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Category: Basketball

  • NBA Roundup: Stars Shine, Stunners Emerge in Action-Packed NBA Friday

    NBA Roundup: Stars Shine, Stunners Emerge in Action-Packed NBA Friday

    Friday night in the NBA delivered a little bit of everything—statement wins, overtime drama, breakout performances, and superstar reminders of why the league never sleeps.

     

    In Orlando, the Charlotte Hornets wasted no time flexing their offensive muscle, blitzing the Magic early and never letting up in a convincing 124–97 road win. LaMelo Ball set the tone by orchestrating the offense with poise, finishing with 16 points, six rebounds, and seven assists as Charlotte controlled the game from the opening quarter. Paolo Banchero tried to keep Orlando afloat with 23 points and seven rebounds, but the Magic never fully recovered from their slow start.

     

    The night’s most dramatic showdown unfolded in Philadelphia, where the 76ers outlasted the Houston Rockets in overtime, 128–122. Kevin Durant poured in a game-high 36 points to push Houston to the brink, but Joel Embiid answered with a monstrous all-around performance—32 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists—to seal the win for Philly in extra time.

     

    Denver continued its steady climb with a 107–97 road victory over Washington, powered by an explosive night from Peyton Watson. The Nuggets forward erupted for 35 points, eight rebounds, and four blocks, overwhelming a Wizards squad led by Kyshawn George’s 20-point, 12-rebound, seven-assist effort.

     

    In Dallas, the Mavericks defended home court in a thrilling 123–115 win over Golden State. Stephen Curry caught fire with 38 points, but it wasn’t enough to offset the Mavericks’ balanced attack, highlighted by Naji Marshall’s near triple-double of 30 points, seven rebounds, and nine assists.

     

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    Chicago pulled off a gritty road win in Minnesota, edging the Timberwolves 120–115. Josh Giddey chipped in 21 points and six rebounds for the Bulls, while Julius Randle’s 30-point, seven-rebound, six-assist night went for naught as the Wolves fell short late.

     

    San Antonio continued its impressive run with a 126–109 victory over Utah, as Victor Wembanyama dominated both ends of the floor. The Spurs’ franchise star tallied 26 points, 14 rebounds, and five blocks, overshadowing an unusual triple-double from Jazz center Jusuf Nurkic, who posted 17 points, 11 rebounds, and 14 assists.

     

    In Los Angeles, the Clippers protected Intuit Dome with a 112–104 win over the Lakers despite a dazzling performance from Luka Doncic, who dropped 32 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists in a losing effort. Ivica Zubac anchored the Clippers with 18 points and a massive 19-rebound night.

     

    The final exclamation point came in Portland, where the Trail Blazers overwhelmed the Miami Heat 127–110. Shaedon Sharpe led the charge with 27 points, seven rebounds, and four steals, countering Bam Adebayo’s strong showing of 32 points and 10 rebounds for Miami.

     

    From overtime classics to breakout stars and dominant big men, Friday’s slate served as another reminder that every NBA night carries its own kind of chaos—and brilliance.

     

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  • Phoenix ushers in new era with James Dickey III as import under new coach Charles Tiu 

    Phoenix ushers in new era with James Dickey III as import under new coach Charles Tiu 

    A new chapter is officially underway in Phoenix Super LPG, and it begins with a bold import choice that signals how Charles Tiu plans to reshape the Fuel Masters.

     

    James Dickey III has been locked in as Phoenix’s first reinforcement under Tiu’s watch, a move the young coach confirmed as he kicked off his tenure with the team. While the timing of the import market posed challenges, Tiu made it clear that landing Dickey was a win in itself.

     

    “It’s really not the best time of the year to get imports since the leagues in Japan, Korea, and Taiwan are already in full swing, but we’re still lucky to get James,” Tiu said.

     

    “Though he is still relatively young, he already has experience, and hopefully, with his height and athleticism, he can help us this conference.”

     

    At 6-foot-10, Dickey brings size and mobility to a Phoenix squad that is clearly leaning toward a faster, more modern style. A product of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Dickey may have gone undrafted in 2020, but his professional journey since has been anything but quiet.

     

    The American big man has built a résumé across Europe, suiting up in Hungary, Germany, Israel, France, and Ukraine before finding stability in Indonesia with Pelita Jaya. There, he spent the last two years competing at a high level and even shared the floor with Barangay Ginebra star Justin Brownlee.

     

    Before parting ways with Pelita Jaya late last year, Dickey was posting strong all-around numbers, averaging 18.7 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game—production Phoenix hopes will translate seamlessly to the PBA stage.

     

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    Dickey’s arrival comes amid a period of heavy transition for the Fuel Masters. Prior to Tiu taking over, the franchise moved on from several veterans, including RJ Jazul, RR Garcia, Yousef Taha, J-Jay Alejandro, Sean Manganti, and James Kwekuteye, while committing to rookie Will Gozum with a two-year contract.

     

    Despite the turnover, Tiu isn’t short on optimism.

     

    “Jason [Perkins] will still be our leader on the court, and Ricci [Rivero] impressed me so much — he’s actually much better than I thought. I think he’s going to be a huge part of our team,” he said.

     

    “I also like our point guards Tyler [Tio] and Evan [Nelle]. They can really run our system well.”

    Youth may define Phoenix on paper, but Tiu sees hunger as the equalizer.

     

    “Even if our team is younger compared to the others, we’re ready to give every team a run for their money. We want to compete hard and show that we can be a tough matchup for anyone.”

    With Dickey anchoring the middle and a retooled core buying into Tiu’s vision, Phoenix Super LPG is wasting no time making its intentions clear in this new era.

     

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  • Vic Manuel reunites with former PBA teammates as Zamboanga Valientes competes in Dubai

    Vic Manuel reunites with former PBA teammates as Zamboanga Valientes competes in Dubai

    For Vic Manuel, Dubai isn’t just another overseas stop—it’s a rare pause in a long PBA grind, one that allows him to play basketball without the usual pressure, surrounded by familiar faces from different chapters of his career.

     

    Now wearing Zamboanga Valientes colors, Manuel is reunited with former PBA teammates Terrence Romeo, Nick Demusis, and Barkley Ebona as the team competes in the Dubai International Basketball Championship, which tips off Friday. The Valientes departed for Dubai on Thursday afternoon.

     

    At 38, the veteran forward sees the reunion as something he doesn’t take lightly, especially after years of roster changes and short-term contracts across the league. 

     

    For Manuel, the chance to share the floor again—particularly with Romeo, his former San Miguel teammate and championship partner—feels more like a reward than a coincidence.

     

    “Masaya, kahit paano nagkasama-sama kami dito sa Zamboanga, ‘di ba?! Nag-i-enjoy lang kami sa paglalaro ng basketball. Tamang kuwentuhan lang,” Manuel said.

     

    Of the group, Romeo was his most recent teammate in the PBA. The two were dealt together from San Miguel to Terrafirma in exchange for Juami Tiongson and Andreas Cahilig. Demusis previously crossed paths with Manuel at Phoenix, while Ebona was one of his frontcourt partners during his Alaska days—connections that now converge under one banner far from home.

     

    Adding to the familiarity is Greg Slaughter, another Valientes recruit and Manuel’s former teammate on the Gilas Pilipinas squad that captured gold in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games. 

     

    Though the two never played together in the PBA, their bond has endured, with Manuel affectionately referring to the former Ateneo center as his “partner.” 

     

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    The Dubai stint, however, was a year in the making.

     

    Manuel revealed that both he and Romeo were already invited to play for Zamboanga during last year’s Dubai tournament, back when they were still with Terrafirma.

     

    “Last Dubai din, tinawagan nila (Valientes) ako, dapat kami ni Terrence din,” he recalled. “Kaso may kontrata pa ako sa Terrafirma. Nag-try akong magpaalam, kaso hindi nila ako pinayagan.

    “Pero tapos na nun yung conference (Commissioner’s Cup). Isang buwan na lang yung kontrata ko sa kanila, Pero yun nga, ‘di ako pinayagan. Tinapos ko na lang din yung kontrata para wala rin silang masabi.”

     

    That patience eventually paid off. After failing to secure a contract renewal with the Dyip, Manuel joined the Valientes and helped them win the Governor Hofer Invitational Basketball Championship in Zamboanga Sibugay. Soon after, team owner Junnie Navarro made it clear that Dubai was already in the plans.

     

    “Last year pa, sinabihan na ako na, ‘O next year (2026), laro ka na,” Manuel said. “Well, masaya namang maglaro kay boss Junnie. Sobrang alaga nila dito ang mga players. Turing nila, parang pamilya na rin.”

     

    Manuel arrives in Dubai in game shape, coming off a brief but intense stint with Converge in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup. His one-month contract expired shortly after the FiberXers’ playoff heartbreak—a 99-98 overtime loss to Barangay Ginebra.

     

    “Hindi lang naging maganda yung last stint ko. Na-out kami nang maaga,” Manuel admitted, while remaining optimistic about Converge’s long-term direction.

     

    “Pero habang tumatagal, matututo yung team. Magma-matured yan. Malakas naman yung team.”

    For now, though, Manuel is fully locked in on the task at hand. In Dubai, surrounded by old teammates and renewed purpose, the veteran forward isn’t chasing a comeback—he’s simply making the most of the moment.

     

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  • “May chance pa naman kami”: June Mar Fajardo stays optimistic after Game 1 loss

    “May chance pa naman kami”: June Mar Fajardo stays optimistic after Game 1 loss

    For three quarters, TNT Tropang Giga seemed to have Game 1 of the Philippine Cup Finals firmly under control. The Tropang Giga dictated the tempo, executed their game plan with precision, and built what looked like a comfortable lead against the San Miguel Beermen. But as is often the case in championship basketball, early dominance is rarely enough to secure victory. When the pressure mounted in the fourth quarter and the margin for error shrank, it was TNT’s composure, discipline, and timely execution that ultimately carried the day.

     

    TNT survived a furious late rally by the defending champions to escape with a 96–91 win in Game 1 of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The victory gave the Tropang Giga a critical 1–0 lead in the best-of-seven series and immediately set the tone for what promises to be a hard-fought, tightly contested championship matchup.

     

    Offensively, TNT leaned on a balanced team effort, with six players scoring in double figures. The Tropang Giga consistently punished San Miguel whenever defensive lapses occurred, ensuring they stayed ahead despite the Beermen’s relentless push. While the scoring was evenly distributed, veteran forward Kelly Williams quietly anchored TNT’s performance on both ends of the floor. The former PBA Most Valuable Player finished with 15 points, nine rebounds, and three assists — numbers that only partially reflected his overall impact. Williams’ calm leadership and ability to make crucial plays under pressure helped keep TNT in control during San Miguel’s late surge.

     

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    For the Beermen, record-holding PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo continued to assert his dominance in the paint, delivering a monster 24-point, 17-rebound performance. Despite his valiant efforts, San Miguel fell short in the end. Still, Fajardo remains optimistic about the series, acknowledging that a single game does not determine the championship.

    “Long series ‘to. ‘Di magiging madaling series ‘to para sa’min. May chance pa naman kami. Malayo pa ‘yan. So kailangan naming mag-bounce back. Kailangan naming mag-regroup,” Fajardo said after the game.

     

    The Beermen found themselves trailing by as much as 19 points in the first half, but they showed why they are the reigning champions. With improved defensive pressure, sharper execution, and a renewed sense of urgency, San Miguel clawed their way back in the second half, eventually cutting TNT’s lead to a single possession in the final moments. The rally, while ultimately not enough, demonstrated the team’s resilience and ability to adjust mid-game.

     

    Fajardo drew inspiration from his team’s comeback effort and believes San Miguel can carry that momentum into Game 2.

     

    “Yong bigs nila, tumitira sa labas. Ang dami nilang na-shoot na threes and ang laki ng hinabol naming noong first half. Talo kami sa first half pero panalo kami sa second half. Bawi na lang,” he said, highlighting the adjustments his team made in the second half and the lessons they will carry forward.

     

    Game 2 is scheduled for Friday, January 23, once again at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The Beermen will look to respond and level the series, while TNT will aim to build on its early momentum and tighten its grip on the championship. With both teams showcasing their depth, talent, and championship pedigree, fans can expect another thrilling encounter as the Philippine Cup Finals continues.

     

    As the series unfolds, attention will likely remain on TNT’s veteran leadership, San Miguel’s ability to adjust defensively, and how stars like Fajardo and Williams influence the series’ pivotal moments. One thing is certain: the battle for the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup is just beginning, and Game 2 promises to be another showcase of skill, strategy, and sheer determination.

     

     

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  • Leo Austria admits San Miguel’s bench struggles contributed to its Game 1 loss to TNT

    Leo Austria admits San Miguel’s bench struggles contributed to its Game 1 loss to TNT

    For three quarters, TNT Tropang Giga appeared to be firmly in control, dictating the pace and building what looked like a commanding cushion in the opening game of the Philippine Cup Finals. But as championship basketball often reminds, early dominance alone is rarely enough. When the pressure mounted and the margin for error shrank, it was TNT’s composure, discipline, and timely execution that ultimately sealed the result.

     

    The Tropang Giga survived a furious late rally by the San Miguel Beermen to escape with a 96–91 victory in Game 1 of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The win handed TNT a 1–0 lead in the best-of-seven series and immediately underscored the tone of what promises to be a grueling, tightly contested championship duel.

     

    TNT leaned on a collective offensive effort throughout the night, placing six players in double figures and consistently punishing San Miguel whenever defensive breakdowns occurred. While the scoring was spread evenly, it was veteran forward Kelly Williams who quietly anchored TNT’s performance on both ends of the floor. The former PBA Most Valuable Player finished with 15 points, nine rebounds, and three assists, numbers that only partially reflected his influence.

     

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    Williams’ most pivotal contributions came in the closing minutes of the fourth quarter, when San Miguel was threatening to complete a dramatic comeback. With the Beermen gaining momentum, Williams calmly orchestrated the offense from the high post, delivering back-to-back drop passes to Aaron Ganuelas-Rosser for two crucial interior baskets. Those plays stretched TNT’s lead to 90–83, momentarily halting San Miguel’s surge and giving the Tropang Giga just enough breathing room to steady themselves down the stretch.

     

    After the game, San Miguel head coach Leo Austria pointed to the early stages of the contest as the decisive factor, particularly the inability of his second unit to match TNT’s energy and production.

     

    “I think it’s very clear, you know, the first quarter or the first half you know is the culprit. Because we didn’t play the way we played before. They have a very clear game plan to stop our bench, especially ‘yung mga perimeter shooters namin,” Austria said post the game.

    The numbers backed up Austria’s assessment. TNT’s bench poured in a decisive 48 points, nearly doubling the 27 produced by San Miguel’s reserves. Don Trollano, typically the catalyst of the Beermen’s second unit, was effectively neutralized for most of the night and did not score until the final quarter.

     

    “Credit to the game plan of TNT, they were able to contain our shooters. If you noticed, ang gumawa sa amin ay puro big me. But our wingmen, especially the bench namin hindi sila masyado nag-score,” Austria added.

     

    Despite the struggles from the perimeter, San Miguel still found production from its frontline. June Mar Fajardo, Mo Tautuaa, and Rodney Brondial carried much of the offensive load, repeatedly scoring inside and controlling stretches of the rebounding battle. However, the limited output from veteran guards Chris Ross and Marcio Lassiter, coupled with the bench’s quiet night, proved costly against a TNT side that rarely let its focus waver.

     

    Even so, the Beermen showed exactly why they are the defending champions. After trailing by as many as 19 points in the first half, San Miguel clawed its way back with improved defensive pressure and sharper execution in the second half, eventually cutting the deficit to just one possession in the final moments.

     

    “The mere fact na we are able to get that kind of production in the second half, the chance is still there. It’s a matter of mindset. This is a championship game. Every possession is very important, especially in the first quarter.

     

    “I think next time siguro mai-address namin lahat and we should have a better plan. This is a best of seven and we have to adjust,” Austria concluded.

     

    With adjustments expected on both sides, Austria will be banking on a stronger showing from Trollano and the rest of San Miguel’s bench when the series resumes. Game 2 is set for Friday, January 23, once again at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, where the Beermen will look to respond and level the Finals, while TNT aims to build on its early momentum and tighten its grip on the championship series.

     

     

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  • “It’s unfair to pull him into family drama”: Jeanie Buss denies reports of tension with LeBron James

    “It’s unfair to pull him into family drama”: Jeanie Buss denies reports of tension with LeBron James

    The Buss family’s decision to sell its majority stake in the Los Angeles Lakers has already sent shockwaves across the NBA, but new details surrounding the blockbuster deal — and the internal tension it may have surfaced — are now adding even more intrigue to the franchise’s uncertain future.

     

    According to reports, the Buss family sold its controlling share of the Lakers to TWG Global CEO Mark Walter in a record-breaking $10 billion transaction, a price tag that marks the highest amount ever paid for a professional sports franchise in the United States.

     

    As part of the agreement, the Buss family is expected to retain a minority stake of roughly 15 percent for a period of time, ensuring the family name will remain connected to the franchise in the short term even as the team enters a new ownership era.

     

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    Despite the change in ownership structure, Jeanie Buss will continue to serve as the Lakers’ governor and oversee daily operations “for at least a period of time,” per reports detailing the arrangement between the Buss family and Walter.

     

    However, ESPN’s deep-dive report on the sale has sparked fresh headlines after revealing alleged behind-the-scenes friction between Buss and Lakers superstar LeBron James — tensions that reportedly existed even before the franchise’s landmark sale.

     

    ESPN’s Baxter Holmes reported that Buss privately felt James should have been more appreciative after the Lakers drafted his son, Bronny James, with the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft — a move that helped create one of the most historic storylines in league history as LeBron and Bronny became the first father-son duo to share the court in the NBA.

    “And when the Lakers drafted James’ son, Bronny, with the 55th pick in the 2024 draft, Jeanie privately remarked that James should be grateful for such a gesture, but she felt that he wasn’t, people close to the team told ESPN,” the report stated.

     

    Buss quickly pushed back against the claim, issuing a statement to The Athletic that defended James and criticized the idea that he did not appreciate the organization.

     

    “It’s really not right, given all the great things LeBron has done for the Lakers, that he has to be pulled into my family drama,” Buss said. “To say that it wasn’t appreciated is just not true and completely unfair to him.”

     

    Bronny’s selection by Los Angeles came with major attention and even bigger expectations, but his early NBA career has been a difficult adjustment. The young guard has struggled to carve out a consistent role and has yet to become a reliable part of the Lakers’ rotation.

     

    The same ESPN report also suggested that Buss’ frustration with James reportedly dates back several years — particularly following the Lakers’ blockbuster trade for Russell Westbrook in 2021, a move that ultimately failed to deliver championship results and left the roster with limited flexibility.

     

    According to the report, Buss privately considered drastic options in the aftermath, including the possibility of not offering James an extension — and even exploring trade scenarios that allegedly included the LA Clippers as a hypothetical destination.

     

    While Buss has publicly emphasized her continued appreciation for James and his impact on the franchise, the emergence of these reports adds another layer of drama to a pivotal moment in Lakers history.

     

    With the team transitioning into a new ownership structure under Mark Walter, questions will only grow louder about what the next era looks like — and whether the Lakers will prioritize continuity around LeBron, or begin pivoting toward the next generation as the franchise attempts to remain a title contender in a rapidly evolving Western Conference.

     

     

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  • NBA Roundup: Thunder dominate, Knicks make history, Celtics stay rolling

    NBA Roundup: Thunder dominate, Knicks make history, Celtics stay rolling

    A packed Thursday night in the NBA delivered statement wins, historic margins, and superstar performances across the league, highlighted by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s brilliance and a record-setting rout at Madison Square Garden.

     

    Thunder rout Bucks behind SGA’s 40 points

     

    The Oklahoma City Thunder continued to look every bit like a title contender, rolling past the Milwaukee Bucks, 122–102, despite being short-handed. Gilgeous-Alexander was unstoppable, pouring in 40 points to go with 11 assists and seven rebounds as OKC seized control early and never looked back. Giannis Antetokounmpo finished with 19 points, 14 rebounds, and seven assists, but Milwaukee struggled to keep pace after a slow start.

     

    Jaylen Brown’s double-double leads Celtics over Pacers 

     

    Boston also flexed its muscle at home, turning back the Indiana Pacers, 119–104, behind a strong all-around effort. Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 30 points, 10 rebounds, and three steals, while Pascal Siakam tried to will Indiana back with 32 points and 10 boards in a losing effort.

     

    Knicks make history in blowout win against Nets 

     

    In New York, the Knicks authored a night for the history books, demolishing the Brooklyn Nets, 120–66, for the largest margin of victory in franchise history. New York dominated from the opening tip, racing to a 38-point first quarter and never easing off the gas. Brooklyn failed to find any offensive rhythm, with Ziaire Williams’ 11 points leading a Nets team held to just 66 total.

     

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    Cavaliers with gritty away win versus Hornets 

     

    In Charlotte, the Cleveland Cavaliers leaned on defense and composure late to edge the Hornets, 94–87. Evan Mobley anchored the Cavs with 14 points, 14 rebounds, and three blocks, helping Cleveland grind out a low-scoring road win. Rookie wing Kon Knueppel stood out for Charlotte with 21 points and 11 rebounds. 

     

    Hawks escape Grizzlies in Memphis 

     

    Atlanta survived a late Memphis push to escape with a 124–122 win over the Grizzlies in one of the night’s most entertaining games. Jalen Johnson stuffed the stat sheet with 32 points, 15 rebounds, and eight assists, while Ja Morant countered with 23 points, 12 assists, and three blocks in a narrow defeat.

     

    Pistons extend surge against Pelicans 

     

    The Detroit Pistons continued their strong run, holding off the New Orleans Pelicans, 112–104, behind a dominant interior performance from Jalen Duren, who posted 20 points and 15 rebounds. New Orleans was led by M. Peavy’s 17 points, seven rebounds, and four steals, but couldn’t close the gap late. 

     

    Raptors show out in second half to beat Kings 

     

    Out west, the Toronto Raptors pulled away in the second half to beat the Sacramento Kings, 122–109, at Golden 1 Center. Scottie Barnes paced Toronto with 23 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, while Russell Westbrook matched him with 23 points and three steals for Sacramento in the loss.

     

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  • “Keep everybody steady”: Kelly Williams reflects on role in TNT finals win

    “Keep everybody steady”: Kelly Williams reflects on role in TNT finals win

    For three quarters, TNT Tropang Giga looked poised to cruise to a comfortable win in the Philippine Cup Finals opener. By the end of the night, however, it wasn’t just early firepower that determined the outcome — it was composure under pressure that ultimately carried the day.

     

    The Tropang Giga had to withstand a late surge from the San Miguel Beermen and navigate a tense final stretch before emerging victorious, 96–91, in Game 1 of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The win gave TNT a critical 1–0 edge in the best-of-seven series and set the tone for a potentially long and hard-fought championship matchup.

     

    Offensively, TNT showcased a balanced attack with six players scoring in double figures, but it was Kelly Williams who quietly set the tone throughout the contest. The veteran forward, a former PBA MVP, finished with 15 points, nine rebounds, and three assists, yet his impact extended far beyond the box score. Late in the fourth quarter, Williams delivered back-to-back drop passes to Aaron Ganuelas-Rosser, resulting in two crucial inside baskets that pushed TNT’s lead to 90–83, temporarily halting San Miguel’s momentum and giving the Tropang Giga some breathing room.

     

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    Williams, the most experienced player on TNT’s roster, acknowledged the weight of responsibility he carries, especially in the absence of team captain Jayson Castro, who is sidelined due to injury. His role, he explained, is to maintain composure and calm among his teammates in high-stakes situations — a task he embraces wholeheartedly.

    “Yeah, that’s why coach Chot Reyes has me out there,” Williams said after the game. “My role is to keep everybody steady. I think I have probably the most experience in these finals situations, so I just try to guide the younger guys and make sure we execute under pressure.”

     

    The 43-year-old also drew inspiration from PBA legend Ranidel de Ocampo, whose jersey was recently retired by TNT. Williams said the ceremony reminded him of the value of staying calm amid chaos — a mindset he strives to emulate throughout the series.

     

    “I was reminded during Ranidel’s jersey retirement how important it is to remain calm in the storms,” Williams said. “I want to make sure I carry that energy not just for this game, but for the whole series. I trust our shooters to shoot, our guys to do what we need to do. Like coach said, our premium is playing defense and playing with a lot of energy, and that’s what I aim to help the team maintain.”

     

    Coach Chot Reyes lauded Williams’ leadership after the game, noting that his veteran presence was critical in helping TNT weather San Miguel’s late run and avoid potential mistakes in crunch time. “Kelly knows how to keep this team composed,” Reyes said. “His experience, decision-making, and calm energy were huge factors in this win.”

     

    With Game 2 scheduled for Friday, January 23, also at the Ynares Center, Williams and the Tropang Giga will aim to capitalize on their momentum and extend their lead in the series. If TNT can maintain their composure and continue executing in key moments, they will put themselves in a strong position to reclaim the Philippine Cup title.

     

    Beyond the stats, Game 1 showcased a team that blends youth and experience, firepower and strategy, and composure with intensity — qualities that TNT will need to sustain if they hope to emerge victorious in the finals. Williams, as the veteran anchor, will be central to guiding the team through the pressures and challenges that lie ahead.

     

     

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  • “We have a good rhythm”: Steve Kerr says Warriors are focused after losing Jimmy Butler to injury

    “We have a good rhythm”: Steve Kerr says Warriors are focused after losing Jimmy Butler to injury

    The Golden State Warriors suffered a crushing blow to their season Monday night, as veteran star Jimmy Butler went down with a torn right ACL during a 135–112 win over the Miami Heat — a devastating injury that abruptly ends his campaign and forces Golden State to reassess its outlook moving forward.

     

    The incident occurred midway through the third quarter at Chase Center in what had been a comfortable night for the Warriors. Butler rose to receive an entry pass near the lane before colliding with Heat guard Davion Mitchell. As he came down, Butler landed awkwardly and his right knee appeared to twist underneath him. He immediately collapsed to the floor in obvious pain, clutching his leg as the arena fell silent.

     

    Teammates and training staff rushed to Butler’s side as he remained down for several minutes, with the Warriors visibly shaken by the sight of one of their most important pieces unable to get up. Butler was eventually helped to the sideline by Buddy Hield and Jonathan Kuminga, his arms draped over their shoulders as he struggled to put any weight on his right leg. He was later placed in a wheelchair near the locker room area.

     

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    An MRI later confirmed the grim diagnosis: Butler suffered a season-ending ACL tear, according to his agent Bernie Lee.

     

    Warriors head coach Steve Kerr spoke somberly about the injury after the game, calling it a heartbreaking moment for both Butler and the franchise — especially given how well the 36-year-old had been playing in recent weeks.

     

    “Well, most of all just disappointed for Jimmy. He’s having a great year,” Kerr said during his postgame press conference. “I felt like the last couple weeks he was really at the top of his game. So for him and for us obviously, for him individually, in the middle of a really great season with a lot of possibilities, a lot of excitement with the team the way he was playing, I just feel terrible for him that he is going to miss the rest of the year.

     

    “It’s part of the game, I know, injuries are a part of it, but it hurts for sure,” he added.

     

    Before the injury, Butler had been a steady presence for Golden State and one of the main reasons the team has remained competitive in a crowded Western Conference race. The six-time All-Star entered the night as the Warriors’ second-leading scorer behind franchise icon Stephen Curry, averaging 20.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game while frequently handling late-game possessions and anchoring the team’s defensive intensity on the wing.

     

    Kerr admitted the Warriors have not yet had the chance to fully process what Butler’s loss means long term, but emphasized that the team must quickly turn the page and rely on its rhythm, chemistry, and current momentum.

     

    “You just look at it matter-of-factly. We get it, this is part of the NBA, part of sports,” Kerr said. “I’m not going to spend a whole lot of time analyzing where we are in the food chain of the NBA, I’m going to focus on what we can do to win tonight and win the next game.

    “We have a good vibe going, we have a really good rhythm, we have found I think a pattern of connecting the game offensively and defensively. I think we can continue to do those things and win games. And if we do that we build confidence, we build momentum and keep going,” he added.

     

    The injury comes at a particularly critical stretch in Golden State’s schedule. With the team riding a wave of strong form, the Warriors improved to 25–20 with the win, extending their streak to four straight victories and giving them 12 wins in their last 16 games. They are approaching the final game of an eight-game homestand, a stretch that had begun to stabilize their season after an uneven start.

     

    Still, even with their recent surge, the Warriors remain eighth in the Western Conference standings — meaning any extended absence from a key contributor could have a major impact on their ability to climb into a more favorable playoff position.

     

    Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy also addressed the setback, praising Butler’s impact since arriving in Golden State and acknowledging how difficult it is to lose a veteran presence who had quickly become a major part of the team’s identity.

     

    “He has meant so much to this organization since he got here,” Dunleavy said. “It’s hard to believe he hasn’t even been here a year, he’s fit in so well. You hate it for him. The beat goes on, you have got to keep going and I think our team’s playing really good. We have been playing some good basketball. That’s the bright spot here.

     

    “I don’t have a positive twist on the news, it’s not good. ACL injuries are not things that you can be positive about, but this will all come out well in the end and we will move forward,” he added.

     

    With Butler now sidelined, Golden State’s rotation is expected to undergo immediate changes. Veteran big man Al Horford and guard De’Anthony Melton are projected to take on expanded roles, while the Warriors may look to redistribute Butler’s scoring and playmaking responsibilities through a committee approach.

     

    The timing of the injury also creates a new layer of urgency as the trade deadline draws closer. Dunleavy and the front office now face a difficult decision: whether to stay the course and trust the current roster, or explore moves that could help cushion the blow of losing Butler for the remainder of the season.

     

    That conversation could involve forward Jonathan Kuminga, who has been the subject of trade speculation in recent weeks. While it remains unclear whether Golden State will seriously entertain offers, Butler’s injury could complicate the Warriors’ ability to part with another key contributor — even if Kuminga has reportedly requested a move.

     

    For now, the Warriors will attempt to maintain their momentum, leaning on Curry’s leadership and the team’s recent defensive and offensive cohesion. But losing Butler — a two-way force and postseason-proven competitor — represents a massive challenge for a franchise still trying to position itself for a deep playoff run.

     

    As Kerr put it, the reality is unavoidable: Golden State must keep moving, even as it absorbs one of the most painful setbacks of its season.

     

     

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  • Jayson Castro nearing return from long injury layoff as TNT star eyes comeback next PBA conference

    Jayson Castro nearing return from long injury layoff as TNT star eyes comeback next PBA conference

    TNT Tropang Giga veteran Jayson Castro has missed the entire 2025 PBA Philippine Cup as he continues to work his way back from a major right knee injury suffered earlier this year.

     

    The 38-year-old floor general went down during Game 2 of TNT’s semifinal series against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the previous conference, an incident that immediately raised concern given the severity of the injury. Early reports projected a recovery timeline of around six months—an outlook that effectively ruled Castro out for the opening conference of the league’s landmark 50th season and forced TNT to navigate the all-Filipino tournament without one of its most decorated and dependable leaders.

     

    Despite the long layoff, there is growing optimism inside the TNT camp that Castro’s return is right around the corner.

     

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    Encouraging signs surfaced during Game 1 of the Philippine Cup Finals on Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, when Castro was spotted joining the team during shootaround. Moving comfortably and showing no obvious signs of discomfort, the former Best Player of the Conference appeared eager to ramp up his preparations as the Tropang Giga chase a title with him watching from the sidelines.

    Castro also provided an upbeat update on his status, sharing that his recovery has progressed significantly in recent weeks thanks to consistent rehabilitation and additional work on his own time.

     

    “I have been doing some extra work so that I could shake off some rust,” Castro told reporters at the venue. “But my progress has been great and my recovery has been tremendous because of the work being done by our physiotherapists.”

     

    While he remains cautious and focused on ensuring his knee is fully strengthened before returning to game action, Castro believes he is nearing full health and is targeting the next PBA conference for his comeback—news that could provide TNT a major boost heading into the next phase of the season.

     

    “I’m still focused on strengthening my knee, but I think I’m fully recovered,” he added.

     

    Castro’s return would not only restore TNT’s backcourt depth, but also bring back a proven winner whose experience, leadership, and playmaking have long been central to the franchise’s success. With the Tropang Giga still fighting for the Philippine Cup crown, having their longtime star nearing a comeback could be the best possible reinforcement TNT can look forward to once the next conference begins.

     

     

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