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Category: Basketball

  • NBA Playoffs roundup: Pistons respond, Thunder roll to 2–0 lead 

    NBA Playoffs roundup: Pistons respond, Thunder roll to 2–0 lead 

    The NBA Playoffs continued on April 23, 2026 with two pivotal Game 2 matchups that shifted momentum in both conferences. In the East, the Detroit Pistons defended home court with a dominant second-half surge to level their series against the Orlando Magic, while out West, the Oklahoma City Thunder once again asserted control behind a high-powered offensive display to take a 2–0 series lead over the Phoenix Suns. Both games featured major individual performances and decisive third-quarter runs that helped define the tone of their respective series moving forward. 


    Magic vs. Pistons – Detroit takes Game 2, series tied 1–1 (98–83) 

     

    The Detroit Pistons responded in emphatic fashion at home, overpowering the Orlando Magic 98–83 in Game 2 of their Eastern Conference first-round series to even things at one game apiece. After a tightly contested opening half, Detroit seized control with a dominant third quarter that ultimately decided the game.

     

    Orlando actually carried a slim 46–46 balance into halftime behind balanced scoring, but the Pistons came out of the break with far more urgency. Led by a breakout stretch from their second unit and improved defensive pressure on the perimeter, Detroit exploded for 38 points in the third quarter while holding the Magic to just 16. That swing proved decisive, flipping a competitive matchup into a double-digit cushion the Magic never recovered from.

     

    Paolo Banchero finished with 18 points, 6 rebounds, and 8 assists, once again serving as Orlando’s primary offensive engine. However, he struggled to consistently generate efficient looks against Detroit’s collapsing defense, which frequently sent help early in possessions. Orlando’s supporting cast also failed to capitalize on open opportunities, contributing to a sluggish second half.

     

    On the other side, Cade Cunningham delivered a composed and controlled performance, finishing with 27 points, 6 rebounds, and 11 assists. He dictated tempo throughout the night, repeatedly punishing Orlando’s defensive rotations with sharp pick-and-roll reads and timely midrange scoring. Detroit’s ability to control pace after halftime, combined with their physical defense, helped them reset the tone of the series heading into Game 3.

     

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    Suns vs. Thunder – Oklahoma City dominates Game 2, leads series 2–0 (120–107) 

     

    The Oklahoma City Thunder continued their statement postseason run, defeating the Phoenix Suns 120–107 at Paycom Center to take a commanding 2–0 series lead in the Western Conference first round. Much like Game 1, Oklahoma City’s pace and offensive balance overwhelmed Phoenix, particularly in a decisive third-quarter surge.

     

    The Thunder built momentum early behind strong transition scoring and perimeter shooting, but it was the third quarter where they truly broke the game open. Oklahoma City outscored Phoenix 35–20 in that stretch, pushing the lead beyond reach and forcing the Suns into a high-volume comeback attempt that ultimately fell short. The Thunder’s defensive activity also played a major role, generating turnovers that turned into easy fast-break points.

     

    Shai Gilgeous-Alexander once again set the tone for Oklahoma City, finishing with 37 points and 9 assists while controlling the offense with his usual mix of pace manipulation and efficient shot creation. His ability to consistently collapse Phoenix’s defense opened lanes for role players and kept the Suns scrambling in half-court sets.

     

    Phoenix leaned heavily on Devin Booker, who kept the Suns competitive in stretches with his scoring pressure, while Dillon Brooks added 30 points in a strong offensive showing. However, Phoenix struggled to generate consistent stops, and their defensive rotations were repeatedly exposed by Oklahoma City’s spacing and ball movement.

     

    With the series shifting to Phoenix down 0–2, the Suns now face a critical adjustment window, while the Thunder look increasingly confident as one of the West’s most complete early-round teams.

     

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  • Charles Tiu backs Francis Escandor amid backlash from fans 

    Charles Tiu backs Francis Escandor amid backlash from fans 

    In a league where minutes often invite scrutiny, opportunity can quickly turn into a spotlight.

     

    For Francis Escandor, increased playing time with the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters hasn’t just meant more responsibility—it has also come with questions from the outside.

     

    But inside the team, the view is far more grounded.

     

    Head coach Charles Tiu has made it clear that Escandor’s role isn’t about circumstance—it’s about trust. And that trust, he says, is rooted in familiarity and belief in what the player brings beyond the box score.

     

    “I think Francis is a solid PBA player,” Tiu said. “He’s been riding the bench the last couple of seasons sa Rain or Shine. Only now siya nakakalaro. But I had a chance to coach him before, I know what he can do. He is really a good shooter and a good defender. He played for me sa SGA.”

     

    For Tiu, the current rotation isn’t built on perception—it’s built on need and reliability.

     

    With injuries affecting the lineup, including Kai Ballungay, Phoenix has had to lean on depth. And in those moments, Escandor has become one of the pieces the coaching staff turns to—not necessarily for numbers, but for stability.

     

    “For me, it’s about giving guys trust, giving them confidence. Kai (Ballungay) has been hurt anyway. We are a bit short with our players,” he said.

     

    That trust was evident in Escandor’s extended minutes in a recent outing, where he logged over 27 minutes. The stat line—two points, five rebounds, one steal—didn’t jump off the page. But for Tiu, impact isn’t always measured that way.

     

    “(Against Rain or Shine), he played great, he ended up playing 27 minutes, but he was solid defensively. You won’t see much mistakes from him. Would have made a big three also. Ako, I need guys like that. Guys I trust that can follow what we want and are smart players. Bilib naman ako kay Francis,” he said.

     

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    Still, the outside noise hasn’t gone unnoticed.

     

     

    Reports and assumptions have fueled criticism toward Escandor, but Tiu believes the narrative has overlooked something more important—the work being done away from the spotlight.

     

    “Sometimes, it’s unfair. Actually, I feel bad for Francis. I don’t think he deserves any of it. He just really wants to play basketball. I hope they can just lay off him and let the guy just enjoy. We play basketball. We love the game. They are pros.”

     

    “I’m sure it’s very hard for him. Pero kahit papaano, grabe rin bilib ko sa kanya kasi hindi siya nagpapadala. Trabaho lang siya everyday. He really puts in the work. He trains every morning at 5 a.m. No excuses yun.”

     

    For Tiu, that consistency matters more than any narrative.

     

    “To him, he is just one of the guys. Yun ang maganda. No matter what, he is just another player and another teammate. And that’s what I appreciate kay Francis.”

     

    In a team searching for cohesion amid challenges, that mindset might be just as valuable as any stat line.

     

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  • Calvin Abueva draws 20k fine, warning after elbow incident on  Zavier Lucero

    Calvin Abueva draws 20k fine, warning after elbow incident on  Zavier Lucero

    For Calvin Abueva, the line between intensity and infraction has once again come into focus.

     

    The PBA Commissioner’s Office handed down a P20,000 fine to the Converge forward following his elbow to the head of Zavier Lucero during their matchup against Magnolia—an incident that didn’t just draw attention in-game, but warranted a second look after the final buzzer.

     

    Upon review, the league upgraded the call from a flagrant foul penalty one to a more severe flagrant foul penalty two, underscoring the seriousness of the contact. Commissioner Willie Marcial confirmed that Abueva was summoned before Converge’s next outing, where the decision—and the consequences—were formally delivered.

     

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    Marcial noted that Abueva expressed remorse during the meeting, but made it clear that patience from the league has its limits. A repeat offense, he warned, would result in a heavier sanction.

    The latest penalty adds to a growing list this conference.

     

    Earlier, Abueva was also fined P20,000 following a postgame outburst after a loss to Barangay Ginebra, where he was heard shouting “Paldo referee” and “Apat sila paldo” in the hallway of the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

    Taken together, the incidents highlight a recurring challenge for one of the league’s most polarizing figures—balancing his trademark edge with the boundaries set by the game.

     

    Abueva’s energy has long been both his strength and his risk. And as the conference progresses, the margin for error appears to be getting thinner.

     

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  • Pat Aquino’s first win sparks momentum as Blackwater outlasts San Miguel 

    Pat Aquino’s first win sparks momentum as Blackwater outlasts San Miguel 

    Pat Aquino didn’t just earn his first victory as Blackwater head coach—he may have uncovered the identity his team has been searching for in all conferences.


    In a game that tested both composure and conviction, the Bossing outdueled powerhouse San Miguel, 126-120, Wednesday night to finally halt a four-game slide in their PBA Commissioner’s Cup campaign.

     

    The breakthrough didn’t come easy. Aquino had inherited a team reeling from back-to-back blowouts and still finding its footing under new leadership. 

     

    His first two games in charge only added to the frustration—a narrow loss to TNT and a lopsided defeat to Phoenix stretched the skid. But instead of unraveling, Blackwater leaned in.

     

    “One for the books, of course. So tough,” Aquino described their breakthrough.

     

    That toughness was on full display against San Miguel, a team known for punishing lapses and staging comebacks. 

     

    Blackwater built a lead as big as 22, only to see it slowly erased as the Beermen clawed back and even briefly seized control in the fourth quarter.

     

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    Aquino, however, had already prepared his players for that exact moment.

     

    “I told them they’re gonna come back. This is a champion team, and Coach Leo is a champion coach. They’re gonna pull everything on us to get back at us. I just told the boys to never stop playing,” he explained.

     

    Import Robert Upshaw III anchored the charge with a dominant 35-point, 17-rebound, and five-assist performance, while Sedrick Barefield added 29 points and Christian David chipped in 15 points.

     

    On the other side, Bennie Boatwright did everything he could to give San Miguel their win, finishing with 38 points, 13 rebounds, and six assists, but Blackwater’s resilience proved stronger in the end.

     

    For Aquino, the win was more than a number in the standings, it was validation of patience, both his and the team’s.

     

    “A lot of challenges. A lot of good coaches around the league. And this is professional. We have to be professionals in a way that we gotta deal with it na talagang you have to perform and do your best all the time,” the 54-year-old mentor said.

     

    The locker room celebration that followed, complete with a well-earned drenching for their new coach, captured a team rediscovering belief. Still, reality quickly set in.

     

    At 2-6, Blackwater remains on the outside looking in, needing a near-perfect finish in its final four games to stay in the playoff hunt. And the road doesn’t get any easier, with Barangay Ginebra up next in a grueling back-to-back.

     

    For Aquino, though, that challenge carries a personal layer. “It’s gonna be hard for us because it’s back-to-back games against another champion, and of course, my idol Tim Cone,” the veteran coach expressed.

     

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  • Gilas Women eye new direction as SBP looks overseas for next coach

    Gilas Women eye new direction as SBP looks overseas for next coach

    A transition is underway for Gilas Pilipinas Women—and it may come with a shift in identity.

     

    For years, the program has been defined by continuity, guided by a steady hand that helped elevate Philippine women’s basketball onto the regional and continental stage. Now, as the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas begins its search for a new head coach, the direction appears to be leaning outward, with foreign candidates taking center stage in the selection process.

     

    SBP Executive Director Erika Dy confirmed that the federation is actively exploring its options, with interviews already underway.

     

    “Right now we’re still interviewing candidates. So far lahat ng na-interview namin foreign coaches,” Dy said during the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum on Tuesday.

     

    The approach signals more than just a coaching change—it hints at a possible recalibration of the program, one that could introduce new systems, philosophies, and perspectives as Gilas looks to sustain its growth.

     

    For now, however, the details remain under wraps. “We will make the announcement when the time is right,” she added.

     

    Whoever takes over will inherit not just a team, but a legacy shaped by Pat Aquino, whose long tenure redefined what the national women’s program could achieve.

     

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    Over more than a decade, Aquino transformed Gilas Women into a consistent contender. Under his watch, the team captured three Southeast Asian Games gold medals and earned promotion to Level 1 in the FIBA Women’s Asia Championship—milestones that pushed Philippine women’s basketball into a higher tier of competition.

     

    He also guided the squad to the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament in Villeurbanne, France, marking a significant step onto the global stage.

     

    Now transitioning into a broader role focused on talent identification and grassroots development, Aquino leaves behind a foundation that the next coach must not only preserve, but build upon.

     

    The challenge, then, is twofold.

     

    First, to maintain the competitive standard that has been established. And second, to navigate the expectations that come with a program no longer seen as an underdog, but as a rising force in the region.

     

    With the search ongoing and a new voice on the horizon, Gilas Pilipinas Women finds itself at a crossroads—balancing continuity with change, and legacy with evolution.

     

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  • “I’m honored and grateful”: CJ Perez on joining the elite PBA 5,000-point club 

    “I’m honored and grateful”: CJ Perez on joining the elite PBA 5,000-point club 

    CJ Perez continues to solidify his status as one of the most vital pieces in the San Miguel Beermen’s lineup, combining scoring consistency with all-around impact in the ongoing PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

     

    The explosive guard-forward once again played a key role in helping the San Miguel Beermen return to the win column, contributing to a hard-fought 98-94 victory over the NLEX Road Warriors on Sunday, April 19, at the Ynares Center Antipolo.

     

    Although his stat line of 13 points, nine rebounds, and two assists may not fully capture his overall influence on the game, Perez delivered a historic milestone late in the contest. With just nine seconds remaining, he converted a layup that not only helped seal the win but also pushed him past the 5,000-point mark in his PBA career.

     

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    The achievement officially placed Perez among the league’s elite scorers, further cementing his reputation as one of the most reliable offensive weapons in Philippine basketball.

     

    Entering the game needing just 12 points to reach the milestone, Perez reached the mark in fitting fashion—staying aggressive and focused on team success first, while the individual honor came naturally within the flow of the game.

     

    “Pang-ilang taon ko na ba ngayon, seven? I’m honored and grateful na nakarating ako dito and we know naman since rookie year ko na I’m a scorer so I’m happy. Actually struggle talaga today parang medyo may gigil kasi yun nga, kailangan namin manalo. Pero hindi naman ako na-pressure sa 5k points. Talagang just play our game,” Perez said in the postmatch press conference.

    Now 32 years old, Perez becomes the 102nd player in PBA history to reach at least 5,000 career points, a testament to both his longevity and scoring efficiency since entering the league. He also becomes the 14th player in San Miguel franchise history to achieve the milestone, further linking his name with some of the organization’s greatest legends.

     

    Among active players, Perez is only the 11th to join the exclusive club and the 97th Filipino local player overall, underscoring how rare and significant the achievement is in the context of the league’s long and storied history.

     

    Beyond the personal milestone, Perez emphasized the importance of the victory itself, especially as San Miguel continues to search for consistency in the Commissioner’s Cup. The Beermen, currently sitting in eighth place with a 4-4 record, have struggled to meet their usual championship standards, making every win crucial in their push up the standings.

     

    Perez’s leadership has become even more important amid roster adjustments and evolving team dynamics, particularly with the recent changes in their import situation. His ability to contribute in multiple areas—scoring, rebounding, and facilitating—has helped stabilize the Beermen during a challenging stretch.

     

    With renewed momentum, San Miguel is now focused on building consistency as the elimination round progresses. The coaching staff has repeatedly stressed the importance of sustaining effort and execution across full games if they are to reassert themselves as legitimate title contenders.

     

    The Beermen will look to carry their momentum forward when they face the Blackwater Bossing on Wednesday, April 22, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. The matchup is expected to serve as another important test of their form and chemistry as they continue their push for a higher position in the standings.

     

    For Perez, however, the focus remains clear—keep winning, keep improving, and let the milestones come naturally as San Miguel works its way back into championship contention.

     

     

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  • Bennie Boatwright-Justin Brownlee tandem looms as eligibility window opens for Gilas

    Bennie Boatwright-Justin Brownlee tandem looms as eligibility window opens for Gilas

    A potential frontcourt pairing is quietly gaining traction for Gilas Pilipinas—and it could reshape how the national team approaches its Asian Games title defense.

     

    The idea of Bennie Boatwright and Justin Brownlee sharing the floor isn’t just fan speculation anymore. It’s a scenario now being seriously considered, thanks to how eligibility rules for the 2026 Asian Games are currently being interpreted.

     

    At the center of the discussion is a technical detail that may work in the Philippines’ favor.

    Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) executive director Ericka Dy revealed that the initial reading of the tournament’s guidelines points to a relatively straightforward requirement—one that opens the door for more flexibility than usual.

     

    “Meron na tayong technical handbook. The rule is passport only with three-year residency,” said Dy on Monday.

     

    That clause, however, comes with nuance. While residency is required, it doesn’t necessarily mean continuous presence or even a passport issued three years prior—an interpretation that introduces what Dy herself described as a “gray area.”

     

    “Parang gray area daw yung three-year residency. It doesn’t mean na dapat three years na na-issue yung passport,” she explained.

     

    That distinction could prove crucial.After consulting with Abraham Tolentino, Dy said Boatwright’s prior stint in the Philippines may already count toward fulfilling the requirement. The former San Miguel import saw action during the 2023-24 PBA Commissioner’s Cup, which could serve as proof of residency under the current interpretation.

     

    “It is still possible, as per [POC] Pres. Bambol (Tolentino), I spoke to him about it, na puwede yung kay Boatwright because two years ago, he played here. So ipapakita lang yun,’’ said Dy.

     

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    Boatwright first suited up for San Miguel Beermen on December 25, 2023, stepping in as a replacement import. Since then, he has remained on the radar not just as a PBA reinforcement, but as a potential long-term piece for the national team. His ongoing naturalization process only strengthens that possibility.

     

    If cleared, pairing him with Brownlee would give Gilas a rare combination of familiarity and versatility—two players capable of stretching defenses while anchoring the team’s offense. It’s a pairing that could significantly boost the Philippines’ chances of repeating its gold medal finish from the 2023 Asian Games.

     

    Still, nothing is set in stone.

     

    “Let’s see. Ang plano naman ni Coach Tim (Cone) is to use the full Gilas team,” said Dy, referring to Tim Cone.

     

    The immediate focus now shifts to roster planning. The Philippine Olympic Committee has set an April 30 deadline for the submission of initial lineups—listed “by name only”—giving the SBP a window to include a broader pool of candidates while final eligibility clarifications are being sorted out.

     

    Dy said the federation intends to submit a list of 15 to 20 players from the current Gilas pool, with additional names potentially included. Among those expected to be part of that group are Ange Kouame and Mike Phillips, adding further depth to an already intriguing roster mix.

     

    For now, the Boatwright-Brownlee tandem remains a possibility—one grounded not in hype, but in interpretation. And as the details continue to unfold, Gilas Pilipinas may find itself with more options than expected in its quest to stay on top of Asian basketball.

     

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  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander wins NBA Clutch Player of the Year in landslide vote

    Shai Gilgeous-Alexander wins NBA Clutch Player of the Year in landslide vote

    Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to cement his status as one of the premier stars in the modern NBA, adding yet another accolade to what has already been a historic stretch in his career.

     

    The Oklahoma City Thunder superstar, fresh off a dominant campaign that saw him capture both the league’s Most Valuable Player and NBA Finals MVP honors, has now been named the NBA’s Clutch Player of the Year. The league made the announcement in the early hours of Wednesday, April 22 (Philippine Standard Time), further validating Gilgeous-Alexander’s reputation as one of basketball’s most reliable late-game performers.

     

    The 27-year-old guard was the overwhelming choice for the award, earning 96 out of 100 first-place votes and finishing with a commanding 484 total points. His margin of victory underscored just how dominant he was in pressure-packed moments throughout the season. Jamal Murray of the Denver Nuggets placed a distant second with 117 points, narrowly edging Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves, who finished third with 116 points.

     

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    “This award means a lot. To get this award, you have to help your team win games late, and what I’m about, more than anything, is winning games. My teammates trust me. My coaches trust me to put the ball in my hands in those positions. I try my best to deliver night in and night out, and I did enough of it this year. I’m proud I get to hoist it. It means I’m effective out there,” Gilgeous-Alexander said after winning the award.

    His clutch credentials this season were undeniable. Gilgeous-Alexander led the entire NBA with 175 points scored in clutch situations—defined as the final five minutes of the fourth quarter or overtime with the score within five points. Even more impressive was his efficiency under pressure: he shot 51.5 percent from the field in those moments while converting 13 of 37 attempts from beyond the arc, a solid 35.1 percent clip.

     

    Beyond scoring, Gilgeous-Alexander showcased his all-around brilliance in crunch time. He ranked ninth in the league with 21 clutch assists, demonstrating his ability to create opportunities for teammates when defenses collapsed on him. Defensively, he also contributed with four steals in clutch situations, tying for 34th, highlighting his impact on both ends of the floor when the stakes were highest.

     

    This latest honor places Gilgeous-Alexander in exclusive company. The Clutch Player of the Year award, introduced by the NBA in honor of Jerry West—the Los Angeles Lakers icon famously dubbed “Mr. Clutch”—has quickly become one of the league’s most prestigious individual recognitions. Gilgeous-Alexander is now just the fourth player to receive the honor, joining an elite list that includes De’Aaron Fox (2023), Stephen Curry (2024), and Jalen Brunson (2025).

     

    For Gilgeous-Alexander, the award is another milestone in what has been a defining era for both player and franchise. His steady leadership and late-game heroics have been instrumental in the Thunder’s rise as a championship contender, signaling a new chapter of sustained excellence in Oklahoma City.

     

    As he continues to build his legacy, Gilgeous-Alexander’s latest achievement reinforces a simple truth: when the game is on the line, few players in the world are more trusted—or more dangerous—than the Thunder’s undisputed leader.

     

     

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  • “It was good while it lasted”: Yeng Guiao unfazed as Rain or Shine streak ends, shifts focus to twice-to-beat goal

    “It was good while it lasted”: Yeng Guiao unfazed as Rain or Shine streak ends, shifts focus to twice-to-beat goal

    For Rain or Shine’s head coach Yeng Guiao, the end of a winning streak wasn’t a moment of frustration—it was simply part of the process.


    After guiding the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters to a blazing 7-0 start, Guiao watched his squad absorb its first loss, an 87-83 setback to the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Tuesday. The defeat trimmed their record to 7-1.

     

    “It was good while it lasted. Mangyayari naman talaga ’yon, mapuputol at some point. Also, it releases some pressure off us. Ang gusto lang talaga is makarating kami ng nine wins and secure the twice-to-beat. Of course, we like to win as much and as many as we can, but darating yung araw na maalat talaga,” Guiao said.

     

    Even during their unbeaten stretch, Guiao had repeatedly cautioned against getting too comfortable. That foresight showed as he treated the loss less as a setback and more as a recalibration point for a young, fast-paced roster that has thrived on momentum.

     

    Against Phoenix, Rain or Shine struggled to impose its usual tempo. A flurry of missed layups and turnovers allowed the Fuel Masters to seize control late, turning the game into one played on their terms.

     

    “Ganun talaga. Yung shift ng momentum, we couldn’t back our own momentum. Masyadong magkasunod yung mga missed layups and turnovers, one after another. Sila naman, pumasok yung mga tres nila at mga layups nila pumapasok din. We played a game that I felt more in their pace. Hindi namin nai-push yung bola,” the 66-year-old veteran coach explained.

     

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    Despite the stumble, the Elasto Painters remain in a strong position atop the standings. More importantly, Guiao’s focus hasn’t wavered from the bigger goal—securing a twice-to-beat advantage heading into the playoffs.

     

    “We knew there was going to be a bad night one of these days. Mabuti, nakapagpundar na kami ng mga panalo. We don’t want to feel too bad about it. Because overall, we’re really okay. We’re still number one. We try to keep our objective, which is secure twice-to-beat,” he added.

     

    Rain or Shine also missed the services of Felix Lametti, who continues to recover from a left knee sprain. The Fil-Swedish guard had been averaging 11.29 points, 3.0 assists, and 2.43 rebounds prior to the injury, making his absence felt in the backcourt rotation.

     

    Still, Adrian Nocum stepped up with 20 points, five rebounds, and one assist in a losing effort.

    On the other side, Jason Perkins led Phoenix with 20 points, while James Dickey added 17 and Tyler Tio contributed 16 to complete the comeback win.

     

    With tougher matchups looming against Magnolia Hotshots, NLEX Road Warriors, and Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, Guiao’s calm demeanor could prove just as valuable as any winning streak.

    For Rain or Shine, the message from their coach is clear, the streak may be over but the bigger mission is just beginning.

     

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  • Leo Austria is confident Bennie Boatwright can turn San Miguel’s PBA season around 

    Leo Austria is confident Bennie Boatwright can turn San Miguel’s PBA season around 

    The San Miguel Beermen, long regarded as one of the premier franchises in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), are navigating unfamiliar territory in the ongoing Commissioner’s Cup. Known for their consistency and championship pedigree, the Beermen have so far struggled to meet expectations, currently sitting eighth in the standings with a balanced 4-4 record—far from the dominant form fans have come to expect.

     

    A significant factor behind San Miguel’s uneven campaign has been instability at the import position. Their initial reinforcement, Justin Patton, became a source of controversy after failing to show up for a crucial matchup against the Magnolia Hotshots, raising questions about commitment and team chemistry. The organization acted swiftly, parting ways with Patton and bringing back a familiar and proven contributor in Bennie Boatwright.

     

    Boatwright wasted no time making his presence felt. In his first game back with the Beermen on Sunday, April 19, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, the former fan favorite delivered a dominant performance, erupting for 41 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. His all-around effort powered San Miguel to a hard-fought 98-94 victory, providing a much-needed boost to the team’s campaign and morale.

     

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    Head coach Leo Austria expressed optimism that Boatwright’s return could stabilize the team and address their import woes, drawing parallels to a successful stretch in the past.

     

    “Hopefully. The last time what we did during Bennie’s arrival in 2024 in the middle of the elimination eh. Since then we have never lost twice in a row. And eventually, we won the championship. We are hoping na we can duplicate this kind of situation that we have now to the year 2024,” Austria said in a media interaction.

    Austria’s confidence is shared by star guard CJ Perez, who emphasized how Boatwright’s skill set complements San Miguel’s core of talented local players. For Perez, finding the right import has long been a challenge, but Boatwright’s immediate impact suggests they may have finally found the missing piece.

     

    “I think yun yung nawawalang piece sa puzzle doon sa team namin eh. Every import conference nahihirapan kami maghanap ng import na nag-fifit sa San Miguel. I think Bennie is the answer doon sa struggle namin,” Perez added.

     

    Boatwright himself remains focused on the present, preferring a steady, game-by-game approach rather than looking too far ahead. While his performance has already reignited hopes among fans and teammates alike, the import is keeping his mindset grounded.

     

    “Yeah that’s the goal of course. But me personally, I want to take it one day at a time. You know just stacking the wins. To get this first win it feels very good as a team, myself and you know I’m excited moving forward,” Boatwright said.

     

    With renewed energy and a reinforced lineup, the Beermen now aim to build momentum as the elimination round progresses. Consistency will be key if they hope to climb the standings and reestablish themselves as legitimate title contenders.

     

    San Miguel will look to continue their resurgence when they take on the Blackwater Bossing on Wednesday, April 22, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium—a matchup that could serve as an early test of whether Boatwright’s return truly marks a turning point in their season.

     

     

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