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Category: Basketball

  • Ateneo Basketball mourns loss of Divine Adili, Rene Baterbonia after Aurora tragedy 

    Ateneo Basketball mourns loss of Divine Adili, Rene Baterbonia after Aurora tragedy 

    What was meant to strengthen bonds ahead of a new season instead left the Ateneo basketball community grieving the loss of two young athletes whose journeys were only beginning.

     

    The Ateneo de Manila University community was struck by tragedy on Monday after the school confirmed the deaths of men’s basketball players Divine Adili and Rene Clert Baterbonia following an incident during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.

     

    The deaths have cast a shadow over a program preparing for the future, with one player already carving out a role for the Blue Eagles and another still waiting for his opportunity to make his mark in the UAAP.

     

    “The entire Ateneo community mourns the loss of Rene and Divine. The University extends its heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, teammates, coaches, and loved ones. We ask the community to keep them in their prayers during this most difficult time,” the school wrote.

     

    According to the Police Regional Office 3, initial reports indicated that the two players were swimming when they were reportedly carried by strong currents into deeper waters.

     

    Authorities have since appealed to the public to avoid speculation regarding the incident while the investigation remains ongoing.

     

    For Ateneo, the tragedy represents the loss of two athletes at different stages of their basketball careers but united by a shared dream of representing the Blue Eagles.

     

    Adili, 21, had already begun establishing himself in the collegiate ranks. During UAAP Season 88, he appeared in 11 games and averaged 8.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.1 assists, emerging as one of Ateneo’s promising young frontcourt players.

     

    Baterbonia, meanwhile, was still preparing for his first opportunity to suit up in the UAAP. The 19-year-old recently represented Davao in the 2026 Palarong Pambansa in Agusan del Sur and was expected to join Ateneo’s roster for UAAP Season 89 later this year.

     

    Their deaths sent shockwaves throughout the Philippine basketball community, prompting an outpouring of condolences from organizations and individuals across the sport.

     

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    The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas expressed its sympathy and offered support to those affected by the tragedy.

     

    “As the National Sports Association for basketball, the SBP has been in communication with the University’s basketball officials to determine what assistance may be needed, with particular attention given to those most affected by this tragic incident,” the SBP said in a statement.

     

    The University Athletic Association of the Philippines also paid tribute to the two student-athletes.

     

    “Rest in peace, Rene and Divine,” the league wrote.

     

    Beyond the statistics, accolades, and future potential, the tragedy serves as a painful reminder of how quickly lives can change. For Ateneo, the focus now shifts from basketball to mourning two young men remembered not only as athletes, but as teammates, classmates, friends, and members of a community left searching for answers and healing.

     

    As investigations continue, the Philippine basketball world stands united in remembering Divine Adili and Rene Clert Baterbonia, two young lives lost far too soon.

     

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  • NBA round up: Spurs rally behind Victor Wembanyama to steal Game 3, trim Knicks’ lead to 2-1 in NBA Finals thriller

    NBA round up: Spurs rally behind Victor Wembanyama to steal Game 3, trim Knicks’ lead to 2-1 in NBA Finals thriller

    The NBA Finals delivered another tense, back-and-forth battle in Game 3, as the San Antonio Spurs held off the New York Knicks 115-111 to claw back into the series and make it 2-1.

    With the series shifting intensity on both sides, San Antonio leaned into its home crowd and its rising superstar. 


    Victor Wembanyama once again stood at the center of everything, finishing with a commanding 32 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, impacting the game beyond scoring with his playmaking and defensive presence in crucial stretches.

     

    The Spurs also received a valuable boost from Stephon Castle, who continued to show poise beyond his years with 21 points, five rebounds, and five assists, helping stabilize the offense when New York threatened to take control late.

     

    New York, meanwhile, leaned heavily on its established star duo to keep the pressure on. 

    Jalen Brunson delivered another elite postseason performance with 32 points, five rebounds, and five assists, consistently attacking the defense and creating opportunities in tight half-court possessions. 

     

    OG Anunoby added strong support with 28 points, five rebounds, and one assist, giving the Knicks a crucial second scoring option throughout the night.

     

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    For much of the game, neither team could create lasting separation. Runs were quickly answered, and momentum swung repeatedly as both squads traded punches in a high-stakes chess match. 

    The Knicks appeared poised to potentially seize full control late, but San Antonio’s execution in the closing stretch proved the difference.

     

    The Spurs tightened up defensively in key possessions and found timely buckets when it mattered most, allowing them to survive a late Knicks push and secure a critical home win that keeps their championship hopes alive.

     

    Beyond the box score, Game 3 felt like a turning point in competitiveness—less about dominance and more about resilience. 

     

    San Antonio showed it could absorb pressure from a Knicks team that had been controlling the series, while New York was forced to confront the reality that nothing will come easy on the road to a title.

     

    With the series now at 2-1, Game 4 becomes a pivotal swing game. The Knicks still hold the advantage, but the Spurs have shown they are far from out of the fight.

     

     

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  • Chot Reyes shifts focus to TNT’s mistakes after Game 3 Finals loss 

    Chot Reyes shifts focus to TNT’s mistakes after Game 3 Finals loss 

    The conversation after Game 3 could have easily centered on the whistles.

     

    Instead, TNT head coach Chot Reyes found himself discussing two battles that have become intertwined throughout the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup Finals — the one against Barangay Ginebra and the one surrounding officiating.

     

    For the third straight game in the championship series, refereeing became a major talking point. But while Reyes delivered comments that immediately drew attention, the veteran coach ultimately acknowledged that TNT’s problems ran deeper than any call or non-call.

     

    After the Tropang 5G absorbed a 116-102 defeat before a packed crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena, Reyes was asked about the officiating crew’s performance.

     

    “Excellent, excellent officiating today,” said Reyes with a straight face. “I have to commend the officiating crew. Excellent officiating.”

     

    Whether the statement was genuine praise or a pointed remark was left open to interpretation.

     

    The issue has followed the series from the opening game.

     

    Reyes questioned the final sequence of Game 1, believing Justin Brownlee committed a foul on Calvin Oftana during TNT’s last-second attempt to force overtime. In Game 2, it was Ginebra coach Tim Cone who publicly expressed frustration, describing the officiating as “terrible” after his team’s defeat.

     

    By Game 3, the spotlight once again drifted toward the referees after Reyes was assessed a technical foul in the third quarter while repeatedly voicing his displeasure over several calls.

     

    Yet despite the attention generated by his comments, Reyes was careful not to pin the loss solely on officiating.

     

    The veteran mentor instead pointed to the areas where TNT failed to help itself.

     

    “We gave up 20 turnover points,” Reyes noted.

     

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    For a team that thrives on discipline and execution, that number proved costly.

     

    TNT committed mistakes that Ginebra consistently converted into easy scoring opportunities, creating a gap that became difficult to overcome despite several comeback attempts.

     

    The Kings were also significantly more efficient offensively.

     

    Ginebra connected on 51.9 percent of its field-goal attempts, while TNT shot just 43.9 percent from the floor. The disparity was especially glaring in the opening quarter, when the crowd favorites shot a blistering 77.8 percent and raced to a commanding 35-16 lead.

     

    That explosive start allowed Ginebra to dictate the pace throughout the night and prevented TNT from ever fully settling into its preferred rhythm.

     

    “And they (Kings) shot extremely well,” Reyes added.

     

    In many ways, Game 3 reflected the delicate balance that has defined the Finals so far. Discussions about officiating continue to dominate headlines, but the outcomes have largely been determined by execution on the floor.

     

    For TNT, the challenge now is finding solutions before the series slips further away.

     

    Because regardless of how the whistles are perceived, Reyes knows the Tropang 5G cannot afford another night where turnovers pile up and Ginebra gets comfortable offensively.

     

    As the Finals move forward, the debate over officiating may continue. But for TNT, correcting its own mistakes may ultimately prove more important than any call made by the referees.

     

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  • Kiefer Ravena extends Japan stint, moves to third team in B.League 

    Kiefer Ravena extends Japan stint, moves to third team in B.League 

    Kiefer Ravena’s run in Japan is far from over, with the Filipino guard confirming he will remain in the B.League and continue his professional career with a new team following the end of his stint with the Yokohama B-Corsairs.


    His contract with Yokohama officially concluded after the 2026 Japan B.League regular season, closing a two-year chapter that saw him play a key role for the club. 

     

    But rather than signaling a return elsewhere, Ravena made it clear that another opportunity in Japan is already waiting—just not yet revealed.

     

    “I’m staying in Japan, just transferring teams, continuing my growth as a player and as a man,” Ravena said.

     

    The 32-year-old guard averaged 11.9 points, 3.3 assists, and 1.8 rebounds per game for the B-Corsairs, who finished the season with a 26-34 record. 

     

    While the numbers reflect his steady contribution, Ravena’s impact has also been defined by his leadership and consistency as one of the team’s primary backcourt options.

     

    This next move extends a Japanese journey that began in 2021, when Ravena first joined the Shiga Lakestars, now known as the Shiga Lakes. 

     

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    He spent three seasons there before making the switch to Yokohama in 2024, where he continued to build his reputation as one of the most recognizable Filipino imports in the league.

     

    Now, with a third B.League stop on the horizon, Ravena remains one of the key figures in the steady rise of Filipino talent in Japan’s top professional basketball league.

     

    For Ravena, however, his decision to stay overseas goes beyond statistics or team changes. The experience itself continues to be the driving force behind his career.

     

    “Not that I have more motivation to play basketball, to represent Jordan Brand, play for my family, and my own family in the future, pero sobrang rejuvenating,” the former Gilas Pilipinas guard said.

     

    Since leaving the PBA in 2021, Ravena has helped pave the way for more Filipino players to take their talents globally, becoming one of the early faces of the B.League’s growing international presence.

     

    While his next destination remains under wraps, one thing is clear—Ravena’s Japan story is still being written, with another chapter set to begin soon in a new jersey.

     

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  • Justin Brownlee backs Knicks to win NBA Finals, reveals favorite NBA team

    Justin Brownlee backs Knicks to win NBA Finals, reveals favorite NBA team

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel once again reinforced its reputation as one of the Philippine Basketball Association’s most successful and battle-tested franchises, securing a crucial 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals after a commanding performance at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday, June 7.

     

    The Gin Kings showcased a balanced and disciplined offensive attack, anchored by resident import Justin Brownlee, who delivered yet another standout performance with a game-high 41 points. Brownlee’s scoring brilliance set the tone from the opening tip, consistently keeping Ginebra in control of the tempo while forcing their Finals opponents to adjust defensively throughout the contest.

     

    Supporting Brownlee’s offensive explosion were key contributions from Stephen Holt, who added 23 points, and rookie guard RJ Abarrientos, who chipped in 15 points in a poised and energetic performance on the big stage. The trio’s combined effort helped sustain Ginebra’s offensive pressure and ensured that the team maintained momentum at critical stretches of the game.

     

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    While Brownlee’s on-court dominance continues to define Ginebra’s Finals campaign, his journey to becoming one of the PBA’s most impactful imports has been shaped by a long and unconventional basketball career that nearly saw him establish himself in the NBA.

     

    Before becoming a cornerstone of the Gin Kings’ championship success, Brownlee had a brief stint in the United States professional basketball system, including a stint with the New York Knicks organization ahead of the 2013–14 NBA season. He was signed by the franchise and participated in team activities and preparations, but ultimately did not see regular-season action after suffering a setback during the preseason.

     

    “They signed me, but unfortunately it was like a non-guaranteed contract. I was signed and then I unfortunately had an injury. So the team cut me. So I did the media day and did all those things. I was going to suit up for preseason, but unfortunately I had an ankle injury. I broke my ankle. A bone in my ankle,” Brownlee said.

    Despite the disappointment of that early setback, Brownlee recalled the experience as a valuable learning opportunity, particularly the chance to be surrounded by established NBA talent and coaching staff during his time with the Knicks organization.

     

    “Carmelo Anthony was there for sure. You had Raymond Felton, Ron Artest, Amare Stoudemire was there. I think he was injured maybe. JR Smith, I think, was there. Iman Shumpert. Coach Mike Woodson was cool. He was a very hard, tough coach. He was definitely hard on the players, very tough, very defensive minded, but really a good coach,” he added.

     

    Now a veteran at 38 years old, Brownlee has built a legacy far beyond that early NBA experience. He has become one of the most decorated and influential imports in PBA history, playing a central role in Barangay Ginebra’s sustained success over multiple championship runs.

     

    In a recent media interaction, Brownlee also reflected on his personal NBA fandom during his younger years, revealing a strong admiration for the Los Angeles Lakers during the Kobe Bryant era.

     

    “To be honest, I don’t really have a team now. When Kobe Bryant was with the Los Angeles Lakers, that was my favorite team. But now, I guess I’m just a bandwagon fan. Whoever’s doing good or whoever’s in the Finals. I think they (Knicks) will. I think a lot of people were picking the San Antonio Spurs, but I think behind Jalen Brunson, I think they can get the job done,” Brownlee continued.

     

    Beyond the nostalgia and reflections on his basketball journey, Brownlee remains firmly focused on the present as he continues to lead Ginebra’s championship pursuit. With the series now tilted in favor of the Gin Kings, the veteran import is chasing what could be another defining achievement in his storied career.

     

    At 38, Brownlee is aiming to capture his seventh PBA championship with Barangay Ginebra, further solidifying his legacy as one of the most successful imports to ever play in the league. However, with the Finals still far from decided, he and the Gin Kings know that maintaining focus will be critical as the series shifts back into action.

     

    Ginebra now carries a 2-1 advantage heading into a pivotal Game 4 on Wednesday, June 10, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, where another high-stakes battle is expected as both teams continue their pursuit of the Commissioner’s Cup crown.

     

     

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  • Gilas Pilipinas Girls storm to perfect campaign in FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers

    Gilas Pilipinas Girls storm to perfect campaign in FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers

    The mission may have already been accomplished before the opening tip, but the Gilas Pilipinas Girls made sure to leave no doubt about who ruled the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers 2026.


    The young Filipinas capped a flawless campaign with an 88-62 victory over Indonesia on Saturday, completing a four-game sweep and stamping their status as one of Southeast Asia’s premier youth programs heading into the continental tournament.

     

    The championship-clinching performance was a fitting conclusion to a week of dominance in Bacolod, where Gilas overwhelmed every opponent it faced and won all four games by an average margin of 36.25 points.

     

    Leading the charge once again was Tournament MVP Rhiane Perez, who delivered 18 points, five rebounds, four assists, and a steal in the finale. 

     

    Sophia Dignadice provided another all-around effort with 14 points, four rebounds, two assists, and three steals, while Tiffany Reyes added 12 points and Zuzzane Singson chipped in 11.

     

    The hosts wasted little time asserting control, turning an early advantage into a 25-14 lead after the first quarter before unleashing a second-quarter barrage that pushed the gap to 57-28 by halftime.

     

    Any hopes of an Indonesian comeback quickly disappeared after the break as Gilas stretched the lead to 64-30 early in the third quarter. The Philippines eventually built a 34-point cushion and cruised through the final stages of the contest.

     

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    Indonesia, which entered the game unbeaten as well, found itself overwhelmed by the depth and pace of the Gilas Girls. Angelina Welly scored 18 points to lead the Indonesians, while Joanne Giovanni contributed 11 points, three rebounds, and a steal.

     

    The victory capped a remarkable tournament run for Gilas, which opened with a 93-42 dismantling of Vietnam before defeating Singapore, 83-53, and routing Thailand, 86-48.

     

    With the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup set to be held in Malaysia, Gilas heads into the continental meet carrying significant momentum after producing one of the most convincing performances of any team in the region.

     

    Meanwhile, Malaysia will automatically compete in Division A as tournament host, while Singapore secured the SEABA berth for the Division B competition after finishing third in the qualifiers with a 2-2 record.

     

    Indonesia, relegated from Division A following the 2024 edition, will look to regain its place in the top division when it competes in the Division B tournament scheduled from July 13 to 19 in Bangkok, Thailand.

     

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  • Calvin Oftana shrugs off sideline exchange with Chot Reyes, focuses on TNT’s Game 4 response 

    Calvin Oftana shrugs off sideline exchange with Chot Reyes, focuses on TNT’s Game 4 response 

    Calvin Oftana insisted there was no issue between him and TNT head coach Chot Reyes following their animated fourth-quarter exchange during the Tropang 5G’s 116-102 loss to Barangay Ginebra in Game 3 of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals on Sunday at Mall of Asia Arena.


    The moment quickly caught attention after Reyes was seen standing and shouting toward Oftana following a turnover with TNT attempting to trim Ginebra’s lead late in the game.

     

    But the veteran forward clarified after the contest that the incident was simply part of the accountability expected within the team.

     

    “Normal naman ‘yun sa team eh, na pagsabihan ako. Sabi ko nga, ‘Nagkamali, Coach, nagkamali.’ Pero normal ‘yun, nirerespeto ko ‘yung Coach ko,” Oftana said.

     

    The exchange stemmed from a costly possession in the closing minutes when Oftana tried to force a pass to Chris McCullough. The ball was intercepted by Justin Brownlee, resulting in a momentum-killing turnover as TNT sought to rally from a 22-point deficit.

     

    Reyes immediately voiced his displeasure from the sidelines, while Oftana responded as cameras captured the interaction.

     

    Shortly afterward, Oftana was substituted out with 2:58 remaining and replaced by Rey Nambatac. He returned in the final minute, but by then Ginebra had already secured control of the game.

     

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    The turnover was one of three committed by TNT in the final five minutes, a stretch that ultimately derailed any hopes of a late comeback.

     

    Rather than distancing himself from the mistake, Oftana openly acknowledged his role in the sequence.

     

    “Maganda lang din diyan, doon kayo magkakaintindihan talaga e. Yung mali ko inaako ko, nag-turnover ako tapos converted, nagra-run na sana kami,” the 30-year-old said.

     

    The difficult finish capped an uncharacteristically quiet night for Oftana, who managed just two points after erupting for a season-high 31 points and 10 rebounds in TNT’s Game 2 victory.

     

    His sharp drop in production mirrored TNT’s struggles as Ginebra tightened its defense and took command en route to the 14-point win before 18,000 fans.

     

    Still, Oftana is already looking ahead rather than dwelling on what went wrong. With the Tropang 5G seeking to level the Finals once again, the former NCAA MVP said his focus is firmly on bouncing back in the pivotal Game 4 on Wednesday.

     

    “Hindi araw-araw, Pasko. Masama ‘yung tulog ngayon. Sabi ko nga sa inyo, ganda ng tulog ko last game,” Oftana said.

     

    For TNT, a quick recovery will be crucial and for Oftana, Game 4 presents an opportunity to put both the turnover and the sideline exchange behind him while helping the Tropang 5G regain momentum in the championship series.

     

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  • Stacey King, three-time NBA champion with Chicago Bulls, dies at 59

    Stacey King, three-time NBA champion with Chicago Bulls, dies at 59

    The basketball world is mourning the loss of former NBA champion and longtime Chicago Bulls broadcaster Stacey King, who passed away at the age of 59, the franchise announced in the early hours of Monday, June 8 (Philippine Standard Time).

     

    King, a beloved figure in Chicago basketball circles, was remembered not only for his contributions on the court during the Bulls’ championship era but also for his decades-long role as a broadcaster, where his colorful personality and passion for the game endeared him to generations of fans.

     

    In a statement released by the organization, Chicago Bulls owner and chairman Jerry Reinsdorf paid tribute to King’s lasting impact on the franchise.

     

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    “Stacey King was a cherished member of the Bulls family and one of the truly unique personalities in our organization’s history. His connection to Chicago, the Bulls and our fans spanned more than three decades – first as a player and later as the unmistakable voice that helped bring Bulls basketball into the homes of generations of fans. We will miss him deeply and remember the joy, energy, humor, candor and passion that he brought to our organization, our broadcasts, and our fans every day. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones,” Reinsdorf said.

     

    King’s basketball journey began long before he arrived in Chicago. A standout collegiate player at the University of Oklahoma, he established himself as one of the top prospects in the country before declaring for the 1989 NBA Draft.

     

    The Bulls selected King with the sixth overall pick in what proved to be one of the most important periods in franchise history. Entering a team led by Michael Jordan, King immediately provided depth and energy off the bench during his rookie campaign.

     

    He appeared in all 82 games during the 1989-90 season and averaged 8.9 points and 4.7 rebounds per game, showcasing the potential that made him a lottery selection. As the Bulls continued to develop into an NBA powerhouse under head coach Phil Jackson, King became part of the supporting cast that helped the franchise capture three consecutive NBA championships from 1991 to 1993.

    Though he was not among the team’s biggest stars, King played a valuable role during one of the most iconic dynasties in professional basketball history. Sharing the court with legends such as Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Horace Grant, and John Paxson, he experienced firsthand the rise of a Bulls team that would eventually become a global sporting phenomenon.

     

    Following his four-year stint in Chicago, King continued his NBA career with several franchises, including the Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, and Dallas Mavericks. Across 438 career appearances, the 6-foot-11 forward-center averaged 6.4 points and 3.3 rebounds while providing veteran leadership and frontcourt depth wherever he played.

     

    While his playing career was highlighted by three championship rings, many younger fans came to know King through his work behind the microphone.

     

    After retiring from professional basketball, King transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, joining the Bulls’ television coverage as an analyst. Over the years, he became one of the most recognizable voices associated with the franchise, known for his enthusiasm, humor, and memorable catchphrases that resonated with viewers across multiple generations.

     

    His energetic commentary and deep understanding of the game helped strengthen the connection between the Bulls and their fanbase, allowing him to remain a central figure within the organization long after his playing days had ended.

     

    Chicago Bulls president and CEO Michael Reinsdorf also reflected on King’s legacy and the profound impact he had on the franchise.

     

    “Stacey loved being a Bull. You could feel it in everything he did – the way he played, the way he called games, and the way he connected with our fans. He had a unique gift for bringing people together and making every game feel personal. Stacey genuinely cared about people, and he made our organization better. We will miss him dearly, and his impact, memory and legacy will remain part of the Chicago Bulls forever,” Reinsdorf said.

     

    The outpouring of tributes from former teammates, players, broadcasters, and fans serves as a testament to King’s influence both on and off the court. While his accomplishments as a three-time NBA champion secured his place in basketball history, it was his charisma, authenticity, and unwavering love for the Bulls organization that made him one of the most beloved figures in Chicago sports.

     

    King leaves behind a legacy that spans more than three decades with the Bulls—first as a championship-winning player and later as a broadcaster who helped bring the excitement of Bulls basketball into countless homes. His contributions to the game and the franchise will be remembered for years to come.

     

     

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  • Scottie Thompson joins PBA 5,000-point club as Barangay Ginebra takes 2-1 finals lead

    Scottie Thompson joins PBA 5,000-point club as Barangay Ginebra takes 2-1 finals lead

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel once again demonstrated why it remains one of the Philippine Basketball Association’s most successful and resilient franchises, overpowering its opponent to secure a crucial 2-1 advantage in the best-of-seven PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday, June 7.

     

    The Gin Kings leaned on a balanced offensive attack spearheaded by resident import Justin Brownlee, who delivered another masterclass performance with a game-high 41 points. Brownlee’s scoring brilliance set the tone for Ginebra throughout the contest, while Stephen Holt provided valuable support with 23 points and rookie sensation RJ Abarrientos contributed 15 markers to help keep the pressure on their Finals rivals.

     

    While Brownlee’s scoring exploits grabbed headlines, it was veteran guard Scottie Thompson who once again showcased the versatility and all-around brilliance that have made him one of the league’s premier players. Thompson flirted with greatness all night and ultimately recorded another triple-double, finishing with 17 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists in a performance that highlighted his ability to impact the game in every facet.

     

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    Beyond helping Ginebra seize momentum in the championship series, Thompson also reached several significant personal milestones during the victory. The 32-year-old became the 103rd player in PBA history to join the prestigious 5,000-point club, further cementing his legacy as one of the league’s elite performers.

     

    Thompson also became the 98th local player and the 14th active player to reach the scoring milestone. Among the storied list of Barangay Ginebra greats, he is now the 13th player from the franchise to surpass the 5,000-point mark, placing him alongside some of the most celebrated names in the team’s rich history.

    The accomplishment added another chapter to an already decorated career. Thompson also became just the 11th player in league history to own at least five career achievement awards and only the second active player to accomplish the feat, joining TNT Tropang 5G veteran Jayson Castro in an exclusive group of PBA legends.

     

    Despite the historic evening and another standout individual performance, Thompson remained focused on the bigger picture. Rather than discussing his personal achievements, the former Most Valuable Player emphasized the collective effort that has fueled Ginebra’s success throughout the Finals.

     

    “For our team, it’s not about individual numbers. To be honest, it’s about the team. Kung sino yung magadang nilalaro, we feed off of him,” Thompson said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    His comments reflected the culture that has long defined Barangay Ginebra under head coach Tim Cone—a team-first mentality built on sacrifice, trust, and shared responsibility. That approach was evident throughout Game 3, as multiple players stepped up at key moments to complement Brownlee’s scoring and Thompson’s all-around excellence.

     

    With the victory, Ginebra now finds itself in a favorable position heading into the next chapter of the championship series. However, the Gin Kings know the job is far from finished, as their opponents will be eager to level the series and regain momentum.

     

    All eyes will now turn to Game 4 on Wednesday, June 10, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, where Thompson and the Gin Kings will look to build on their momentum and move within one victory of capturing another PBA Commissioner’s Cup title. If their recent performances are any indication, Ginebra’s stars are prepared to rise to the occasion once more as the battle for the championship intensifies.

     

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  • NBA deputy commissioner lauds Clarkson and Harper Filipino representation in NBA Finals as ‘incredible’

    NBA deputy commissioner lauds Clarkson and Harper Filipino representation in NBA Finals as ‘incredible’

    The New York Knicks opened the 2025-26 NBA Finals in commanding fashion, mounting a spirited second-half comeback to defeat the San Antonio Spurs, 105-95, in Game 1 at the Frost Bank Center on Thursday, June 4 (Philippine Standard Time).

     

    The victory gave New York a 1-0 advantage in the best-of-seven championship series and further reinforced what has already been a defining postseason run for the franchise. Despite trailing by as many as 14 points in the second half, the Knicks once again demonstrated their trademark resilience, responding with poise and urgency against a young and highly skilled Spurs squad led by Victor Wembanyama.

     

    As has been the case throughout their playoff campaign, New York found its rhythm when it mattered most. The Knicks tightened their defensive coverage, improved their ball movement, and gradually chipped away at the deficit before taking full control in the final stretch of the game.

     

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    At the heart of the comeback was All-Star guard Jalen Brunson, who delivered yet another signature postseason performance on the NBA’s biggest stage. Brunson finished with 30 points, three rebounds, and two assists, once again shouldering the offensive load in crucial moments. The veteran guard took over in the fourth quarter, scoring 13 points in the final period alone to fuel a decisive surge that ultimately silenced the home crowd and swung momentum firmly in New York’s favor.

     

    Brunson’s late-game brilliance not only secured the Game 1 win but also extended the Knicks’ winning streak to 12 games, further solidifying their status as one of the most in-form teams in the league at the most critical point of the season.

    The contest also featured a historic subplot involving players of Filipino descent, as Jordan Clarkson of the Knicks and Dylan Harper of the Spurs faced off on the NBA Finals stage. Their matchup marked a milestone moment, making them the first players of Philippine heritage to compete against each other in an NBA Finals game.

     

    The significance of the moment was not lost on NBA officials. Speaking to the media prior to tip-off, NBA deputy commissioner Mark Tatum described the development as a reflection of basketball’s global reach and the growing impact of Filipino talent on the sport’s biggest stage.

     

    “Oh, yeah. It’s incredible. We know passionate fans in the Philippines are for NBA basketball. We are excited. It really does speak to the amount of talent that exists around the world. With Dylan and Jordan and their Filipino roots, I think it’s wonderful to see,” Tatum said.

     

    He also acknowledged the excitement such representation brings to fans in the Philippines, where NBA basketball continues to enjoy one of its largest and most passionate followings outside the United States.

     

    “I know that the Filipino fans are thrilled about seeing both of them compete against each other there in the NBA finals,” he added.

     

    With Game 1 secured, the Knicks now shift their focus to maintaining momentum as the series continues, while the Spurs look to regroup and respond in Game 2. As the Finals unfold, the combination of high-level basketball, international storylines, and emerging history adds even more weight to what is already shaping up to be a compelling championship series.

     

     

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