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Category: Basketball

  • “Bigger than making the NBA”: Remy Martin hoping to realise Gilas Pilipinas dream

    “Bigger than making the NBA”: Remy Martin hoping to realise Gilas Pilipinas dream

    Filipino-American guard Remy Martin is in Taiwan with Strong Group Athletics, chasing a third consecutive William Jones Cup title. But beyond helping his team make history, Martin is hoping the tournament brings him one step closer to another long-standing dream: representing the Philippines with Gilas Pilipinas.

     

    For Martin, wearing the Philippine colors would be the fulfillment of a dream he has carried since high school.

     

    “First, I’m just happy to be in the Philippines. This feels like home, you know? I have my family in Tarlac. So I come home here almost every year. Just to get to actually play and represent the country I have been waiting for since high school, it’s been a dream come true to me,” Martin said during media day.

     

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    “I’m always grateful to play basketball, but it makes it so much more special now because I get to play for the Philippines.”

     

    Martin, whose mother is Filipina, has never shied away from his Filipino roots. He came close to joining Gilas Pilipinas for the 2025 Southeast Asian Games, but his hopes were dashed when he was ultimately ruled ineligible after host country Thailand imposed restrictions on the participation of foreign players.

     

    Still, Martin has not given up on his national-team aspirations.

     

    “I hope that one day, Gilas gives me the opportunity, because that is my dream come true. That is bigger than making it to the NBA for me,” he said.

    “I have been watching them since I was young and always wanted to be on that type of platform.”

     

    One of the biggest hurdles in Martin’s bid to represent the Philippines has been his failure to secure a Philippine passport before turning 16, a requirement under FIBA eligibility rules for players seeking to represent a country through nationality.

     

    However, Martin remains hopeful after players such as Quentin Millora-Brown and Mike Phillips were granted local status after initially being classified as FIBA naturalized players.

     

    “I hope the country and FIBA sees that. I just didn’t get my passport. I have just been a dual citizen. If I’m dual before 16, we have a strong case for it,” Martin said.

     

    “I think it’s just going through the right people and having people help me push it because there’s no reason why I shouldn’t be on a Gilas uniform. That is my dream.”

     

    Martin also believes he has what it takes to contribute if given the opportunity, while acknowledging that the final decision ultimately rests with the coaching staff.

     

    “Everything about basketball, I think I’m good enough. I think I’m able to play at the highest level. But everything is system. If coach may feel like I don’t fit the team, then that’s on them. I understand, it’s basketball. Everybody wants us to win,” he said.

     

    “But I think I’m one of the guys to help the Philippines win, and I think that if I have the opportunity, and if it was up to me, I would have been playing in the Philippines for years now. If I have the opportunity, I will always take it.”

     

    Martin’s journey has taken him around the basketball world since going undrafted in the 2022 NBA Draft. He was later selected 40th overall by the Cleveland Charge in the NBA G League and has since played in several leagues overseas, including stints in Greece and Iceland.

     

    Now 28, Martin is back in the Philippines orbit with Strong Group Athletics, with another chance to showcase his game at the William Jones Cup—and, perhaps, strengthen his case for the Gilas Pilipinas opportunity he has been waiting for since he was a teenager.

     

     

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  • Gilas Women brace for tough Mexico test in Olympic pre-qualifiers 

    Gilas Women brace for tough Mexico test in Olympic pre-qualifiers 

    Gilas Pilipinas Women will enter the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament with a clear understanding of the challenge ahead — and a pair of imposing weapons in the middle.

     

    Jack Animam and Kacey Dela Rosa will headline a youthful but experienced Philippine lineup as the Nationals prepare for their campaign in Guadalajara, Mexico from August 18 to 24.

     

    The duo will form the foundation of Gilas Women’s interior game, with veteran leaders Afril Bernardino and Janine Pontejos providing additional experience alongside Filipina-American Vanessa de Jesus, a former Duke University standout.

     

    Kent Pastrana, Louna Ozar, Jhaz Joson, Angel Surada, Monique Del Carmen, Alyssa Rodriguez, and young gun Sophia Dignadice complete the squad.

     

    For new head coach Burke “BT” Toews, the tournament represents his first major test at the helm of the national team.

     

    The Canadian coach is aware that Gilas Women will be facing a difficult road in Group B, where the Philippines will go up against host Mexico, Canada, and Senegal in a single-round robin format.

     

    Rather than setting unrealistic expectations, Toews is choosing to focus on what his team can control — particularly when the Philippines faces opponents it believes it can challenge.

     

    “It would be great to win the Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament in Mexico, but that’s going to be a huge hurdle for us. It would be, I think, world news if it happened,” admitted Toews.

     

    “You’ve got Canada in there. But there are teams in our pool that are definitely beatable. And so that’s what we focus on. And the first game is against the hosts,” he added.

     

    That opening assignment against Mexico could immediately set the tone for the Philippines.

     

    The world No. 30 team begins its campaign on August 18 against the hosts before facing powerhouse Canada on August 20. Gilas Women will then wrap up the group stage against Senegal on August 21.

     

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    The format leaves little room for a slow start. With only one game against each opponent, every possession and result could carry significant weight in the race for the top two spots.

     

    For the Philippines, the path to the semifinals will likely require a combination of Animam and Dela Rosa’s presence inside, the veterans’ composure, and contributions from a group of players looking to establish themselves on the international stage.

     

    Canada presents the biggest obstacle on paper, but the Philippines’ immediate priority is Mexico.

     

    A strong opening performance would not only give Gilas Women an early boost in the standings but also provide Toews with an indication of how quickly his system can translate against international opposition.

     

    The tournament may be a difficult first assignment for the new coach, but it also offers an opportunity for Gilas Women to measure just how far the program has come.

     

    The goal is straightforward: finish among the top two in Group B and earn a place in the semifinals.

     

    The road to that goal, however, begins against the hosts in Guadalajara.

     

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  • Richard Bachmann calls for PBA salary cap changes to retain top Filipino players

    Richard Bachmann calls for PBA salary cap changes to retain top Filipino players

    Former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) player and Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Richard Bachmann believes the league needs to rethink its salary structure if it wants to remain competitive in an increasingly globalized Asian basketball landscape.

     

    Bachmann, who won eight PBA championships during his playing career, has experienced Philippine basketball from multiple perspectives, both on the court and in sports administration.

     

    Now, the veteran statesman is calling for changes to the PBA’s salary system, particularly as more of the country’s top players continue to explore opportunities in overseas leagues such as Japan’s B.League and the Korean Basketball League (KBL).

     

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    Bachmann believes the PBA should consider removing its individual player salary ceiling and instead implement a stricter team-wide salary cap similar to the system used by the National Basketball Association (NBA).

     

    The proposal, he said, would give PBA teams greater flexibility in determining how they allocate their payroll while still maintaining financial discipline across the league.

     

    The issue has become increasingly important as several Filipino players have made the move overseas in recent years.

     

    Among those who have played or pursued opportunities in leagues abroad are Kai Sotto, Kevin Quiambao, Dwight Ramos, Thirdy Ravena, SJ Belangel, Rhenz Abando, AJ Edu, Carl Tamayo and Ethan Alvano.

     

    Other established PBA names, including Arvin Tolentino, Kiefer Ravena and Matthew Wright, have also opted to continue their careers overseas at various points, underscoring the growing appeal of foreign leagues to Filipino players.

     

    For Bachmann, it is difficult to blame players for choosing those opportunities when the financial difference can be substantial.

     

    “It’s really hard to compete. Teams are now competing not only among themselves in the PBA, but we are also competing against teams and leagues abroad. You have Japan, you have Korea,” Bachmann said.

     

    “I don’t blame the players because I was a player before. It’s a no-brainer. If I’m a player and you are going to pay me three or four times what I can earn in the PBA, then I would go, ‘di ba?’”

     

    The financial disparity has become one of the biggest challenges facing the PBA as it attempts to retain its best talent.

     

    Overseas leagues, particularly in Japan and Korea, have increasingly been able to offer lucrative contracts to Filipino players, making it difficult for the PBA to compete purely on salary.

    Reports have indicated that some of the top B.League teams can offer Filipino players monthly salaries reaching the millions of pesos, while the PBA’s official maximum individual salary is significantly lower.

     

    That gap, Bachmann believes, puts the PBA at a disadvantage when its teams attempt to convince elite players to stay in the domestic league.

     

    Rather than simply raising the individual salary ceiling, however, Bachmann believes a different approach could provide teams with more room to compete for players.

     

    His preferred solution is to eliminate the individual maximum salary while imposing a stricter overall team salary cap.

     

    “The best option is to remove the individual salary cap and implement a stricter team salary cap. That’s an option,” Bachmann said.

     

    “With a team cap, it’s better because teams can decide how to distribute their payroll, as long as they don’t exceed the total cap.”

     

    Under such a system, teams would have greater freedom to prioritize their most valuable players and potentially offer competitive salaries to stars being pursued by foreign clubs.

     

    At the same time, a league-wide team cap could prevent franchises with significantly greater financial resources from simply outspending their rivals, helping preserve competitive balance.

    Bachmann’s proposal essentially seeks to strike a balance between player earning potential and financial sustainability for PBA teams.

     

    The former PBA champion also acknowledged that league officials are already considering ways to respond to the changing basketball landscape in Asia.

     

    “I’m sure the commissioner and the board are already discussing ways to adjust and keep pace with the other leagues, so hopefully they are,” he added.

     

    The challenge facing the PBA is becoming more pronounced as Asian basketball continues to develop.

     

    The B.League has established itself as an increasingly attractive destination for Filipino talent, while the KBL and other international leagues also continue to provide opportunities for players seeking stronger competition and more lucrative contracts.

     

    For the PBA, retaining its top players is not simply about protecting the league’s star power. It is also about maintaining its position as the Philippines’ premier professional basketball competition at a time when Filipino players have more international options than ever before.

     

    Bachmann’s proposed salary restructuring could give teams more flexibility to respond to those opportunities while maintaining a system designed to prevent excessive spending.

     

    Whether the PBA ultimately adopts such a model remains to be seen, but the growing movement of Filipino players overseas has made the issue increasingly difficult for the league to ignore.

     

    As Asian basketball becomes more competitive, the PBA may have to adapt its financial and organizational structure if it wants to keep its best players at home — and remain competitive with the leagues that are increasingly competing for Filipino basketball talent.

     

     

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  • PBA moves key matchups to Antipolo after weather disruptions

    PBA moves key matchups to Antipolo after weather disruptions

     The PBA is taking no chances with its next round of action.

     

    With weather-related disruptions affecting the league’s schedule and playing conditions in recent days, the PBA has moved two important PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup games to the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

     

    The Converge-Terrafirma and TNT-NLEX matchups originally scheduled at Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Tuesday, August 11, will now be played at the Antipolo venue as the league looks to provide a more reliable setting for both games.

     

    The decision comes after Ninoy Aquino Stadium experienced problems during Friday’s Magnolia-Meralco matchup, which was delayed for nearly an hour after rainwater leaked inside the venue.

     

    The league also had to postpone Sunday’s doubleheader featuring Phoenix against Blackwater and Barangay Ginebra against Rain or Shine because of severe weather conditions.

     

    With the venue change now settled, attention shifts back to the standings and the teams’ playoff push.

     

    Converge enters Tuesday’s matchup with a 3-4 record and plenty to prove after dropping four straight games. The FiberXers will be looking to stop their slide against a Terrafirma side that just pulled off one of the biggest wins of the conference.

     

    The Dyip stunned previously unbeaten NLEX, 114-109, to improve to 3-4 and breathe new life into their campaign.

     

    That result also adds another layer to the Converge-Terrafirma matchup, particularly after the FiberXers escaped with a narrow 105-103 victory when the two teams first met on July 15.

     

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    Both sides now find themselves fighting for positioning as the elimination round moves deeper into the conference.

     

    The other Tuesday matchup carries an even bigger storyline.

     

    TNT Tropang 5G, currently at 3-3, gets another shot at NLEX after the Road Warriors handed the defending champions an 85-83 defeat in their first-round meeting just last week.

     

    NLEX has since seen its perfect run end, falling to Terrafirma and slipping to 6-1.

     

    For TNT, the rematch provides an opportunity to answer that narrow loss. For NLEX, it is a chance to show that the setback against the Dyip was only a temporary interruption to an otherwise dominant campaign.

     

    With both games carrying major implications in the standings, the change in venue may be the biggest difference before the ball is even tipped.

     

    The PBA will now bring the action to Antipolo, where Converge, Terrafirma, TNT, and NLEX will look to turn a turbulent week into an important step toward the playoffs.

     

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  • DJ Fenner confirms plan to enter 2027 PBA Draft after William Jones Cup and MPBL stints

    DJ Fenner confirms plan to enter 2027 PBA Draft after William Jones Cup and MPBL stints

    Veteran guard DJ Fenner is keeping his sights firmly set on the present, but the well-traveled American already has his next major career goal in mind.

     

    Fenner is currently training with Strong Group Pilipinas as the squad prepares for the 2026 William Jones Cup in Taiwan, where it will attempt to capture a third consecutive title later this month.

     

    While the upcoming international tournament remains his immediate priority, Fenner has also confirmed that he intends to take the next step in his Philippine basketball journey by entering the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Draft in January 2027.

     

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    “Yes, that’s the plan, is to enter this draft in January and see what happens,” Fenner told members of the media.

     

    The decision could mark another significant chapter in Fenner’s already well-traveled basketball career. The American guard has built considerable experience playing in the Philippines and is now looking to translate that familiarity with the country’s basketball scene into an opportunity in the PBA.

     

    However, Fenner is not looking too far ahead just yet.

     

    Rather than identifying a preferred PBA team or speculating about where he could land in the draft, the veteran guard said his attention is firmly on finishing his current commitments on a strong note.

     

    “You know, I’m not too sure. I’m just really trying to finish the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) strong, have a good showing here with Strong Group in Taiwan,” Fenner said.

     

    “So I’m really just kind of taking it step by step and trying to get better each and every day. Hopefully, I will be ready to go in the PBA in 2027.”

     

    That measured approach reflects Fenner’s focus as he prepares for what could be one of the biggest opportunities of his career.

    Before thinking about the PBA Draft, however, Fenner has another important task in front of him.

    Strong Group Pilipinas is aiming to extend its dominance in the William Jones Cup after winning the prestigious international tournament in the previous two editions. The team will once again field a deep and star-studded roster as it attempts to make it three titles in a row.

     

    Leading the charge is former National Basketball Association (NBA) star Boban Marjanovic, whose imposing presence in the frontcourt gives Strong Group a major advantage heading into the tournament.

     

    Marjanovic will be joined by a talented group of international and Filipino players, including Filipino center Malick Diouf, Puerto Rican forward Isaiah Pineiro, American center Tajuan Agee and two-time NCAA Most Valuable Player (MVP) Allen Liwag.

     

    Fenner is also part of the loaded roster, adding veteran experience and another capable scoring option to a team built to compete at the highest level.

     

    For Fenner, the William Jones Cup provides another opportunity to test himself against quality international competition while continuing to build toward his long-term objective of playing in the PBA.

     

    The tournament could also serve as an important showcase for players hoping to make an impression ahead of the next PBA Draft cycle.

     

    Fenner, however, appears determined not to let the possibility of a PBA future distract him from his immediate responsibilities.

     

    His approach is straightforward: perform well with Strong Group, continue improving and let the rest take care of itself.

     

    That mentality could prove valuable as the competition heats up in Taiwan, particularly with Strong Group entering the tournament carrying the expectations that come with being the defending champion.

     

    The 2026 William Jones Cup is scheduled to take place from August 13 to 20 in New Taipei City, Taiwan.

     

    With a championship to defend and a loaded roster at its disposal, Strong Group will be aiming to once again establish itself as the team to beat.

     

    For Fenner, meanwhile, the tournament represents both a chance to help Strong Group make more history and another important step toward his own basketball ambitions.

     

    If everything goes according to plan, his next major stop could be the PBA Draft in January 2027.

    But for now, Fenner is taking the road one step at a time — starting with Strong Group’s pursuit of a third straight William Jones Cup crown.

     

     

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  • Magnolia’s Ian Sangalang credits defense for his consistent offensive production

    Magnolia’s Ian Sangalang credits defense for his consistent offensive production

    The Magnolia Hotshots are slowly finding their footing in the ongoing 2026 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Governors’ Cup, and veteran forward Ian Sangalang has emerged as one of the key figures behind the team’s recent turnaround.

     

    Magnolia has endured a mixed start to the conference, splitting its first six games to sit at 3-3 and fourth in the Group B standings. While the Hotshots have yet to establish the consistency they would want this early in the tournament, their recent results have provided plenty of encouragement heading into the crucial stretch of the eliminations.

     

    The Hotshots returned to the winning column in emphatic fashion on Friday, August 7, overwhelming the Meralco Bolts, 105-88, at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

     

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    The victory marked Magnolia’s third win in its last four games after opening the Governors’ Cup with consecutive defeats. More importantly, it highlighted the growing confidence within the team as the Hotshots continue to build momentum and look to position themselves favorably in the group standings.

     

    At the center of that resurgence has been Sangalang, whose steady production has provided Magnolia with a reliable offensive option throughout the conference.

     

    The 34-year-old forward has scored at least 10 points in each of Magnolia’s six games so far, while shooting an impressive 80.9 percent from the field. He is averaging 14.2 points per game, numbers that underline just how efficient he has been whenever he steps onto the court.

     

    Yet for Sangalang, his recent offensive consistency is not something he consciously focuses on.

    Instead, he believes everything begins on the defensive end.

     

    “I don’t think my plays lately are special. I really just started on defense. That’s where I get my momentum. Every time that coach puts me in, I give it all on defense so I can stay in the game longer,” Sangalang said during a press conference.

    The veteran big man’s approach has been simple but effective. Rather than attempting to force his offense from the opening tip, Sangalang puts his emphasis on making an impact defensively. By doing so, he is able to establish his rhythm, remain engaged and eventually allow his offensive game to develop naturally.

     

    For a player who has spent years competing at the highest level of Philippine basketball, that mindset has become an important part of his approach.

     

    “The offense will come naturally. I don’t think about that anymore. For me, I just start on defense,” he added.

     

    That philosophy was once again evident during Magnolia’s convincing victory over Meralco. With the Hotshots controlling the game and maintaining a comfortable advantage, Sangalang continued to provide the kind of efficient contribution that has become increasingly important to the team.

     

    His ability to score efficiently without needing to dominate possessions gives Magnolia another dimension on offense. More importantly, his willingness to prioritize defense allows him to remain involved in games even on nights when his offensive opportunities are limited.

     

    Sangalang’s consistency has also come at an important time for the Hotshots. After dropping their opening two games of the Governors’ Cup, Magnolia needed to stabilize its campaign before the early losses created too much ground to make up.

     

    The team has responded well, winning three of its next four games and showing signs of becoming more settled on both ends of the floor.

     

    While there is still plenty of basketball to be played, the Hotshots appear to be moving in the right direction. Their latest victory over Meralco not only improved their record to 3-3 but also gave the team another boost as it continues its push up the Group B standings.

     

    Sangalang, meanwhile, will be expected to remain an important piece of Magnolia’s campaign.

    His experience, efficiency and defensive-first mentality provide the Hotshots with a dependable presence in the frontcourt, particularly as the competition intensifies and every game becomes increasingly important.

     

    The Hotshots will have an opportunity to extend their recent run when they return to action on Wednesday, August 12, against the Phoenix Fuel Masters at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

     

    With Magnolia now having won three of its last four games, the challenge will be to maintain that momentum. And if Sangalang’s defense-first approach continues to translate into efficient offense, the veteran forward could play a major role in helping the Hotshots turn their uneven start into a strong Governors’ Cup campaign.

     

     

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  • Tim Cone says leading Gilas Pilipinas to the Olympics would be the defining legacy of his career

    Tim Cone says leading Gilas Pilipinas to the Olympics would be the defining legacy of his career

    For Tim Cone, a record-breaking coaching career will only feel complete if he can lead Gilas Pilipinas back to the Olympic Games.

     

    Already regarded as the most accomplished coach in Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) history, Cone has built a legacy few can match. Yet despite winning multiple championships and rewriting the league’s record books, the veteran mentor believes his greatest achievement still lies ahead.

     

    Since taking over the Alaska Air Force in 1989, Cone has established himself as one of the winningest coaches in Asian basketball. The American tactician has captured a record 26 PBA championships, including two elusive Grand Slam titles, while earning five PBA Coach of the Year awards. He also became the first coach in league history to surpass the 1,000-win mark, cementing his place among Philippine basketball’s all-time greats.

     

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    However, as he enters the latter stages of his coaching career, Cone revealed that his focus has shifted beyond collecting domestic titles. Instead, he hopes to leave behind a lasting legacy by guiding Gilas Pilipinas back to the sport’s biggest stage—the Olympic Games.

     

    “The championships are getting more and more special the older I get, because I know that’s not an infinite number anymore. Before, when I was 35 or 40, I didn’t think about the end. But I think about the end more often these days. So every one now is really special, and that’s why I’m also enjoying the Gilas team. It’s just as hard, if not harder, than these Game 7s,” Cone said during an interview with The GAME.

     

    The 68-year-old admitted that representing the Philippines has given him a renewed sense of purpose, with international success now outweighing even the thrill of winning PBA championships.

     

    “Well, I’d like to go to the World Cup, that’s for darn sure. And even better if we go to the Olympics. I’m not sure if I’m going to be able to do that, but that’s really the legacy I would like to leave more than anything else,” he added.

    Cone has already brought Gilas close to achieving one of those goals. In 2024, he steered the national team to the semifinals of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT) in Riga, Latvia, raising hopes that the Philippines could end its decades-long Olympic basketball drought.

     

    The country has not qualified for the Olympic men’s basketball tournament since the 1972 Munich Games, making an Olympic berth one of the most coveted achievements in Philippine basketball.

    The road ahead, however, remains challenging.

     

    Gilas Pilipinas enters the next phase of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers after finishing third in Group A with a 2-4 record. Consecutive defeats to New Zealand and Australia in the final window of the first round highlighted the level of competition awaiting the Filipinos as they pursue another World Cup appearance.

     

    Despite the setback, Cone remains committed to elevating the national team and believes that international success would eclipse any personal milestone he has already achieved.

     

    “You know, the championships are great and hopefully they will stand the test of time, but records are made to be broken. But the idea of taking Gilas, the national team, to another level is what we are really working for, and that’s what I would like to leave behind,” Cone said.

     

    One reason for his optimism is the emergence of a new generation of Filipino big men capable of competing against the world’s best.

     

    Under Cone’s watch, Gilas has benefited from the development of towering frontcourt players such as Kai Sotto, June Mar Fajardo, Japeth Aguilar, AJ Edu, and Quentin Millora-Brown. Their size and versatility have helped narrow a longstanding gap between the Philippines and elite basketball nations.

     

    “It’s just hard to imagine 10, 15, or 20 years ago that we would ever have anything like that. Size has always been our bugaboo through the years. We have always been too small. People would ask why we even play basketball when we should be playing other sports,” Cone said.

     

    “But suddenly, we have guys that can compete on the world stage in terms of size and talent. That’s so unique and that’s an amazing statement for Philippine basketball. We have always been talented in terms of skill and athleticism. It’s only the size that held us back.”

     

    With one of the most decorated coaching careers in PBA history already secured, Cone now has his sights set on a prize that has eluded generations of Philippine basketball figures. If he can guide Gilas Pilipinas back to the Olympic Games for the first time in more than five decades, it would stand as the defining achievement of an already legendary career.

     

     

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  • San Miguel seeks to build momentum as TNT, Titan fight for survival

    San Miguel seeks to build momentum as TNT, Titan fight for survival

    The pressure is beginning to look different for the teams heading to Ynares Center-Montalban as the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup enters a crucial stretch of the eliminations.

     

    San Miguel Beer is chasing stability near the top of Group A, while TNT Tropang 5G and Titan Ultra Giant Risers are fighting to keep their respective playoff hopes from slipping further away.

     

    San Miguel takes on the Macau Giant Pandas at 7:30 p.m. Friday, looking to strengthen its hold on second place and complete a sweep of the guest team.

     

    Later on Saturday, Titan Ultra and TNT meet in another high-stakes matchup, with both teams needing a victory to improve their position in the crowded Group A race.

     

    San Miguel eyes another step forward

     

    San Miguel enters its matchup with Macau carrying the confidence of a convincing bounce-back win.

     

    The Beermen dismantled Converge, 126-114, on Wednesday to improve to 5-2, responding immediately after an overtime defeat to TNT in their previous game.

     

    The victory also marked the return of coach Leo Austria to the bench after recovering from an angioplasty.

     

    San Miguel looked every bit like a team eager to regain its rhythm, putting together a dominant second half against Converge behind another monster performance from import George King.

     

    King erupted for 46 points and 14 rebounds, while Don Trollano added 27. June Mar Fajardo, meanwhile, showed that his impact goes well beyond scoring by finishing with five points, 21 rebounds and 10 assists.

     

    The Beermen will now try to carry that balance into their rematch with Macau.

     

    They already defeated the Giant Pandas, 132-126, in their first meeting on July 18, but Macau has shown enough offensive firepower to make the rematch dangerous.

     

    The Pandas are coming off a 128-132 loss to Titan Ultra and sit at 2-5, tied at the bottom of Group A.

     

    Before that defeat, Macau had managed to string together consecutive wins over Titan Ultra and Terrafirma, briefly giving itself a chance to climb the standings.

     

    A victory over San Miguel would provide an enormous boost.

     

    For the Beermen, however, the objective is more straightforward: avoid another slip and move to 6-2.

     

    With unbeaten NLEX sitting at 6-0, San Miguel cannot afford to waste another opportunity to keep pace near the top.

     

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    TNT faces another test without key players

     

    The pressure is arguably greater for TNT.

     

    The Tropang 5G are coming off another narrow loss, falling to unbeaten NLEX, 83-88, despite mounting a furious comeback from a 17-point deficit.

     

    TNT continues to operate without several key players, including Calvin Oftana, RR Pogoy, Jordan Heading and Jayson Castro.

     

    Despite the depleted lineup, the Tropang 5G remain firmly in the playoff conversation at 3-3.

     

    Their next opponent, however, has plenty of reason to believe it can cause another upset.

     

    Titan Ultra already defeated TNT, 103-87, when the teams first met on July 22.

     

    The Giant Risers are also entering the contest with plenty of offensive confidence after producing franchise records in their 132-128 victory over Macau.

     

    Titan scored a franchise-best 47 points in the third quarter, 80 in the first half and 132 overall. Its bench also came through with 57 points, giving Tirrell Brown and Joshua Munzon the support they needed.

     

    But coach Rensy Bajar knows offense alone will not be enough against TNT.

    “Kailangan lang talaga namin is defense,” he said.

     

    “Constant defense, ‘yung transition defense, rebounding. Iyun lang talaga… du’n lang talaga lagi kaming natatalo.”

     

    That message could determine whether Titan can turn its offensive explosion into a genuine winning streak.

     

    The Giant Risers are 2-5 and need a victory to climb out of the Group A cellar. TNT, meanwhile, needs to reach 4-3 to strengthen its bid for one of the four playoff spots.

     

    The Tropang 5G still have enough firepower to cause problems, led by replacement import Rahlir Hollis-Jefferson, Rey Nambatac, Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser and Glenn Khobuntin.

     

    But injuries have forced TNT to repeatedly find new ways to win.

     

    That makes Saturday’s matchup less about which team has the better roster on paper and more about which side can execute under pressure.

     

    For San Miguel, Friday is an opportunity to turn a bounce-back victory into sustained momentum.

    For Macau, it is a chance to shake off another defeat against one of the conference’s strongest teams.

     

    And for TNT and Titan Ultra, Saturday could be a defining night in their respective pushes to stay alive in the Group A playoff race.

     

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  • More than a scorer: June Mar Fajardo embraces new role in San Miguel’s title push

    More than a scorer: June Mar Fajardo embraces new role in San Miguel’s title push

    The San Miguel Beermen have made a strong start to the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup, positioning themselves as one of the top contenders in Group A with a 5-2 win-loss record.

     

    San Miguel continued its impressive run with a dominant 126-114 victory over the Converge FiberXers at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, August 5. While the Beermen’s offense once again produced a high-scoring performance, the spotlight belonged to franchise cornerstone June Mar Fajardo, who made his impact felt in an unfamiliar role.

     

    The eight-time PBA Most Valuable Player did not lead San Miguel in scoring against Converge. Instead, Fajardo controlled the game in other areas, delivering a remarkable all-around performance with 21 rebounds and 10 assists, while adding five points and four blocks in nearly 39 minutes of action.

     

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    For the 36-year-old superstar, the decision to prioritize playmaking and defense came naturally as import George King and several of his teammates carried much of the scoring responsibility.

    With San Miguel already possessing multiple offensive weapons, Fajardo explained that he focused on filling the gaps in other areas and embracing his role as a facilitator and defensive anchor.

     

    “Sobrang dami na naming scorer eh. Yung pinasok ni coach halos lahat scorer yun eh. Yung kulang sa group namin yung role player. So pwede ko i-fill yung gap na yun, yung role na yun,” Fajardo said during the postgame press conference.

     

    “Yung score naman nila, score ko na rin eh. Score yun namin ng team eh. So yun yung ano. Buti nakuha namin yung panalo. Ayoko makipag-kumpetensiya sa scoring,” he added.

     

    San Miguel head coach Leo Austria praised Fajardo’s unselfish approach, highlighting how the veteran center’s willingness to impact the game beyond scoring reflects his value as a complete player.

     

    “You can see naman, June Mar doesn’t want to score but he has a lot of rebounds and assists. Ten assists and 21 rebounds. That’s a sign of a good player. He is not thinking of himself, he is thinking of his teammates,” Austria said.

     

    Despite taking on a different role, Fajardo continues to provide consistent production for the Beermen this conference. He is currently averaging 8.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game in the 2026 Governors’ Cup, proving that his influence extends far beyond putting points on the scoreboard.

     

    As San Miguel continues its push for another championship run, Fajardo’s leadership and versatility remain among the team’s biggest strengths. The Beermen will look to build on their momentum when they face the Macau Giant Pandas on Saturday, August 8, at the Ynares Center in Montalban.

     

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  • Juan GDL calls for Converge to embrace roles as FiberXers search for answers after fourth straight loss

    Juan GDL calls for Converge to embrace roles as FiberXers search for answers after fourth straight loss

    Converge entered the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup looking like one of the conference’s hottest teams. Less than a month later, the FiberXers are searching for answers after watching a promising start unravel into a four-game losing streak.

     

    Wednesday’s 126-114 defeat to San Miguel Beer dropped Converge to 3-4 in Group A, extending a slide that ironically began against the same Beermen on July 22. Since then, the FiberXers have failed to regain the momentum that fueled their 3-0 opening run.

     

    Despite the result, Juan Gomez de Liano believed the game was still within reach before San Miguel pulled away late.

     

    “I think we just kinda fold towards the end,” he told reporters after the defeat. “In the first three quarters, nandoon naman kami. We struggled a bit, having a good start in the second half. I think those are the main problems as a team.”

     

    San Miguel’s decisive 37-point third quarter ultimately proved too much for Converge to overcome, turning a one-point halftime deficit into a comfortable advantage that the FiberXers never seriously threatened.

     

    The recent skid has also exposed another troubling trend. Converge has yet to defeat a team with a .500 record or better in Group A, with its last victory coming against Macau on July 17.

     

    Rather than pointing to chemistry issues, Gomez de Liano believes the bigger challenge lies in players fully embracing the responsibilities assigned to them.

     

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    “I think for us, we just have to know our roles and accept it and work towards our roles,” he said. “We have a lot of great players that can do a lot and do damage. But then, that’s the thing, if you have a stacked lineup, you have to figure out what your role is, what’s your purpose in the team and just work towards that.”

     

    “Chemistry-wise, I don’t think we lack chemistry. Like I said, we just fell short in the end.”

     

    The former UP standout has already started making that adjustment himself. Against San Miguel, Gomez de Liano nearly produced a triple-double with 12 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists while taking on more ball-handling responsibilities.

     

    “For sure, if no one is going to adjust, I’ll be the one. That’s the way I play. I know to do whatever the team needs, and I think that’s my role here: to be that point guard we kinda lack, facilitate, make the right plays, and get my teammates going,” he said.

     

    “That’s just me being the leader of this team. I’m willing to sacrifice. That was the same situation when I was in college,” he added, recalling his stint with a talent-loaded University of the Philippines squad.

     

    With the elimination round entering its crucial stretch, Gomez de Liano remains optimistic that Converge can still reverse its fortunes before the playoff race tightens further.

     

    “We’ve been struggling. We lost four straight games. I think we just need to regroup, head back to the drawing board, take a day off tomorrow, and find ways to get into our rhythm back and win games,” he said.

     

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