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Category: Basketball

  • “Trust the process”: LA Tenorio urges patience amid Magnolia’ struggles in the PBA

    “Trust the process”: LA Tenorio urges patience amid Magnolia’ struggles in the PBA

    The Magnolia Hotshots are still searching for answers after a difficult start to the ongoing Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup, dropping their first three games to remain winless in the tournament.

     

    Magnolia’s struggles continued on Sunday, March 22, as they absorbed a 97–91 defeat at the hands of the Blackwater Bossing at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The loss was particularly notable as it marked Magnolia’s first defeat to Blackwater since the 2021 Governors’ Cup, underscoring the team’s early-season woes and inconsistency on both ends of the floor.

     

    Despite the disappointing run, head coach LA Tenorio remains focused on the bigger picture, urging his players to stay patient as they adjust to a new system and continue to develop chemistry.

     

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    “It was really a heartbreak. But again, I was telling the players to really just keep on fighting. A lot of work to do especially on, again, it’s like putting on a new system. Masyadong matagal ‘yung habits na meron sila. We just keep on working, telling the players to trust the process,” Tenorio said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    The former PBA star acknowledged that Magnolia is currently in a transition phase, fielding a relatively young core that is still learning how to navigate high-pressure situations, particularly late in games. While the results have yet to follow, Tenorio expressed confidence that the team’s commitment to improvement will eventually pay dividends.

     

    “We might not win this conference, may mga ganung bagay ‘yan, but down the road, we are going to get our share of wins as long as we continue on working and staying positive about it. I want the players to stay positive all the time. We are really working hard in practice, no doubt. The thing is, siyempre, we have to translate it in the game. ‘Yung young team na ‘to, a lot of things that we need not only physically but mentally as well.

    “They have to learn how to play down the stretch. This is a young team so what do you expect? What I like with this team is they work hard everyday. They are willing to learn. They are willing to get better every day. They are listening,” he added.

     

    Through three games, Magnolia has shown flashes of competitiveness but has struggled to sustain momentum, particularly in crunch time where execution and decision-making have proven costly. Defensive lapses and inconsistent support from the local core have also hampered their ability to close out tight contests.

     

    One bright spot, however, has been the stellar play of import Nuni Omot, who delivered an all-around performance in the loss with 38 points, seven rebounds, and nine assists. Omot has been a consistent offensive engine for Magnolia, showcasing his ability to score from multiple levels while also creating opportunities for his teammates.

     

    Still, Tenorio emphasized that the team cannot rely solely on its import, calling on the local players to step up and contribute in meaningful ways.

     

    “We are playing good basketball because of our import. So what is happening to us is not all about the import. That’s what I’m telling my players. It’s still the locals. They have to share doing the little things for the imports,” Tenorio concluded.

     

    As the losses pile up, Magnolia finds itself in urgent need of a turnaround to keep its playoff hopes alive. The team will look to regroup during a short break, using the time to refine its system, build cohesion, and address key weaknesses on both ends of the court.

     

    The Hotshots return to action on Saturday, March 28, when they take on guest team Macau Black Knights at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. With time slowly becoming a factor in the conference format, Magnolia will be eager to finally break into the win column and spark a much-needed change in momentum.

     

     

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  • KD makes history: Durant passes Michael Jordan to move fifth on NBA’s all-time scoring list

    KD makes history: Durant passes Michael Jordan to move fifth on NBA’s all-time scoring list

    Kevin Durant continues to cement his legacy as one of basketball’s all-time greats, adding another milestone to his already historic career. Now starring for the Houston Rockets, the 37-year-old forward shows no signs of slowing down, delivering elite performances deep into his career.

     

    Durant made headlines once again during Houston’s thrilling 123–122 win over the Miami Heat at the Toyota Center on Sunday (March 22, Philippine Standard Time). He poured in 27 points, surpassing Michael Jordan to move into fifth place on the NBA’s all-time scoring list.

     

    The achievement caps a remarkable season for Durant, who has also climbed past Wilt Chamberlain and Dirk Nowitzki in the rankings. He now trails only Kobe Bryant, who sits fourth with 33,643 career points.

     

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    “It’s pretty sweet to be in the same category with the greats. A lot of these guys have inspired me to work on my game as much as I can and contribute to a team in a positive way. MJ is in a world of his own and somebody I look up to and respect, who basically shaped the game for me. Grateful for everybody that invested in me; all of my friends, family, teammates, coaches. I couldn’t be here without them,” Durant said after the game.

    “I love making shots. No matter how difficult they are, no matter what angle from the floor they are. I just like seeing the ball go through the rim, so I work on that as much as I can. Making shots makes it tougher on the opposing team to come down and get easy baskets. But I shoot all bad shots, to be honest – like damn, when I think about it, I just learned how to make those shots,” he added.

     

    Durant’s scoring brilliance has long been defined by versatility and adaptability. From his early years alongside Russell Westbrook with the Oklahoma City Thunder, to championship runs with Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors, and later stints with Devin Booker at the Phoenix Suns and James Harden and Kyrie Irving in Brooklyn Nets, Durant has thrived in every system. His ability to seamlessly integrate into different offenses while maintaining elite production underscores his all-time greatness.

     

    Rockets head coach Ime Udoka emphasized both the magnitude of the milestone and Durant’s focus on team success.

     

    “It’s an honor for everyone to be a part of that. All these accolades that are getting passed, I don’t think he cares much about it in the moment. He’s focused on the season and what we are trying to accomplish. But don’t want to make it an afterthought, to be top five of all time in scoring, the efficiency and professionalism he plays with, you take it for granted. Passing a name like Michael Jordan is a huge accomplishment and we celebrated that with him. He will have some more to chop off next,” Udoka said.

     

    Durant’s résumé remains one of the most decorated in league history. A four-time scoring champion, two-time NBA champion, and two-time Finals MVP, he also claimed the 2014 NBA MVP award and the 2008 Rookie of the Year honor. With 16 All-Star selections to his name, his sustained excellence and longevity continue to set him apart in the modern era.

     

     

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  • Kevin Durant is close to surpassing Michael Jordan and making the NBA’s top-5 all-time scoring list

    Kevin Durant is close to surpassing Michael Jordan and making the NBA’s top-5 all-time scoring list

    Houston Rockets superstar Kevin Durant is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in National Basketball Association (NBA) history and among the most prolific scorers the league has ever seen. Even at 37 years old, Durant continues to perform at an elite level, proving that age has yet to slow down one of basketball’s most skilled forwards.

     

    Durant is on the cusp of another historic milestone: surpassing basketball icon Michael Jordan to enter the top-five on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. The superstar needs just 51 points to move past Jordan, who finished his career with 32,292 points, a number that has stood as a benchmark for excellence in the sport for decades.

     

    “It’s pretty cool to be in the same category as some of the greats that ever played the game. They have added so much to the game that have inspired me to stick around this long,” Durant said during a media interaction. The forward’s acknowledgment of the legends who came before him reflects his deep respect for the history and evolution of basketball.

     

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    Like many players of his generation, Durant never got to see Jordan in his prime. Instead, he relied on videos and highlight reels to study the game of one of basketball’s most celebrated icons. Still, he had the opportunity to see Jordan in person once, during the former Chicago Bulls star’s final season with the Washington Wizards.

    “I just remember the excitement in the building, the excitement around town. The reaction to Mike was just different, man,” Durant recalled. “It was clear that what Jordan brought to the game wasn’t just about skill—it was about aura, about the way he made fans, teammates, and even opponents feel.”

     

    Durant’s scoring prowess is marked by his versatility and adaptability. Throughout his career, he has consistently found ways to put points on the board regardless of the team, system, or coaching staff. Whether teaming up with Russell Westbrook at the Oklahoma City Thunder, sharing the floor with Stephen Curry at the Golden State Warriors, collaborating with Devin Booker at the Phoenix Suns, or pairing with James Harden and Kyrie Irving in Brooklyn, Durant has proven himself capable of blending seamlessly into any offensive scheme while still producing at a historic level.

     

    Over his career, Durant has amassed a remarkable collection of accolades. A four-time NBA scoring champion, he is also a two-time NBA champion and two-time NBA Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP). Additionally, Durant earned the 2014 NBA MVP award, the 2008 NBA Rookie of the Year award, and has been selected to 16 NBA All-Star games, cementing his status among the sport’s elite. Beyond the awards, his consistency and longevity set him apart, allowing him to maintain a level of excellence rarely seen in professional basketball.

     

    Durant’s offensive arsenal, which includes a deadly combination of size, shooting ability, and basketball IQ, allows him to score from virtually anywhere on the court. He remains a threat in isolation situations, excels in pick-and-roll scenarios, and has developed a reliable mid-range game that complements his three-point shooting. His skill set, combined with an unwavering work ethic, ensures that he continues to climb the scoring ranks and remain relevant in an ever-evolving NBA landscape.

     

    As Durant inches closer to passing Jordan, his legacy as one of the greatest scorers in NBA history becomes even more secure. Yet, for Durant, it’s not only about the numbers—it’s about contributing to his team, inspiring the next generation, and leaving a lasting impact on the game he has dominated for nearly two decades.

     

     

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  • Pat Aquino proud of Gilas Women’s historic first win against non-Asian team 

    Pat Aquino proud of Gilas Women’s historic first win against non-Asian team 

    The journey may have ended, but not without a breakthrough that could redefine the future of the program.

     

    The Gilas Pilipinas Women closed their campaign in the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament with more than just a win—they left with validation.

     

    Their 74-59 triumph over the Colombia women’s national basketball team at the Astroballe was not only a highlight of their stint but a landmark moment in Philippine women’s basketball. It marked the first time the national team defeated a non-Asian opponent, a breakthrough that carried weight far beyond the final score.

     

    As the buzzer sounded, the celebration said it all. The Filipinas erupted in joy—hands raised, heads high—fully aware of the significance of what they had just accomplished against a higher-ranked foe.

     

    For head coach Patrick Aquino, the result was a reflection of belief meeting opportunity.

    “Looking at the matchups, the height gaps and everything, we’re outmatched by everyone. I wanted to be clear, this is not a lack of talent,” Aquino said during the post-game press conference.

     

    “The girls proved that Filipinas can play basketball. Definitely, we’re up to this world-class level. They never gave up, I’m so proud of them,” he added.

     

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    The numbers may show a 1-4 record, but the context tells a different story. Gilas navigated a gauntlet of elite competition, facing France women’s national basketball team, Germany women’s national basketball team, South Korea women’s national basketball team, and Nigeria women’s national basketball team—all established forces on the global stage.

     

    Each game brought lessons, adjustments, and glimpses of a team learning in real time how to compete at the highest level. By the time they faced Colombia, those lessons had taken shape, culminating in a performance that combined resilience, execution, and composure.

     

    For Aquino, who has spent a decade guiding the program, the moment was deeply personal.

    “Yeah, reflecting on this journey. I’ve been with the Gilas program for a decade now. And seeing how we’ve grown, how we’ve become a team, and seeing them compete at this world-class level — it’s a journey we’ll cherish forever,” Aquino said.

     

    “And winning a game outside Asia against a top-caliber team means a lot back home. It’s probably the next step for us — to build more players in the program so we can sustain and compete at this level,” he added.

     

    In the end, the standings may show an early exit, but the message is far more significant. Gilas Pilipinas Women didn’t just participate—they proved they belong.

     

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  • CJ Cansino shows no rust in win, earns praise from Meralco coach Luigi Trillo 

    There was no easing back in for CJ Cansino—only a statement, as he showed no signs of rust in his first game in two months in the PBA.

     

    In his return to action for the Meralco Bolts, Cansino delivered a near-flawless performance, finishing 8-of-9 from the field, including 3-of-4 from beyond the arc and a perfect 2-of-2 from four-point range, on his way to 23 points and eight assists. His all-around effort not only powered Meralco but also earned him Player of the Game honors.

     

    It was the kind of outing that immediately caught the attention of head coach Luigi Trillo, who emphasized the team’s collective showing while acknowledging his guard’s hot hand.

     

    “Compliments to Marvin, our import, he played well, CJ was on fire, New played well. Just overall, everybody that got fielded today was able to contribute,” said Trillo.

     

    For Cansino, the performance felt less like a comeback and more like a continuation. The last time he suited up for Meralco was during the East Asia Super League do-or-die clash against the Ryukyu Golden Kings, where he contributed seven points in a lineup anchored by imports Ismael Romero and Justin Brownlee.

     

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    His previous PBA appearance came even earlier—during the semifinals of the PBA Philippine Cup on January 14, 2026—when he erupted for a career-high 36 points in a losing effort against the TNT Tropang 5G.

     

    That stretch underscored his growing importance to the squad, as he averaged 18.5 points, four rebounds, and nearly two assists per game, establishing himself as one of the Bolts’ most dependable scoring options.

     

    Any concerns about rhythm or timing quickly disappeared. Cansino looked comfortable, decisive, and in full control—whether attacking the rim, knocking down perimeter shots, or creating opportunities for teammates.

     

    More importantly, his return adds another layer to a Meralco side looking to build momentum early in the conference. With contributions coming from across the roster and Cansino picking up right where he left off, the Bolts may have found a key piece ready to elevate their campaign.

     

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  • Juan Gomez de Liano eyes quick return amid Converge’s slow start

    Juan Gomez de Liano eyes quick return amid Converge’s slow start

    For the Converge FiberXers, the process has come with unexpected complications.


    Instead of simply refining rotations and building chemistry, Converge is being forced to adapt without key pieces, most notably Juan Gomez de Liano, who remains sidelined with a knee injury.

     

    The absence has added another layer of difficulty for a team still trying to establish rhythm in the Philippine Basketball Association Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup.

     

    The injury, sustained during their previous outing against the Terrafirma Dyip and has left Gomez de Liano in a holding pattern. After undergoing an MRI, the 26-year-old guard is hoping for positive news—and a quick return.

     

    “I hurt my knee last game, natamaan, knee to knee. That’s pretty much the same. Kinda a bit swollen, so hopefully it heals by itself, and hopefully mabilis,” the lefty guard said.

     

    But beyond the physical setback, it’s the inability to contribute that weighs heavier. As Converge slipped to a 1-2 record, Gomez de Liano could only watch from the sidelines, an unfamiliar position for one of the team’s primary creators.

     

    “I really wanted to be out there with the guys and just kinda help them, pero injuries are out of my control,” he said.

     

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    His absence is particularly felt in matchups that demand backcourt firepower, especially against players like CJ Cansino, a familiar rival dating back to their UAAP days.

     

    Still, inside the Converge camp, there is a sense of patience rather than panic. With the conference still young—and with reinforcements on the way in Calvin Abueva—the team is choosing to view early losses as part of a longer process.

     

    “It’s just a matter of time to build trust with one another and gain chemistry. I’m glad these two losses happened early in the conference,” he said. “We just have to continue to build up and work together … we just have to be patient,” the 26-year-old added.

     

    For Gomez de Liano, the focus now shifts entirely to recovery. A demanding offseason that included duties with Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers may have contributed to the wear and tear, making rest just as critical as rehab.

     

    “I’m gonna just attack rehab, just allow it to heal, I’ll just catch up on some rest. Kasi tuluy-tuloy rin ‘yung mga ganap sa akin like with the training, Gilas, and I feel like overfatigued lang. Hopefully, makabalik na ako,” he added.

     

    Time, however, is a luxury Converge can’t fully afford. A looming matchup against the San Miguel Beermen on March 25 presents another early measuring stick, one the FiberXers hope to face at full strength.

     

    Whether Gomez de Liano suits up or not, his presence on or off the floor remains central to a team still trying to find its footing.

     

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  • Meralco marks milestone win as Terrafirma builds early momentum in PBA Commissioner’s Cup

    Meralco marks milestone win as Terrafirma builds early momentum in PBA Commissioner’s Cup

    The spotlight at the Ynares Center on Wednesday became a night of statements and emerging storylines in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup.


    For the Meralco Bolts, the evening doubled as both a strong season debut and a historic moment. Behind a commanding 109-88 victory over the Converge FiberXers, the Bolts not only showcased their depth but also reached a significant franchise milestone.

     

    Import Marvin Jones wasted no time making his presence felt, erupting for 29 points in an impressive first outing. His performance set the tone, but it was far from a one-man show. CJ Cansino delivered near-flawless shooting, finishing 8-of-9 from the field, including a perfect clip from four-point range—to tally 23 points and eight assists. 

     

    Meanwhile, veteran Chris Newsome added 19 points, anchoring the decisive fourth-quarter push that shut the door on Converge.

     

    The win carried added weight. Based on league statistician Fidel Mangonon III, it marked Meralco’s 300th victory as a franchise, placing the MVP Group-backed squad among the league’s most accomplished active teams.

     

    On the other side, Converge continues to search for rhythm early in the conference. The absence of Juan Gomez de Liano due to a knee injury loomed large, especially for a team still awaiting the debut of Calvin Abueva.

     

    Alec Stockton led the FiberXers with 18 points, while Justin Arana posted a double-double effort of 16 points and 11 rebounds. Import Kylor Kelley and Justine Baltazar also delivered inside presence, but the team fell to 1-2, still searching for cohesion.

     

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    If Meralco celebrated history, Terrafirma Dyip continued crafting a promising present.

     

    Riding the momentum of a breakout performance in their previous game, Mubashar Ali once again anchored Terrafirma’s charge, finishing with a dominant 22-point, 23-rebound outing to power a 99-88 win over the Blackwater Bossing. His consistent production is quickly turning into one of the early tournament’s most compelling narratives.

     

    Support came in waves. Paolo Hernandez contributed 20 points in a Player of the Game performance, while Jerrick Ahanmisi added 18, highlighted by two four-point shots that helped keep Blackwater at bay.

     

    Blackwater, meanwhile, leaned heavily on Sedrick Barefield, who poured in 25 points. However, the limited mobility of import Daniel Ochefu, playing through a hyperextended knee restricted their interior presence, contributing to their second straight loss.

     

    Looking ahead, the Meralco Bolts will have over a week to regroup before facing the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters on March 27 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. The Converge FiberXers, meanwhile, face a tough test against the San Miguel Beermen on March 25, returning to the same Antipolo venue.

     

    The Blackwater Bossing aim to bounce back on Sunday against the Magnolia Hotshots, with the possible debut of import Robert Upshaw depending on Ochefu’s condition. Meanwhile, Terrafirma Dyip will try to sustain their surge when they take on the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters, coached by Charles Tiu, on March 25 in Antipolo.

     

     

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  • Terrafirma’s Jerrick Ahanmisi named PBA Player of the Week for March 11 to 15

    Terrafirma’s Jerrick Ahanmisi named PBA Player of the Week for March 11 to 15

    The Terrafirma Dyip have made an electrifying start to the 2026 Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup, opening the conference with back-to-back victories that have set a confident tone for the franchise.

     

    The Dyip began their campaign with a decisive win over the Titan Ultra Giant Risers before following it up with a hard-fought triumph against the Converge FiberXers. At the heart of this strong start has been the stellar play of Filipino-Nigerian guard Jerrick Ahanmisi, whose consistent performances have given the team both offensive firepower and defensive intensity.

     

    Ahanmisi’s contributions were instrumental in Terrafirma recording their first 2-0 start in a PBA conference since the 2024 Philippine Cup—the last time the team advanced to the playoffs. Over the two games, the 28-year-old guard posted averages of 20.0 points, 1.5 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 2.5 steals per outing. These standout performances earned him the first PBA Player of the Week award for the 2026 Commissioner’s Cup, covering the period from March 11 to 15.

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    The award, which recognizes the league’s top performer as voted by journalists covering the PBA across broadsheets, tabloids, and online media, saw Ahanmisi edge out notable competitors including Robert Bolick of the NLEX Road Warriors and the Ricci Rivero–Evan Nelle duo from the Phoenix Fuel Masters.

     

    “I think the team has shown a lot of chemistry, but the coaches keep stressing to have fun with the game,” Ahanmisi said, reflecting on both his individual output and the squad’s overall performance. His focus on teamwork and enjoyment highlights a balanced approach that has clearly translated into early success.

     

    The shooting guard has also made headlines beyond the regular season, recently becoming the first player in PBA history to win two skills events at the All-Star Weekend in Candon, Ilocos Sur. Ahanmisi took home both the Obstacle Challenge and the Three-Point Shootout, further cementing his reputation as one of the league’s most versatile and dynamic players.

     

    With Terrafirma off to a perfect 2-0 start, Ahanmisi’s leadership and scoring prowess will be key as the team looks to maintain momentum and chase a deep playoff run in the Commissioner’s Cup. If his early-season form is any indication, the Dyip may be poised for a breakthrough conference, with fans eager to see whether Ahanmisi can sustain this level of performance throughout the season.

     

     

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  • Arvin Tolentino keeps door open for Gilas 

    Arvin Tolentino keeps door open for Gilas 

    Given another shot at wearing the Philippine colors, Arvin Tolentino says he’s ready and available to do it.


    The 6‑foot‑5 gunner, now a key contributor for the Seoul SK Knights in the Korean Basketball League has his club among the six squads advancing to the postseason that starts Wednesday at Studio City. 

     

    He said that if the call from the national team comes again, Tolentino makes it clear he’s eager to answer it.

     

    “It’s an honor. It’s a dream of mine to play for the national team,” said the 30‑year‑old forward, who already knows the system under national coach Tim Cone from his first three Philippine Basketball Association seasons with Barangay Ginebra.

     

    Tolentino’s national team resume is already decorated. He was part of the Gilas Pilipinas Men’s national basketball team squad that broke the country’s one‑year gold medal drought at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games.

     

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    He also helped the Philippines reclaim men’s basketball gold at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia, competing under coaches Chot Reyes and Cone.

     

    Although he’s watching the current Gilas core compete in the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, which feature a competitive Group A that includes Australia, New Zealand and Guam, Tolentino said he’s fully behind his compatriots and believes they’ll give their best for the campaign.

     

    As he refers to teammates such as  Kevin Quiambao and Carl Tamayo, also excelling in Korea, he said “Whoever is playing for sure naman they’re give their 100 percent. And full support ako sa kanila.”

     

    Off the court, Tolentino has embraced life in South Korea while making adjustments on it. Since signing a multi‑year deal with the SK Knights after leaving the PBA, he’s been working to adapt to the KBL’s fast pace and team systems, even as his role varies from game to game.

     

    Tolentino now also has a chance to make history, aiming to become the first Filipino to win an EASL championship since Rhenz Abando captured the title with Anyang KGC during the 2023 Champions Week. But rather than feel the pressure, he stresses the importance of staying focused on his game.

     

    As his club pursues postseason success, Tolentino’s gaze remains on both domestic triumphs and renewed national pride, keeping the door open for another chapter in a career already marked by growth, resilience, and unflagging love for the game.

     

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  • New-look Meralco opens title push as Marvin Jones debuts, Terrafirma eyes 3-0 surge

    New-look Meralco opens title push as Marvin Jones debuts, Terrafirma eyes 3-0 surge

    A fresh chapter begins for the Meralco Bolts, and it comes with a new anchor in the middle. When the Bolts step onto the floor at the Ynares Center on Wednesday, they won’t just be opening their campaign in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup—they’ll be unveiling a retooled identity built around newly arrived import Marvin Jones.

     

    Jones, a seven-footer fresh off a FIBA Europe Cup title run, steps into the spotlight as Meralco’s latest reinforcement, tasked with steering a team that has long hovered on the brink of contention. His arrival follows the exit of Ismael Romero, whose stint ended under controversial circumstances after an incident overseas involving former PBA guard Nick Demusis.

     

    Now, the focus shifts forward. Jones brings with him a wealth of international experience, having played across Europe, and immediately becomes the centerpiece of Meralco’s bid to finally break through.

     

    But he won’t be alone in reshaping the Bolts’ look. The anticipated debut of playmaker Jason Brickman adds another layer of intrigue, while newly acquired wingman Javee Mocon provides versatility on both ends of the floor. Together, they form a revamped core that Meralco hopes can translate promise into results.

     

    Standing in their way is a Converge FiberXers side eager to reassert itself. Touted as one of the conference favorites, Converge enters the matchup looking to recover from a stunning 111-100 overtime defeat to the surging Terrafirma Dyip.

     

    That loss exposed cracks in a team that had opened its campaign with a convincing win over the Macau Black Knights, raising questions about consistency as the tournament begins to take shape.

     

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    Earlier in the day, Terrafirma aims to sustain its unlikely rise when it goes for a 3-0 start against the Blackwater Bossing. The Dyip have emerged as the early surprise of the conference, riding a wave of confidence that head coach Ronald Tubid traces back to their preparation.

     

    “Now we’re enjoying practice, we’re excited to practice, we’re doing good in practice it’s being translated to the games,” shared Tubid.

     

    Across the court, Blackwater is still searching for its footing after a narrow loss to the NLEX Road Warriors, hoping to avoid falling deeper into an early hole.

     

    As the doubleheader unfolds, the spotlight may be split between Meralco’s new beginning and Terrafirma’s unexpected surge—but both storylines point to the same truth: in a wide-open Commissioner’s Cup, momentum can shift quickly, and every game carries weight.

     

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