptors’ first NBA championship, Kawhi Leonard is heading back to Toronto.

     

    The Raptors acquired Leonard from the Los Angeles Clippers in one of the biggest trades of the offseason, surrendering Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, multiple first-round selections, pick swaps, and second-round picks to reunite with the Finals MVP who authored one of the greatest postseason runs in franchise history.

     

    Toronto hopes the reunion can once again transform the franchise into a legitimate title contender.

     

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    Boston continues all-in approach

     

    Fresh off another deep playoff run, Boston focused on reinforcing its identity.

     

    The Celtics added elite rim protector Mitchell Robinson on a three-year, $47.4 million contract after the center helped New York capture last season’s championship. Robinson has long been regarded as one of the NBA’s premier interior defenders, averaging 1.7 blocks throughout his career.

     

    Boston also added veteran point guard Mike Conley, whose leadership and experience will provide another stabilizing presence as he enters his 20th NBA season.

     

    Lakers answer with Walker Kessler

     

    Although LeBron is gone, Los Angeles immediately addressed one of its biggest weaknesses.

    The Lakers landed defensive standout Walker Kessler through a sign-and-trade with Utah, committing four years and $130 million to one of the league’s best young shot blockers.

     

    Kessler averaged 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks during the 2024-25 season, giving Los Angeles a long-term anchor in the middle.

     

    Veteran movement reshapes contenders

     

    Several experienced players also found new homes as playoff hopefuls continued strengthening their rotations.

     

    The Spurs signed veteran forward Tobias Harris, adding another proven scorer to support their young core.

     

    Nikola Vucevic returned to Orlando after spending more than five years away from the franchise where he became a two-time All-Star.

     

    Kelly Oubre Jr. joined Indiana, giving the Pacers another versatile wing, while Marcus Smart reunited with coach Ime Udoka in Houston after signing a two-year deal with the Rockets.

     

    Norman Powell will suit up for Chicago following another 20-point scoring campaign, while Luke Kennard’s elite outside shooting earned him a move to Phoenix.

     

    Detroit remained active by signing John Collins and re-signing Kevin Huerter as the Pistons continue building around their emerging core.

     

    Franchises invest in continuity

    Several organizations chose stability instead of splashy moves.

     

    Portland locked up Robert Williams III with a three-year extension after his productive season off the bench, while Milwaukee retained Ousmane Dieng on a multi-year deal.

     

    Philadelphia strengthened its frontcourt by signing longtime Cleveland forward Dean Wade, and Miami retained Italian forward Simone Fontecchio.

     

    Meanwhile, Brooklyn added defensive-minded guard Keon Ellis, Chicago brought back Zach Collins, and New York rewarded championship contributor Landry Shamet with a new four-year contract.

     

    League enters new era

     

    The offseason has also featured several headline-grabbing trades beyond free agency.

     

    Ja Morant begins a fresh chapter in Portland after Memphis elected to rebuild around a new core, while Kristaps Porzingis remains with Golden State following his impressive finish to last season.

    Washington, meanwhile, has made it clear it has no intention of moving Anthony Davis despite speculation surrounding the veteran forward.

     

    With championship contenders continuing to reload and superstar movement showing no signs of slowing down, the NBA’s balance of power appears far from settled.

     

    As training camp approaches, nearly every contender has a different look, setting the stage for one of the league’s most intriguing seasons in recent memory.

     

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  • Kiefer Ravena signs with Ryukyu after strong stint with Yokohama 

    Kiefer Ravena signs with Ryukyu after strong stint with Yokohama 

    Kiefer Ravena is no longer just looking to compete in Japan—he’s now putting himself in position to chase a championship.

     

    After spending the last five seasons building his reputation in the B.League, the Filipino playmaker has earned a move to one of the competition’s most successful organizations, signing with the Ryukyu Golden Kings for the 2026-27 campaign.

     

    The Golden Kings officially unveiled Ravena as their newest acquisition on Friday, adding another seasoned floor general to a roster that came within one series of capturing the B.League title last season.

     

    For Ravena, the opportunity represents more than a change of scenery.

     

    It is the reward for years of steady growth since leaving the PBA to test himself overseas.

    “I’m very excited to be part of the Ryukyu Golden Kings,” Ravena said in the team’s official announcement.

     

    “As one of the top organizations in the league, I’ll be ready to do my best to represent the city of Okinawa and the fans of the Kings.”

     

    The move also signals a significant step forward in the 32-year-old’s Japanese career.

     

    Ravena first arrived in the B.League with the Shiga Lakes before establishing himself over the past two seasons as one of the Yokohama B-Corsairs’ most dependable two-way guards.

     

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    Rather than relying solely on scoring, Ravena became known for his versatility, leadership, and ability to impact both ends of the floor—qualities that made him an attractive addition for a championship contender.

     

    Last season, he averaged 11.9 points, 3.3 assists, and 1.8 rebounds while connecting on 37 percent of his attempts from beyond the arc, continuing to prove he could thrive against Japan’s top competition.

     

    Now, those contributions will be directed toward one of the B.League’s elite clubs.

     

    Ryukyu enters the new season with unfinished business after compiling a 42-18 regular-season record before advancing to the league finals, where it settled for a runner-up finish.

     

    The Golden Kings also showcased their strength internationally, placing third in the 2025-26 East Asia Super League.

     

    For Ravena, joining a team with legitimate championship aspirations presents a different kind of challenge from his previous stops.

     

    After years of helping clubs build and compete, he now finds himself in an environment where the expectation isn’t simply making the playoffs—it’s winning the title.

     

    As he prepares for his sixth season in Japan, Ravena takes another important step in a career that continues to evolve beyond Philippine basketball, this time with an opportunity to contribute to one of Asia’s most accomplished professional organizations.

     

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  • UP begins UAAP Season 89 rebuild with Fil-Canadian guard Irish Coquia 

    UP begins UAAP Season 89 rebuild with Fil-Canadian guard Irish Coquia 

    The University of the Philippines remains focused on reclaiming the UAAP men’s basketball crown in Season 89 as the Fighting Maroons are making sure their future is in good hands.


    UP has secured the commitment of Fil-Canadian guard Irish Coquia, a move that strengthens the program’s long-term plans as it prepares for life beyond veteran backcourt leaders Rey Remogat and Rain Maga.

     

    The 6-foot-1 playmaker will serve the mandatory one-year residency requirement before becoming eligible for two seasons beginning in Season 90, giving the Fighting Maroons time to develop one of their newest recruits within Goldwin Monteverde’s system.

     

    “I chose UP because I believe this program can bring out the best in me. UP gave me a vision for my future that felt right not just in basketball, but in who I can become. I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent UP, grow under this program, and keep working towards my goals,” Coquia said.

     

    Coquia arrives in Diliman with experience at both levels of U.S. collegiate basketball. He most recently played for the University of New Orleans in NCAA Division I after first making his mark at NCAA Division II program Simon Fraser University.

     

    Long before his college career in the United States, Coquia established himself as one of British Columbia’s premier high school talents. He averaged 35 points per game while leading his team to a provincial championship, earning Most Valuable Player honors in the process.

     

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    The Fil-Canadian guard, who turns 21 in September, is expected to become a key figure in UP’s next-generation backcourt. 

     

    By the time he becomes eligible in Season 90, both Remogat and Maga will have exhausted their playing eligibility, opening the door for Coquia to team up with fellow Fil-Am recruit Joaquin Tovera.

     

    For Monteverde, the addition is part of ensuring continuity within one of the UAAP’s most successful programs in recent years.

     

    “Together with our other recruits, makakatulong si Irish sa atin, especially to ensure na tuloy-tuloy lang tayo pagkatapos ng playing years nina Rey at Rain,” said Monteverde.

     

    The commitment also carries personal significance for Coquia, whose family roots trace back to Dagupan City, Pangasinan. His uncle, multidisciplinary communicator Rex Laguerta, studied at the UP Open University from 2019 to 2024, making the newest Fighting Maroon’s arrival a homecoming of sorts.

     

    UP continues to build from a position of sustained success. The Fighting Maroons are coming off their fifth consecutive UAAP Finals appearance, a stretch highlighted by championships in Seasons 84 and 87.

     

    As the Maroons chase redemption in Season 89 after falling to the DLSU Green Archers in last season’s best-of-three championship series, the commitment of Coquia signals that the program is looking beyond its immediate title aspirations—investing in a future it hopes will keep UP among the league’s perennial contenders for years to come.

     

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  • Sedrick Barefield to stay with Blackwater Bossing after trade talks stall

    Sedrick Barefield to stay with Blackwater Bossing after trade talks stall

    Filipino-American guard Sedrick Barefield appears set to remain with Blackwater Bossing for the remainder of the ongoing PBA season after uncertainty surrounding his future ultimately failed to result in a trade.

     

    Barefield had recently emerged as one of the most talked-about names on the PBA trade market after it became known that Blackwater management was entertaining offers for the versatile backcourt player. Several teams reportedly expressed interest in acquiring the 29-year-old, whose ability to score, create offense, and defend multiple positions made him an attractive trade target.

     

    Despite the level of interest, however, Blackwater was unable to find a proposal that met the organization’s expectations.

     

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    As a result, Barefield’s contract has been automatically extended through the end of the current PBA season, allowing the Bossing to retain his services after no trade agreement materialized.

     

    The guard’s original contract was scheduled to expire on July 15. Under PBA rules, player contracts that are due to lapse before the conclusion of the season may be extended until the season ends by mutual consent between the player and the team. The provision ensures roster continuity while protecting the rights of both parties during an active campaign.

     

    Rey Punongbayan, Barefield’s representative, confirmed on Thursday, July 2, that his client had agreed to the extension, ensuring that Blackwater would continue to hold his playing rights for the remainder of the season.

     

    While speculation surrounding Barefield’s future intensified over the past several weeks, Blackwater owner Dioceldo Sy revealed that the franchise ultimately chose to stand pat after receiving offers that failed to provide sufficient value in return.

    “No good deals. We decided to stay as a team,” Sy said.

     

    Head coach Pat Aquino echoed that sentiment, indicating that management had decided against making any roster changes despite the team’s disappointing campaign.

     

    “Status quo. We will not move anybody as per Boss Dio.”

     

    The decision signals Blackwater’s commitment to keeping its core intact as it looks to bounce back from a difficult showing in the previous PBA Commissioner’s Cup. The Bossing struggled throughout the tournament and finished at the bottom of the standings with a 2-10 win-loss record, falling short of playoff contention and prompting questions about the direction of the franchise.

     

    Rather than reshuffle the roster midway through the year, Blackwater appears determined to give its current group another opportunity to improve, with Barefield expected to remain a central figure in the team’s plans.

     

    Since arriving in the PBA in 2024, Barefield has established himself as one of Blackwater’s primary offensive weapons. His combination of athleticism, shot creation, and perimeter scoring has made him a key contributor, while his experience playing in multiple international leagues has added valuable maturity to the Bossing backcourt.

     

    Barefield’s basketball journey has been anything but conventional. After going undrafted in the 2019 NBA Draft, he began his professional career with the Oklahoma City Blue in the NBA G League before embarking on an international career that took him across several competitive basketball markets.

     

    The former Utah and Central Florida standout has suited up for clubs in Lithuania, Greece, and Taiwan, gaining experience against a variety of playing styles before joining the Bay Area Dragons in the East Asia Super League. His performances overseas eventually paved the way for his move to the PBA, where Blackwater secured his services ahead of the 2024 season.

     

    Although trade rumors may have dominated the headlines in recent weeks, Barefield’s immediate future now appears settled. With management opting against making a deal and the team choosing continuity over change, the Filipino-American guard is expected to continue leading Blackwater as the Bossing attempt to turn their fortunes around in the remainder of the season.

     

     

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  • Gilas Pilipinas braces for familiar challenge as New Zealand rematch opens crucial World Cup qualifying window

    Gilas Pilipinas braces for familiar challenge as New Zealand rematch opens crucial World Cup qualifying window

    A familiar rival, a familiar stage, and another opportunity to rewrite the story.

     

    Gilas Pilipinas opens the third window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers on Thursday against New Zealand at Spark Arena in Auckland, hoping to turn one of its narrowest defeats into one of its biggest victories.

     

    The matchup serves as more than just another qualifying game. It is Gilas’ first chance to avenge the heartbreaking 69-66 loss to the Tall Blacks last February—a contest that slipped away in the closing minutes despite a spirited defensive effort.

     

    With both teams already assured of advancing to the second round, every remaining game still carries significant weight as results from the first phase are carried over into the next stage of qualification.

     

    Few teams have frustrated Gilas in recent years quite like New Zealand.

     

    The Tall Blacks have won four straight meetings against the Philippines dating back to the 2022 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers, including last February’s thriller at the Mall of Asia Arena. 

     

    Gilas took a game at home last November 2024 for the then upcoming 2025 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers. 

     

    That latest meeting showcased New Zealand’s trademark physicality and disciplined half-court execution, holding Gilas scoreless for long stretches in the fourth quarter before escaping Manila with a three-point victory.

     

    Now, the challenge shifts to Auckland, where Gilas will have to overcome not just a well-drilled opponent, but also a hostile road environment.

     

    Or perhaps not entirely hostile.

     

    For Gilas wing Dwight Ramos, Auckland has become one of the most unique stops on the national team’s calendar because of the overwhelming support from the Filipino community.

    “It’s really big. It’s a nice opportunity to play New Zealand,” Ramos said.

     

    “The last time that we were there, almost the whole crowd was Filipinos. Even though it’s away, it was still like a home game for us.”

     

    Ramos experienced that atmosphere firsthand during the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, when thousands of Filipino fans packed the arena despite Gilas eventually falling to the Tall Blacks.

    “It’s another chance to try and go again,” he added.

     

    That support is expected to be just as strong this time around, with thousands of overseas Filipinos once again set to fill the stands.

     

    The biggest storyline entering this window is Gilas’ reshuffled roster.

     

    The Philippines will be without Kai Sotto, who remains in the United States pursuing his NBA Summer League ambitions, while Scottie Thompson, Calvin Oftana, and Quentin Millora-Brown are unavailable because of injuries.

     

    Their absences have opened the door for several fresh faces.

     

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    Former UAAP MVP Mike Phillips is expected to make his debut as a locally eligible player under FIBA rules, while Justine Baltazar and Troy Rosario provide additional size and versatility in the frontcourt.

     

    The revamped lineup already showed encouraging signs during its tune-up games in New Zealand.

     

    Gilas cruised past both the Manawatu Jets and the Franklin Bulls, with Carl Tamayo, Kevin Quiambao, Troy Rosario, Mike Phillips, Juan Gomez de Liano, and Dwight Ramos all producing balanced performances that gave head coach Tim Cone optimism entering the qualifiers.

     

    Against Manawatu, every player on Gilas’ roster scored, a testament to the team’s depth despite the missing stars.

     

    Once again, much of Gilas’ hopes rest on naturalized forward Justin Brownlee.

     

    Fresh off leading Barangay Ginebra to another PBA championship, Brownlee returns to national team duty looking to improve on an up-and-down second qualifying window.

     

    He struggled against New Zealand last February, finishing with just four points, before bouncing back with 20 against Australia two days later.

     

    Now healthier and coming in with championship momentum, Brownlee knows matching New Zealand’s physical style will be the key.

     

    “We’ve got to match their physicality and understand how to play through that,” Brownlee said.

    “We just have to be aggressive. No matter what they do, as far as how they are guarding us, we just have to stay aggressive.”

     

    New Zealand enters the matchup largely intact, led by longtime stars Finn Delany, Shea Ili, and a roster that continues to blend experienced veterans with rising talent.

     

    The Tall Blacks have built their success around disciplined execution, physical defense, and efficient ball movement rather than overwhelming athleticism.

     

    Their ability to dictate tempo frustrated Gilas in Manila, forcing difficult possessions late in the game and capitalizing on timely perimeter shooting.

     

    Playing at home only adds another layer of confidence for a team that has consistently performed well on its own floor in FIBA competition.

     

    Although qualification to the second round is already secured, the importance of this game extends well beyond the standings.

     

    Results against fellow advancing teams carry over into the next phase, making every victory critical in the race for one of Asia’s seven automatic World Cup berths.

     

    For Gilas, stealing a road win in Auckland would not only erase the disappointment of February but also provide valuable momentum before another daunting road assignment against Australia in Perth three days later.

     

    With a revamped roster, renewed confidence from its tune-up victories, and thousands of Filipino supporters expected inside Spark Arena, Gilas Pilipinas hopes this rematch finally ends New Zealand’s recent mastery and marks the beginning of a successful third qualifying window.

     

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  • Dwight Ramos expects another sea of Filipino fans as Gilas faces Tall Blacks 

    Dwight Ramos expects another sea of Filipino fans as Gilas faces Tall Blacks 

    For Gilas Pilipinas, the trip to Auckland may technically count as a road game—but Dwight Ramos knows it rarely feels that way.

     

    As the Philippines prepares to renew its rivalry with New Zealand in the third window of the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, Ramos believes one familiar advantage will once again travel with the national team: thousands of passionate Filipino supporters expected to fill the stands.

     

    The Tall Blacks host Gilas on July 3 in a matchup that carries more than just redemption. Both teams enter the contest tied at 2-2 in Group A, with valuable positioning on the line before the second round of qualifying begins.

     

    Ramos still vividly remembers the overwhelming Filipino presence during Gilas’ previous visit to Auckland in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers. Although the Nationals absorbed an 87-70 defeat, the atmosphere inside the arena felt anything but hostile.

     

    “It’s really big. It’s a nice opportunity to play New Zealand,” said Ramos, as Gilas carries momentum from its tuneup wins over the Manawatu Jets and the Franklin Bulls.

     

    “The last time that we were there, almost the whole crowd was Filipinos. Even though it’s away, it was still like a home game for us.”

     

    That crowd support has become one of Gilas Pilipinas’ biggest strengths whenever the team plays abroad, particularly in countries with large Filipino communities.

     

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    The Nationals will be hoping that familiar energy translates into a different result this time around.

     

    New Zealand edged the Philippines, 69-66, during the previous qualifying window in February in Manila, handing Gilas one of its two losses in the group.

     

    After splitting its two exhibition games in New Zealand with convincing victories over the Manawatu Jets and Franklin Bulls, Gilas arrives in Auckland looking sharper and more acclimated ahead of the rematch.

     

    For Ramos, however, the motivation extends beyond the standings.

     

    The 26-year-old forward wants to reward the overseas Filipino community that continues to transform away venues into extensions of home.

     

    “It’s another chance to try and go again,” he said.

     

    A victory over the Tall Blacks would strengthen Gilas’ position heading into the next phase of qualification before an even tougher assignment awaits against undefeated Australia on July 6 in Perth.

     

    With familiar faces expected in the crowd once more, Ramos hopes Auckland can again feel like home—this time with a result Gilas can celebrate.

     

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  • Kacey Dela Rosa puts championship dream over professional offers as she returns for her final Ateneo season 

    Kacey Dela Rosa puts championship dream over professional offers as she returns for her final Ateneo season 

    For many rising stars, overseas offers signal the next big leap. For Ateneo de Manila University standout Kacey Dela Rosa, winning a UAAP women’s basketball championship before she leaves Katipunan is her goal.


    The two-time UAAP Most Valuable Player has confirmed her decision to return for her fifth and final playing year with the Blue Eagles, choosing unfinished business over early professional opportunities abroad.

     

    After guiding Ateneo from a semifinal exit to a podium finish in UAAP Season 88, Dela Rosa believes the program is close enough to take the next step, but not without one more push.

     

    Unsurprisingly, interest from outside leagues has begun to build around the 22-year-old center, whose size, skill, and versatility have also made her a fixture in both 5-on-5 and 3×3 competitions.

     

    She recently helped Ateneo secure a bronze finish in UAAP 3×3 basketball, further strengthening her reputation as one of the country’s most complete young frontcourt players.

     

    “Siguro, yung motivation ko talaga is yung hindi ko umalis nang walang championship. Kahit yung mga offers, hindi ko na masyadong pinapansin kasi yung Ateneo muna yung focus ko for now,” Dela Rosa said.

     

    Beyond individual accolades, she sees her final season as a chance to leave something more permanent within the Ateneo program.

     

    “Iniisip ko lang din kung anong makaka-help sa Ateneo community and sa teammates ko, gusto ko na parang mag-iwan talaga ako ng mabuti at magandang legacy sa Ateneo,” she said.

     

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    Her impact extends beyond collegiate play. She has also been recognized for her contributions to the Gilas Women program, where she has helped raise the profile of Philippine women’s basketball on the international stage. 

     

    Dela Rosa being honored with a special citation and inclusion in the Women’s Basketball Mythical Five in the recent Collegiate Press Corps Awards further cemented her status among the country’s elite.

     

    Her recent national team stint also coincided with a growing momentum for the program, highlighted by the Philippines’ silver-medal finish in the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup Division B campaign, a milestone she views as part of a larger upward trend for the sport.

     

    Despite her achievements at both collegiate and international levels, Dela Rosa remains grounded in her goal of finishing her UAAP career on her own terms—with a championship.

     

    “Gusto ko na mag-iwan talaga ako ng magandang legacy sa ating team.”

     

    For Ateneo, her return is more than just a roster boost. It is another chance to turn promise into payoff, anchored by a player who has already accomplished much—but still sees her story as unfinished.

     

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  • Rondae Hollis-Jefferson eyes September return as TNT plans long-awaited reunion 

    Rondae Hollis-Jefferson eyes September return as TNT plans long-awaited reunion 

    For the first time since suffering one of the biggest setbacks of his professional career, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson can finally see the finish line.

     

    The former PBA Best Import has taken another major step in his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon, raising hopes that his return to TNT Tropang 5G could happen before the end of the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup.

     

    In a recent update shared by TNT on social media, Hollis-Jefferson revealed that his rehabilitation has reached a significant milestone nearly five months after undergoing surgery.

     

    “I’m at almost five months post-surgery, I’m moving a lot better, I’m able to run, jump and start to do on court stuff,” he said.

     

    “I will say, around this five-month mark is where things start to ramp up where we do more work, pool workouts and a lot of strengthening.”

     

    Although the explosive forward is back running and working on basketball movements, he emphasized that there is still no fixed timetable for his comeback.

     

    “I can’t give y’all an exact date but we’re looking at somewhere between September and October.”

     

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    The update marks a welcome development for TNT, which has patiently waited for one of the franchise’s most successful imports to regain full health.

     

    Hollis-Jefferson suffered the devastating Achilles injury in December while suiting up for the Meralco Bolts in the East Asia Super League, abruptly ending another strong campaign just months after helping TNT capture another PBA championship.

     

    Rather than rushing his recovery, the Tropang 5G have opted for a cautious approach, prioritizing the long-term health of the former NBA veteran.

     

    With Hollis-Jefferson still completing his rehabilitation, TNT will begin its Governors’ Cup campaign with former NBA forward Darius Days serving as its reinforcement.

     

    The season-ending conference opens on July 10, though the Tropang 5G will make their first appearance on July 19 when they face guest team Macau at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

    If recovery continues according to plan, however, TNT’s biggest mid-conference addition may not come through a new signing—but through the return of the import who has become synonymous with the franchise’s recent championship success.

     

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