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Category: Basketball

  • PBA issues ₱20,000 fine after Converge ‘cooking’ gesture in Ginebra quartefinals loss

    PBA issues ₱20,000 fine after Converge ‘cooking’ gesture in Ginebra quartefinals loss

    What should have been remembered purely for a dramatic finish instead carried added consequences for Converge, as the PBA Commissioner’s Office handed down fines following a heated quarterfinal exit at the hands of Barangay Ginebra.

     

    Assistant coach Humperdink Dimatulac and players Justine Baltazar and Mark Denver Omega were each fined ₱20,000 for making a “cooking” gesture during their do-or-die knockout game against the Gin Kings, an act the league deemed inappropriate and unsportsmanlike.

     

    The incident unfolded at the height of tension, with Dimatulac and Baltazar visibly performing the gesture in open view of fans, expressing frustration over officiating calls as the FiberXers struggled to protect their twice-to-beat edge. 

     

    Omega, meanwhile, was caught doing the same motion from the bench, despite not having logged a single game for Converge since being acquired via trade from Rain or Shine following the NCAA season.

     

    All three were summoned by PBA commissioner Willie Marcial on Monday, where they acknowledged their actions and issued apologies.

     

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    “Lahat naman sila nag-sorry, nadala sila sa emosyon. Sabi ko, wag na uulitin lalo na ‘yung assistant coach na wag na (provoke) ‘yung mga fans,” Marcial said.

     

    The league’s response underscored its continued emphasis on professionalism, especially during high-pressure games where emotions often run high and gestures can quickly inflame both crowds and online discourse.

     

    The fines came on the heels of a heartbreaking end to Converge’s campaign. Despite holding a twice-to-beat advantage, the FiberXers were eliminated after Stephen Holt drilled an overtime buzzer-beater to lift Ginebra to a 99–98 victory.

     

    Instead of advancing to the semifinals, Converge was left reflecting not only on a missed opportunity but also on a costly lapse in composure—one that turned a single gesture into a league reminder that emotions, no matter how intense, must still stay within bounds.

     

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  • Legendary or Humble? Scottie Thompson downplays career-best performance

    Legendary or Humble? Scottie Thompson downplays career-best performance

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel roared back in emphatic fashion to even its best-of-seven semifinal series against longtime rival San Miguel Beermen, taking Game 4 with a commanding 105–91 victory on Sunday, January 11, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The win not only restored Ginebra’s momentum but also showcased the brilliance of star point guard Scottie Thompson, who delivered a performance for the ages.

     

    Thompson erupted for a career-high 35 points, while adding 11 rebounds and 11 assists, powering the Gin Kings to a comfortable win. His triple-double was a display of offensive dominance, but it also highlighted his all-around contributions—facilitating teammates, creating opportunities, and anchoring Ginebra’s defense.

     

    Significantly, Thompson’s feat marked the first time since the early 1990s that a local Filipino player scored more than 30 points in a triple-double game. The last to achieve this rare milestone was Alaska rookie—and current Ginebra assistant coach—Johnny Abarrientos, who accomplished it in the 1993 All-Filipino Conference. Thompson’s performance thus cemented itself as a historic moment in PBA history.

     

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    Despite making history, Thompson remained humble, crediting teamwork and timing for his standout night.

     

    “Luckily, it was a good night for me. We just fought hard and battled every quarter. We found our rhythm as a team, and that’s what is most important. We lifted each other and stayed together,” Thompson said in the postgame press conference.

    “Every game is different, but our approach and intensity remain the same,” he added.

     

    However, Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone didn’t hold back in praising Thompson’s effort, calling it “legendary.”

     

    “It was a legendary performance. I think we are going to remember this for a very long time. There is no doubt it was legendary. He was more aggressive tonight, and that made him more of a threat, which opened up passing lanes for him,” Cone said.

     

    Thompson’s dominance allowed Ginebra to control the pace of the game, while the team’s defense stifled San Miguel’s key scorers, keeping the Beermen from closing the gap. Beyond Thompson, supporting players stepped up in critical moments, showing the depth and resilience of the Gin Kings roster.

     

    With the semifinal series now tied 2-2, all eyes turn to the pivotal Game 5 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, January 14. The winner will seize momentum heading into the latter half of the series, making Thompson’s form and Ginebra’s collective effort all the more vital.

     

    If Game 4 proved anything, it’s that Barangay Ginebra possesses the talent, cohesion, and star power to rise to the occasion. With Thompson leading the charge and the team firing on all cylinders, fans can expect an electrifying showdown in the next chapter of this storied PBA rivalry.

     

     

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  • NBA Roundup: Big Nights, Late Runs, and Road Wins Highlight Tuesday Action

    NBA Roundup: Big Nights, Late Runs, and Road Wins Highlight Tuesday Action

    Tuesday’s NBA slate delivered a little of everything — breakout performances from young stars, veteran-led closing stretches, and crucial wins that could shape the playoff picture as the season hits its midpoint.

     

    Jazz Silence Cleveland Crowd Behind Keyonte George Masterclass

     

    Utah Jazz 123, Cleveland Cavaliers 112

    Utah turned Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse into its own stage as Keyonte George orchestrated a composed road victory, finishing with 32 points and nine assists. The Jazz established early control, then responded calmly when Cleveland surged in the second quarter behind its interior play.

     

    Utah’s ability to score in bunches after halftime proved decisive, as they consistently punished defensive lapses and won the tempo battle. Cleveland struggled to generate clean looks late, settling for contested shots as the Jazz widened the gap in the final period.

     

    Evan Mobley came close to a triple-double with 15 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists, serving as the Cavaliers’ most consistent presence, but the lack of sustained perimeter scoring ultimately hurt the home side.

     

    Pacers Grind Out Tight Win Over Celtics

     

    Indiana Pacers 98, Boston Celtics 96

    In one of the night’s most physical contests, Indiana leaned on execution and defensive discipline to edge Boston in a low-scoring affair. Pascal Siakam delivered across the board with 21 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, providing steady offense whenever the Pacers needed a basket.

    Both teams struggled to find rhythm offensively, particularly in the fourth quarter, where every possession carried weight. Indiana’s ability to force tough shots and protect the ball late proved to be the difference.

     

    Payton Pritchard paced Boston with 23 points and eight assists, keeping the Celtics within striking distance, but missed opportunities down the stretch prevented a late comeback.

     

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    Maxey Ignites Early Surge as 76ers Control Raptors

     

    Philadelphia 76ers 115, Toronto Raptors 102

    Philadelphia wasted no time asserting itself, exploding out of the gate behind Tyrese Maxey’s scoring burst. The All-Star guard finished with 33 points, spearheading a dominant first half that gave the 76ers full control of the contest.

     

    While Toronto showed resilience after the break, trimming the deficit through improved ball movement and transition scoring, the Raptors were never able to fully swing the momentum. Philadelphia answered each run with timely baskets to maintain a comfortable cushion.

     

    Brandon Ingram led Toronto with 17 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists, but the Raptors’ slow start ultimately dictated the outcome.

     

    Mavericks Stay Steady to Hold Off Nets

     

    Dallas Mavericks 113, Brooklyn Nets 105

    Dallas showcased composure in the closing minutes to fend off a pesky Brooklyn squad. Rookie Cooper Flagg continued to impress, tallying 27 points and three steals, including several timely defensive plays that halted Nets rallies.

     

    The Mavericks built separation through balanced scoring and ball movement, then leaned on defensive stops late to protect their lead. Brooklyn made multiple pushes but struggled to string together stops when it mattered most.

     

    Michael Porter Jr. carried the Nets offensively with 28 points and nine rebounds, keeping Brooklyn within range, though Dallas’ control of key moments proved decisive.

     

    Kings’ Balance Beats Lakers Despite Dončić Brilliance

     

    Sacramento Kings 124, Los Angeles Lakers 112

    Luka Dončić delivered one of the night’s most electric performances, erupting for 42 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists, but Sacramento answered with depth, pace, and execution.

     

    The Kings consistently found scoring from multiple spots on the floor, preventing the Lakers from loading up on one primary option. Sacramento seized control in the second half, capitalizing on defensive breakdowns and converting at the free-throw line to maintain separation.

     

    DeMar DeRozan led the Kings with 32 points, six assists, and three steals, anchoring the offense and closing the door whenever Los Angeles threatened to rally.

     

     

    Clippers Pull Away Late Against Hornets

     

    LA Clippers 117, Charlotte Hornets 109

    The Clippers saved their best basketball for the closing stretch, leaning on James Harden’s playmaking and poise to secure a home victory at Intuit Dome. Harden finished with 32 points, 10 assists, and four steals, controlling the game’s tempo in crunch time.

     

    Charlotte remained competitive through three quarters, fueled by LaMelo Ball’s aggressiveness and rebounding from the guard spot. However, defensive lapses and turnovers in the final frame allowed the Clippers to pull away.

     

    Ball led the Hornets with 25 points and nine rebounds, but Los Angeles’ experience and execution down the stretch proved too much.

     

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  • Suwon KT of KBL eyes DLSU’s Jacob Cortez, UST’s Nic Cabanero as replacement for injured JD Cagulangan

    Suwon KT of KBL eyes DLSU’s Jacob Cortez, UST’s Nic Cabanero as replacement for injured JD Cagulangan

    Suwon KT’s season took a sharp turn the moment JD Cagulangan went down.

     

    With the Filipino point guard ruled out for the year due to a torn left anterior cruciate ligament, the Sonicboom are suddenly operating without the engine that steadied their backcourt. What was once a team gaining rhythm is now one racing against time, forced into the market to plug a glaring hole at point guard.

     

    Multiple sources closely monitoring the situation say Suwon KT has shifted its focus to the Philippines, where two young guards have emerged as serious options: De La Salle University floor general Jacob Cortez and University of Santo Tomas standout Nic Cabanero.

     

    The urgency is understandable. Before Cagulangan’s injury, Suwon KT was riding a four-game winning streak with the former University of the Philippines star orchestrating the offense. 

     

    The two-time UAAP champion averaged 7.7 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 22 minutes for  Suwon KT before going down with the injury. 

     

    Without him, the Sonicboom have been left thin at the guard spot, even as they remain in the thick of the playoff race at 16–16, good for sixth place in the standings.

     

     

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    Cortez represents a ready-made organizer with a winning pedigree. At 23 and standing 5-foot-11, the son of former PBA star Mike Cortez delivered a breakout season for La Salle, averaging 15.1 points, 3.3 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.4 steals.

     

    His poise and shot-making were central to the Green Archers’ UAAP Season 88 championship run—his second collegiate title after lifting the NCAA Season 99 crown with San Beda in 2023. A move overseas, however, would come at a cost, as Cortez would have to give up his final year of eligibility with La Salle.

     

    Cabanero offers a different profile. Taller at 6-foot-2, the 22-year-old has been a fixture for UST, earning UAAP Elite Team honors twice across a five-year collegiate career. 

     

    Last season, the Cebuano guard posted 17.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.2 steals per game while steering the Growling Tigers to a fourth-place finish. His size and scoring punch could provide Suwon KT with versatility in a backcourt suddenly short on options.

     

    Any move, though, comes with added layers. Should Suwon KT opt to bring in a new Asian import, the club would still need to negotiate a buyout for the remainder of Cagulangan’s contract, a reminder that replacing a key piece is rarely straightforward.

     

    For now, the Sonicboom are weighing risk, timing, and fit. With their season balanced on the playoff line, the search for Cagulangan’s successor is no longer just about filling a spot—it’s about preserving momentum before it slips away.

     

     

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  • Phoenix turns the page as Willy Wilson’s one-conference run comes to an end

    Phoenix turns the page as Willy Wilson’s one-conference run comes to an end

    Change has come swiftly for the Phoenix Fuel Masters.

     

    Willy Wilson’s tenure as head coach ended as quickly as it began, with the former PBA standout not renewed following Phoenix’s 2025–26 PBA Philippine Cup campaign, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation. What was envisioned as a new chapter instead became a brief stopover—one conference that served more as an evaluation period than a long-term partnership.

     

    A team insider shared that Phoenix management is still in the process of assessing the rest of the coaching staff, signaling that the changes may not stop with Wilson’s departure.

     

    Wilson was appointed head coach during the offseason, taking over from Jamike Jarin, who transitioned into the role of team consultant. 

     

    The move was meant to inject a different voice and perspective into the Fuel Masters’ program, with Wilson bringing both professional playing experience and years of coaching exposure to the bench.

     

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    In his lone conference at the helm, Phoenix struggled to find consistency, finishing with a 3–8 record and placing 10th overall. While the results fell short, Wilson’s time with the team coincided with a period of adjustment, as the Fuel Masters continued to search for a stable identity amid roster and system changes.

     

    Before joining Phoenix, Wilson quietly built a solid coaching résumé in the local basketball scene. A former PBA pro himself, he paid his dues in the collegiate and developmental ranks, earning respect as a detail-oriented coach known for emphasizing fundamentals, player accountability, and defensive discipline. 

     

    His background made him an intriguing choice for a Phoenix squad aiming to develop talent while remaining competitive.

     

    Now, the Fuel Masters appear set to pivot again.

     

    Sources indicate that Phoenix is turning its attention to the collegiate ranks in search of its next head coach, a move that suggests the franchise is prioritizing long-term program building and player development.

     

    The Fuel Masters are scheduled to open their year with their first team practice on January 19, a date that could also mark the start of another transition phase. With the season approaching, Phoenix faces familiar questions—about leadership, direction, and stability—as it once again reshapes its coaching blueprint.

     

     

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  • Barangay Ginebra’s Scottie Thompson named PBA Player of the Week for January 4 to 11

    Barangay Ginebra’s Scottie Thompson named PBA Player of the Week for January 4 to 11

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel roared back in emphatic fashion to even its best-of-seven semifinal series against longtime rival San Miguel Beermen, taking Game 4 with a commanding 105–91 victory on Sunday, January 11, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The win not only restored Ginebra’s momentum but also showcased the brilliance of star point guard Scottie Thompson, who delivered a historic performance for the ages.

     

    Thompson exploded for a career-high 35 points, complemented by 11 rebounds and 11 assists, powering the Gin Kings to a comfortable victory. His triple-double display was not only a dominant offensive show but also highlighted his all-around contributions in facilitating teammates and anchoring the team’s defense.

     

    Thompson’s feat is the first time since the early 1990s that a local Filipino player has scored more than 30 points in a triple-double game. The last to achieve the rare milestone was Alaska rookie—and current Barangay Ginebra assistant coach—Johnny Abarrientos, who accomplished it in the 1993 All-Filipino Conference, cementing Thompson’s performance as a historic moment in PBA history.

     

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    For his exceptional showing, Thompson earned the PBA Press Corps’ Player of the Week honors for the period of January 4 to 11, averaging 20.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game during the week. He edged out notable rivals including San Miguel Beermen’s Don Trollano, TNT Tropang Giga’s Calvin Oftana, and Poy Erram, earning unanimous recognition from the scribes covering Asia’s oldest professional basketball league.

    “I think we fought hard, we battled every quarter. Luckily, I think it’s just a good night for me. Yung rhythm namin as a team is important especially on the defensive end and that’s the main key. Overall, we got the W and lucky for me. We lifted up each other, we helped each other and we stayed through ups and downs,” Thompson reflected after the win, emphasizing the importance of teamwork alongside his personal brilliance.

     

    Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone heaped praise on Thompson, calling his display a “legendary performance” and underscoring the guard’s humility despite the historic feat.

     

    “It was a legendary performance. I think we are going to remember this one for a long time. Scottie is the most humble guy you would meet, maybe outside of June Mar Fajardo. No doubt it’s a legendary performance. I think he came out and he was more aggressive tonight. He was looking for things and the more he became a threat, the more he was able to open the lanes and make passes as well,” Cone said.

     

    Thompson’s dominance allowed Ginebra to control the pace of the game, while the team’s defense limited the Beermen’s key scorers, preventing San Miguel from closing the gap. Alongside Thompson, supporting players stepped up at crucial moments, showing the depth and resilience of the Gin Kings roster.

     

    With the semifinal series now tied 2-2, all eyes turn to the pivotal Game 5, scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. The winner of the next game will seize momentum heading into the latter half of the series, making Thompson’s form and Ginebra’s collective effort all the more critical.

     

    If Game 4 proved anything, it is that Barangay Ginebra has the talent, cohesion, and star power to rise to the occasion. With Thompson leading the charge and the team firing on all cylinders, fans can expect an electrifying showdown in the next chapter of this storied rivalry.

     

     

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  • Jaylen Brown fined $35,000 for criticizing officiating after Celtics’ loss

    Jaylen Brown fined $35,000 for criticizing officiating after Celtics’ loss

    The Boston Celtics continue to put together a strong 2025–26 NBA campaign, carrying a 24–14 record that places them third in the Eastern Conference. Their balanced roster, sharpened offensive execution, and improved defensive cohesion have kept them among the conference’s top-tier teams despite injuries and constant lineup shuffling.

     

    However, Boston’s momentum hit a setback on Sunday, January 11 (PST), following a 100–95 loss to the San Antonio Spurs at TD Garden. The defeat stung not only because it came on home court, but also because of the officiating—at least according to Celtics star Jaylen Brown.

     

    Throughout the game, Brown showed visible frustration with the calls he felt were being missed. After the final buzzer, he took to X (formerly Twitter) and posted: “Fine me I’m sick of this st.” The tension carried into his postgame media session. As reported by Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe, Brown doubled down, saying, “I will take the f*g fine. The inconsistency is crazy. Give me the fine.”

     

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    The league responded swiftly. On Monday, the NBA announced that Brown had been fined $35,000 for his comments.

    “Boston Celtics guard-forward Jaylen Brown has been fined 35,000 for his public criticism of the officiating, it was announced today by James Jones, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations. Brown made his comments to the press and on social media following the Celtics’ 100–95 loss to the San Antonio Spurs at TD Garden,” the NBA’s statement read.

     

    Despite the controversy, Brown delivered an impressive performance on the court, finishing with 27 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists while shooting 11-of-28 overall and 5-of-11 from long range. Still, one stat highlighted his frustration: he did not attempt a single free throw. As a team, Boston attempted just four free throws the entire night—an uncharacteristically low number for a squad known for attacking the basket. The Spurs, by contrast, went to the line 20 times and used those opportunities to maintain control of the matchup.

     

    Even amid the officiating concerns and the recent loss, Brown has been a stabilizing force for the Celtics in the absence of franchise cornerstone Jayson Tatum, who remains sidelined by injury. The 29-year-old wing is producing one of the best all-around seasons of his career, averaging 29.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 5.0 assists on 49.9 percent shooting from the field and 37.2 percent from three.

     

    His ability to carry the scoring load, create for teammates, and defend multiple positions has kept Boston firmly in the upper echelon of the East. Brown’s frustration highlights broader questions about officiating consistency across the league, but it also underscores the weight he carries as the team’s leader during Tatum’s absence.

     

    As the Celtics navigate the heart of the season, cooler heads and continued elite play from Brown will be crucial. If Boston can stay healthy and maintain its form, the team remains a legitimate contender in a competitive Eastern Conference race.

     

     

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  • Vic Manuel’s Converge chapter closes quickly, but doors open elsewhere

    Vic Manuel’s Converge chapter closes quickly, but doors open elsewhere

    Vic Manuel’s time with Converge may have been short, but it was enough to stir conversations far beyond the FiberXers’ locker room.

     

    After his month-long contract expired on Monday, the veteran forward officially parted ways with Converge, closing a brief chapter that came late in the PBA Philippine Cup eliminations. 

     

    Manuel will not be renewing his deal and is instead set to suit up for the Zamboanga Valientes, who are bound for the Dubai Invitational Basketball Championship later this month in the United Arab Emirates.

     

    Despite the limited run, Manuel made sure to acknowledge the opportunity given to him by the franchise. In a social media post, he expressed appreciation to the team that brought him in during a crucial stretch of the season.

     

    “Thank you Converge. Short term, but it means a lot to me,” Manuel wrote on Facebook.
     “Good luck fam. See you around.”

     

    The farewell, however, quickly turned into speculation. Fans flooded the comment section with suggestions for where the 38-year-old big man could land next once his overseas stint wraps up. Two destinations stood out: Barangay Ginebra and Titan Ultra.

     

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    Supporters of Titan Ultra see a natural fit, pointing to Manuel’s potential reunion with close friend and team star Calvin Abueva. Others, particularly Ginebra fans, believe the “Muscle Man” still has enough left to be a reliable interior presence—one who could complement the Kings’ veteran frontline of Japeth Aguilar and Troy Rosario.

     

    There’s history behind that idea. Manuel previously played under Ginebra head coach Tim Cone during Gilas Pilipinas’ successful gold-medal run in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games, a campaign that showcased his willingness to embrace a defined role within a disciplined system.

     

    Adding another layer to the discussion is recent memory. It was Ginebra that ended Converge’s All-Filipino Cup run, eliminating the FiberXers in the quarterfinals, capped by a dramatic do-or-die overtime win, 99-98. Manuel was part of that short-lived Converge squad that came up just short of a semifinals berth.

     

    Statistically, his impact with the FiberXers was modest—averaging 4.0 points and 1.6 rebounds across three games—but the conversation surrounding his future suggests his value isn’t measured purely by numbers.

     

    For now, Manuel’s focus shifts to Dubai and an international stage. Beyond that, his swift exit from Converge has only reinforced one thing: even brief stints can reopen long-standing debates about where a seasoned veteran still belongs in the PBA landscape.

     

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  • “Reminds me of Jimmy Butler”: Jayson David earns high praise from Tim Cone

    “Reminds me of Jimmy Butler”: Jayson David earns high praise from Tim Cone

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel bounced back in emphatic fashion to knot its best-of-seven semifinal series against long-time rival San Miguel Beermen, taking Game 4 with a 105–91 victory on Sunday, January 11, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    Star point guard Scottie Thompson delivered a performance for the ages, exploding for a career-high 35 points alongside 11 rebounds and 11 assists, powering Ginebra to a comfortable win.

     

    While Thompson stole the spotlight, head coach Tim Cone also highlighted the contributions of wingman Jayson David, who provided a crucial spark off the bench. David finished with 12 points on 4-of-6 shooting, three rebounds, three steals, and seven assists in roughly 27 minutes, posting a game-high plus-minus of +22.

     

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    Cone shared that David’s style of play has long reminded him of NBA and Golden State Warriors superstar Jimmy Butler.

    “I had a short conversation with Jayson before the game. I just told him that he has got to let the game come to him a little bit. Sometimes he gets so excited and plays a little bit beyond himself. But when he allows the game to come to him, he is so dynamic,” Cone said in the post-match press conference.

     

    “I always tell him that he reminds me of Jimmy Butler. And the kind of game he plays. He is wide-bodied. Can play bigger than he is. And very versatile, so he has always reminded me of Jimmy way back when. But now he’s getting an opportunity to show that at this point,” he added.

     

    David has steadily earned a vital role for Ginebra this conference, averaging 8.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.0 steal per game across four semifinal outings.

     

    “He is not as good as Jimmy Butler. But relative to our league, he plays a very similar game. Similar type game,” Cone concluded.

     

    For his part, David downplayed the praise, saying he is simply focused on helping the team win.

    “Wala naman nang pressure yung ganoon. Kumbaga, pinuri niya ako, e di thank you. Gusto ko lang talaga makatulong sa team namin. Yun lang, gusto ko lang ibigay ko yung best ko. Kumbaga andito na ako, sayang punta,” David said.

     

    With the series now tied at 2-2, the pivotal Game 5 is set for Wednesday, January 14, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

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  • Michael Jordan to LeBron James: Ranking the NBA’s all-time richest stars

    Michael Jordan to LeBron James: Ranking the NBA’s all-time richest stars

    The NBA is one of the most recognizable sports leagues on the planet—a global brand built on elite talent, iconic franchises, and a massive commercial ecosystem. With the league generating an estimated $10.58 billion in revenue last season, it continues to be a financial powerhouse for sponsors, investors, and athletes alike.

     

    Given that success, it’s no surprise that the NBA has produced some of the wealthiest figures in sports history. Whether through record-breaking contracts, global endorsements, or smart business ventures, several NBA stars have built fortunes that extend far beyond their playing careers.

     

    Below is a look at the five richest players ever to come out of the NBA, and how each one built their empire.

     

    1. Michael Jordan – $3 Billion Net Worth

    Regarded by many as the greatest basketball player of all time, Michael Jordan has long transcended sports. While he earned $90 million in NBA salary across 14 seasons with the Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards, the bulk of his wealth came from endorsements and investments.

     

    Jordan partnered with global brands such as McDonald’s, Hanes, Gatorade, and Chevrolet. But nothing compares to his historic partnership with Nike. His Air Jordan line redefined athlete branding and generated extraordinary revenue—bringing Jordan an estimated $2.4 billion in pre-tax earnings from Nike.

     

    His business empire continued to grow with investments in DraftKings, ownership in a NASCAR team, and most notably, the $3 billion sale of his majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets, which significantly boosted his net worth. Jordan remains the wealthiest athlete in sports history.

     

    2. LeBron James – $1 Billion Net Worth

    The richest active player in the league today, LeBron James is one of only two NBA players to achieve billionaire status while still playing. Now in his 21st season, LeBron has earned $479 million in NBA salary, but his off-court ventures have truly elevated his financial legacy.

     

    LeBron’s lifetime deal with Nike anchors his endorsement portfolio, while his business investments span multiple industries—fast food (Blaze Pizza), entertainment (SpringHill Company), and alcohol (Lobos 1707 tequila).

     

    He has also invested in sports franchises, previously holding a stake in Liverpool FC via Fenway Sports Group. His diverse holdings and global marketability make him one of the most influential business athletes in the world.

     

    3. Magic Johnson – $800 Million Net Worth

    A five-time NBA champion and Hall of Famer, Magic Johnson has long been recognized not only for his on-court brilliance but for his entrepreneurial impact. Despite earning $39.3 million across 12 seasons—boosted by a unique long-term Lakers contract—Magic’s business acumen propelled him into the upper tier of sports wealth.

     

    Through Magic Johnson Enterprises, now valued at over $1 billion, he expanded aggressively into real estate, entertainment, and sports ownership. His impressive portfolio includes stakes in:

    • Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA)

    • Los Angeles Football Club (MLS)

    • LA Dodgers (MLB)

    • Washington Commanders (NFL)

    • Team Liquid (eSports)

    He also holds a major interest in EquiTrust Life Insurance, further diversifying his financial empire.

     

    4. Junior Bridgeman – $600+ Million Net Worth (Estimated)

    One of the most surprising names on this list, Junior Bridgeman earned no more than $350,000 per season during his 12-year NBA career. But retirement marked the beginning of his rise as a business titan.

     

    Bridgeman invested in fast-food franchises, initially purchasing a single Wendy’s store. That grew into a massive network of over 160 Wendy’s and multiple franchise brands, operated under Bridgeman Foods Inc.

     

    He later sold the company and shifted to becoming a Coca-Cola bottler, eventually becoming CEO and president of Coca-Cola Heartland. His strategic investments and franchise empire established him as one of the wealthiest former NBA players.

     

    5. Vinnie Johnson – $500 Million Net Worth

    Rounding out the top five is Vinnie Johnson, a two-time NBA champion with the Detroit Pistons. Although he earned just over $3 million during his 14-season career, his post-basketball journey is a masterclass in entrepreneurship.

     

    Johnson founded the Piston Group, an automotive supply company that has become a major partner for giants such as General Motors and Ford. Today, the company generates nearly $3 billion in annual revenue, and Johnson — as CEO and chairman — has built a personal net worth estimated at around $500 million.

     

    The financial success of these NBA legends highlights how the league serves as a launching pad for long-term wealth—not merely through contracts but through entrepreneurship, branding, and strategic investments.

     



    From Michael Jordan’s historic Nike empire to Junior Bridgeman’s fast-food dominance and Vinnie Johnson’s automotive powerhouse, these former players prove that greatness in the NBA doesn’t end at retirement.

     

    Their stories set a blueprint for future athletes looking to turn basketball stardom into lifelong financial success.


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