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Category: Basketball

  • “The whining is back”: Zach Lowe slams Luka Doncic for his constant on-court complaints

    “The whining is back”: Zach Lowe slams Luka Doncic for his constant on-court complaints

    The Los Angeles Lakers have put together a solid campaign in the 2025–26 National Basketball Association season, compiling a 34–22 record to sit sixth in a tightly contested Western Conference playoff race. While the Lakers have shown flashes of championship potential, much of their resurgence has been powered by the brilliance of their franchise cornerstone, Luka Doncic.

     

    Doncic has been instrumental in keeping Los Angeles in the mix as a legitimate title contender, delivering big scoring nights and orchestrating the offense with his trademark creativity. However, despite his undeniable production, aspects of his on-court demeanor have begun drawing scrutiny—most notably from respected NBA journalist and podcaster Zach Lowe.

     

    The Lakers suffered a sobering 118–89 loss to the Boston Celtics at Crypto.com Arena last Monday (Philippine Standard Time). In the defeat, Doncic finished with 25 points on 9-of-22 shooting, but his plus-minus rating of minus-21 was the worst among Lakers players that night. While the stat line itself raised concerns, it was his visible frustration throughout the game that quickly became a focal point online.

     

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    Cameras repeatedly caught Doncic gesturing toward officials and expressing displeasure over what he perceived to be missed foul calls against Boston. Clips of those moments circulated widely on social media, reigniting a long-standing debate about his relationship with referees and how it impacts his team.

    Lowe did not mince words in addressing the issue on his podcast, criticizing what he described as a return to old habits.

     

    “The whining is back at just peak Dallas levels. It’s every f***ing play. Just play, man. Not everything is a foul. And it’s almost like, are you playing to draw a foul? Or are you playing basketball? Like, which one are you doing? Are you playing one-on-one with the refs? Or are you playing a game? It’s every single possession now. It’s completely out of control. It’s back to Dallas levels. It’s just unwatchable. And I hate it because he is a genius. He is a literal basketball genius who can get any shot and any pass he wants,” Lowe said on his podcast.

     

    The reference to “Dallas levels” harkens back to Doncic’s tenure with the Dallas Mavericks, where similar criticisms occasionally surfaced despite his MVP-caliber play. Now in Los Angeles, the spotlight is even brighter, and expectations are considerably higher.

     

    For the Lakers, the stakes extend beyond regular-season positioning. With the Western Conference as competitive as ever, maintaining focus and composure could prove decisive in the postseason. Doncic’s competitive fire has always been part of what makes him special, but channeling that intensity more constructively may be crucial if Los Angeles hopes to make a deep playoff run.

     

    There is no questioning his talent—Lowe himself called him “a literal basketball genius.” The challenge moving forward is whether Doncic can strike the right balance between passion and poise, ensuring that his leadership elevates the Lakers rather than distracts from their championship ambitions.

     

     

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  • Bol Bol enters evaluation phase as TNT Tropang 5G opens training camp for  PBA Commissioner’s Cup title defense

    Bol Bol enters evaluation phase as TNT Tropang 5G opens training camp for  PBA Commissioner’s Cup title defense

    The spotlight isn’t on game night just yet—it’s on preparation.

     

    As defending champions gear up for another run in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, TNT Tropang 5G has shifted its focus to a crucial four-day training block at the Inspire Sports Academy, where new import Bol Bol begins what could be the most important stretch of his transition into Philippine basketball.

     

    Rather than immediate expectations, the camp is designed as a controlled environment—part conditioning reset, part system immersion—for the 7-foot-3 former NBA big man.

    Team manager Jojo Lastimosa said the closed-door setup allows the coaching staff to closely monitor Bol’s progress as he adapts to TNT’s structure and pace.

     

    “I still have to see him in kind of at least full strength because he’s not in shape yet,” said Lastimosa on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum during the MVP Olympics All-Star Game.

     

    “So I want to see him how he does in the camp, how he understands the system and all that.”

    Bol’s arrival comes with intrigue not just because of his rare size and skillset, but also because of his basketball lineage as the son of late NBA defensive icon Manute Bol. 

     

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    He first linked up with the team earlier this week during a light session at the Moro Lorenzo Gym, marking his initial on-court introduction to teammates and coaches.

     

    Later that evening, Bol observed from courtside alongside team owner Manny V. Pangilinan and PBA chairman Ricky Vargas, as Lastimosa coached against a squad handled by Luigi Trillo in a tightly contested exhibition.

     

    While TNT enters the conference carrying championship momentum, Lastimosa emphasized that Bol’s integration remains a process rather than a guarantee.

     

    “It remains to be seen,” said the TNT team manager and former coach. “But I’m hopeful because he’s got experience and we know he got skills.”

     

    Bol’s professional journey includes NBA stints with the Denver Nuggets, Orlando Magic, and Phoenix Suns, and his arrival has naturally drawn comparisons to TNT’s previous import success with Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, who powered the franchise to last season’s Commissioner’s Cup crown.

     

    Still, the immediate objective is simpler: build rhythm, build chemistry, and rebuild conditioning.

    The Tropang 5G will conclude camp on Saturday, hoping the controlled grind becomes the foundation for another championship push. 

     

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  • Quentin Millora-Brown gaining rhythm with Gilas Pilipinas ahead of FIBA qualifiers 

    Quentin Millora-Brown gaining rhythm with Gilas Pilipinas ahead of FIBA qualifiers 

    A deeper understanding of his role is beginning to shape Quentin Millora-Brown into a more confident presence for Gilas Pilipinas as the team prepares for the next phase of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.

     

    After entering the national program on short notice in the previous window, Millora-Brown now arrives with greater familiarity and a clearer sense of purpose. 


    The big man is expected to reinforce the Philippines’ interior defense and rebounding in upcoming matchups against New Zealand men’s national basketball team and Australia men’s national basketball team, two teams known for their size and physical style.

     

    Millora-Brown joined the national pool late in the previous cycle after a last-minute arrangement between the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and his camp, leaving him little time to fully absorb the system. With more preparation now under his belt, he believes the adjustment period is behind him.

     

    “I’ve gotten a lot more comfortable with the system, with the way we want to play, that just last window obviously still new, still trying to figure it all out but this window I feel a lot more confident in how I would fit in, how I’m going to play,” said Millora-Brown in an interview posted by SBP on its Facebook page.

     

    His first taste of international play came in two wins against the Guam men’s national basketball team, but the challenge level rises significantly this time with two Oceania powerhouses on the schedule.

     

    For Millora-Brown, the assignment is straightforward: bring size, strength, and physicality to match the opposition’s frontlines.

     

    “The size will be different. That’s the one thing I bring. You can’t train size. So, just being big and strong and physical with those guys because Australia and New Zealand are two crazy big teams,” said QMB.

     

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    “I think (that’s what I’ll be) bringing and honestly, just have fun. You just need to have fun and everything takes care of itself,” he added.

     

    The former University of the Philippines standout emphasized that beyond size, discipline will ultimately determine whether Gilas can compete at a high level. He pointed to rebounding and ball security as the foundation for staying in rhythm against teams that thrive on forcing mistakes.

     

    “That (rebounding) and protecting the ball,” said Millora-Brown. “They’re going to be pressing, they’re going to be up on the rebounds, making sure we don’t turn the ball over because that’s what they want to do.

     

    “They want to speed us up, get us out of our rhythm. Those two things I think are vital for us to come out with a win but also make sure none of us have too much pressure on ourselves.

    “When you play tight, you don’t have fun, you don’t play well, you make mistakes.”

     

    With a clearer role and growing chemistry within the system, Millora-Brown now steps into the qualifiers not just as a newcomer adjusting to the international stage—but as a developing anchor expected to help Gilas hold its ground inside.

     

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  • Tim Cone assures cut players they remain part of Gilas’ pool

    Tim Cone assures cut players they remain part of Gilas’ pool

    The road to the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 intensifies as the second window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers looms, with Gilas Pilipinas eager to sustain the momentum of its strong opening statement in Group A.

     

    The Philippines kicked off its qualifying campaign in dominant fashion during the first window, sweeping its assignments to remain unbeaten and assert itself early in the race for a spot in the tournament proper. The early results provided a glimpse of cohesion in head coach Tim Cone’s evolving system — a blend of veteran savvy and youthful energy anchored on discipline and defensive accountability.

     

    But the climb only steepens from here.

     

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    Awaiting Gilas in the next set of fixtures are Oceania powerhouses — the Australia men’s national basketball team and the New Zealand men’s national basketball team — two programs known for their physicality, depth, and consistent presence on the global stage. Australia, a perennial medal contender in major FIBA competitions, brings size across all positions and a system honed in elite international play. New Zealand, meanwhile, counters with toughness, structure, and a tradition of disciplined execution.

     

    For Cone and Gilas, the challenge is as much about internal competition as it is about preparing for world-class opposition.

     

    The veteran American mentor has yet to finalize his 12-man roster for the second window, emphasizing that selection remains fluid and performance-based. In Cone’s program, no roster spot is guaranteed — and no player left out is truly out of the picture.

     

    “You play yourself on, you play off the team, that’s what it is, that’s the bottomline, while the other thing is, no matter who is out for this final 12, they are still very much in, in the program,” Cone said during an appearance on Power and Play.

     

    Cone underscored that last-minute changes to the lineup are part of the natural evolution of a national team program. Chemistry, form, health, and tactical needs all factor into the final decisions. What matters most, he stressed, is that every player continues to develop within the framework Gilas is building toward 2027.

    “We have seen how things have changed, Quentin Millora-Brown coming in, Japeth Aguilar retiring, this is a normal progression for a basketball team. You want to continually grow and we all see how things go, but no matter what happens, those who won’t make it are still part of the pool,” he added.

     

    Indeed, transition has already been a theme for Gilas. The entry of big man Quentin Millora-Brown adds size and defensive versatility to the frontline, while the retirement of longtime pillar Japeth Aguilar marks the end of an era. Such changes highlight Cone’s long-term vision — blending continuity with calculated renewal.

     

    As it stands, the Gilas pool features a compelling mix of established stars and emerging talents. Naturalized ace Justin Brownlee is expected to spearhead the campaign once again, providing leadership and scoring punch on the wing. He is joined by veteran cornerstone June Mar Fajardo, whose interior presence remains a focal point on both ends of the floor.

     

    The backcourt and wing rotation includes steady contributors such as Dwight Ramos, Scottie Thompson, Calvin Oftana, CJ Perez, and Chris Newsome — players capable of defending multiple positions while thriving in Cone’s read-and-react offensive sets.

     

    Meanwhile, youth and length come in the form of AJ Edu and Millora-Brown, both of whom provide mobility and rim protection crucial against the towering frontlines of Australia and New Zealand.

     

    Still, competition for the remaining spots remains fierce. RJ Abarrientos, Troy Rosario, Carl Tamayo, Juan Gomez de Liano, and Justine Baltazar are all in contention, each bringing distinct strengths — from perimeter shot creation to rebounding and floor spacing.

     

    With only 12 slots available, the final decisions will hinge on matchups, versatility, and familiarity with Cone’s system. More than individual statistics, the emphasis remains on cohesion and role clarity.

     

    For Gilas Pilipinas, the objective extends beyond merely surviving the second window. The goal is to measure progress against elite competition, refine rotations under pressure, and solidify an identity capable of carrying the program through the long qualification grind.

     

    If the first window was about setting the tone, the second will be about proving sustainability. Against Oceania’s finest, Gilas will find out just how far its early promise can carry it — and how much further it still needs to go.

     

     

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  • Kevin Durant eyes return for Team USA at 2028 Olympics

    Kevin Durant eyes return for Team USA at 2028 Olympics

    For many basketball legends, the Olympics serve as a farewell stage. For Kevin Durant, it might be another proving ground.

     

    The four-time Olympic gold medalist has his sights set on the 2028 Los Angeles Games. By then, Durant will be 39 years old, an age when most players are long retired or reduced to ceremonial roles. But if the team calls, he is open to giving it another shot at his fifth Olympic gold medal.

     

    “Hell yeah, I want to play,” Durant said. “I would love to, but I’ve got to stay on top of my game. I’m not expecting, I want to produce on the floor and make Grant and whoever is making the decisions, want to put me on the team. I don’t want — not just for seniority. I want to still prove I can help the team win.”

     

    Durant’s mindset reflects the same competitive edge that made him one of the most awarded players in Olympic history. 

     

    His international track record includes pivotal performances in London, Rio, Tokyo, and Paris, where his scoring punch repeatedly bailed out Team USA in tight moments. 

     

    Throughout the years the 2x NBA champion has carved himself as Team USA’s most reliable scorer, as he became the all-time leading scorer in team history edging out Carmelo Anthony who previously held the record. 

     

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    During the 2024 Paris Olympics, Durant showcased his scoring prowess dropping 21 points against Serbia, starting 8/8 from the field in the first half of the 110-84 rout. 

     

    He then continued to average 13.8 points per game during the tournament as he averaged 18.5 points per game in all Olympic appearances for the red, white, and blue, which is good for second in points per game average in Team USA history. 

     

    Even amid speculation that the 2024 Paris Games would mark a “last dance” for veterans like Durant, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry, Durant denied the narrative.

     

    “You guys, the media, have projected that,” Durant said recently. “That narrative, where did the last dance thing come from? I didn’t say I wasn’t playing. LeBron said he wasn’t. You didn’t hear that from me or Steph.”

     

    While Curry, who is turning 38 years old this March, faces an uncertain future in international play and James, at 41 years old, has already ruled himself out, Durant is keeping the door wide open. His motivation goes beyond medal counts, it’s also about defending the evolving identity of American basketball.

     

    In recent years, the global gap has narrowed. Durant, however, bristles at the growing narrative that European development systems have surpassed American basketball culture.

     

    “I just don’t like the talk around the USA versus European style of how you approach the game,” Durant said. “All I hear is, ‘AAU is destroying the game; the Euros do it right while the Americans do it wrong.’”

     

    The 2028 Olympics could mark the symbolic passing of the torch to a new generation. But if Durant has his way, the torch won’t be handed over quietly. It will be defended one more time by a player still determined to prove that he belongs.

     

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  • MPBL founder Manny Pacquiao open to collaboration with the PBA

    MPBL founder Manny Pacquiao open to collaboration with the PBA

    The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) has steadily carved out its place in the Philippine sports landscape, emerging as the country’s second-most prominent professional basketball league behind the long-established Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).

     

    Founded in 2017 by Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, the MPBL was built on a grassroots-driven vision: to provide aspiring basketball players from provinces and underserved communities a legitimate pathway to pursue professional careers. What began as a regional tournament has since evolved into a nationwide competition featuring teams representing cities and provinces across the Philippines, drawing passionate local fan bases and giving homegrown talent a stage to shine.

     

    Pacquiao’s original goal was simple yet ambitious — democratize opportunities in basketball. Unlike traditional leagues concentrated in major urban hubs, the MPBL placed emphasis on regional representation, allowing players who might otherwise go unnoticed to showcase their skills closer to home. Over the years, the league has become a proving ground for overlooked prospects, former collegiate standouts, and even ex-professionals seeking a second act.

     

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    Now, nearly a decade since its inception, Pacquiao is setting his sights even higher.

     

    Speaking at a recent public event, the 47-year-old sports icon revealed that he remains open to collaboration with the PBA, the very league many consider MPBL’s primary competitor. Rather than viewing the relationship as adversarial, Pacquiao emphasized unity and shared growth for Philippine basketball.

     

    “It depends, kung mapag-usapan namin. Ang MPBL naman, ayaw naming makipag-compete sa mga liga. Welcome ang lahat makipag-partner sa MPBL, kung ano man yung collaboration to maximize basketball and sports dito sa ating bansa,” Pacquiao said.

    His statement signals a pragmatic and inclusive approach — one that prioritizes the broader development of basketball in the country over rivalry. While the MPBL and PBA operate under different models, a potential partnership could open doors for talent exchanges, joint tournaments, or grassroots initiatives aimed at strengthening the overall ecosystem of the sport.

    Beyond domestic cooperation, Pacquiao also outlined a bold international vision for the league.

     

    “Our vision is to widen the scope of the league, not only in the Philippines but also in Asia and in different countries,” he added.

     

    The idea of expanding beyond Philippine borders reflects the league’s growing confidence and ambition. According to Pacquiao, discussions have already taken place with potential partners abroad, particularly in regions with strong Filipino communities and emerging basketball markets.

     

    “I never imagine this, na sa ganito aabot yung MPBL. Buong Asia, Middle East, tapos marami na rin kaming nakausap, kasi pwede na ring mag-expand. Kaya pina-register na rin namin yung ‘MPBL International.’ Yun ang vision ng MPBL, to create another league, hindi lang dito sa Pilipinas,” Pacquiao concluded.

     

    The registration of “MPBL International” marks a significant step toward formalizing that expansion. If realized, the initiative could see the league stage tournaments or establish affiliated competitions in Asia and the Middle East — regions where basketball enjoys a passionate following and where overseas Filipino workers could serve as a built-in fan base.

     

    For Pacquiao, whose sporting legacy extends far beyond the boxing ring, the MPBL represents more than just a business venture. It is a platform for empowerment, community pride, and national development through sport. From its humble beginnings as a regional competition to its aspirations of becoming an international brand, the league’s trajectory mirrors Pacquiao’s own journey — ambitious, resilient, and forward-looking.

     

    As the MPBL continues to grow in popularity and explore new partnerships, both local and global, the coming years could prove pivotal. Whether through collaboration with the PBA or expansion into overseas markets, one thing is clear: the MPBL’s mission is no longer confined to provincial courts. It is aiming for a larger stage — one that could redefine the structure of Philippine basketball in the process.

     

     

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  • LeBron James backs Jaylen Brown as a legitimate MVP candidate for this season

    LeBron James backs Jaylen Brown as a legitimate MVP candidate for this season

    The Boston Celtics continue to reinforce their status as one of the elite teams in the National Basketball Association, turning what many projected as a transitional season into a statement campaign. With a 37-19 record, Boston sits firmly in second place in the Eastern Conference standings, a position built on resilience, depth, and the emergence of a clear-cut leader.

     

    That momentum was on full display Monday night (Philippine Standard Time) at the Crypto.com Arena, where the Celtics dismantled the Los Angeles Lakers, 111-89. It was a commanding performance on both ends of the floor — disciplined defense, efficient ball movement, and a steady offensive engine that never allowed the Lakers to seize control.

     

    At the heart of it all was star forward Jaylen Brown, who once again delivered a complete, dominant performance. Brown poured in 32 points while adding eight rebounds and seven assists in 36 minutes, orchestrating Boston’s offense with poise and precision. Whether attacking off the dribble, knocking down mid-range jumpers, or facilitating for teammates, Brown dictated the tempo and ensured the Celtics stayed in command throughout the contest.

     

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    His performance did not go unnoticed — especially by Lakers superstar LeBron James, who offered high praise for Brown’s evolution into one of the league’s premier talents and a legitimate Most Valuable Player candidate.

     

    “JB is playing great basketball, man. This whole MVP thing, I don’t understand why his name is not getting talked about some, as well. Nobody gave them a shot to start the season. He is averaging, what, 30? Just under 30. It’s a popularity contest sometimes,” Brown said after the game.

     

    Brown’s numbers support the conversation. The 29-year-old is averaging a career-best 29.2 points per game this season, placing him firmly among the league’s top scorers. More importantly, his production has translated directly into wins — and in circumstances that demanded leadership.

    Boston entered the season facing significant questions. The absence of franchise cornerstone Jayson Tatum and veteran guard Jrue Holiday left a void in scoring, playmaking, and defensive leadership. Adding to the uncertainty were the departures of longtime contributors Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis, key pieces from a championship-caliber roster that many believed would struggle to maintain its competitive edge.

     

    Instead, Brown has embraced the responsibility.

     

    “I think he is just using the motivation of a lot of people saying that they are going to have a down year because of JT being out, them losing Jrue Holiday. Al Horford leaves. Kristaps Porzingis leaves. Their whole championship team pretty much is revamped. He uses that as motivation to keep them afloat. They are playing great basketball, and it’s because of him and the rest of those guys. He has taken that next step,” he added.

     

    Beyond the scoring averages and highlight plays, what separates Brown this season is his durability and consistency. In a league where load management and minor injuries often sideline even the brightest stars, Brown has remained remarkably steady, appearing in 51 of the Celtics’ 56 games — more than any of his primary MVP rivals. His availability has allowed Boston to maintain rhythm and continuity, critical factors in navigating the grind of an 82-game regular season.

     

    Brown’s growth has also extended into leadership. With a revamped roster, younger players have leaned on his experience and example. His defensive engagement remains high, his shot selection more refined, and his decision-making under pressure noticeably sharper. He is no longer simply a dynamic scorer; he is the axis around which Boston’s offense rotates.

     

    As the playoff race intensifies and the MVP conversation takes shape, Brown’s case continues to strengthen. He combines elite scoring, team success, durability, and narrative — a blend that often defines the award’s eventual winner. While the MVP race can indeed be influenced by visibility and storyline, Brown’s body of work is becoming increasingly difficult to overlook.

     

    If the Celtics maintain their position near the top of the East and Brown sustains his current level of play, the league may soon be forced to expand its MVP dialogue. For now, Boston keeps winning, and Jaylen Brown keeps delivering — making a compelling argument that this season is not just about survival after roster changes, but about evolution into a new era led by a bona fide superstar.

     

     

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  • Justine Baltazar grateful to contribute to Gilas 

    Justine Baltazar grateful to contribute to Gilas 

    Four years have passed since Justine Baltazar last donned the Gilas Pilipinas jersey, but the 6-foot-9 Kapampangan has used that time to evolve from a promising college standout into a dominant force in the PBA. 

     

    At his young age, 29, he became a top pick in the league’s draft and part of Converge FiberXers establishing himself as one of the premier centers in local basketball.

     

    Baltazar’s return to Gilas Pilipinas came as a surprise. When Quentin Millora-Brown encountered a contract impasse with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).

     

    Head coach Tim Cone chose to look within the pool and called on Baltazar to reinforce the frontline, providing the size and inner presence the team might need should other big men become unavailable.

     

    The two-time MPBL MVP said that he did not hesitate, “Hindi na ako nagdalawang-isip. Nagpaalam ako sa boss ko na gusto kong makapag-training ulit dito sa Gilas. ‘Yun naman, pinayagan ako ng management at boss namin sa Converge.”

     

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    Despite years apart, the bond with his Gilas batchmates from 2021 remains intact. 

     

    “Kita mo naman na magkakalaban kami sa PBA, pero yung samahan namin dati, nandito pa rin,” Baltazar said.

     

    With Gilas preparing to host New Zealand on Thursday and Australia on Sunday in the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, Baltazar knows that size and presence in the paint will be critical.

     

    Gilas Pilipinas heads into this window unbeaten in Group A, carrying a 2-0 record after completing a sweep of Guam late last year.

     

    Yet, his focus remains on contribution rather than roster guarantees. “No. 1 dun role ko, gagawin ko role ko. No. 2 depensa kasi marami scorers dito. Pag pinalad ako bibigay ko 100 percent ko talaga,” he said, reflecting a mindset shaped by years of professional growth and national team experience.

     

    Baltazar’s return is more than a personal comeback — it’s a reminder that dedication, growth, and patience can open doors back to the international stage. 

     

    As Gilas faces some of the toughest opponents, the towering center is ready to bring both his skill and his team-first mentality to the floor.

     

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  • Kevin Quiambao motivated by possible Gilas reunion with La Salle teammate Mike Phillips 

    Kevin Quiambao motivated by possible Gilas reunion with La Salle teammate Mike Phillips 

    For Kevin Quiambao, last weekend’s news wasn’t just another roster update—it felt like the next chapter of a journey that began years earlier in college.

     

    Barely a day after returning to the Philippines, Quiambao learned that his former De La Salle University teammate Mike Phillips had officially been granted local status by FIBA, a development that could finally open the door for the two high-energy forwards to share the floor again—this time for the national team.

     

    Having played together from Seasons 85 to 87 of the UAAP, Quiambao knows exactly what Phillips—popularly known as “Motor Mike”—brings to any lineup.

     

    “I think it was a very, very big and great help sa program ng Gilas, especially nakasama ko siya sa La Salle. I know kung gaano niya matutulungan yung team at alam ko kung paano niya ibibigay yung best niya every time,” Quiambao told Tiebreaker Times.

     

    “He’s always 100-percent, hindi nga 100-percent, 1,000-percent lagi yan pag naglalaro sa basketball court. Yung energy at yung hustle niya, I’m so excited.”

     

    During their collegiate run, the Green Archers built a winning identity anchored on activity and versatility—an approach that culminated in two Finals appearances and a championship in Season 86. Quiambao dominated that title campaign, earning both Regular Season and Finals MVP honors.

     

    Their paths toward the national program began to take shape during that same stretch.

     

    Quiambao became part of the Gilas pool, while Phillips suited up for the Philippine squad that captured gold in the 2023 Southeast Asian Games. Despite representing different national team lineups, both carried the same long-term vision.

     

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    “Siya, naging eligible sa SEA Games at ako sa FIBA. That time, hindi kami nagkakausap about Gilas kasi focus kami nun to get the championship sa La Salle,” Quiambao recalled.

     

    “Yung dream ko rin sa sarili ko na makakampi siya sa Gilas, siguro matutupad naman sa next window sa July. Sana, sana.”

     

    Now, with Phillips’ eligibility clarified, that possibility suddenly feels closer to reality. While the reunion storyline builds excitement, Quiambao remains focused on the immediate task: helping Gilas Pilipinas in Window 2 of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Qualifiers.

     

    The Philippines is set for a tough home stand against the New Zealand national basketball team on Thursday and the Australia men’s national basketball team on Sunday—two programs long known for their physical and disciplined style.

     

    Over the past year, Quiambao has steadily carved out a larger role under head coach Tim Cone, showing his adaptability as a modern forward capable of scoring, facilitating, and defending multiple positions.

     

    His consistent production across recent tournaments—including solid performances in the Asia Cup cycle and the previous window against Guam—has strengthened his place in the rotation.

     

    Still, the 24-year-old forward, who also plays professionally for Goyang Sono Skygunners, embraces the pressure that comes with growing responsibility.

     

    “Gusto ko lagi na may parang pressure sa sarili ko kasi doon mo maabot yung pinaka-top level ng game mo,” said Quiambao.

     

    “Pero challenge siguro is how to keep up kung ano yung ginagawa ko sa Gilas. And as a young guy, magiging sponge lang ako kung ano yung male-learn ko sa veterans namin.”

     

    For Quiambao, the equation is simple: handle the present, and the future—perhaps alongside a familiar teammate—will follow.

     

     

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  • Quentin Millora-Brown stays focused on Gilas despite contract hurdle

    Quentin Millora-Brown stays focused on Gilas despite contract hurdle

    For a moment, it looked like Quentin Millora-Brown might miss the start of Gilas Pilipinas Men’s training camp. Contract negotiations between his camp, led by agent Tod Seidel, and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) had stalled, leaving the 6-foot-10 Filipino-American big man in limbo.


    Stepping into the breach, his father, Bryan Millora-Brown, joined discussions alongside SBP representatives, including UP athletics director Bo Perasol. 

     

    After careful negotiations balancing player protections with national team commitments, the parties reached an agreement that will allow Millora-Brown to suit up for the remainder of the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.

     

    Millora-Brown wasted no time demonstrating his value. In his first two games with Gilas during the first window of the qualifiers, the former UAAP champion with the UP Fighting Maroons averaged 7.5 points per contest and a team-leading 9.5 rebounds per game, highlighting the impact he brings to the national squad.

     

    Despite the initial setback, Millora-Brown remained composed, refusing to assign blame for the contract issue and keeping his focus squarely on the team’s goals. 

     

    “I mean, I always want to represent. It was just about contracts, trying to make sure that all the protections you have are in place,” he explained. 

     

    “For me, I just want to represent and perform, because that’s what I love to do,” the former UP standout added.

     

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    The situation underscores the delicate balance modern athletes must navigate — protecting their professional careers while honoring national duty. 

     

    Currently playing for Chiba in Japan, Millora-Brown is now fully committed to Gilas Pilipinas and the challenges that lie ahead.

     

    His return comes at a pivotal time. On February 26, Gilas faces New Zealand in a must-win match, followed by a showdown with powerhouse Australia on March 1. 

     

    These high-stakes games will test not only Millora-Brown’s readiness but also his chemistry with the team and his ability to perform under pressure on the international stage.

     

    With the contract hurdle behind him, Millora-Brown’s focus is clear: representing the Philippines and helping the team navigate one of the toughest stretches in the FIBA World Cup qualifiers. 

     

    Beyond simply being a key contributor, his presence blends size, skill, and international experience, strengthening Gilas’ frontline while also serving as a blueprint for other dual-nationality players weighing professional commitments abroad against national pride. 

     

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