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Category: Basketball

  • NBA Trade Report: Draymond Green re-signs with Warriors on one-year, $27.7 million deal

    NBA Trade Report: Draymond Green re-signs with Warriors on one-year, $27.7 million deal

    The Golden State Warriors have ensured that one of the cornerstones of their dynasty will remain in the Bay Area after veteran forward Draymond Green agreed to a one-year, $27.7 million contract that will keep him with the franchise through the 2026-27 NBA season.

     

    The agreement secures the return of one of the most influential players in Warriors history and preserves the long-standing partnership between Green and franchise superstar Stephen Curry as Golden State continues its pursuit of another championship.

     

    The news was first reported by ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania, who revealed the agreement on X, formerly known as Twitter.

     

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    “Draymond Green has agreed to return to the Golden State Warriors on a one-year, $27.7 million deal. Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul tells ESPN. The contract is the same Green opted out of to give the Warriors the flexibility to pursue LeBron James, but the sides land his return Tuesday,” Charania posted.

     

    Green’s new deal comes after an eventful offseason that saw the four-time NBA champion opt out of his previous $27.6 million player option. The move was widely viewed as a strategic decision designed to provide Golden State with additional salary cap flexibility as the organization explored the possibility of acquiring LeBron James.

     

    While the Warriors ultimately fell short in their pursuit of the four-time NBA Most Valuable Player, who instead signed with the Philadelphia 76ers, the organization quickly turned its attention toward retaining one of its own franchise icons.

     

    Green’s return underscores the Warriors’ belief that his leadership, defensive versatility, and championship experience remain invaluable as the team attempts to remain among the Western Conference contenders.

     

    The offseason, however, was not without uncertainty for the veteran forward.

     

    Reports linked Green to potential trade discussions involving Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, fueling speculation that Golden State could consider moving one of its longest-tenured players in an effort to acquire another generational talent.

    Although Green admitted that hearing his name in trade rumors was initially difficult, he also acknowledged the realities of the NBA business.

     

    “I’m a human being. There was a second of me at the deadline that felt like, ‘Damn, they really going to do that to me?’ But I understand this business probably as good as any player. Like, yo, this is Giannis Antetokounmpo. They are not just about to trade me for a bag of peanuts,” Green said at the time.

     

    Despite the speculation, both sides ultimately reaffirmed their commitment to one another, ensuring Green will continue wearing a Warriors uniform for what will be his 15th NBA season.

    Although Green’s numbers no longer reflect the offensive production of his prime, his impact continues to extend far beyond the box score.

     

    Last season, the 36-year-old averaged 8.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game while shooting 41.8 percent from the field and 32.6 percent from beyond the three-point arc. More importantly, he remained the emotional leader of the Warriors, anchoring their defense and orchestrating the offense with his elite passing and basketball IQ.

     

    If Green appears in at least 51 games during the upcoming season, he will become just the second player in Warriors franchise history to reach 1,000 regular-season appearances with the organization, joining longtime teammate Stephen Curry in accomplishing the milestone.

     

    The Warriors have also remained active throughout the offseason despite missing out on James.

    Golden State strengthened its roster by adding center Charles Bassey, veteran forward Al Horford, guard De’Anthony Melton, and former All-Star Kristaps Porzingis in an effort to provide Curry and Green with a deeper supporting cast. The franchise also secured stability on the sidelines after head coach Steve Kerr agreed to a two-year contract extension.

     

    With Green back in the fold, the Warriors will once again rely on the veteran trio of Curry, Green, and Kerr to lead the franchise into another title chase.

     

    Since being selected with the 35th overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, Green has spent his entire professional career with Golden State, developing into one of the greatest second-round selections in league history.

     

    His résumé speaks for itself. Green has helped the Warriors capture four NBA championships while establishing himself as one of the NBA’s premier defenders. He was named the league’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2017, led the NBA in steals that same season, earned five selections to the NBA All-Defensive First Team, and has been voted to four NBA All-Star Games.

     

    While his value has often been measured through his defensive intensity, versatility, and leadership rather than scoring, Green’s influence has been instrumental in one of the NBA’s most successful dynasties of the modern era.

     

    Now, with another contract secured and another championship pursuit on the horizon, Green will continue to play a central role in Golden State’s quest to add another title to its storied legacy.

     

     

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  • Kevin Quiambao adds to Gilas’ growing Asian Games absences as KBL duty calls 

    Kevin Quiambao adds to Gilas’ growing Asian Games absences as KBL duty calls 

    Gilas Pilipinas’ roster for the 2026 Asian Games continues to take shape—but not in the way head coach Tim Cone would have hoped.

     

    Kevin Quiambao has become the latest key player expected to skip the continental showcase, further shrinking the pool of familiar faces available for the Philippines after AJ Edu and Dwight Ramos were also ruled out due to overseas club commitments.

     

    Fresh from helping Gilas in the fourth window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, Quiambao is set to immediately shift his focus back to South Korea, where he is expected to report to the Goyang Sono Skygunners following the national team’s final qualifier on August 30.

     

    The timing leaves little room for the reigning UAAP MVP-turned-KBL standout to join the Philippine squad for the Asian Games, as Goyang Sono begins preparations for the 2026-27 Korean Basketball League season with heightened expectations after reaching last year’s finals.

     

    Quiambao has quietly carved out an important role for Gilas during the World Cup qualifiers, averaging 9.2 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists while providing versatility on both ends of the floor.

     

    His absence follows similar situations involving Edu and Ramos, who are both expected to return to Japan after the qualifiers to rejoin Gunma Crane Thunders and Levanga Hokkaido, respectively.

     

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    Both B.League clubs are scheduled to compete in the B.League Manila Games on September 9 and 10 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, making their immediate return to Japan a priority.

     

    Despite the growing list of unavailable players, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas still has reason for optimism.

     

    SBP executive director Erika Dy remains hopeful that Bennie Boatwright’s naturalization process will be completed before the Asian Games officially begin on September 10.

     

    If his documents are finalized in time, Boatwright could provide Gilas with a significant boost in the frontcourt.

     

    Unlike FIBA tournaments, the Asian Games follow a different eligibility system, opening the possibility for Cone to deploy a formidable frontline featuring naturalized stars Justin Brownlee, Angelo Kouame, and Boatwright together—an option unavailable in FIBA-sanctioned competitions.

     

    As overseas commitments continue to reshape the national team’s roster, Gilas now faces the challenge of balancing player availability while assembling a squad capable of contending on one of Asia’s biggest sporting stages.

     

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  • UST, San Beda banner Philippine teams in inaugural NSAC Asiabasket World Invitational 

    UST, San Beda banner Philippine teams in inaugural NSAC Asiabasket World Invitational 

    The University of Santo Tomas and San Beda University will spearhead the Philippines’ bid when the country’s top collegiate basketball programs test themselves against international competition in the inaugural NSAC World Invitational next month.

     

    UST, fresh off capturing the 2026 NSAC College Basketball Campus Tour championship, enters the tournament with momentum as the defending NSAC titlist, while San Beda joins the Growling Tigers in leading a strong local contingent that also includes Jose Rizal University and Far Eastern University.

     

    Organized by Asiabasket in partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), the eight-team tournament will run from August 14 to 16, 2026, giving Filipino student-athletes a rare opportunity to measure themselves against quality programs from across the Asia-Pacific.

     

    Representing the visiting teams are Japan’s Fighting Eagles Nagoya and Tenri University, Australia’s Elite Stacks, and Taiwan’s National Formosa University.

     

    Rather than serving as just another preseason event, the tournament aims to expose Philippine collegiate teams to different styles of play while strengthening international basketball ties.

     

    Asiabasket founder and chief executive officer Jai Reyes believes the competition represents a major step in expanding the reach of local college basketball.

     

    “The NSAC World Invitational is a reflection of our vision to elevate Philippine collegiate basketball beyond our borders,” said the concurrent UAAP basketball commissioner.

     

    “We want to provide our student-athletes with the opportunity to compete against quality international programs while showcasing the talent, passion, and competitiveness of Philippine basketball on a larger stage.”

     

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    Reyes also acknowledged the support of the PSC and SBP in making the event possible.

    “We are truly grateful to the PSC and SBP for believing in this vision and partnering with us for the NSAC World Invitational,” added the former Ateneo standout.

     

    “Together, we’re creating more opportunities for Filipino student-athletes to compete internationally while continuing to raise the standard of collegiate basketball in the Philippines.”

     

    The tournament will feature a knockout format with classification games, ensuring each team plays three games regardless of results. Quarterfinal matches are scheduled on August 14, followed by the semifinals and classification contests on August 15, before the championship and placement games conclude the event on August 16.

     

    Beyond determining the inaugural champion, the NSAC World Invitational hopes to strengthen basketball relationships across the Asia-Pacific while giving Philippine fans a chance to watch international collegiate teams compete on local soil.

     

    For UST, the event also presents another opportunity to build on the confidence gained from its 2026 NSAC College Basketball Campus Tour title, while San Beda and the rest of the Philippine representatives look to prove that the country’s collegiate programs can hold their own against respected international opposition.

     

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  • Gilas Boys one win from podium finish after reaching B.League U16 Challenge Cup bronze match 

    Gilas Boys one win from podium finish after reaching B.League U16 Challenge Cup bronze match 

    Gilas Pilipinas Boys remains in contention for a podium finish after navigating a challenging group stage in the 2026 B.League Under-16 Challenge Cup in Tokyo, Japan.

     

    The young Filipino squad secured a place in Thursday’s battle for third after finishing second in Group A with a 2-1 record at Sumida City Gymnasium, setting up a bronze medal showdown against Fukuoka.

     

    The campaign has highlighted the team’s resilience, bouncing back from its lone defeat with an emphatic performance to keep its hopes of bringing home a medal alive.

     

    Gilas opened the tournament by defeating Chiba, 91-81, behind a dominant outing from La Salle Green Hills standout Sam Esomchi, who imposed his will on both ends of the floor with 23 points, 19 rebounds, and two blocks. Dwayne Madrigal and Lawrence Copia also provided solid support with 13 and 11 points, respectively.

     

    Momentum, however, was halted in the team’s second assignment against Ryukyu.

     

    The Filipinos struggled to recover after surrendering the lead just 10 seconds into the contest and eventually trailed by as many as 13 points before halftime. Although Esomchi and Brielle Salazar ignited a comeback attempt after the break, Gilas could not overcome the explosive scoring of Ryukyu’s Eiji Oshiro, who erupted for 36 points, while Yuito Kawamitsu added 26 in a 73-66 victory.

     

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    Instead of allowing the setback to derail its campaign, Gilas responded with its most complete performance of the tournament.

     

    The Filipinos overwhelmed Tachikawa, 105-79, behind a balanced offensive attack that saw six players score in double figures. Lawrence Copia paced the squad with 19 points, while Zap Ong added 17. Jayson Mercado contributed 15, Josh Saga chipped in 14, and both Esomchi and Salazar finished with 12 points apiece.

     

    Through three games, Esomchi has established himself as one of the tournament’s most productive players, averaging 19.3 points, 14.0 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks to lead the national team.

     

    Now, Gilas has one final opportunity to cap its Tokyo campaign on a winning note when it takes on Fukuoka for the bronze medal.

     

    The Philippines will also be looking to continue its strong tradition in the tournament after FEU-Diliman captured the championship in last year’s edition, proving that the country’s next generation of basketball talent can compete with Japan’s best.

     

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  • Kobey Lam delivers winning plays as Macau stuns Terrafirma for second straight victory

    Kobey Lam delivers winning plays as Macau stuns Terrafirma for second straight victory

    half chasing Terrafirma, Macau delivered another performance on Wednesday night, overcoming an 11-point deficit before holding its nerve in the closing seconds to escape with a 96-92 victory in the PBA Season 50 Governor’s Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.


    The win marked the Giant Pandas’ second straight triumph, lifting them to a 2-4 record in Group A and providing another confidence boost after a difficult start to the conference.

     

    Macau looked headed for another frustrating night after trailing 54-43 at halftime, but the complexion of the game completely shifted in the third quarter. 

     

    Powered by the inside-out scoring of import De’Vondre Perry and the hot shooting of Damian Chongqui, the Giant Pandas unleashed a 29-14 scoring barrage to erase the deficit and grab a 72-68 advantage entering the final period.

     

    Import Justin Strings continued to anchor the Dyip offense, while Juami Tiongson and Maverick Ahanmisi delivered timely baskets to keep the game within reach. Strings eventually put Terrafirma back in front, 92-90, after converting a hook shot with less than two minutes remaining.

     

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    Perry quickly responded, knocking down a running jumper with 44.6 seconds left to even the score at 92-all and set the stage for Macau’s defining sequence.

     

    The Giant Pandas forced a crucial turnover, opening the floor for Kobey Lam, who finished a fastbreak layup while drawing a foul. 

     

    Although Lam was unable to complete the three-point play, he chased down his own missed free throw to extend Macau’s possession before Chongqui calmly buried two free throws that sealed the four-point victory.

     

    Perry once again powered the Giant Pandas with a dominant double-double of 34 points, 14 rebounds, and two assists. 

     

    Chongqui delivered one of his best performances of the conference, earning Player of the Game honors after finishing with 29 points, three assists, and three steals, while Lam contributed 12 points, including the game’s biggest basket.

     

    The victory carried even more significance considering both Perry and Chongqui battled through injuries. Perry has been nursing a shoulder issue, while Chongqui has been dealing with a thigh injury, making Macau’s gritty performance even more impressive.

     

    “I just appreciate them for being tough-minded, gritty, and helping us get that win,” Macau coach Marcus Elliott said.

     

    With consecutive victories finally providing momentum, the Giant Pandas now turn their attention to Tuesday, August 4, when they take on Titan Ultra at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, hoping to extend their winning streak and continue climbing the Group A standings.

     

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  • Import Jamaal Franklin embraces second chance with Converge after disappointing first stint

    Import Jamaal Franklin embraces second chance with Converge after disappointing first stint

    Converge’s search for consistency in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup hit another roadblock after the FiberXers absorbed a narrow 110-107 defeat to the TNT Tropang Giga at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Tuesday, July 28.

     

    The loss dropped Converge to its second defeat of the conference, but despite the disappointing result, the FiberXers found a major positive in the return of veteran import Jamaal Franklin, who made an immediate impact in his second stint with the franchise.

     

    Franklin wasted little time reminding everyone why Converge brought him back, finishing with 30 points in his season debut while providing stability on both ends of the floor. His all-around performance kept the FiberXers within striking distance against the defending champions, although it ultimately wasn’t enough to prevent TNT from escaping with the victory.

     

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    The 35-year-old American is no stranger to Converge fans. He first joined the FiberXers during the 2023 Governors’ Cup and quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier imports. Over his first 10 games with the franchise, Franklin delivered a string of dominant performances, highlighted by a remarkable 57-point explosion against the Meralco Bolts that remains one of the highest-scoring games by an import in recent PBA history.

     

    However, his initial stint came to an abrupt end after an underwhelming outing against Barangay Ginebra San Miguel prompted the franchise to replace him before the start of the playoffs.

    Now back in a Converge uniform, Franklin expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to represent the team once again and is determined to help the FiberXers turn their campaign around.

     

    “I mean, this was my first home playing out here. It was cut short, it was just some stuff that happened. But happy to be back, and just gotta keep going at it, and we just got to get better and hopefully get on the winning circle again,” Franklin said after the game.

     

    Franklin was tapped to replace fellow import Jalen Hudson, whose inconsistent performances during the early stages of the conference prompted the team’s management to make a change. While there is still work to be done as Converge adjusts to its new lineup, Franklin believes the team’s potential will become more evident as they spend more time together.

     

    The former NBA and international veteran also spoke highly of his teammates, particularly the players he already knew from his previous stint with the club.

     

    “Alec and Justin are my guys, I have known them since my first time here. And I played against Mikey, he’s one hell of a player, he can score the ball, he’s one of the best scorers in this league. So it’s always good playing with a guy like Mikey. He’s a good scorer, he’s keeping composure, he practices hard. So just happy to have him on our side now, and happy to have the players we have right now.”

     

    Franklin’s familiarity with several members of the roster could prove valuable as Converge looks to quickly build chemistry and bounce back from its slow start. His veteran leadership and scoring ability are expected to ease the offensive burden on the FiberXers while providing a reliable presence in crucial stretches of games.

     

    Despite the loss to TNT, Converge showed flashes of competitiveness against one of the league’s top contenders, giving the team optimism that better performances are on the horizon with Franklin back in the fold.

     

    The FiberXers will have an opportunity to return to the win column when they take on the NLEX Road Warriors at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday, August 1. With Franklin settling back into the system and the team looking to capitalize on his experience, Converge hopes to translate its encouraging signs into a much-needed victory as the Governors’ Cup eliminations continue.

     

     

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  • Powerhouse Strong Group-Pilipinas eyes historic Jones Cup three-peat behind Dave Ildefonso, returning core

    Powerhouse Strong Group-Pilipinas eyes historic Jones Cup three-peat behind Dave Ildefonso, returning core

    Strong Group-Pilipinas is once again bringing back a battle-tested core as it sets its sights on making history in the William Jones Cup.

     

    Headlined by Dave Ildefonso, several key contributors from the wsquad’s previous championship runs will return as the Philippines looks to capture an unprecedented third consecutive Jones Cup title, further cementing the country’s dominance in one of Asia’s longest-running international basketball tournaments.

     

    Joining Ildefonso are familiar faces Kiefer Ravena, Jason Brickman, Rhenz Abando, Angelo Kouame, Geo Chiu, and reigning NCAA MVP Allen Liwag, giving Strong Group-Pilipinas one of its deepest and most experienced rosters yet. Their chemistry, built over multiple international campaigns, is expected to be one of the team’s biggest advantages as it enters the tournament with a target on its back.

     

    Unlike most teams that enter the Jones Cup hoping to contend, Strong Group-Pilipinas arrives in Taiwan with far greater expectations. After winning back-to-back championships and dominating much of last year’s tournament, anything less than another gold medal would be viewed as a disappointment for a program that has quickly established itself as the tournament’s benchmark.

     

    The Philippines has long been one of the most successful nations in Jones Cup history, and Strong Group has proudly carried that tradition in recent years. With consecutive titles already under its belt, the squad now has the opportunity to accomplish something no Philippine team has ever achieved—a third straight championship.

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    Ildefonso, meanwhile, is expected to take on an even bigger role after continuing to develop his game over the past year. Surrounded by seasoned veterans and proven international performers, the versatile wing gives Strong Group another reliable scoring option while also providing length and defensive versatility on both ends of the floor.

     

    Team officials have made no secret of their ambitions. Retaining the championship remains the only objective, and bringing back much of last year’s roster reflects the organization’s belief that continuity and familiarity can once again lead to success.

     

    Of course, defending a title is never easy. Every opponent will be eager to knock off the reigning champions, making Strong Group-Pilipinas the team everyone will be chasing throughout the competition.

     

    Still, with an experienced core, proven international pedigree, and a roster loaded with talent, Strong Group-Pilipinas enters the tournament as the clear favorite. Now, the challenge is turning those lofty expectations into another championship—and completing a historic Jones Cup three-peat.

     

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  • Sedrick Barefield dreams of Gilas call-up after making Asian Games shortlist

    Sedrick Barefield dreams of Gilas call-up after making Asian Games shortlist

    Blackwater Bossing guard Sedrick Barefield admitted that representing the Philippines on the international stage would be a dream come true after being included in the initial pool of players being considered for the men’s national basketball team for the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan.

     

    The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) recently announced the first list of candidates for Gilas Pilipinas, with Barefield among the 30 players named as part of the preliminary pool. The versatile guard, however, revealed that he only learned about his inclusion after SBP executive director Erika Dy mentioned his name during her appearance at the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum on Tuesday, July 28.

     

    Barefield welcomed the development, saying the chance to represent the country in a major international competition would be a significant milestone in his career.

     

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    “I’m hoping that it’s a possibility. It will be a dream come true, just to go out there and compete with those guys representing the country. It would mean the world, it would mean everything. That’s high-level basketball that you always want to be a part of, that you dream of being a part of,” Barefield told reporters.

     

    The 29-year-old guard has been one of the most consistent performers for the Blackwater Bossing since joining the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), using his versatility, shooting ability, and playmaking skills to make an impact on both ends of the floor.

     

    Although Barefield has Filipino heritage, he is currently unable to suit up as a local player for Gilas Pilipinas in FIBA-sanctioned competitions because of eligibility requirements. However, the 2026 Asian Games follow different rules, with athletes only required to hold a Philippine passport to be eligible to compete.

    That distinction opens the door for Barefield to potentially make his national team debut in Nagoya, giving him the opportunity to share the court with some of the country’s top basketball talents while representing the Philippines on one of Asia’s biggest sporting stages.

     

    Barefield’s basketball journey has taken him across different levels and countries, building a résumé that includes experiences in some of the world’s competitive basketball leagues. Born to a Filipino mother and American father, he developed his game in California before making the jump toward professional basketball.

     

    After completing high school in California, Barefield declared for the 2019 National Basketball Association (NBA) Draft but went undrafted. Despite missing out on being selected, he earned an opportunity to showcase his talent by signing with the Oklahoma City Thunder for the NBA Summer League.

     

    He later continued his development with the Oklahoma City Blue, the Thunder’s NBA G League affiliate, gaining valuable experience against high-level competition.

     

    Since then, Barefield has built a reputation as a well-traveled professional, playing in various leagues across the globe. His career has included stints in Lithuania, Greece, Taiwan, and Guinea before eventually making his way to the PBA, where he has become one of Blackwater’s key contributors.

     

    His international experience and ability to adapt to different basketball systems could make him an attractive option for the national team setup as SBP continues evaluating players ahead of the Asian Games.

     

    While his inclusion in the initial pool does not guarantee a spot on the final roster, Barefield remains hopeful that he will get the opportunity to wear the Philippine colors and compete alongside Gilas Pilipinas.

     

    For a player who has spent years chasing opportunities around the world, a place on the national team would represent another defining chapter in his basketball journey—one that allows him to give back by representing the country on the international stage.

     

     

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  • SBP submits initial Gilas pool for 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya

    SBP submits initial Gilas pool for 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya

    The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has taken the first step toward assembling Gilas Pilipinas’ roster for the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, submitting an initial list of candidates for the men’s basketball competition as the national team begins preparations for its title defense.

     

    SBP executive director Erika Dy confirmed that the federation has already forwarded a preliminary pool of players to the Asian Games organizing committee. However, she stressed that the list remains subject to changes, with the final 12-man lineup that will represent the Philippines under head coach Tim Cone still yet to be determined.

     

    “There was already a short list that was submitted. But it’s not yet the final list because, just like in the Southeast Asian Games, there can still be changes in the end,” Dy said during her appearance at the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum on Tuesday, July 28.

     

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    The initial submission reportedly includes more than 30 players, with the core members of the current Gilas Pilipinas program included in the pool. According to Dy, the list reflects the federation’s commitment to maintaining continuity while also keeping its options open as the coaching staff evaluates player availability, form, and team needs leading up to the continental competition.

     

    Despite having a strong group of candidates, Gilas Pilipinas will be forced to deal with the absence of some key contributors due to scheduling conflicts. Dy confirmed that Dwight Ramos and AJ Edu are unlikely to be available for the Asian Games after both players are committed to their respective teams in the Japan B.League.

    The two Filipino standouts are scheduled to participate in the B.League Manila Games showcase on September 9 and 10, a commitment that overlaps with the Asian Games calendar.

     

    “Out of that 30-plus, the mainstays of Gilas are there. I think it’s safe to say that Dwight and AJ won’t be available because they are playing in the B.League Manila Games. So there’s a schedule conflict with the Asian Games,” Dy explained.

     

    Ramos and Edu have been important pieces of the national team setup in recent years. Ramos has emerged as one of Gilas’ most reliable perimeter players, providing scoring, defense, and leadership, while Edu has been a key presence in the frontcourt because of his athleticism and defensive ability. Their potential absence means Cone and his staff may have to explore different combinations heading into the tournament.

     

    Still, the SBP remains confident that the Philippines will have a competitive roster capable of challenging for another championship. The core of the national team program that delivered success in recent international competitions remains intact, giving Gilas a strong foundation heading into Nagoya.

     

    Gilas Pilipinas enters the 2026 Asian Games as the defending men’s basketball champion after ending a historic 61-year drought in the previous edition held in Hangzhou, China.

     

    The Philippines captured the gold medal in 2023 with a memorable 70-60 victory over Jordan in the finals, a win that marked the country’s first Asian Games basketball title since 1962. Led by a combination of veteran leadership, young talent, and strong team chemistry, Gilas produced one of the most significant moments in Philippine basketball history.

     

    With the pressure of defending its crown, Gilas Pilipinas will now begin the process of finalizing its roster while navigating player availability and international commitments. The SBP is expected to continue monitoring candidates before Cone and his coaching staff make the final decisions on the players who will carry the Philippine flag in Nagoya.

     

    As preparations continue, the national team will look to build on the momentum of its Asian Games triumph and prove once again that the Philippines remains one of the strongest basketball nations in the region.

     

     

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  • PBA considers bringing Governors’ Cup action to SM Seaside Cebu Arena

    PBA considers bringing Governors’ Cup action to SM Seaside Cebu Arena

    The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) could soon bring its biggest games to Cebu after Commissioner Willie Marcial revealed that the league is exploring the possibility of staging games—and potentially even the finals of the ongoing 2026 Governors’ Cup—at the newly inaugurated SM Seaside Cebu Arena.

     

    Marcial made the revelation after attending the grand opening of the state-of-the-art facility, which is now regarded as the largest indoor arena in the Visayas. The venue, reportedly built at a cost of around PHP 7 billion, is expected to become one of the country’s premier destinations for major sporting events, concerts, and entertainment spectacles.

     

    Located within the expansive SM Seaside City Cebu complex, the seven-story arena boasts a seating capacity of approximately 16,000 for sporting events, with the ability to accommodate up to 25,000 spectators depending on the event configuration. The venue also features modern amenities, spacious locker rooms, athlete support facilities, and a dedicated practice court, making it well-equipped to host high-profile basketball tournaments.

     

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    Marcial admitted that he was impressed after touring the facility and said the league is seriously considering bringing PBA games to Cebu as early as the ongoing Governors’ Cup.

    “Sobrang laki at sobrang ganda. Balak talaga natin maglaro dun. Tingnan natin kung kakayanin sa finals. Kung hindi naman, pwedeng next season na. Malaki yung dugout and locker area. At may practice court siya,” Marcial told reporters.

     

    His comments have fueled excitement among basketball fans in Cebu, a province widely regarded as one of the country’s strongest basketball hotbeds. The PBA has long enjoyed passionate support whenever it stages out-of-town games in Cebu, and the opening of a world-class arena provides the league with an opportunity to bring marquee matchups to a larger audience outside Metro Manila.

     

    Should scheduling and logistical requirements align, the Governors’ Cup Finals could become one of the first major sporting events to be held at the arena. If that proves unfeasible, Marcial indicated that the venue is expected to become part of the league’s regular rotation beginning with the next PBA conference.

     

    The arena’s opening also aligns with the PBA’s continued efforts to expand its footprint across the country. In recent years, the league has increased the number of provincial games to reconnect with fans outside the capital while showcasing Philippine basketball in modern venues capable of hosting large crowds.

     

    Beyond the PBA, the SM Seaside Cebu Arena is already set to play a major role in the country’s sporting calendar. The facility has been selected as one of the host venues for the 2027 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup, which the Philippines will stage in July next year. Hosting the continental tournament is expected to further strengthen the country’s reputation as a destination for international basketball events.

     

    The arena is also expected to become a major entertainment hub, with several internationally acclaimed artists and performers already scheduled to hold concerts there later this year.

     

    With its modern design, world-class facilities, and strategic location in the Queen City of the South, the SM Seaside Cebu Arena is poised to become a new home for Philippine sports. For the PBA, the venue offers an opportunity to bring the excitement of professional basketball closer to the passionate Cebuano fan base while elevating the league’s game-day experience in one of the country’s most vibrant basketball markets.

     

     

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