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Category: Basketball

  • UP shrugs off Korea loss, marches into Asian University Basketball League quarterfinals 

    UP shrugs off Korea loss, marches into Asian University Basketball League quarterfinals 

    University of the Philippines may have absorbed its first defeat in the 2026 Asian University Basketball League Championship, but the Fighting Maroons accomplished the objective that mattered most.

     

    Despite a 70-60 loss to Korea University on Tuesday at the Binjiang Gymnasium in Hangzhou, China, UP punched its ticket to the quarterfinals after securing second place in Pool B.

     

    The Fighting Maroons entered the matchup already holding the inside track to the knockout stage following Monday’s victory over Japan’s Hakuoh University, allowing them to treat the clash against the unbeaten Koreans as a chance to measure themselves against one of the tournament favorites.

     

    Korea University showed why it topped the group from the opening half.

     

    The Koreans built a 15-point cushion midway through the second quarter, taking a commanding 35-20 lead behind their disciplined offense and suffocating defense.

     

    Rather than folding, however, UP responded with one of its best stretches of the game.

     

    A 10-0 burst highlighted by Chicco Briones’ three-point play suddenly cut the deficit to just five points at 35-30, giving the Fighting Maroons a chance to completely swing the momentum before halftime.

     

    That proved to be the closest they would get.

     

    Korea University immediately answered with an 11-0 run that carried over into the third quarter, restoring full control of the contest with a 46-30 advantage.

     

    UP continued to fight throughout the second half and made several pushes to trim the deficit, but every rally was met by timely baskets from the Koreans, who completed an unbeaten run through Pool B.

     

    Noy Remogat paced the Fighting Maroons with 15 points despite shooting 4-of-12 from the field.

     

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    Veejay Pre provided support with 10 points and seven rebounds, while Briones added eight points during UP’s comeback attempts.

     

    Korea University’s balanced attack proved to be the difference.

     

    Seok Jun Hwi led the way with 14 points, eight assists, six rebounds, and two steals, while Kim Jeong Hyun Daniel also scored 14 points and grabbed eight rebounds.

     

    Yoo Min Soo and Shim Ju Eon chipped in 11 points each as four Korean players finished in double figures.

     

    The defeat did little to derail UP’s campaign.

     

    With a 1-1 record, the Fighting Maroons advanced to the quarterfinals, where a much bigger challenge awaits.

     

    Their next opponent will be the winner of Pool A, which will be determined after China’s Tsinghua University and Japan’s Waseda University battle for the top spot later Tuesday.

     

    For UP, the group stage served its purpose.

     

    The Fighting Maroons are still alive, and with the knockout rounds now beginning, every game becomes an opportunity to prove they belong among Asia’s best university basketball programs.

     

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  • Adrian Nocum breathes sigh of relief after injury scare after Cliff Hodge collision 

    Adrian Nocum breathes sigh of relief after injury scare after Cliff Hodge collision 

    Rain or Shine escaped with another victory on Sunday, but for a few anxious moments, the result became secondary to the condition of one of its hottest players.

     

    Adrian Nocum sent a scare through the Elasto Painters after collapsing to the floor following a violent knee-to-knee collision with Meralco veteran Cliff Hodge midway through the third quarter of their 85-83 triumph at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

     

    As Nocum remained on the hardwood clutching his leg, concerns immediately grew that Rain or Shine could lose one of its biggest offensive weapons just as the team has found its rhythm in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup.

     

    Fortunately for the Elasto Painters, the injury turned out to be less serious than initially feared.

    “Talagang solid talaga, eh. Yung tuhod niya tumama dito sa hita ko. Uh, sobrang sakit! Ramdam na ramdam ko ‘yung tama,” Nocum told reporters after their victory.

     

    The collision happened with 4:06 left in the third period while Rain or Shine held a slim 66-63 advantage.

     

    Driving aggressively toward the basket, Nocum released the ball before his knee crashed into Hodge’s, sending both players sprawling to the floor in visible pain. Officials later reviewed the sequence and assessed Hodge an unsportsmanlike foul.

     

    When asked whether he believed the contact was intentional, Nocum stopped short of making an accusation but acknowledged Hodge’s physical reputation.

     

    “Hindi ko alam. Pero siyempre knowing Cliff Hodge. Kilala naman natin si Cliff Hodge. So, kasama naman ‘yun,” the Rain or Shine guard said.

     

    More than the pain itself, it was the uncertainty that worried Nocum.

     

    Unable to immediately get back on his feet, the 26-year-old admitted his first thoughts were about whether he had suffered a major injury.

     

    “Oo, kinabahan ako sobra. Kasi talagang nung pagtama niya sa akin, talagang ramdam na ramdam ko ‘yung sakit eh. Alam mo ‘yun, hindi ko siya magalaw. Kasi pagtayo ko, nailakad ko naman. Kaya, sabi ko, okay naman,” Nocum explained.

     

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    Instead of heading to the locker room for good, Nocum returned to the game and finished with six points and eight assists in more than 30 minutes, choosing to contribute as a facilitator after struggling to find his scoring touch.

     

    “Hindi naman [naapektuhan], medyo maalat lang talaga. Kaya bumawi na lang ako sa ibang bagay na pwedeng maitulong sa team,” he said.

     

    His ability to finish the contest also eased concerns that the injury could sideline him moving forward.

     

    Although soreness remains a possibility once the adrenaline wears off, Nocum said there are currently no plans for further medical examinations.

     

    “Uminom kasi ako ng gamot, eh. Siguro, medyo ano pa, okay pa. Problema ko na ito, bukas pagising ko. Baka masakit ito pag bukas o maga,” he shared.

     

    “Wala naman [MRI]. Kasi nailaro ko pa. Mukhang okay naman siya. Talagang solid lang talaga ‘yung pagka-tama niya. Talagang ramdam na ramdam ko. Pero, goods naman,” Nocum said.

    The encouraging update comes at an important time for Rain or Shine.

     

    The Elasto Painters have won four straight games to climb into contention in Group B, with Nocum playing arguably the best basketball of his PBA career following Gian Mamuyac’s departure.

     

    Rain or Shine will now hope its rising star wakes up feeling just as confident as he sounded after the game when the team resumes its campaign against the Phoenix Fuel Masters on Sunday.

     

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  • Riley Grisby praises Manila Clasico atmosphere despite Barangay Ginebra’s loss to Magnolia

    Riley Grisby praises Manila Clasico atmosphere despite Barangay Ginebra’s loss to Magnolia

     

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel’s latest reinforcement Riley Grisby may have endured a difficult debut in the storied Manila Clasico, but the American import walked away from the experience with a deep appreciation for one of Philippine basketball’s fiercest rivalries.

     

    Ginebra suffered a disappointing 88-73 defeat to longtime rivals Magnolia Hotshots in the PBA Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, August 2. The loss spoiled Grisby’s first taste of the iconic matchup, but the 26-year-old admitted that the electric atmosphere inside the Big Dome made the contest one he will not soon forget.

     

    Widely regarded as the premier rivalry in the Philippine Basketball Association, the Manila Clasico once again lived up to its reputation as thousands of passionate fans packed the venue, creating a playoff-like environment despite it being an elimination-round game.

     

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    Grisby, who is serving as Barangay Ginebra’s temporary import while resident star Justin Brownlee continues to recover from injury, said the energy generated by both fan bases was unlike anything he has experienced in recent years.

     

    “I have heard about what this game means to fans. You feel the energy. I definitely feel the energy from the fans,” Grisby said after the game.

     

    “I see why it’s called a classic. It’s up there. Number one experience, probably. You can tell these fans love basketball or Ginebra. Whichever team they support, they bring the energy and you can tell. It’s been a while since I played these kinds of games with these types of energy, so it was fun.”

    While the atmosphere left a lasting impression, Grisby acknowledged that his individual performance fell well below his own expectations. Magnolia’s disciplined defensive scheme limited the athletic forward throughout the contest as he finished with just 15 points on an inefficient 5-of-19 shooting from the field. He also contributed five rebounds and five assists but struggled to consistently create quality scoring opportunities.

     

    Rather than attributing his performance to the pressure of playing in such a high-profile game, Grisby credited Magnolia’s defensive execution, noting that the Hotshots made a concerted effort to crowd the paint and force him into difficult attempts.

     

    “They had a good game plan, packing the paint on me and collapsing,” he explained. “I just have to do a better job of being more physical and getting to my spots.”

     

    Magnolia’s defensive intensity disrupted Ginebra’s offensive rhythm for most of the evening, forcing the Gin Kings into contested shots while limiting easy opportunities around the basket. The Hotshots capitalized on those defensive stops to control the tempo and gradually pull away, handing Ginebra one of its toughest defeats of the conference.

     

    Despite the setback, Grisby’s résumé suggests he has the tools to make a stronger impact moving forward. Before arriving in the PBA, the versatile forward gained valuable professional experience in the NBA G League, where he competed against several elite prospects and fringe NBA players. He also showcased his abilities in the Luxembourg Basketball League, experiences that helped develop his all-around game on both ends of the floor.

     

    Now tasked with filling the sizable void left by Brownlee, Grisby understands the expectations that come with wearing a Ginebra jersey. Brownlee has long been one of the PBA’s most accomplished imports, and stepping into his role brings significant pressure. Even so, Grisby remains focused on quickly adapting to the league’s physical style of play and building chemistry with his new teammates.

     

    The Gin Kings will be eager to bounce back when they return to action against the Blackwater Bossing at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Sunday, August 9. For Grisby, the matchup presents an opportunity not only to deliver a stronger individual performance but also to help Ginebra regain momentum as it continues its Governors’ Cup campaign.

     

    Although his first Manila Clasico ended in disappointment on the scoreboard, Grisby left convinced that the rivalry deserves its reputation, describing the intensity, passion, and atmosphere as among the finest experiences of his professional career.

     

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  • Jimmy Alapag reunites with TNT as unbeaten NLEX faces biggest test yet 

    Jimmy Alapag reunites with TNT as unbeaten NLEX faces biggest test yet 

    Jimmy Alapag’s unbeaten start as a PBA head coach now arrives at the most personal stop on his early coaching journey.

     

    After steering NLEX to a flawless opening stretch in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup, Alapag will find himself standing across the bench from the franchise where he built his legacy when the Road Warriors battle TNT Tropang 5G on Tuesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

     

    For more than a decade, Alapag was the face of TNT, leading the franchise to six championships and becoming one of the greatest point guards in PBA history. This time, however, “The Mighty Mouse” returns not in black and yellow, but as the architect of the league’s only unbeaten team.

     

    The Road Warriors have quickly become one of the conference’s biggest surprises, winning all five of their games through a fast-paced attack built around teamwork rather than individual brilliance.

     

    Their latest statement came against Converge, where NLEX broke open a tight contest with a dominant fourth-quarter surge to remain perfect. After an 88-all deadlock, the Road Warriors outscored the FiberXers 31-19 behind another explosive outing from import DeQuan Jones, who finished with 28 points, while Schonny Winston poured in 24. The pair combined for 22 points during the decisive closing run.

     

    “We wanted to stay composed and aggressive in the fourth quarter and coach Jimmy wanted us to continue to play fast, so that’s what we ended up doing,” Winston said.

     

    “We’ll stay humble, knowing it’s still a long season to go and there’s a lot of hard work to do,” Winston added.

     

    Across the floor will be a TNT squad that has found a completely different formula for winning.

     

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    While injuries continue to sideline key stars Jayson Castro, RR Pogoy, Calvin Oftana, and Kelly Williams, the Tropang 5G have leaned on resilience and defense to climb back above the .500 mark.

     

    They showcased that identity by stunning defending All-Filipino champion San Miguel Beer, limiting one of the league’s highest-scoring offenses to just 89 points in an overtime victory.

     

    Import Rahlir Hollis-Jefferson anchored the effort with 20 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists, while Kim Aurin delivered the performance of his career with 22 points despite waking up under the weather.

     

    “Sobrang bigat ng trabaho dahil wala sila,” Aurin said, referring to TNT’s injured players. “Mindset lang, pag libre, tira.”

     

    Even San Miguel’s prolific import George King struggled to find his rhythm early, as TNT held him to only eight first-half points before surviving overtime.

     

    For head coach Chot Reyes, the victory became another reminder that mentality can outweigh talent.

     

    “I really don’t know how we did it,” Reyes said after winning on his 62nd birthday. “What I know is how important mindset is. We could’ve had an attitude na ‘overtime na naman’ and be negative.

    But we turned it positive, saying ‘who would’ve thought we could bring them to overtime?’”

     

    “Basta ang sabi namin, daanin na lang natin sa depensa,” Reyes added.

     

    Tuesday’s matchup now offers a fascinating contrast in styles.

     

    NLEX has overwhelmed opponents with pace, depth, and offensive balance under Alapag’s fresh system. TNT, meanwhile, has rediscovered its identity through grit and defense despite operating with a depleted roster.

     

    For Alapag, extending NLEX’s perfect run would make his emotional return to TNT even sweeter. For the Tropang 5G, spoiling their former superstar’s homecoming would further prove that championship habits remain alive, even with an undermanned lineup.

     

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  • Adrian Nocum’s Gilas dream moves closer after earning spot in Asian Games long list 

    Adrian Nocum’s Gilas dream moves closer after earning spot in Asian Games long list 

    For years, Adrian Nocum’s rise has been fueled by one thing—proving he belongs.

     

    Now, that journey has brought him to the doorstep of Gilas Pilipinas.

     

    The Rain or Shine guard has been included in the national team’s long list for the 20th Asian Games in Japan this September, placing him one step closer to wearing the Philippine jersey for the first time.

     

    While a final roster spot remains far from guaranteed, the recognition alone is another milestone in what has been a breakout stretch for the 26-year-old playmaker.

     

    “Siyempre, masarap sa feeling,” Nocum told reporters after Rain or Shine’s thrilling 85-83 victory over Meralco in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup.

     

    The news came directly from someone who knows both worlds well.

     

    Rain or Shine lead assistant coach Caloy Garcia, who also serves as part of the Gilas Pilipinas coaching staff, personally informed Nocum and newly appointed Elasto Painters captain Caelan Tiongson that they had been included among the national team’s pool of candidates.

     

    “Kinausap kami ni Coach Caloy Garcia, kasama kami raw. Parang sinama lang kami sa list, kaming dalawa ni Caelan Tiongson,” he shared.

     

    For Nocum, the call-up reflects months of consistent growth.

     

    Following Gian Mamuyac’s departure, the former Mapua standout has embraced a larger role, evolving from an energy guard into one of Rain or Shine’s primary offensive creators.

    The numbers tell the story.

     

    Through the Governors’ Cup, Nocum is averaging 17.6 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.0 rebounds while helping power the Elasto Painters’ surge in the standings.

     

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    His biggest statement came just days earlier when he erupted for a career-high 31 points, including the game-winning layup with 5.6 seconds left, to lift Rain or Shine past Magnolia, 98-97.

     

    Even with those performances, Nocum admits making the Gilas conversation still feels surreal.

     

    “Sobrang blessed. Sobrang daming magagaling dito sa PBA, and mas talented, mas malaki, alam mo ‘yun? Pero naisama tayo,” he said.

     

    The Tondo native has steadily earned respect around the league, including praise from former Gilas guard Paul Lee, while his recent performances have sparked growing calls from fans for him to receive a national team opportunity.

     

    Now, with his name officially part of the Asian Games pool, those calls are no longer just wishful thinking.

     

    Whether he ultimately cracks Tim Cone’s final lineup remains to be seen, but Nocum is embracing the opportunity with the same mindset that fueled his climb from collegiate star to one of the PBA’s fastest-rising guards.

     

    “Alam naman natin na ang daming magagaling dito sa PBA na mas matagal pa sa atin, pero nasama tayo sa list. Malaking bagay ‘yun,” he said.

     

    “At kung mabibigyan naman ng chance, subukan natin. Banat!”

     

     

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  • Manny Pacquiao vows to protect MPBL integrity following game manipulation allegations

    Manny Pacquiao vows to protect MPBL integrity following game manipulation allegations

    The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) has found itself at the center of controversy following allegations of possible game manipulation involving the Bacolod Maskarra during its matchup against the Bulacan Kuyas on July 28.

     

    The issue stemmed from Bacolod’s 100-64 defeat to Bulacan, a result that drew significant attention from fans, basketball observers, and online communities due to the unusual circumstances that unfolded late in the contest.

     

    Bulacan appeared to pull away in the final stretch after Maskarra failed to score a single point during the last 7:48 of the game. The scoring drought allowed the Kuyas to build a commanding lead and eventually secure a 36-point victory, but the manner in which the game ended raised questions and prompted calls for a deeper review.

     

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    The unusual sequence of events quickly gained traction online, with supporters and observers expressing concerns over whether the integrity of the competition had been compromised. The situation eventually reached the attention of the Games and Amusements Board (GAB), which confirmed that it had begun a fact-finding investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the match.

     

    As the investigation continues, the MPBL has taken decisive administrative measures against Bacolod Maskarra. The league announced that the team would no longer be allowed to participate for the remainder of the season, while players and coaching staff allegedly involved in the incident received permanent bans.

    The controversy also drew a strong reaction from MPBL founder and boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, who emphasized that any actions that threaten the credibility of the league and the sport will not be tolerated.

     

    Speaking during the launch of the Maharlika Pilipinas Pickleball Tour (MPPT) in Makati City on Friday, July 31, Pacquiao reiterated his commitment to ensuring that MPBL games are played with fairness, honesty, and respect for the fans who support the league.

     

    “Sinasabi ko naman sa kanila na ang MPBL, nagbibigay ng kasiyahan sa larangan ng sports sa buong Pilipinas, sa mga Pilipino. Ayaw ko yung mga may hokus-pokus na nangyayari na dinadaya yung mga tao. Gusto ko, mga players na maglaro with integrity and honesty,” Pacquiao said.

     

    The former world champion added that the league has already established a dedicated task force tasked with monitoring games and identifying any suspicious activity. According to Pacquiao, every contest is reviewed closely to protect the league’s reputation and ensure that all teams compete under fair conditions.

     

    “Lagi akong nakasubaybay. In fact, may team akong binuo to oversee and review all the games every time na may laro. May mga taong nakasubaybay diyan, pinag-aaralan yung mga laro kung may nagbebenya o wala,” he added.

     

    Pacquiao’s comments highlighted the league’s continued efforts to strengthen its monitoring systems as the MPBL grows in popularity and influence within Philippine basketball. The league has positioned itself as a platform for Filipino players to showcase their talent, while also bringing professional-level competition closer to communities across the country.

     

    The GAB’s ongoing fact-finding process is expected to provide further clarity on the circumstances surrounding the Bacolod-Bulacan matchup. While the investigation remains ongoing, both the regulatory body and the MPBL have maintained that preserving the credibility of the sport remains their highest priority.

     

    The controversy serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in competitive sports. For the MPBL, the swift actions taken by league officials reflect their intent to protect the trust of players, teams, and fans while ensuring that the league continues to uphold the values of fair play and integrity.

     

     

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  • Remy Martin finally gets Philippine club opportunity with Strong Group for Jones Cup title bid

    Remy Martin finally gets Philippine club opportunity with Strong Group for Jones Cup title bid

    It took years of waiting, but Remy Martin is finally headed to Philippine basketball.

     

    The Filipino-American guard will suit up for a Philippine club team for the first time after being named to the Strong Group-Pilipinas roster for the 2026 William Jones Cup, giving one of the most accomplished Fil-Am guards of his generation a long-awaited opportunity to represent a Philippine squad on the international stage.

     

    For Strong Group, Martin’s arrival isn’t just another marquee signing—it’s the culmination of a pursuit that stretched over several years.

     

    “Over the past four years of competing overseas, one name kept coming up wherever we went — Remy Martin. We listened. That’s why we’re proud to bring Remy to Strong Group,” said team president Jacob Lao.

     

    “He’s a proven winner, a champion, and someone we believe embodies the standard we’re striving for as we continue to represent the Philippines on the international stage.”

     

    Martin built his reputation in the United States as one of college basketball’s most dynamic guards before reaching the pinnacle of the NCAA.

     

    After starring at Arizona State and earning two All-Pac-12 First Team selections, the 6-foot playmaker transferred to the University of Kansas, where he helped the Jayhawks capture the 2022 NCAA Division I championship. He was also named the Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Tournament Midwest Regional during Kansas’ memorable title run.

     

    Since then, Martin has continued his professional career in Europe, suiting up for Greek side Lavrio before moving to Iceland, where he helped Keflavík become one of the league’s top teams.

    Now, the next stop in his basketball journey brings him closer to his Filipino roots.

     

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    Head coach Charles Tiu admitted Martin has been on the organization’s radar for years, making this year’s signing especially rewarding.

     

    “I’m pleased we finally worked things out with Remy. I’ve been looking to recruit him for quite some time, but our schedules just didn’t align until now,” Tiu said.

     

    “He’s really excited to come play for us, and he wants to win. I’m excited to have the opportunity to work with him.”

     

    Martin won’t be the only fresh face joining the defending champions.

     

    Puerto Rico national team veteran Isaiah Piñeiro also joins Strong Group, bringing experience from the NBA G League and professional leagues in Spain, Turkey, Latvia and Puerto Rico.

     

    According to Tiu, Piñeiro fills a role the team has been searching for since the departure of former import Andre Roberson.

     

    “We wanted another (Andre) Roberson-type player—someone who can do everything for us,” Tiu said.

     

    “He’s a glue guy who can shoot, play in the post, and defend. He’s been a fixture on the national team, and we’re looking forward to seeing what he brings to our team.”

     

    Martin joins a loaded Strong Group roster that already features former NBA center Boban Marjanović alongside Angelo Kouame, Dave Ildefonso, DJ Fenner, Tajuan Agee, Allen Liwag, and Titing Manalili. Matthew Wright, William Navarro, and Shaun Ildefonso are also set to make their debuts for the squad.

     

    The mission is clear.

     

    Strong Group is chasing a historic third consecutive William Jones Cup championship, a feat no team has accomplished since Iran captured three straight titles from 2009 to 2011.

     

    The Philippine club opens its campaign in New Taipei City grouped with Chinese Taipei Blue, South Korea, and Japan as it begins another quest to keep the Jones Cup trophy in Filipino hands.

     

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  • Bam Adebayo’s all-time NBA five list sparks debate after leaving out LeBron James

    Bam Adebayo’s all-time NBA five list sparks debate after leaving out LeBron James

    Miami Heat star Bam Adebayo found himself at the center of an NBA debate after revealing his personal list of the five greatest players in league history, with his selections drawing attention not only for the legends he included but also for the superstar names left off the list.

     

    Adebayo recently received the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Social Justice Champion Award, an honor presented to an NBA player who uses their platform to promote social change and make a meaningful impact beyond basketball. During the event, the Heat forward was asked to name his top five NBA players of all time.

     

    The 29-year-old big man named Kobe Bryant, Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan, Kevin Durant, and Tim Duncan as his selections.

     

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    “Kobe Bryant, Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan, Kevin Durant, and Tim Duncan,” Adebayo said when asked about his all-time NBA five.

     

    While the players included in Adebayo’s list have all built legendary careers and earned their place among basketball’s elite, the choices immediately sparked discussion among fans and analysts because of the notable omissions.

    Among the biggest names missing from his list was LeBron James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and one of the most decorated players in league history. James’ absence became a major talking point, especially given his long-standing relationship with Adebayo and their time together representing Team USA on the international stage.

     

    Adebayo also left out his current Miami Heat teammate Giannis Antetokounmpo, a two-time NBA Most Valuable Player, NBA champion, and one of the league’s most dominant players of the modern era.

     

    Despite the reactions surrounding his selections, Adebayo’s choices still represent a group of players who have defined different generations of the NBA. Bryant’s championship pedigree and competitive legacy, Curry’s revolutionary impact on the game with his shooting, Jordan’s unmatched influence and six NBA titles, Durant’s scoring brilliance, and Duncan’s consistency and five championships all make them strong candidates in any all-time discussion.

     

    Although Adebayo did not elaborate on the criteria behind his list, he did share his thoughts on James’ recent decision to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers after the Heat had been considered one of the teams with interest in acquiring the future Hall of Famer.

     

    Adebayo spoke highly of his relationship with James, describing the four-time NBA champion as more than just a fellow player.

     

    “I’m cool with Bron. I consider Bron like a brother honestly. We have been Olympic teammates, but even before that we have always had down-to-earth conversations. I’m happy for him. You want what’s best for somebody. That’s really how you go from there,” Adebayo said.

     

    The Heat forward’s comments highlighted the respect and friendship between the two players, even as James continues his career away from Miami.

     

    Ultimately, Adebayo’s all-time list reflects the subjective nature of ranking NBA greatness. With generations of legendary players competing in different eras and leaving unique marks on the sport, debates over the greatest players in basketball history are likely to continue long after the final buzzer of their careers.

     

     

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  • UST’s Andwelle Cabanero, NU-Nazareth’s KJ Guada Badajos punch tickets to Jordan Brand global finals in Shanghai 

    UST’s Andwelle Cabanero, NU-Nazareth’s KJ Guada Badajos punch tickets to Jordan Brand global finals in Shanghai 

    The Philippines has found its next two representatives on the global stage.

     

    UST Senior High School standout Andwelle Cabanero and National University-Nazareth School’s KJ Guada Badajos emerged as the last players standing in Jordan Brand’s The One Manila on Saturday, earning the opportunity to carry the country’s colors in the prestigious global finals in Shanghai, China later this month.

     

    With only one ticket available in both the boys’ and girls’ divisions, the country’s brightest young talents battled through a grueling knockout tournament before Cabanero and Badajos separated themselves from the field.

     

    Even Mother Nature could not stop the competition.

     

    Originally set to unfold at the Jordan Flight Deck in Bonifacio Global City, heavy rains forced organizers to transfer the event indoors to Kerry Sports Arena at Shangri-La The Fort. The change in venue, however, did little to cool down the intensity as every possession became a step closer to representing the Philippines on the international stage.

     

    For Cabanero, the road to Shanghai became even tougher after suffering a shoulder injury during the quarterfinals.

     

    Instead of slowing down, the 17-year-old fought through the pain, winning his semifinal before defeating fellow UST Tiger Cub Sean Bohol, 13-9, in an all-UST championship showdown.

     

    “I thought to myself, ‘Why would I waste the opportunity to go to Shanghai?’” said Cabanero.

     

    “My motto is whenever I’m tired or even when I’m hurt with an injury, I don’t give up because the fight isn’t over. Never say die.”

     

    On the girls’ side, Badajos showcased why she is regarded as one of the country’s rising stars.

     

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    The Bukidnon native found herself locked in a 6-all battle against Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball Developmental League campaigner Jenny Paguipo before taking complete control of the contest.

     

    Badajos buried back-to-back three-pointers to create separation before draining another triple late to complete a commanding 17-6 victory and secure her own ticket to Shanghai.

     

    “I’m so happy because I worked really hard for all of this. I learned a lot, and I hope that more people will get to see just what we can do as athletes,” said Badajos.

     

    “Everything happens for a reason, and we don’t know what’s in store for us in our future, so I believe that we should always put in the work to reach our dreams.”

     

    Before facing elite youth players from North America, Europe, and Asia in the global finals on August 29, both champions will undergo an intensive Jordan Brand development program.

     

    The preparation includes basketball sessions with Philippine Jordan Brand athlete Kiefer Ravena, along with strength and conditioning work under Jordan trainers to help the duo get ready for the biggest tournament of their young careers.

     

    Beyond the international competition, even bigger rewards await in Shanghai.

     

    The One Global Finals champion will have the opportunity to win a cash prize, earn recognition as a Jordan Brand ambassador, and be featured in the brand’s global campaign, with Cabanero and Badajos now carrying Philippine basketball’s hopes onto one of the sport’s biggest youth stages.

     

     

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  • Zavier Lucero anchors Magnolia’s defensive game as Hotshots silence Ginebra 

    Zavier Lucero anchors Magnolia’s defensive game as Hotshots silence Ginebra 

    Magnolia proved that defense remains its strongest identity after shutting down Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, 88-73, in their Manila Clasico clash in the PBA Season 50 Governor’s Cup on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.


    The Hotshots dictated the game from the opening half, with Zavier Lucero setting the tone on both ends of the floor. 

     

    Lucero erupted for 22 points before halftime, giving Magnolia early control before finishing with a dominant stat line of 24 points, 10 rebounds, two steals, and two assists.

     

    “I felt like I kind of let the team down in our last game. I just tried to come out and be an example to my teammates on how we needed to come out and set the tone – not necessarily on offense but also on defense,” Lucero said. 

     

    His performance not only fueled Magnolia offensively but also became the centerpiece of a defensive effort that frustrated the Gin Kings throughout the night.

     

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    “I take pride in my defense, as it’s our team’s best chance at winning,” he said.

     

    While Lucero delivered the early knockout punch, import KJ Buffen provided steady production of his own, finishing with 23 points, 11 rebounds, and two steals to help Magnolia improve to 2-3 in the conference.

     

    The Hotshots’ defensive discipline made life miserable for Ginebra’s offense, particularly import Riley Grigsby.

     

    After entering the game as one of the conference’s reliable scorers, Grigsby was held to his lowest output of the tournament with just 15 points on an inefficient 5-of-19 shooting.

     

    Stephen Holt paced Barangay Ginebra with 17 points and five rebounds, but the Gin Kings struggled to find consistent offensive rhythm. 

     

    Guard RJ Abarrientos also endured a difficult outing, finishing with only six points on 2-of-9 shooting.

     

    Despite the added attention that comes with every Manila Clasico meeting, Lucero insisted his preparation never changes regardless of the opponent.

     

    “There’s a lot of draw from the crowd just because it’s Ginebra, so it’s more fun and there are more people, and that’s all great. But I try not to switch my mentality to any game,” he said.

     

    The victory allowed Magnolia to move into a tie for fourth place in Group A alongside Barangay Ginebra, with both teams now holding identical 2-3 records after five games.

     

    Magnolia will look to build on its momentum when it faces the Meralco Bolts on Friday, August 7, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. Ginebra, meanwhile, hopes to bounce back when it takes on the Blackwater Bossing on Sunday, August 9, at the same venue.

     

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