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Category: Basketball

  • PBA icon Asi Taulava inspires next generation as NLEX brand ambassador 

    PBA icon Asi Taulava inspires next generation as NLEX brand ambassador 

    Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) and NLEX Road Warriors icon Asi Taulava may have officially closed the chapter on his illustrious playing career in 2023 after 24 seasons, but his influence on Philippine basketball continues to extend well beyond the hardwood as he embraces a new role as brand ambassador for the NLEX franchise.

     

    Now 53, Taulava remains closely tied to the sport that defined his legacy, regularly taking part in grassroots initiatives, youth clinics, and community outreach programs across the country. For the former PBA Most Valuable Player, the transition away from competitive play has opened a different kind of fulfillment—one rooted in mentorship and giving back to the next generation of Filipino athletes.

     

    In a recent television appearance, the Filipino-Tongan legend spoke about the importance of visibility and accessibility for young players aspiring to make it in sports.

     

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    “It’s being visible with the community. You know, it’s important for the youth to be associated with somebody, at least to play their sport. So what we do, we go there, we have basketball camps,” Taulava said.

     

    Beyond basketball, Taulava emphasized that NLEX’s grassroots programs are designed to encourage broader athletic participation, supporting not only basketball but also sports such as volleyball, cycling, boxing, and other disciplines. He stressed the importance of allowing young athletes to explore their passions while maintaining balance in education and personal development.

    “Just don’t make it one sport. It wouldn’t be fair if we are trying to push basketball and they want to do a different sport. But we want to encourage them. Have fun in life. At the same time, focus on your studies,” he added.

     

    One of the most dominant big men of his era, Taulava remains a towering figure in PBA history. He first entered the league in 1999 during the influx of Filipino-American players who reshaped the competitive landscape of Philippine basketball. His peak came in 2003 with TNT Tropang Giga, where he powered the franchise to a championship while sweeping individual honors, including Finals MVP, Best Player of the Conference, and league MVP. That season saw him average 23.4 points, 13.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.3 blocks across 54 games—numbers that cemented his status as one of the league’s most dominant forces.

     

    Across a career spanning more than two decades, Taulava built a reputation for durability and consistency, ultimately becoming the oldest active player in PBA history. He also holds the distinction of being the first player to compete in a record 25th PBA season, while finishing his career with averages of 13.7 points and 10.3 rebounds across more than 600 games.

     

    Even in retirement, Taulava admits he does not miss the daily grind of professional basketball, but instead values the perspective and life lessons the game provided him. For him, the transition into ambassadorship has been a natural extension of his journey.

     

    “Being an ambassador, I get to travel, speak to the youth, and motivate people. I think that’s more suitable for me now. The whole journey. I became a better friend, a better teammate, a better father, a better husband. Everything was teaching,” Taulava concluded.

     

    As part of his continued role with NLEX, Taulava was also honored in December 2023 when the franchise officially retired his No. 88 jersey—further solidifying his place as one of the most respected figures in Philippine basketball history and a lasting symbol of longevity, professionalism, and leadership in the PBA.

     

     

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  • Yeng Guiao embraces underdog tag as Rain or Shine braces for dangerous San Miguel showdown 

    Yeng Guiao embraces underdog tag as Rain or Shine braces for dangerous San Miguel showdown 

    Rain or Shine spent most of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup eliminations proving it belonged among the league’s elite. Yet even after securing the No. 3 seed and a twice-to-beat advantage, the Elasto Painters still enter the playoffs carrying a familiar label — underdogs.

     

    And for head coach Yeng Guiao, that is perfectly fine.

     

    Standing in Rain or Shine’s path is a San Miguel side that may have finished lower in the standings but still carries the weight of championship pedigree, star power, and playoff experience. The Beermen, after all, remain the reigning Philippine Cup champions and appear to have rediscovered their rhythm at the right time.

     

    Instead of resisting the narrative, Guiao is leaning into it.

     

    “We embrace the thought that we’re still considered the underdogs vs. SMB,” he said. “That’s been our whole identity ever since. We come to compete on Friday without doubt and hesitation that we have what it takes to win and get to the next level.”

     

    Rain or Shine earned its twice-to-beat incentive the hard way.

     

    Powered by its relentless pace and transition-heavy attack, the Elasto Painters stormed to a 9-3 record during the eliminations, including a statement 116-112 victory over San Miguel last April 8. At one point, Rain or Shine looked unstoppable, opening the conference with seven straight wins behind its aggressive, high-energy system.

     

    But Guiao knows the version of San Miguel awaiting them in the playoffs is no longer the same team they faced weeks ago.

     

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    When the two squads first met, the Beermen were still trying to stabilize their import situation with Justin Patton. Since then, San Miguel has turned back to Bennie Boatwright — the same reinforcement who helped deliver a championship last season — and the results have immediately followed.

     

    Boatwright’s arrival brought renewed offensive firepower and familiarity to the Beermen setup, helping San Miguel regain momentum heading into the postseason.

     

    “We know it’s going to be tougher than our first meeting. Boatwright brings more scoring and chemistry to their team than Patton did when we first played them,” Guiao admitted.

     

    That adjustment has transformed San Miguel back into a team capable of overwhelming opponents with experience, shot-making, and championship composure — qualities that make them a dangerous lower-seeded playoff team despite Rain or Shine’s advantage.

     

    Still, the Elasto Painters believe their style gives them a real chance to challenge the Beermen.

     

    Rain or Shine’s speed, depth, and willingness to push the pace have troubled even the league’s top contenders all conference long. And with two opportunities to secure a semifinal berth, Guiao hopes his squad can capitalize immediately rather than extend the series further against a seasoned powerhouse.

     

    “We have two chances to get lucky against them. We hope we can deliver in our first attempt,” he said.

     

    Now comes the real test for Rain or Shine — proving its breakthrough elimination run can survive the unforgiving pressure of playoff basketball against one of the PBA’s most battle-tested dynasties.

     

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  • Rookie Sean Quitevis draws praise from Chot Reyes, Jayson Castro after stellar defensive showing for TNT

    Rookie Sean Quitevis draws praise from Chot Reyes, Jayson Castro after stellar defensive showing for TNT

    TNT Tropang Giga kept their semifinal hopes alive in the ongoing Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner’s Cup after edging the twice-to-beat NLEX Road Warriors, 96-93, in their quarterfinal clash on Wednesday, May 13, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

     

    Former NBA standout Bol Bol once again starred for TNT, finishing with 34 points and 14 rebounds to power the defending champions to the crucial victory.

     

    While Bol delivered the numbers, rookie Sean Quitevis provided a spark on the defensive end in his first meaningful appearance for TNT. Though he went scoreless in 12 minutes of action, the former Ateneo Blue Eagles guard made his presence felt by hounding NLEX playmakers Robert Bolick and LJay Gonzales.

     

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    Quitevis’ effort drew praise from TNT head coach Chot Reyes, who emphasized the rookie’s importance in filling the void left by injured veteran Jio Jalalon.

     

    “Well, we need a guy to fill the shoes of Jio Jalalon because siya ‘yung sa amin na pume-pressure, maliit na makulit. He’s the one who can get in the face of the opposing team’s ball handlers. Towards the end of the eliminations, when it was clear na Jio won’t be ready for the playoffs, then we made that decision,” Reyes said during the postgame press conference.

    Reyes revealed that TNT activated Quitevis just a day before their final elimination-round game against Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, specifically to address defensive matchups against quick guards.

     

    “We don’t have a matchup for guys like that. For RJ Abarrientos, for LJay Gonzales, very quick and very good players and ball handlers. So that’s the role that he plays for us,” he added.

    TNT veteran Jayson Castro also commended Quitevis for staying ready despite spending most of the conference outside the main rotation.

     

    “Even sa practice, sobrang ganda nung pina-practice ni Sean. Sobrang deserve niyang ma-lineup talaga. At the same time, ‘yun ‘yung mga guy na para sa amin, nag-compose ng energy namin.

    “Kasi, always 100 percent sobrang positive niya. ‘Yung attitude niya, sobrang ganda. So, I think, ito sa mga dahilan kung bakit kami nanalo ngayon because of Sean,” Castro stated.

     

    For Quitevis, the opportunity to contribute on the playoff stage remains surreal, but one he believes he prepared for through hard work and perseverance.

     

    “Honestly, I still can’t comprehend what’s happening, but it’s kind of just flight or fight. Every time I’m on the floor, or coach calls my name, I’m just like, let’s go. I’m ready. I put in a lot of work with Better Basketball and I think this moment is just kind of just another day, another test for me and I’m just ready to put my whole heart on the floor,” Quitevis said.

     

    Quitevis could once again play a key role as TNT looks to force its way into the semifinals when the Tropang Giga and Road Warriors meet in Game 2 on Saturday, May 16, at the Ynares Center.

     

     

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  • Chot Reyes praises Jayson Castro as he enters 10K-point club in TNT win over NLEX

    Chot Reyes praises Jayson Castro as he enters 10K-point club in TNT win over NLEX

    For nearly two decades, Jayson Castro has been the steady force behind TNT’s identity—and on Wednesday night, he added another historic chapter to that legacy.


    The veteran guard finally broke into the exclusive 10,000-point club as TNT Tropang 5G pulled off a hard-fought 96–93 win over the NLEX Road Warriors in the PBA Season 50 quarterfinals at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

     

    The milestone came in the third quarter, when Castro sank the first of two free throws at the 3:25 mark, with the second tying the game at 67-all—setting the stage for TNT’s eventual surge and last lead change of the contest.

     

    At nearly 40 years old, Castro became the second-oldest player to reach the scoring milestone, behind Arwind Santos, doing it in his 17th season with TNT.

     

    His journey, however, is deeply tied to TNT’s long-term gamble on him.

     

    “That’s a recognition that’s long coming. I’m very proud of his journey, kasi kung maalala niyo, we made a really big, risky move when we traded a guy by the name of Jay Washington. When I got to Talk ‘N Text, basically he was our best player,” TNT coach Chot Reyes said

     

    “But we made that move to be able to be in a position to draft Jayson Castro,” he added. “Who would’ve known he would be in that elite club of ten thousand points?”

     

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    Drafted third overall in 2008—via a pick originally acquired from Air21—Castro would go on to become one of the most decorated guards in league history, collecting 10 PBA titles, three Finals MVPs, five Best Player of the Conference awards, and five Mythical First Team selections, while also starring for Gilas Pilipinas.

     

    For Castro, however, the milestone carried a deeper meaning beyond numbers, especially after battling injury setbacks last conference.

     

    “Di ko rin ma-imagine na makakapag perform pa ako ng ganito,” Castro said.

     

    His achievement also came in a crucial moment, as TNT survived a do-or-die clash against the top-seeded Road Warriors to stay alive in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup.

     

    The defending champions now prepare for a rematch on Saturday, May 16, at the Ynares Center Antipolo, with another knockout battle looming.

     

    Even beyond the milestone, Castro’s presence continues to define TNT’s identity as a calm stabilizer in high-pressure moments. 

     

     

    His leadership on the floor, especially in late-game situations remains one of the team’s biggest assets, setting the tone for younger teammates and reinforcing TNT’s reputation as a perennial contender in the league. 

     

     

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  • Dwight Ramos, Kiefer Ravena headline B.League’s Manila return as Japan league deepens PH connection 

    Dwight Ramos, Kiefer Ravena headline B.League’s Manila return as Japan league deepens PH connection 

    The Japan B.League is no longer just exporting basketball games to the Philippines — it is steadily building a basketball culture around its growing Filipino fanbase.

     

    For the second straight year, the league is bringing its Finals Week to Manila, turning the country into an extension of its postseason stage while showcasing the Filipino players who have helped strengthen the B.League’s presence locally.

     

    Set from May 21 to 24 at SM Megamall, the event goes beyond simply airing the B.League Finals on a giant screen. It serves as a celebration of the league’s expanding relationship with Philippine basketball, fueled heavily by the success and popularity of its Filipino imports.

     

    Leading the expected guest lineup are some of the most recognizable overseas Filipino players today — Dwight Ramos of Levanga Hokkaido, Ray Parks Jr. of Osaka Evessa, Francis Lopez of Fighting Eagles Nagoya, and Kiefer Ravena of the Yokohama B-Corsairs.

     

    Their attendance highlights how deeply intertwined Filipino talent has become with the Japanese league in recent years.

     

    What started with a few pioneering imports has now evolved into a steady pipeline of Filipino players making meaningful impacts overseas, while simultaneously helping the B.League gain traction among basketball fans back home.

     

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    This year’s Finals Week also expands beyond fan interaction.

     

    Alongside the Finals watch party, the league will once again stage the B.Hope Asia Jr. Clinic as part of its grassroots efforts in the region. Young players will also get the chance to compete in the B.Hope Asia 1-on-1 Challenge featuring under-14 standouts from northern and southern Manila.

     

    The timing of the Manila festivities also comes with added intrigue as the B.League championship picture nears its conclusion.

     

    As of writing, Quentin Millora-Brown remains the lone Filipino import still alive in the title race with the Chiba Jets, keeping local representation active deep into the playoffs.

     

    Still in contention as well are the Nagasaki Velca, Nagoya Diamond Dolphins, and Ryukyu Golden Kings.

     

    Meanwhile, AJ Edu and the Gunma Crane Thunders saw their campaign end in the quarterfinals after a tough three-game series loss to Chiba.

     

    Even with some Filipino stars already eliminated, the Manila event reinforces one thing clearly: the connection between Philippine basketball and the B.League continues to grow stronger with every season.

     

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  • Cavaliers survive overtime thriller vs Pistons in Game 5 to take East semifinals lead 

    Cavaliers survive overtime thriller vs Pistons in Game 5 to take East semifinals lead 

    The Cleveland Cavaliers edged the Detroit Pistons, 117–113 in overtime, in a dramatic Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals to move within one win of the conference finals.


    Cleveland Cavaliers finally broke through in a tense road battle at Little Caesars Arena, where the game needed an extra period after both teams traded big runs and clutch shot-making late in regulation. 


    Cleveland held firm in overtime behind key stops and timely baskets to escape with a crucial 3–2 series lead.

     

    The game was tightly contested throughout, with neither side able to pull away in the fourth quarter. 

     

    Detroit had multiple chances to seal the win in regulation, but missed opportunities down the stretch opened the door for Cleveland to force overtime.

     

    James Harden led the Cavaliers with 30 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, delivering in key moments as Cleveland leaned heavily on his shot creation in the half court. 

     

    The Cavaliers also received a major spark from their supporting cast, helping stabilize the offense during Detroit’s late surge.

     

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    On the other side, Detroit Pistons were powered by a superstar performance from Cade Cunningham, who finished with 39 points, seven rebounds, and nine assists. 

     

    Cunningham controlled stretches of the game and repeatedly kept Detroit in front during critical possessions, especially in the fourth quarter.

     

    Detroit had momentum late in regulation after building multiple small leads, but Cleveland’s defense tightened in the closing minutes, forcing difficult looks and turnovers that allowed them to survive and extend the game.

     

    In overtime, the Cavaliers executed more efficiently on both ends of the floor. Harden continued to dictate tempo, while Cleveland’s defense limited Detroit’s second-chance opportunities, ultimately flipping the game in their favor.

     

    Despite Cunningham’s standout performance, the Pistons were left to regroup after letting a late opportunity slip away on their home floor. 

     

    The loss puts them in a must-win situation heading into Game 6 as Cleveland now stands one victory away from advancing.

     

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  • Mark Barroca bags PBA Press Corps Player of the Week as Magnolia peaks at perfect time 

    Mark Barroca bags PBA Press Corps Player of the Week as Magnolia peaks at perfect time 

    At a time when younger stars continue to dominate the spotlight in the PBA, Mark Barroca quietly reminded everyone why Magnolia still leans on him in the biggest moments.

     

    The veteran playmaker orchestrated the Hotshots’ strong closing push in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup eliminations, earning PBA Press Corps Player of the Week honors for the period of May 5 to 10 after helping Magnolia secure crucial wins entering the playoffs.

     

    Barroca averaged 11.5 points, 7.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds during the stretch, but his influence went far beyond numbers.

     

    With Magnolia fighting to solidify its postseason position, the longtime floor general once again became the stabilizing force behind the team’s offense — controlling tempo, organizing sets, and putting teammates in ideal scoring positions.

     

    His biggest performance came in Magnolia’s statement 106-94 victory over defending champion TNT Tropang 5G, where Barroca finished with 15 points and 12 assists in a masterful display of floor leadership.

     

    More importantly, he played a central role in unlocking import Clint Chapman, who erupted for 42 points as the Hotshots overwhelmed TNT offensively.

     

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    Still, Barroca refused to place the spotlight on himself.

     

     

    “Lahat kami, hindi lang ako. May game plan kami. Marami kaming schemes kasi TNT talented team, bawat player may scheme kami. Kailangan naming mag-focus talaga,” said Barroca.

     

    The former Far Eastern University standout followed up that performance with eight points and three assists in Magnolia’s elimination-round finale against the Meralco Bolts, helping the Hotshots complete a strong finish heading into the quarterfinals.

     

    For Magnolia, Barroca’s resurgence could not have come at a better time.

     

    While the conference has featured explosive individual campaigns from stars across the league, the Hotshots have leaned heavily on chemistry, discipline, and veteran composure — qualities Barroca has embodied throughout his career.

     

    The weekly honor also highlighted just how competitive the race had become late in the eliminations, with Barroca edging out fellow standouts such as Robert Bolick of NLEX Road Warriors, Zavier Lucero of Magnolia, Jericho Cruz of San Miguel Beermen, and Christian Manaytay of Rain or Shine Elasto Painters.

     

    As Magnolia heads into another playoff run, Barroca may no longer be the flashiest name in the conference — but once again, he has proven he remains one of its most dependable engines.

     

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  • “We’ll take this win, but no time to celebrate”: LA Tenorio on staying focused after overcoming Meralco’s twice-to-beat edge

    “We’ll take this win, but no time to celebrate”: LA Tenorio on staying focused after overcoming Meralco’s twice-to-beat edge

    The season is still alive for the Magnolia Hotshots — but for head coach LA Tenorio, the job is far from finished.


    Magnolia completed another comeback act against the Meralco Bolts on Wednesday night, escaping with a 95-89 victory at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium to erase Meralco’s twice-to-beat advantage in the Philippine Basketball Association Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals.

     

    After beating the Bolts twice within four days, the Hotshots forced a sudden-death showdown set for Saturday, May 16.

     

    Import Clint Chapman delivered when Magnolia needed him most, finishing with 21 points and 12 rebounds. Jerom Lastimosa backed him up with 17 points as the top-scoring local for the Hotshots.

     

    Magnolia looked headed for a comfortable finish after building a lead that stretched to 19 points, but Meralco stormed back late and even grabbed the advantage inside the final five minutes.

    The turning point came with the score tied at 84.

     

    Chapman buried a clutch three-pointer to swing momentum back to Magnolia before setting up Zavier Lucero for a crucial layup that pushed the lead to 89-86 with 1:56 left.

     

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    Lastimosa later had a chance to seal the game from the line but missed two free throws with 22 seconds remaining. 

     

    The rookie, however, made up for it immediately by securing the offensive rebound, drawing another foul, and calmly sinking two free throws to stretch the lead to 93-88 in the final 17 seconds.

     

    “I have to give credit to the players for responding to my challenges,” Tenorio said.

     

    “But again, we haven’t achieved anything with this win. We just extended our lives (but) we’ll take this. We’ll take this win, but no time to celebrate,” he added.

     

    While Magnolia thrived under pressure, Meralco struggled to get steady production from import Marvin Jones, who finished with just 16 points on an off shooting night. 

     

    Chris Newsome carried the Bolts with a game-high 23 points, but it was not enough to stop Magnolia’s fightback.

     

    Now, with momentum suddenly shifting, the Hotshots head into the do-or-die clash believing their season still has more to give.

     

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  • Sean Quitevis goes from forgotten rookie to TNT’s unlikely playoff spark

    Sean Quitevis goes from forgotten rookie to TNT’s unlikely playoff spark

    fFor most of the conference, Sean Quitevis stayed in the background — waiting, learning, and preparing for a chance that never seemed guaranteed.

     

    Then suddenly, with TNT’s season hanging in the balance, the rookie found himself defending some of the PBA’s quickest guards in a playoff game.

     

    And somehow, he looked ready for it all along.

     

    The former Ateneo de Manila University standout once again earned meaningful minutes for TNT Tropang 5G during its do-or-die Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinal clash against the NLEX Road Warriors, continuing what has quickly become one of the conference’s more unexpected late-season developments.

     

    Quitevis finished scoreless in 12 minutes, but his impact barely showed up in the box score. Tasked with slowing down dangerous ball handlers like Robert Bolick and LJay Gonzales, the rookie guard provided the kind of relentless perimeter defense TNT badly needed.

     

    For head coach Chot Reyes, that energy may have changed the complexion of the game.

     

    “I thought we got a great lift off the bench from Sean Quitevis. Because the other guy who was giving us a lot of problems was LJay Gonzales. Also, Sean allowed us to give Roger [Pogoy] some minutes of rest while he took on [Robert] Bolick,” Reyes said.

     

    Quitevis’ sudden rise came out of necessity.

     

     

    Veteran guard Jio Jalalon continues to battle sciatica issues, leaving TNT searching for someone capable of pressuring opposing guards and bringing defensive chaos off the bench.

     

    The rookie fit that description almost immediately.

     

    “We need a guy to fill the shoes of Jio Jalalon. Siya yung pume-pressure na makulit na maliit who can get in the face of the opposing teams’ ball handlers,” Reyes said.

     

    “Towards the end of the elimination, when it was clear na Jio won’t be ready for the playoffs, then we made that decision.”

     

    “Like we said, we don’t have guys to match up with guys like that e, guys like Rhonjay [Abarrientos], like Ljay Gonzales, very quick and very good ball handlers.”

     

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    Ironically, Quitevis’ professional baptism came against Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in TNT’s final elimination-round game, where he was immediately assigned to help contain rising star RJ Abarrientos.

     

    For a player who spent most of the conference waiting for his name to be called, the moment could have been overwhelming.

     

    Instead, Quitevis treated it like survival instinct kicking in.

     

    “I still can’t comprehend what’s happening. It’s just fight or flight. Everytime I’m on the floor, when coach calls my name, I’m like ‘let’s go, I’m ready,’” Quitevis said.

     

    “Put in a lot of work with Better Basketball. This moment, It’s just another day, another test for me and I’m ready to put my whole heart on the floor.”

     

    The 35th overall pick in the 2025 PBA Draft insists he does not see himself boxed into a specific “role” despite becoming TNT’s newest defensive specialist.

     

    For Quitevis, the bigger picture is simply staying ready within the team’s culture.

     

    “I don’t believe in the role, I believe in the culture of this team. It’s the next man up type of culture so I got guys like Roger Pogoy, Calvin Oftana, Jayson Castro, Kelly Williams, I can go on. They’re just in my ear, telling me to be ready,” he shared.

     

    “These guys have taken us so far, the least I can do is give them a couple of breathers, maybe a couple of rebounds here and there and set them up for buckets.”

     

    In many ways, his emergence also feels deeply personal.

     

    TNT shares practice facilities with Ateneo at Moro Lorenzo Gym, meaning Quitevis has now returned to familiar ground alongside former college mentors Sandy Arespacochaga and Yuri Escueta.

     

    The same coaches who once cut him in college are now trusting him in playoff basketball.

     

    “Coach Sandy, coach Yuri. I always tell the story that they’re the same guys that cut me when I first started in college, but they’re also the same coaches who drafted me,” he said.

     

    “Just to pay them back for this opportunity, I have nothing more to say other than I’m ready. You put my name out there, I got to reward them for it.”

     

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  • “Thankful na rin ako kasi ganun lang yung nangyari”: Japeth Aguilar grateful to return before playoffs

    “Thankful na rin ako kasi ganun lang yung nangyari”: Japeth Aguilar grateful to return before playoffs

    The Barangay Ginebra San Miguel wrapped up their 2026 Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup elimination round campaign in impressive fashion, overcoming the TNT Tropang Giga, 93-86, on Sunday, May 10, at the historic Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

     

    The victory allowed the Gin Kings to secure third place in the standings with a solid 9-3 win-loss record, further strengthening their position as one of the top contenders heading into the playoffs. More importantly for Ginebra, the game also marked the much-anticipated return of veteran big man Japeth Aguilar, who had missed the team’s previous three games due to a lung-related condition suffered after a frightening fall during their April 24 matchup against the Blackwater Bossing.

     

    Aguilar’s return provided an emotional lift for the Gin Kings, who welcomed back one of the league’s most experienced frontcourt anchors just in time for the postseason push. Despite limited minutes, the 39-year-old veteran was immediately handed one of the toughest assignments possible — defending TNT import and former NBA player Bol Bol.

     

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    Bol continued to showcase the unique skill set that has made him one of the most intriguing imports in the conference, finishing with 33 points and 10 rebounds in another dominant offensive outing. Standing at 7-foot-2 with guard-like skills, Bol presented a difficult challenge for Ginebra’s defense throughout the contest.

     

    Speaking after the game, Aguilar admitted that facing a player with Bol’s rare combination of size and perimeter ability was unlike anything he had experienced before.

     

    “Tagal ko na sa maglalaro ng basketball. Na akala ko, you know, you have seen it all then. Biglang mag Bol Bol na ganoon. Tapos ganun yung skill, guard. Tinry ko makuha yung rhythm ko,” Aguilar said in a media interaction.

    Although visibly still working his way back into game condition, Aguilar managed to contribute six points and three rebounds in 15 minutes of action. More importantly, his presence provided additional rim protection, veteran leadership, and frontcourt depth as Ginebra prepares for the more physical playoff stage.

     

    Aguilar also opened up about the unusual medical condition that forced him to temporarily step away from basketball. The veteran center explained that the symptoms did not immediately manifest following the hard fall against Blackwater, making the situation even more unexpected.

     

    “Medyo delay yung effect. So, medyo nakalaro pa ako. Tapos, everything ano talaga. Parang sakto talaga yung panayari. Sakto, sinub ko ni coach Tim. Yung sinub ko ni coach Tim, dun na medyo. Basta ang daming term ng mga PT. Talaga parang medyo nagkulang yung oxygen sa ano ko. Medyo, nag-faint ako konti,” he added.

     

    The incident understandably raised concerns within the Ginebra camp, especially given Aguilar’s importance to the team’s interior defense and rebounding. However, the veteran confirmed that he was fully cleared by the team’s medical staff before returning to practice and eventually making his comeback against TNT.

     

    For Aguilar, simply being able to return to the floor before the playoffs was already a major relief. After spending weeks recovering and monitoring his condition, the former Gilas Pilipinas standout expressed gratitude that the injury did not become more serious.

     

    “Thankful na rin ako kasi ganun lang yung nangyari. Hindi naman masyado malala. Masaya ako nakaisang game ako before the playoffs. We are working hard para ready lang sa playoffs. Weird lang talaga yung nangyari. Ang dami kong bagsak sa career ko, pero first time yun,” Aguilar concluded.

     

    The victory over TNT also highlighted Ginebra’s ability to grind out wins against elite competition even while managing injuries and lineup adjustments throughout the conference. The team leaned on its trademark discipline, defensive execution, and veteran composure to close out the elimination round on a high note.

     

    With momentum now firmly on their side, the Gin Kings head into the quarterfinals carrying a crucial twice-to-beat advantage. They are set to face the Phoenix Fuel Masters on Friday, May 15, once again at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, where Ginebra hopes to continue its strong Commissioner’s Cup campaign and strengthen its bid for another PBA championship.

     

     

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