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  • Gilas Women ushers in a new era as Patrick Aquino steps down as head coach of the national team

    Gilas Women ushers in a new era as Patrick Aquino steps down as head coach of the national team

    After more than a decade of steering the program from obscurity to relevance, head coach Patrick Aquino is stepping away from the sidelines, marking the end of a defining chapter and the beginning of a broader vision for Philippine women’s basketball.


    The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announced on March 28 that Aquino will transition into a new role centered on talent identification and grassroots development, working alongside program director Norman Black. 

     

    “The SBP thanks coach Patrick Aquino for everything that he has done for the program and for all his efforts in the development of women’s basketball in the country. But now it’s time to move forward and do more for Gilas Pilipinas Women and the entire women’s basketball community in the country,” said SBP president Ricky Vargas.

     

    Aquino’s tenure was not merely long—it was transformative. When he took over in 2014, the program was still searching for identity and consistency. Over the years, he helped shape a competitive national team that could stand its ground in Asia and, eventually, make noise on the global stage. 

     

    His crowning breakthrough came in 2019, when Gilas Women captured its first Southeast Asian Games gold medal—an achievement that redefined expectations. The team would go on to add more podium finishes, including another gold in Bangkok.

     

    Under his guidance, the Philippines climbed to Division A status in the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup at both senior and youth levels, a sign of sustained growth rather than isolated success. 

     

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    More recently, the team delivered a historic 74-59 upset over world No. 19 Colombia in the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament in France—its first victory against a non-Asian squad, and perhaps the clearest indication yet of how far the program has come.

     

    And yet, even with progress evident, the SBP sees a shifting landscape that demands a different approach.

     

    “The landscape of women’s basketball is changing as we’re seeing Filipina talent sprouting from all over the world. The talent of our Filipina players is also being recognized as doors are opening for them all over the world. We need to harness all of this into our team,” said Vargas.

     

    That global expansion of talent is at the heart of the federation’s next move. Rather than simply replacing Aquino, the SBP is casting a wide net—one that may extend beyond Philippine borders.

    SBP Executive Director Erika Dy underscored the importance of a comprehensive search.


    “We’re going to have a thorough process to determine who will lead Gilas Pilipinas Women moving forward. We’re not limiting ourselves to local coaches,” Dy said. 

     

    Gilas Women is coming off a 1-4 campaign in the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament in Lyon, France. More importantly, the road ahead is packed with high-stakes tournaments, the Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament in August, the Asian Games in Japan in September 2026, and the Philippines’ hosting of the 2027 Asia Cup.

     

    In that context, Aquino’s new role may prove just as vital as his time on the bench. By focusing on grassroots development and global talent identification, he becomes a bridge between the program’s past and its future.

     

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  • Alec Stockton stays grounded as Converge’s late-game woes continue

    Alec Stockton stays grounded as Converge’s late-game woes continue

    Alec Stockton has become an easy target in Converge’s recent string of heartbreaks, but the FiberXers guard is refusing to let one difficult stretch define his season.

     

    As the team absorbed another painful late-game loss Sunday night, Stockton instead leaned on perspective, choosing gratitude and composure over frustration after once again finding himself at the center of a crushing finish.

     

    Converge’s 99-93 defeat to Barangay Ginebra in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup at Smart Araneta Coliseum was not just another tally in the loss column. It was another game that slipped away in the final moments, and another reminder of how thin the margin has become for a team trying to stay afloat while shorthanded.

     

    For Stockton, it also meant another night where one sequence overshadowed everything else.

     

    With less than a minute left and the FiberXers still within striking distance, Stockton was tasked with inbounding the ball in a crucial possession. Instead, the play quickly turned disastrous as Scottie Thompson got a hand on the pass, Rhon Jay Abarrientos came away with it, and Justin Brownlee converted the transition chance into a layup that stretched Ginebra’s lead to 97-93.

     

    It was the kind of mistake that instantly becomes replay material, especially for a player already carrying the burden of previous late-game miscues. And in today’s basketball world, those moments rarely stay on the hardwood.

     

    Still, Stockton made it clear after the game that he understands the scrutiny that comes with playing in front of a passionate basketball audience—and that he has no plans of letting it consume him.

     

    “I’m not really on social media like that,” he told reporters moments after the loss.

    “But it’s just part of it. We’re in the entertainment business, and people have rights to their own opinion on how they view the game.”

     

    That response revealed more than just a shrug toward criticism. It reflected the mindset of a player trying to stay emotionally steady while navigating a rough patch that has become impossible to ignore.

     

    This was already the second straight game in which Stockton found himself involved in a pivotal late-game breakdown. In Converge’s previous loss to San Miguel Beer, he was called for a shooting foul on Don Trollano during a 99-all deadlock, allowing the Beermen wingman to knock down the go-ahead free throws in what became a 103-99 defeat.

     

    The pattern has only made the spotlight harsher, especially considering that Stockton had already endured a similar moment earlier in the season. During Converge’s do-or-die Philippine Cup quarterfinal against Ginebra last December, he committed the foul on Jeremiah Gray that helped the Kings extend the game to overtime before eventually stealing the win.

     

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    For many players, a run like that could quickly snowball into self-doubt. But Stockton said his focus has remained fixed on the parts of life and basketball that matter more than the criticism surrounding him.

     

    “I don’t really let it affect me,” he said.

     

    “You know, I come home to my kids, my family, and that’s who I look forward to meeting; obviously being able to gel with my teammates, being able to enjoy the game with them.”

     

    Rather than dwell on the mistakes that have followed him over the past few games, Stockton chose to frame his situation through a wider lens—one that extends far beyond one turnover, one foul, or one missed opportunity in crunch time.

     

    “And overall, just being grateful for the game of basketball. Not everybody gets to have this opportunity to play basketball for a living, that’s really everything to me already,” the 21st overall pick of the Season 46 Draft added.

     

    “Other than that, having the people to comment or what their opinion is, that’s up to them. But for me, I feel grateful and blessed to be here,” he closed.

     

    That perspective may be one of the few stabilizing forces left for a Converge side that has now dropped four straight games and continues to battle through injuries to key players.

     

    The FiberXers entered Sunday’s matchup without Calvin Abueva, Justin Arana, and Juan Gomez de Liaño, leaving them once again undermanned against one of the league’s deeper and more experienced teams. While the losses continue to mount, Stockton believes the team’s current form does not fully reflect what it can be once healthier bodies return to the lineup.

     

    “We’re confident,” Stockton said. “We’re lacking three of our main guys–Calvin, Justin Arana for today, and Juan from the past three games.”

     

    With the Holy Week break giving Converge a rare chance to regroup, Stockton sees the upcoming pause as an opportunity not only to recover physically, but also to reset mentally after a bruising stretch of close defeats.

     

    “We have some time to kinda recover for this Holy Week, we don’t play till the 10th, so hopefully, we’re complete by then.”

     

    For now, Converge remains stuck in a frustrating cycle where every mistake is magnified and every close game seems to tilt the wrong way. But Stockton’s stance suggests he is not running from the weight of those moments, even if they continue to follow him.

     

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  • Justin Brownlee, Abarrientos rescue Ginebra as CJ Cansino helps Meralco regain footing in PBA Commissioner’s Cup

    Justin Brownlee, Abarrientos rescue Ginebra as CJ Cansino helps Meralco regain footing in PBA Commissioner’s Cup

    Justin Brownlee and RJ Abarrientos delivered when Barangay Ginebra needed them most, turning a sluggish start into a gutsy comeback that kept the Gin Kings moving in the right direction in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup.

     

    Brownlee shook off a rough opening half and found his rhythm late, while Abarrientos stayed aggressive throughout as Ginebra erased a double-digit deficit and escaped with a 99-93 victory over Converge on Sunday night at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

    The win pushed the Gin Kings to 2-1 in the conference and highlighted a growing chemistry between their veteran import and rising local guard.

     

    Brownlee finished with 33 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists, overcoming his early struggles by taking command in the closing stretch. Abarrientos backed him up with a conference-high 32 points, along with four assists and three rebounds, giving Ginebra the offensive spark it badly needed.

     

    Troy Rosario quietly played a major role inside, posting a double-double of 10 points and 13 rebounds while helping stabilize the Gin Kings in a physical battle.

     

    For much of the first half and the early part of the third quarter, Converge looked poised to control the game.

     

    The FiberXers built a lead that reached 10 points and kept Ginebra on the back foot, forcing the Gin Kings to chase the pace. But once Brownlee and Abarrientos began attacking in rhythm, the game shifted.

     

    Back-to-back baskets from the duo, along with timely triples from Nard John Pinto, fueled the turnaround as Ginebra surged ahead, 81-74, after trailing for most of the night.

     

    The FiberXers answered with a run of their own and briefly reclaimed the lead, 93-92, threatening to spoil Ginebra’s comeback. But in the decisive moments, the Gin Kings were steadier.

     

    Rosario and Abarrientos calmly knocked down free throws, and Brownlee delivered the basket that finally gave Ginebra control for good.

     

    Converge leaned on a balanced attack in defeat, with Justine Baltazar leading the way with 20 points. Mikey Williams and MJ Garcia added 16 and 15 points, respectively, while Kylor Kelley turned in a double-double of 13 points and 15 rebounds.

     

    The loss dropped the FiberXers to 1-4 in the conference. Both teams entered the matchup undermanned.

     

    Ginebra played without Japeth Aguilar, Kemark Carino, and Jayson David, while Converge missed Juan Gomez de Liaño, Calvin Abueva, and Justin Arana.

     

     

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    Earlier in the day, Meralco made sure its response to a disappointing loss was immediate.

     

    After stumbling against an import-less Rain or Shine side last Friday, the Bolts came out sharper and more purposeful, rolling past Titan Ultra Giant Risers, 118-105, to improve to 3-1.

     

    CJ Cansino led the charge with 26 points, setting the tone for a Meralco side that looked determined to reestablish control from the opening quarter.

     

    Import Marvin Jones anchored the interior with 24 points and 14 rebounds, while Kier John Quinto added 15 points. Jason Brickman and Javee Mocon chipped in 13 and 11, respectively, as the Bolts showcased their depth.

     

    Meralco established its grip early, taking a 26-16 lead after one quarter before blowing the game open in the second period. At one point, the Bolts’ advantage ballooned to 28, with their crisp ball movement and transition play overwhelming Titan Ultra.

     

    The Giant Risers made one final charge in the fourth quarter, slicing the gap to 97-89 and briefly injecting some tension into the contest.

     

    But Meralco stayed composed down the stretch, converting from the line and putting the game away with a breakaway dunk from Bong Quinto.

     

    John Bryan Sajonia continued his strong conference with a career-high 29 points for Titan Ultra, while Michael Gilmore added 25 points and 16 rebounds in a losing effort.

     

    Still, the Giant Risers slipped to 1-3 after failing to fully recover from Meralco’s early onslaught.

     

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  • Top 5 Tallest Imports in PBA History: Bol Bol, Peter John Ramos and the Biggest Giants to Play in the League

    Top 5 Tallest Imports in PBA History: Bol Bol, Peter John Ramos and the Biggest Giants to Play in the League

    Height has always been one of basketball’s most disruptive advantages, but in the PBA, true giants have often felt more like rare events than regular sightings.

    For decades, the league’s import rules often limited just how much size teams could bring in, making every unusually tall reinforcement feel like a spectacle the moment he stepped on the floor.

     

    That is part of what has made the arrival of Bol Bol such a talking point in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

     

    At 7-foot-3, the former NBA big man instantly joined the short but fascinating list of the tallest imports ever to suit up in Asia’s oldest professional basketball league.

     

    But while Bol’s height makes him impossible to ignore, he is only the latest in a long line of towering reinforcements who turned heads, altered matchups, and forced entire teams to rethink how to attack the paint.

     

    Here’s a closer look at the top five tallest imports in PBA history — and why each one stood out beyond just the numbers on the measuring tape.

     

    1. Bol Bol — 7-foot-3

    Few imports have entered the PBA with as much curiosity surrounding them as Bol Bol. Long before he even made his TNT debut, his size, pedigree, and NBA résumé already made him one of the most intriguing names to arrive in the league in years.

     

    Standing 7-foot-3, Bol is not just tall in the traditional center sense — he is unusually mobile and skilled for someone with that frame. He can protect the rim, finish above traffic, and stretch the floor in ways most oversized imports simply could not.

     

    That versatility is what separates him from many of the giants who came before him. In the PBA, extreme height has often meant slower feet, limited range, or a narrower role. Bol changes that equation because he brings modern spacing and shot creation to a body type that already bends defenses by itself.

     

    His arrival also reflects a bigger shift in the league. With the Commissioner’s Cup now allowing unlimited import height, players like Bol are no longer impossible signings — they are now legitimate tactical options for title contenders.

     

    2. Peter John Ramos — 7-foot-3

    Before Bol Bol, one of the most unforgettable skyscrapers to play in the PBA was Peter John Ramos, the massive Puerto Rican center who also stood 7-foot-3.

     

    Ramos was the kind of import who instantly changed the geometry of a game. His size alone made him a natural interior anchor, and when he got deep position, there were very few local defenders who could do anything about it without sending help.

     

    But what made Ramos memorable was not just his height — it was how naturally he carried it. He was not simply a giant occupying space. He had legitimate touch, rebounding instincts, and the ability to make himself useful in half-court sets where many oversized imports can sometimes look stiff or disconnected.

     

    In a league built on speed, physicality, and relentless guard play, Ramos represented the classic “tower in the middle” archetype — the kind of player who forces opponents to either adapt or get punished around the basket.

     

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    3. Bruno Sundov — 7-foot-2¾

    If there is one towering import who often gets brought up whenever PBA fans discuss true size, it is Bruno Sundov.

     

    The Croatian big man, listed at around 7-foot-2¾, became one of the tallest imports to ever appear in the league and, for many years, remained one of the clearest examples of just how overwhelming sheer size can look in a PBA setting. The Philippine Star specifically cited him as the tallest import during an earlier period of league history.

     

    Sundov brought with him years of international and NBA-level experience, and that mattered. He was not just a novelty act or a curiosity because of his frame. He understood positioning, knew how to use his length defensively, and gave teams a genuine inside-out option when they needed structure.

     

    In some ways, Sundov felt ahead of his time for the PBA. In today’s no-height-limit environment, a player with his size and pro background would feel much less unusual. Back then, though, he looked almost outsized for the league itself.

     

    4. DJ Mbenga — 7-foot-0

    Unlike some imports whose appeal began and ended with size, DJ Mbenga brought a different kind of presence to the PBA.

     

    At 7-foot-0, Mbenga came in with serious defensive credentials and the reputation of someone who had already survived the physical demands of the NBA. That mattered because in a league as emotional and physical as the PBA, pedigree often shows itself not in highlights, but in how calmly a player handles pressure.

     

    Mbenga’s value came from his ability to impose structure. He gave teams a true rim deterrent, cleaned the glass, and made life harder for slashers trying to attack downhill. He may not have always been the flashiest giant to pass through the league, but he was one of the more credible interior enforcers.

     

    That is often the hidden value of very tall imports in the PBA. Sometimes, their greatest contribution is not what they score — it is how many shots they discourage before they even happen.

     

    5. Ryan Richards — 7-foot-0

    Ryan Richards, a legitimate 7-footer who actually entered the PBA import conversation during the modern no-height-limit era.

     

    Richards became part of the league’s evolving big-man landscape when teams began taking fuller advantage of the Commissioner’s Cup’s relaxed height restrictions. That shift opened the door for franchises to think bigger — literally — and Richards fit that new mold perfectly.

     

    What makes Richards notable is that he symbolizes the new wave of giant imports the PBA can now realistically attract. He is not just a throwback center planted in the paint, but a player whose international background and size give teams more lineup flexibility in a league that is steadily becoming more open to length and modern frontcourt play.

     

    His presence on this list also says something important about the PBA’s evolution: true seven-foot imports are no longer exceptions reserved for special cases. They are becoming part of the league’s changing identity.

     

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  • June Mar Fajardo braces for tough Bol Bol test as San Miguel faces TNT

    June Mar Fajardo braces for tough Bol Bol test as San Miguel faces TNT

    For all the buzz surrounding Bol Bol’s arrival in the PBA, June Mar Fajardo is refusing to view Saturday’s much-anticipated showdown as a personal duel.

     

    The longtime San Miguel star knows the challenge ahead is far bigger than a one-on-one battle, especially against a player as imposing and uniquely skilled as TNT’s towering 7-foot-3 import.

     

    As the Beermen prepare to face the defending Commissioner’s Cup champions at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Fajardo made it clear that containing Bol will require far more than just his individual effort.

     

    “For sure mahihirapan kami. Pero five-on-five naman ito, hindi naman ito one-on-one,” he said.

     

    That mindset reflects the reality of what Bol has already shown in his first two games with the Tropang Giga.

     

    The former NBA big man has wasted no time making his presence felt, averaging 39.0 points, 15.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists while immediately emerging as one of the most difficult matchups in the conference.

     

    His size alone already changes the way opponents defend, but what makes him even more dangerous is how comfortable he looks producing in space, finishing inside, and creating problems in transition.

     

    That is why Fajardo knows San Miguel cannot afford to simplify the task into one individual matchup.

     

    Even as the nine-time PBA MVP is expected to anchor the Beermen’s interior defense, the responsibility of slowing down Bol will likely depend on how well the entire team rotates, helps, and holds its structure inside.

     

    Still, if that challenge lands directly on him, Fajardo is not shying away from it.

     

    “Pero kung matapat sa akin si Bol, gagawin ko yung best ko na ma-stop siya. Hindi ko man siya ma-totally stop, at least ma-limit ko man lang siya.”

     

    That may be the most realistic goal against a player of Bol’s caliber. No defender is likely to completely erase someone with that kind of size, touch, and freedom to operate. But if San Miguel can disrupt his rhythm and make him work harder for his points, that could be enough to tilt the game.

     

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    The 35-year-old center has also opened the conference in strong form, averaging 21 points and 17.0 rebounds through the Beermen’s first two games. He is once again doing what he has done for years — giving San Miguel a steady, punishing presence in the paint.

     

    That was especially evident in Wednesday’s 103-99 win over Converge, where Fajardo delivered 27 points and 17 rebounds while helping the Beermen survive a physically demanding battle.

     

    It was not just a productive performance. It was also the kind of game that may help prepare him for what Bol brings next.

     

    Against Converge, Fajardo had to battle through constant pressure inside from import Kylor Kelley and local bigs Justin Arana and Justine Baltazar, a frontline built to test physicality, positioning, and endurance.

     

    That challenge, while different from what Bol presents, still served as a useful tune-up. Bol is a different kind of problem altogether — taller, longer, and more difficult to scheme for because of how much ground he can cover offensively. But Fajardo’s latest outing showed that he is already entering the TNT game with his rhythm and confidence intact.

     

    That matters for San Miguel, especially in a matchup that could carry early measuring-stick value for both contenders.

     

    The Beermen and Tropang Giga both enter the game with 1-1 records, making the showdown not just a marquee individual matchup, but also an important early test between two teams expected to be in the title picture.

     

    For Fajardo, there is clearly excitement around the challenge — but also the understanding that it will take serious preparation.

     

    “May ilang days pa naman kami kaya paghahandaan namin yung game na yan,” said the veteran center.

     

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  • “He belongs in the NBA”: LeBron James praises son Bronny after Lakers win over Pacers

    “He belongs in the NBA”: LeBron James praises son Bronny after Lakers win over Pacers

    The Los Angeles Lakers continue to build momentum in the 2025–26 National Basketball Association season, compiling an impressive 47-26 record to sit third in the highly competitive Western Conference standings. With the playoffs fast approaching, the Lakers are beginning to hit their stride, fueled by strong performances from both their veteran stars and emerging contributors.

     

    Los Angeles returned to the win column in emphatic fashion on Thursday, March 26 (Philippine Standard Time), securing a 137-130 victory over the Indiana Pacers at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The high-scoring affair highlighted the Lakers’ offensive firepower, with multiple players stepping up to deliver a complete team performance.

     

    Superstar duo Luka Doncic and LeBron James led the charge, while Austin Reaves and Jaxson Hayes provided crucial support on both ends of the floor. However, one of the most compelling storylines from the game was the increased involvement of rookie guard Bronny James, who made the most of his extended minutes.

     

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    Bronny logged 13 minutes—his highest playing time this month—and contributed four points, two steals, one rebound, and one assist. While the numbers may appear modest, his impact went beyond the stat sheet, as he displayed defensive intensity, improved confidence, and a better feel for the pace of the game. His performance offered a glimpse of his potential as he continues to adjust to the demands of the NBA.

     

    Following the game, LeBron James, the league’s all-time leading scorer, expressed immense pride in his son’s development and performance, emphasizing that Bronny has earned his place at the highest level of basketball.

    “So, just proud of him. I’m super proud of him. And he belongs. He belongs. Physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally, he’s back. Real, meaningful minutes. I couldn’t dream of better. I couldn’t dream of something better than that. Just couldn’t,” LeBron said.

     

    “For him to go out and, you know, I mean obviously, he’s shown over this – almost two years, year and a half – his progression. And why he belongs in this league. And what he can do in this league. So, for the coaching staff to trust him tonight, and for him to have significant playing time and make plays and for me to be out there on the floor with him. I couldn’t, I couldn’t dream of a better feeling than that. I could not,” he added.

     

    Despite the encouraging outing, Bronny’s rookie campaign has largely been a work in progress. The young guard has averaged 2.3 points, 0.8 assists, and 0.7 rebounds in just 6.7 minutes per game across 27 NBA appearances, reflecting both limited opportunities and the adjustment period typical for first-year players.

     

    To accelerate his development, Bronny has also spent time in the NBA G League with the South Bay Lakers, where he has shown significantly more promise. Across 18 appearances, including the regular season and Tip-Off Tournament, he has averaged an impressive 18.6 points, 4.8 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game. Those performances have highlighted his scoring ability, playmaking instincts, and defensive potential—qualities that the Lakers hope will eventually translate consistently at the NBA level.

     

    There have already been flashes of that potential in the NBA. Bronny recorded a nine-point outing against the Utah Jazz in February and followed it up with a career-best performance of 17 points, five assists, and three rebounds against the Milwaukee Bucks in March, signaling steady progress.

     

    As the Lakers push toward the postseason, the continued growth of Bronny James could provide an additional boost to an already deep roster. With veteran leadership, star power, and emerging young talent, Los Angeles appears well-positioned to make a strong run—while also nurturing the next generation, led by one of the most closely watched rookies in the league.

     

     

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  • PBA Commissioner’s Cup: Ginebra battles NLEX, Meralco faces all-Filipino Rain or Shine

    PBA Commissioner’s Cup: Ginebra battles NLEX, Meralco faces all-Filipino Rain or Shine

    Friday’s PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup doubleheader carries more weight than a typical early conference night, with one matchup testing momentum and the other presenting a prime opportunity to grab control near the top.

     

    At 7:30 p.m., Barangay Ginebra tries to build on its strong opening win when it faces an NLEX side eager to bounce back from its first defeat. Earlier, Meralco looks to stay unbeaten and seize the lead against a Rain or Shine team that will be without suspended import Jaylen Johnson.

     

    The headliner under the Smart Araneta Coliseum lights pits Ginebra’s crowd-fueled energy against an NLEX squad that has quietly built its early run on poise and structure.

     

    The Gin Kings opened their campaign with a 110-93 rout of the Macau Black Knights behind Justin Brownlee, who posted 31 points and 10 rebounds, while RJ Abarrientos added 25. Stephen Holt and Troy Rosario also provided solid support.

     

    Still, Ginebra coach Tim Cone knows the Road Warriors are not a team to take lightly. NLEX has already shown it can control games with the steady play of Robert Bolick and the interior presence of Cady Lalanne. If the Road Warriors can slow the pace and keep the game in the halfcourt, they have a real shot at silencing the Big Dome.

     

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    In the 5:15pm curtain-raiser, Meralco enters with a golden chance to improve to 3-0. Rain or Shine will be missing Johnson after he was fined and suspended for his involvement in a fight during the Elasto Painters’ win over TNT Tropang Giga. The loss of a player averaging 33 points and 16.5 rebounds is a major blow, but Bolts coach Luigi Trillo is not expecting an easy night.

     

    “Sometimes they say that’s an advantage, but sometimes that can be a disadvantage,” he pointed out.

     

    “Kasi when the other team doesn’t play with an import you’re expected to win, right?” added Trillo. 

     

    “So, we need to handle our business. We need to see the video, we need to kind of lock in on them. Rain or Shine is a team that’s very capable even without an import.”

     

    Meralco has looked sharp in wins over Converge FiberXers and Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters, with CJ Cansino, Chris Newsome, and Chris Banchero leading the local charge while import Marvin Jones continues to impress.

     

    Another boost has come from Jason Brickman, who followed up a quiet debut with 16 points, seven rebounds, and five assists against Phoenix, showing signs he is settling in after an injury setback.

     

    For Ginebra, NLEX, and Meralco, Friday is more than just another date on the schedule.

     

    It is a chance to either strengthen early momentum, recover from a stumble, or take advantage of an opening that may not come around often in a tightly packed conference.

     

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  • TNT signs rookie draft pick Sean Quitevis to its practice player roster

    TNT signs rookie draft pick Sean Quitevis to its practice player roster

    As TNT continues its campaign in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup, the team’s latest move signals more than just a routine addition, it is a deeper push to stay ahead in a tightly contested field.


    The Tropang 5G have begun stacking their lineup with young talent, bringing in rookie Sean Quitevis as part of their expanding pool. 

     

    The former Ateneo Blue Eagles captain is currently serving as a practice player, quietly working his way into a system already familiar to him.

     

    Head coach Chot Reyes has long kept tabs on Quitevis, who previously trained under TNT during camps before entering the draft. That prior exposure now gives the rookie a smoother transition into the team’s structure, even if he has yet to crack the official 15-man roster.

     

    The youngster, selected by TNT in the Season 50 draft, had his signing confirmed by team manager Jojo Lastimosa. 

     

    He joins sophomore Avan Nava and fellow rookie big man Joe Celzo in a group of practice players retained until the end of the conference.

     

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    For now, the trio remains on the sidelines of the active roster, but their presence underscores TNT’s intent to build not just for today, but for the grind of a long title defense.

     

    The franchise enters this conference carrying momentum from last season, where they captured the Commissioner’s Cup title behind import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson. 

     

    This year, however, the team has turned to a new reinforcement in 7-foot-3 big man Bol Bol, adding a different dimension to their campaign.

     

    That shift comes as part of a broader recalibration. TNT has consistently remained among the league’s elite, even reaching the Finals in every conference of the previous season.

     

    With a demanding format that features a single round-robin elimination and a race to the top eight, teams are forced to maximize every available piece to stay competitive. This is where Quitevis and the rest of TNT’s young core come in.

     

    Currently holding a 1-1 record, TNT is still finding its rhythm behind its retooled lineup. A looming matchup against the San Miguel Beermen offers an early measuring stick for the depth quietly forming behind them.

     

    For Quitevis, the opportunity is clear. He may not be in the spotlight yet, but within a championship-caliber team, every role matters and his journey with TNT might just be beginning.

     

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  • Slow start, steady rise: Mikey Williams finding form for Converge amid PBA struggles

    Slow start, steady rise: Mikey Williams finding form for Converge amid PBA struggles

    The Converge FiberXers have stumbled out of the gates in the ongoing Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup, managing just a single win against four losses to sit near the bottom of the standings in 11th place. While their record paints a grim picture, recent performances suggest the team may be inching toward better form.

     

    Their latest outing—a narrow 103-99 defeat to the San Miguel Beermen on Wednesday, March 25, at the Ynares Center—offered a mix of frustration and optimism. Despite falling short, Converge showed flashes of cohesion, particularly on the offensive end, where ball movement and playmaking were noticeably improved.

     

    A key bright spot in the loss was the resurgence of veteran guard Mikey Williams. After a sluggish start to the conference, Williams delivered a more composed and impactful performance, finishing with 14 points on 33 percent shooting while also contributing three rebounds and eight assists. The outing marked a significant leap from his first three games, where he averaged just 3.3 points on a dismal 14 percent shooting clip.

     

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    Williams’ early struggles can largely be attributed to limited preparation time. The Filipino-American guard only joined Converge’s training camp a week before the Commissioner’s Cup tipped off, leaving him little opportunity to build chemistry with his teammates or fully integrate into the system.

     

    “My objective is to just keep stacking days. I’m in the lab everyday. I have got to keep working. I know I have played this game my entire life and things will come when they come. I’m not putting too much pressure on that. I’m just trying to do the little things to help my team so far,” Williams said in a media interaction.

    Beyond his scoring, Williams’ playmaking stood out as a crucial factor in keeping Converge competitive. The FiberXers actually out-assisted the Beermen, 25-23, a sign that their offensive execution is beginning to take shape despite the losses.

     

    “I have always been a willing passer. I’m just a playmaker. I have always molded my game around that. But guys are just knocking them down and I’m finding the right people in the right places,” he added.

     

    The numbers may not yet fully reflect it, but Williams’ growing comfort within the team’s system is evident. His ability to orchestrate the offense and create opportunities for teammates could prove vital as Converge looks to turn its campaign around in the coming weeks.

     

    “I’m still adjusting to everything. I’m still in the adjustment period but slowly but steadily, everything is going in the right direction for me. Morale wise, I think that’s the biggest takeaway for me,” Williams concluded.

     

    As the Commissioner’s Cup progresses, Converge will be hoping that these incremental improvements translate into wins. Their next challenge will be a daunting one, as they prepare to face league powerhouse Barangay Ginebra San Miguel on Sunday, March 29, at the iconic Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

    With momentum slowly building and Williams finding his rhythm, the FiberXers will be eager to prove that their early struggles are merely growing pains rather than a sign of deeper issues.

     

     

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  • Bol Bol draws attention on and off court as PBA reminds TNT of media duties

    Bol Bol draws attention on and off court as PBA reminds TNT of media duties

    Fresh off TNT Tropang 5G’s March 22 win over NLEX, where Bol Bol was named Best Player of the Game, the 7-foot-3 import once again chose to skip post-game interviews. 


    His continued absence from media availability prompted the PBA Commissioner’s Office to step in, issuing a memorandum to the TNT franchise reminding them of their responsibilities to supporters and the press.

     

    Commissioner Willie Marcial confirmed that the memo was sent following Bol Bol’s refusal to face the media, even after encouragement from team manager Jojo Lastimosa.

     

    Despite the situation, TNT head coach Chot Reyes stood by his import, emphasizing that Bol is still adjusting—not just to the PBA’s physical style of play, but also to the attention that comes with being one of the league’s biggest names. 

     

    “He really doesn’t like media attention. He’s a very private, very shy person,” Reyes said. 

    The son of late NBA player Manute Bol is navigating unfamiliar territory, where fan interaction and media presence are part of the role.

     

    “This is his first time outside the country. Everything is new to him—not just the game, but the culture,” the veteran head coach added.

     

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    Marcial pointed out that this isn’t a new scenario. He recalled a similar situation involving former TNT import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, who also had to be reminded of his responsibilities early in his PBA stint. 

     

    Over time, Hollis-Jefferson embraced the league’s culture and went on to become one of its most respected imports.

     

    Bol Bol’s situation appears to follow a similar path. Beyond skipping interviews, he has also been reserved when it comes to engaging with fans—a contrast to the expectations placed on star imports in the league. 

     

    Still, there is a belief within the organization that, like his predecessor, he will gradually warm up as he becomes more comfortable.

     

    On the court, In his PBA debut, Bol Bol delivered an eye-catching performance with 38 points, 16 rebounds, and five blocks, immediately showcasing the kind of presence TNT envisioned when they signed him.

    While on his previous winning game, he was able to lead his squad with 40 points, 15 rebounds, and 1 assists. 

     

    As TNT continues its campaign, Bol Bol’s journey in the PBA is shaping up to be more than just about numbers. It’s a transition one that involves adapting to a new league and meeting expectations both on and off the court.

     

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