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Category: Basketball

  • Detroit Pistons edge Oklahoma City Thunder in clash of East-West No. 1 seeds

    Detroit Pistons edge Oklahoma City Thunder in clash of East-West No. 1 seeds

    The Detroit Pistons extended their impressive run this NBA season, fueled by the dominant performances of Jalen Duren and Cade Cunningham, as they secured a 124-116 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night. 


    Duren was a force in the paint, finishing with 29 points and 15 rebounds, while Cunningham orchestrated Detroit’s offense with 29 points and 13 assists, demonstrating why the Pistons have become one of the league’s most formidable teams. 

     

    Duncan Robinson chipped in 16 points, rounding out a balanced scoring attack that proved overwhelming for an injury-depleted Thunder squad. With the win, Detroit has claimed six of their last seven games, improving to 43-14 and solidifying their hold atop the Eastern Conference standings.

     

    Oklahoma City faced the contest without five of their top six scorers. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Isaiah Hartenstein, All-Star Chet Holmgren, Ajay Mitchell, and Jalen Williams all sat out due to injuries, leaving only Isaiah Joe among the starters. 

     

    Gilgeous-Alexander’s absence was particularly costly, as last season’s MVP is currently averaging 31.8 points per game — a scoring load the Thunder have relied on heavily throughout the year. 

     

    Even Joe, averaging around 11 points per contest, left at halftime with a bruised hip, forcing Oklahoma City to lean on its younger players. Despite the setbacks, Jaylin Williams delivered a career-best 30 points, with Cason Wallace contributing 23, keeping the Thunder within striking distance for most of the game.

     

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    The game’s turning point came in the final five minutes. Oklahoma City had cut Detroit’s lead to three points, but Javonte Green answered with a timely 3-pointer, followed by four offensive rebounds on the same possession, helping the Pistons regain control and secure the win.

     

    Detroit’s frontcourt presence was a decisive factor throughout. Duren’s physicality inside the paint repeatedly disrupted the Thunder’s defense, while Cunningham’s court vision created open shots for his teammates, as reflected in his 13 assists. 

     

    The Pistons also dominated the boards late in the fourth quarter, securing crucial offensive rebounds that allowed them to maintain possession and extend their lead when it mattered most.

     

    For Oklahoma City, the absence of key scorers exposed the team’s lack of depth against top-tier opponents. Despite the standout efforts of Jaylin Williams and Cason Wallace, the Thunder struggled to find consistent scoring and maintain defensive rotations. The loss drops Oklahoma City to 45-15, a record that underscores both the team’s talent and its vulnerability when core contributors are sidelined.

     

    Looking ahead, the Pistons and Thunder are set to meet again on March 30. A Detroit win would give them a season sweep over the defending champions, while a Thunder victory would even the season series at 1-1.

  • Gilas second window lineup still open to changes ahead of Australia clash in FIBA qualifiers 

    Gilas second window lineup still open to changes ahead of Australia clash in FIBA qualifiers 

    Gilas Pilipinas’ roster for the second window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers may already be set for its opening assignment, but head coach Tim Cone made it clear that the lineup remains flexible heading into the team’s next matchup against Australia.

     

    The national team finalized its 12-man lineup for the game against New Zealand, leaving Justine Baltazar, RJ Abarrientos, and Troy Rosario as the final cuts. However, their chances of seeing action in the same window remain alive since all three are still part of the 18-man pool submitted earlier by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.

     

    Cone emphasized that the roster is being managed on a game-to-game basis, especially with the short turnaround between matchups and the evolving needs of the team.

     

    “We’ll see how things go. But no matter what happens, the players who don’t make it are still very much a part of the program and part of the pool, and can very well be the next guy up in the next window,” said Cone.

     

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    The flexibility also accounts for the absence of several pool members during the buildup, including naturalized big man Ange Kouame, forward Jamie Malonzo, and 7-foot-3 center Kai Sotto.

     

    For the New Zealand assignment, Gilas leaned on a balanced core led by veteran center June Mar Fajardo and naturalized star Justin Brownlee, along with rising frontcourt options AJ Edu and Quentin Millora-Brown.

     

    The perimeter rotation features steady contributors Chris Newsome, Calvin Oftana, CJ Perez, Kevin Quiambao, Dwight Ramos, Carl Tamayo, and Scottie Thompson, with rookie guard Juan Gomez de Liaño serving as the new face for this window.

     

    With another high-level test looming against Australia, Gilas’ final combination could still shift—proof that competition within the pool remains just as crucial as the results on the floor.

     

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  • “The NBA G-League gave me all I can take”: Converge’s new import Kylor Kelley on PBA move

    “The NBA G-League gave me all I can take”: Converge’s new import Kylor Kelley on PBA move

    The Converge FiberXers have made a major statement ahead of the 2025–26 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner’s Cup by signing towering former NBA talent Kylor Kelley as their import. Standing at a formidable 7 feet, Kelley adds a rare combination of size, athleticism, and rim-protecting instincts that the FiberXers hope will transform their defensive presence in the mid-season tournament.

     

    Kelley, 28, made the bold decision to cut short his stint with the South Bay Lakers in the NBA G-League in order to join Converge, signaling his desire to embrace a new challenge and pursue championship glory in the PBA. He already had a glimpse of life in Philippine hoops when he made his unofficial debut for the FiberXers in a tune-up game against the Blackwater Bossing, helping his team secure a 92-87 victory on Wednesday, February 25, at Hoops Gym in Mandaluyong City.

     

    “The G-League gave me all I can take from them, and I think it’s time to move on to another team and try to win a championship out here,” Kelley said after the game. “I had a couple of chasedown blocks, protected the rim, and I think that’s the big reason why I’m here — to be that defensive anchor, hold down the paint, and be that voice in the back line.”

     

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    The American center’s presence is expected to provide Converge with much-needed defensive stability, particularly in the paint, where the team has historically struggled to contain opposing big men. Kelley’s towering frame, combined with his experience in the NBA and G-League, gives the FiberXers a unique weapon on both ends of the court.

    Already, Kelley has gotten a taste of the kind of competition he will face in the Commissioner’s Cup. During his tune-up outing, he matched up against Blackwater’s star import Daniel Ochefu, who stands at 6-foot-11 — a figure that hints at the imposing opponents awaiting him once the official games begin. Converge fans can expect Kelley to face a slew of other giants, including 7-foot-3 Bol Bol of TNT Tropang Giga, 7-foot-6 Sam Deguara of Macau Black Bears, 7-foot Mubasha Ali of Terrafirma Dyip, and 6-foot-11 Marcus Lee of San Miguel Beermen.

     

    Despite the intimidating size of his future adversaries, Kelley remains unfazed. “It’s a little bit different for me. I think the tallest guy I have played against was 7-foot, so playing against a 7-foot-3 guy and a 7-foot-6 guy will be a little different. I just have to use my advantages, be able to run the floor, and outrun them,” he explained.

     

    Coaching staff and teammates have already noted Kelley’s professionalism and leadership on the court. His presence not only bolsters Converge’s defense but also provides a model for younger players, showing how athleticism, skill, and basketball IQ combine to dominate in the paint. With the Commissioner’s Cup now just weeks away, all eyes will be on Kelley to see if he can translate his NBA and G-League experience into tangible results for the FiberXers.

     

    If Kelley can establish himself as the defensive anchor he envisions, Converge could significantly alter the dynamics of the Commissioner’s Cup. The PBA will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how this new addition measures up against some of the tallest and most skilled imports in recent memory — a challenge Kelley seems ready and eager to embrace.


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  • Justin Brownlee backs Kai Sotto’s NBA dream amid Gilas duties

    Justin Brownlee backs Kai Sotto’s NBA dream amid Gilas duties

    The balancing act between chasing a global dream and serving the national cause is once again in focus for Gilas Pilipinas, as the team prepares for the second window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers without one of its most recognizable young stars.

     

    Seven-foot-three center Kai Sotto is set to miss Window 2, and his availability for Window 3 remains uncertain as he eyes a crucial opportunity to pursue his NBA aspirations during the offseason of Japan’s B.League.

     

    Reports indicate Sotto plans to participate in the NBA Summer League beginning July 6—dates that overlap directly with Gilas’ scheduled road games against the New Zealand Tall Blacks and the Australia Boomers.

     

    For naturalized star Justin Brownlee, the situation reflects a familiar crossroads. Brownlee himself once chased the same dream after playing college basketball for the St. John’s Red Storm before eventually carving out a decorated professional career overseas.

     

    “I think it’s pretty dope, you know what I mean? I think it’s great for the country,” Brownlee said.

     

    Still, Brownlee emphasized that the path to the NBA remains one of the most difficult journeys in professional sports.

     

    “It’s tough, you know, that’s the best league we have in the world right now. All the best talent in the world. And I think just like any other profession, whether you could be a doctor or a pilot, to reach the top, it takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and unbelievable confidence in yourself to always push yourself through the bad times and things like that,” said Brownlee, who previously had stints in the G League before taking his career overseas.

     

    “So it’s a very tough task, but I do see some Filipinos, some up-and-coming young guys that really have the opportunity and potential to possibly make it.”

     

    While Sotto’s absence would leave a noticeable gap—particularly in rim protection and interior scoring—Brownlee pointed out that the Philippines is entering a rare era of depth in frontcourt talent.

     

    Players like Quentin Millora-Brown, AJ Edu, Justine Baltazar, Carl Tamayo, and Mike Phillips are gradually reshaping the national team’s identity with versatility and international size.

     

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    Brownlee believes that the emergence of these younger big men reflects the lasting influence of established national team pillars such as June Mar Fajardo and Japeth Aguilar.

     

    “Talent has always been growing here in the Philippines, and in particular now, you know, it’s the bigs — a lot of big men in the country that are really good and have potential to be great. And follow the footsteps of guys like June Mar (Fajardo) and Japeth (Aguilar), you know, some really, you know, a lot of potential — NBA size, obviously with AJ, Carl, QMB, and just everybody, all the big guys,” the three-time PBA Best Import shared.

     

    “So they’ve been doing very well, and I can’t wait to see how they play out when they start getting in there, prime with their careers.”

     

    Even with long-term storylines forming around player availability, Brownlee made it clear that Gilas’ immediate focus remains on the present window, where the Philippines faces two of the region’s toughest programs.

     

    “Australia and New Zealand are two very tough opponents. They have been, you know, doing very well and playing in every competition in FIBA, whether it’s the World Cup, Asia Cup, the Olympics, and even New Zealand as well had an opportunity to go to the Olympics, but it’s just going to be tough,” he said.

     

    “They beat us the last couple of games or a couple of times we played them, so we just want to come in the game and just, you know, try our best and try to get the win, however we can get it.”

    For now, the national team continues to walk a familiar line—supporting individual dreams while chasing collective success—knowing that both paths are shaping the future of Philippine basketball.

     

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  • Manila to host second leg of FIBA 3X3 Women’s Series in May 

    Manila to host second leg of FIBA 3X3 Women’s Series in May 

    The Philippines’ growing presence in the fast-rising world of 3×3 basketball will take center stage in 2026 as Manila prepares to host a landmark stop in the global women’s circuit.

     

    For the first time ever, the Philippine capital will stage a leg of the FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series, with elite international teams set to compete on May 7–8 in what organizers view as a major step in strengthening the country’s footprint in the discipline.

     

    The Manila stop will serve as the second leg of the season, positioned early in the calendar as the competition builds momentum across Asia leading into the FIBA 3×3 Women’s Series Project Redwings Shanghai Final.

     

    The season officially opens in Chengdu on May 1–2 before shifting to Manila, highlighting the region’s increasing importance in the global expansion of 3×3 basketball.

     

    Representing the host nation once again will be Gilas Pilipinas Women’s 3×3, which has steadily gained international exposure after participating in the Women’s Series over the past two seasons. The program’s continued presence reflects the long-term direction set by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas to develop both grassroots and elite-level 3×3 competition.

     

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    Last season, the Philippine pool featured Afril Bernardino, Mikka Cacho, Tantoy Ferrer, Sam Harada, Kaye Pingol, and Hazelle Yam, with the squad finishing 18th out of 60 teams—a result that underscored both progress and the gap still to close against established international programs.

     

    Beyond competition, hosting duties also place Manila in a strategic role as the sport continues to evolve into one of basketball’s fastest-growing formats. The quick pace, condensed rosters, and urban-style presentation of 3×3 have made it increasingly attractive for emerging basketball markets.

     

    Following the Manila leg, the tour resumes its multi-continent journey with stops across Europe and Asia, including Vienna, Orléans, Amsterdam, Ulaanbaatar, Marseille, Baku, and Batam before returning to Asia with additional events in Tokyo, Singapore, Bangkok, and Takasaki.

     

    The 2026 campaign will culminate in Shanghai on September 5–6, where the season’s top-performing teams will compete for the championship.

     

    For the Philippines, hosting the event is more than just a scheduling milestone—it signals the country’s ambition to become a consistent destination for elite international basketball while giving its homegrown players a rare opportunity to compete against world-class talent on familiar ground.

     

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  • “Still the same kind of game style”: Blackwater Bossing import Daniel Ochefu on PBA comeback

    “Still the same kind of game style”: Blackwater Bossing import Daniel Ochefu on PBA comeback

    The Blackwater Bossing have pulled off a noteworthy acquisition in their bid to climb up the standings in the upcoming 2025–26 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner’s Cup, securing former National Basketball Association (NBA) big man Daniel Ochefu as their import for the mid‑season conference.

     

    At 6‑foot‑11 and 32 years old, Ochefu brings a rare blend of size, experience and athleticism to the Bossing roster. While Blackwater has struggled for consistency in recent seasons, the addition of a seasoned international big man signals the franchise’s intent to be more competitive in the import‑laden portion of the PBA schedule.

     

    Ochefu is no stranger to Philippine basketball circles. He first drew local attention when he suited up for the TNT Tropang Giga as a late replacement import during the 2023 East Asia Super League (EASL) Champions Week in Japan. Though flashes of his physicality and skill were evident, the Tropang Giga ultimately fell short of a Final Four berth in that outing.

     

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    His familiarity with Philippine hoops goes back even further. Ochefu was originally tapped by the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters under then‑coach Chris Gavina as their import for the 2022–23 Commissioner’s Cup, but he was released before the tournament began when coaching philosophies shifted under new head coach Yeng Guiao. That experience underscored just how much a coach’s system can influence import decisions in the PBA.

    Now back on Philippine shores and eager to make his mark, the Baltimore‑native has expressed excitement about the opportunity to contribute to Blackwater’s campaign. “I have been here for like a week, so I’m getting to learn all the players, everybody’s getting to learn me, so it’s been cool so far,” Ochefu said in a media interaction, highlighting the adjustment process and his growing comfort within the team setup.

     

    Reflecting on his past PBA experience, he added, “I think that was a little different because I had another import playing with me at the same time. But it’s still the same kind of game style and stuff like that.”

     

    Ochefu’s professional journey is a testament to perseverance. After going undrafted in the 2016 NBA Draft, he earned a spot with the Washington Wizards through the Las Vegas Summer League and made his NBA debut during the 2016–17 season. Although his time in the league was limited — including a brief stint with the Wizards — the experience of competing at the sport’s highest level has informed his journey across global leagues.

     

    Since leaving the NBA, Ochefu has built a true international résumé, showcasing his talents across multiple countries and competitive environments. His professional stops have included spells in Spain, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Lebanon, Venezuela, Taiwan, Mongolia and Syria — experience that he now brings to Blackwater as the Bossing prepare for one of the most important stretches of their season.

     

    With no height restrictions in place for the Commissioner’s Cup, teams are increasingly turning to big, physical imports to bolster their inside presence, and Blackwater’s decision to tap Ochefu reflects that trend.

     

    As the Bossing gear up for their mid‑season campaign, all eyes will be on how Ochefu’s blend of NBA pedigree, international experience and physical dominance translates into results on the court. For a franchise eager to rise out of the lower rungs of the standings, his performance could be a defining factor in their quest for respectability in the season’s next chapter. 

     

     

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  • June Mar Fajardo gears up for matchup with Bol Bol in PBA

    June Mar Fajardo gears up for matchup with Bol Bol in PBA

    The coming PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup isn’t just about another title chase, it’s shaping up to be a showcase of size, skill, and supremacy in the paint.

     

    With the league scrapping height restrictions for imports on the upcoming conference, the spotlight immediately shifts to a looming collision between two towering figures. The nine-time Most Valuable Player June Mar Fajardo and TNT’s new reinforcement, 7-foot-3 Bol Bol.

     

    For years, Fajardo has stood as the PBA’s most imposing presence. At 6-foot-10, he has built a dynasty with San Miguel, collecting championships, a record 13 Best Player of the Conference awards, and Finals MVP trophies. 

     

    But the arrival of Bol Bol the 26-year-old son of late NBA veteran Manute Bol presents a different kind of challenge.

     

    “Maraming papahirapan yung import na yun. Di lang kami. Buong liga siguro mahihirapan sa kaniya,” Fajardo said.

     

    TNT, the defending champion, doubled down on its bid to repeat by tapping Bol Bol. The Tropang 5G are widely viewed as the team to beat, and his combination of length, mobility, and NBA seasoning only strengthens that perception.

     

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    The former 44th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft last suited up in the league in April 2025 with the Phoenix Suns. He also had stints with Denver and Orlando. Flashes of the versatile skill set that made him one of basketball’s most intriguing long-limbed prospects.

     

    Yet for all the buzz surrounding Bol Bol, Fajardo remains steady and views the matchup as fuel.

    “Hahanapan ng paraan yun para ma-stop siya,” the 36-year-old Cebuano said.

     

    Fajardo knows that containing TNT won’t rest on a single player’s shoulders. While the much-anticipated showdown between towering big men is bound to draw attention.

     

    To strengthen its title defense in Season 50, San Miguel, the PBA’s winningest franchise tapped the 6-foot-11 Marcus Lee as its import for the upcoming conference.

     

    Lee brings solid credentials to the Beermen as he played collegiate basketball at the University of Kentucky before transferring to the University of California, and went on to build a lengthy professional career overseas after going undrafted in the 2018 NBA Draft.

     

    He now joins a San Miguel squad riding high from its championship triumph in the season-opening Philippine Cup, aiming to help the team secure a back-to-back title.

     

    Fresh off another dominant campaign capped by a record fifth Finals MVP, Fajardo enters the mid-season conference not defending his stature, but reinforcing it. At 36, he remains the standard by which PBA big men are measured.

     

    The Commissioner’s Cup, it seems won’t just test who stands tallest, but who stands strongest when giants collide.

     

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  • Gilas Pilipinas announces Final 12 for second window of FIBA qualifiers 

    Gilas Pilipinas announces Final 12 for second window of FIBA qualifiers 

    With urgency building ahead of two crucial home games, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas officially unveiled the Final 12 of Gilas Pilipinas for the second window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, highlighting a roster shaped as much by opportunity as by necessity.

     

    The announcement reflects a careful mix of continuity and adjustment, as the national team continues to refine its identity under head coach Tim Cone while navigating roster gaps and emerging talent.

     

    One of the most notable inclusions is rising guard Juan Gomez de Liaño of the Converge FiberXers, who earned a spot after joining training camp to help stabilize a pool temporarily thinned by injuries and availability concerns. His selection signals the program’s openness to reinforcements capable of quickly adapting to the system.

     

    Gomez de Liaño’s addition comes as Gilas continues to operate without star center Kai Sotto, forcing the coaching staff to redistribute responsibilities across both the frontcourt and perimeter rotations.

     

    Young core pieces AJ Edu, Kevin Quiambao, Dwight Ramos, and Carl Tamayo remain integral to the squad’s long-term structure, continuing their transition from developmental prospects into consistent international contributors.

     

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    Inside the paint, veteran presence becomes even more critical. With Japeth Aguilar no longer part of the national setup, Gilas will rely heavily on the experience and size of June Mar Fajardo and Quentin Millora-Brown to anchor the interior against physically imposing opponents.

     

    Naturalized star Justin Brownlee is likewise expected to carry a significant offensive and leadership load, continuing his role as the team’s stabilizing force in high-pressure international games.

     

    Completing the roster are veteran guards and wings Chris Newsome, CJ Perez, Calvin Oftana, and Scottie Thompson, whose familiarity with Cone’s system provides continuity in both execution and defensive structure.

     

    Meanwhile, notable names left out of the Final 12 include RJ Abarrientos, Justine Baltazar, and Troy Rosario, underscoring the increasingly competitive depth within the national pool.

     

    The Philippines enters the second window carrying momentum after opening the qualifiers with a 2-0 record in Group A. That early success now sets the stage for a tougher challenge, as Gilas prepares to host the New Zealand men’s national basketball team and the Australia men’s national basketball team in back-to-back games at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    More than just maintaining its unbeaten record, the newly finalized lineup reflects Gilas’ evolving approach—balancing system familiarity, positional needs, and the steady integration of new pieces as the road to the World Cup continues.

     

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  • Los Angeles Lakers hire Tony Bennett as NBA draft advisor to Rob Pelinka

    Los Angeles Lakers hire Tony Bennett as NBA draft advisor to Rob Pelinka

    The Los Angeles Lakers have bolstered their front office with a significant addition, hiring former University of Virginia head coach Tony Bennett as an NBA Draft advisor to president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka. The move signals the franchise’s continued commitment to strengthening its scouting infrastructure and long-term roster construction strategy.

     

    Bennett, one of the most respected figures in college basketball over the past two decades, brings a championship résumé and a reputation for culture-building to one of the league’s most storied organizations. His addition comes at a time when the Lakers are placing renewed emphasis on maximizing draft value and identifying high-character prospects who fit the franchise’s standards both on and off the court.

     

    “We are thrilled and honored to welcome Tony as an advisor to the Lakers basketball operations department. As we refine and build out our NBA draft and scouting process, we could think of no better basketball mind than Tony Bennett to have as a resource. Tony’s track record of forming culture, with high-character, high-skill and high-IQ players is revered and respected across all basketball circles.Tony will be an incredible asset to our basketball leadership, to our scouts and to our draft department as a whole. We are truly excited,” a statement from Pelinka read.

     

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    Bennett’s coaching pedigree is deeply rooted at the National Collegiate Athletic Association level, where he built Virginia into a perennial powerhouse from 2000 to 2024. During his tenure, the Cavaliers captured six ACC regular-season championships and established a national identity centered on disciplined defense, deliberate tempo and player development. His ability to cultivate cohesion and accountability became a hallmark of the program.

    Over the course of his career, Bennett was named national coach of the year three times — in 2007, 2015 and 2018 — reflecting the consistent excellence and competitive edge his teams displayed. His crowning achievement came in 2019, when he guided Virginia to the NCAA championship, completing one of the most remarkable redemption arcs in college basketball history. In doing so, Bennett joined rare company, becoming just the fourth NBA player to win the NCAA title as a head coach.

     

    Beyond wins and accolades, Bennett is widely praised for his emphasis on character, leadership and basketball IQ — traits that align closely with the Lakers’ stated goal of building sustainable success through smart drafting and player evaluation. His experience assessing collegiate talent, understanding developmental trajectories and fostering winning habits is expected to provide valuable insight as the Lakers navigate future draft cycles.

     

    “When Rob and I began talking, what stood out to me was the chance to help out such a storied organization. The Lakers carry a tradition that speaks for itself, so to be connected to it and assist Rob and the Lakers in any way I can is exciting,” Bennett added.

     

    The Lakers currently hold a 2026 first-round draft pick, and Bennett’s evaluative eye could prove instrumental in identifying a prospect capable of contributing to the franchise’s next competitive window. With the Western Conference landscape evolving and roster-building increasingly dependent on hitting on draft selections, the organization’s investment in experienced basketball minds reflects a forward-thinking approach.

     

    For a franchise defined by championships and iconic figures, the addition of Bennett represents another calculated step toward blending tradition with strategic innovation. As the Lakers continue refining their draft and scouting processes, all eyes will be on how Bennett’s philosophy and expertise translate from the collegiate sidelines to the NBA front office.

     

     

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  • Gilas Pilipinas eyes second-round berth in FIBA World Cup qualifiers against New Zealand Tall Blacks

    Gilas Pilipinas eyes second-round berth in FIBA World Cup qualifiers against New Zealand Tall Blacks

    Momentum meets urgency when Gilas Pilipinas takes the floor against the New Zealand Tall Blacks in the second window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers on Thursday in Pasay City.

     

    Riding the confidence of a 2-0 start after dominant wins over Guam national basketball team last November, the Philippines has positioned itself for an early passage to the second round. A victory on the opening day of the new window would secure that objective outright, giving head coach Tim Cone and his squad an important cushion heading into the tougher stretch of qualifiers.

     

    New Zealand, meanwhile, enters still searching for its first win after absorbing two losses against regional powerhouse Australia men’s national basketball team.

     

    Recent head-to-head meetings show the challenge awaiting Gilas. New Zealand has won six of the last seven matchups between the two programs, including multiple victories during previous World Cup qualifying cycles. Their physical style and disciplined execution have historically posed problems for the Philippines, particularly in interior defense and transition play.

     

    Still, Gilas has already proven it can overturn history.

     

    During the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers in 2024, the Filipinos stunned the Tall Blacks with a thrilling 93-89 victory at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, marking their first win over New Zealand in a major FIBA tournament setting.

     

    With the rematch again set on home soil, the Philippines will look to recreate that same energy.

    One major difference from that breakthrough win is the absence of Kai Sotto, who continues his return from an ACL injury. The 7-foot-3 center dominated the paint in that upset performance, and his presence remains difficult to replace as he powered Gilas with a near triple-double with 19 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists.

     

    In his absence, frontcourt duties shifted to Quentin Millora-Brown who led Gilas in rebounds in the first window of the qualifiers with 9.5 per game and AJ Edu who in return leads the team in blocks with almost two per game, both big men are tasked with matching the size and physicality of New Zealand’s interior rotation led by Sam Mennenga.

     

    Rebounding and rim protection are expected to play a decisive role, especially against a Tall Blacks squad known for its structured half-court offense.

     

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    The guard matchup also shapes up as a critical factor, as veterans Chris Newsome and Scottie Thompson are expected to anchor playmaking and  perimeter defense against New Zealand playmaker Taylor Britt, who orchestrated the offense effectively in their last meeting. 

     

    Wing scoring remains another concern after Jordan Ngatai erupted for a strong performance in the teams’ previous clash. Defensive assignments could fall heavily on Dwight Ramos, whose versatility will be key in slowing New Zealand’s perimeter attack.

     

    Both squads may also feature new or returning pieces that could influence rotations.

    For Gilas, returnees Juan Gomez de Liano and Justine Baltazar provide additional depth and flexibility, while New Zealand could introduce first-time call-up Keanu Rasmussen.

     

    These potential additions bring unpredictability to a matchup already layered with playoff-level stakes.

     

    Beyond the immediate goal of qualification, the game represents a measuring stick for Gilas as it continues to build chemistry under Cone’s system. A win would not only secure advancement but also reinforce the team’s ability to compete against Oceania’s physical style—an area that has historically challenged Philippine squads.

     

    With a packed home crowd expected once again in Pasay, Gilas Pilipinas gets another opportunity to turn momentum into progress—and possibly reshape its recent history against the Tall Blacks.

     

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