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Tag: PBA

  • Rain or Shine secures Anton Asistio, Jun Roque with contract extensions ahead of Governor’s Cup

    Rain or Shine secures Anton Asistio, Jun Roque with contract extensions ahead of Governor’s Cup

    Rain or Shine has moved to secure two pieces of its roster by handing one-year contract extensions to Anton Asistio and Jun Roque.


    The move underscores the Elasto Painters’ commitment to continuity after a campaign that saw them emerge as one of the league’s biggest surprises before falling short of a Finals appearance.

     

    For Asistio, the new deal serves as recognition of the impact he made during Rain or Shine’s impressive Commissioner’s Cup run. The former Ateneo standout became a valuable contributor as the Elasto Painters opened the conference with seven straight victories, eventually finishing as the No. 3 seed.

     

    Rain or Shine went on to eliminate powerhouse San Miguel Beer in the quarterfinals before pushing eventual champion Barangay Ginebra to a highly emotional six-game semifinal series.

     

    While his numbers may not jump off the page, Asistio provided crucial floor spacing and perimeter shooting throughout the conference. He averaged 5.2 points, 1.0 rebound, and 1.4 assists per game, while also emerging as one of the league’s most efficient long-range threats. He ranked third in four-point shooting, converting 41.6 percent of his attempts (5-of-12).

     

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    The streak-shooting guard, selected by Rain or Shine in the second round of the 2020 PBA Draft, formalized his extension during a contract signing attended by team governor Atty. Mamerto Mondragon and witnessed by his agent Marvin Espiritu of Espiritu Manotoc Basketball Management.

     

    Meanwhile, Rain or Shine also sent a strong message about its faith in young talent by renewing rookie forward Jun Roque despite his ongoing recovery from a torn ACL.

     

    Roque quickly earned the trust of head coach Yeng Guiao after becoming available during the Governors’ Cup, carving out a role in the team’s rotation and showing flashes of his potential.

    His promising rookie campaign, however, came to an abrupt halt when he suffered an ACL injury in a game against Magnolia.

     

    Before being sidelined, the 6-foot-4 Letran product averaged 5.5 points and 2.6 rebounds per contest, numbers that reflected his growing confidence and increasing responsibilities within the squad.

     

    Roque entered the PBA after helping Letran reach the NCAA Season 101 Finals, where the Knights finished runner-up to San Beda. He was one of two first-round selections made by Rain or Shine in the most recent draft, joining Christian Manaytay, who was chosen at No. 10.

     

    By retaining both Asistio and Roque, the Elasto Painters have chosen to reward both production and potential. One extension recognizes a player who contributed to one of the franchise’s strongest conference performances in recent years, while the other reflects the organization’s belief in a young talent whose development was interrupted by injury.

     

    As Rain or Shine prepares for another shot at contention in the Season 50 Governor’s Cup, the franchise is making sure familiar faces remain part of its plans after a semifinal finish that ended at the hands of Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.

     

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  • Fresh off championship, Scottie Thompson and Nards Pinto pay tribute to Rene Baterbonia 

    Fresh off championship, Scottie Thompson and Nards Pinto pay tribute to Rene Baterbonia 

    Just days after celebrating a championship, Barangay Ginebra stars Scottie Thompson and Nards Pinto found themselves in a far different setting.

     

    Instead of continuing the festivities following the Gin Kings’ Commissioner’s Cup triumph, the two PBA veterans traveled to Talacogon, Agusan del Sur to pay their final respects to the late Ateneo basketball player Rene Baterbonia.

     

    Photos and videos shared online showed Thompson and Pinto visiting Baterbonia’s wake on Tuesday, joining family, friends, and members of the basketball community mourning the loss of one of Mindanao’s promising young talents.

     

    Baterbonia died alongside Nigerian teammate Divine Adili in a drowning incident during a team-building activity in Aurora earlier this month.

     

    Their visit came only days after Thompson and Pinto helped Barangay Ginebra secure the Commissioner’s Cup championship by defeating TNT in a winner-take-all Game 7.

     

    For many, the gesture reflected the close ties that often connect athletes beyond leagues, teams, and levels of competition.

     

    “Thank you so much my brother Scottie and Nards for visiting and paying respect to Bobet and his family,” said Baterbonia’s high school coach Jess Evangelio.

     

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    “We know you should be celebrating your championship today, but nevertheless, you still took the time to stop by and share our grief.

     

    “We are very grateful and very much appreciate your kindness and support,” added Evangelio on social media.

     

    Thompson and Pinto were joined by Thompson’s wife Jinky and actress Sofia Andres as they visited the wake on the eve of Baterbonia’s burial.

     

    The visit carried added meaning given their shared roots. Thompson and Pinto both hail from Davao, where Baterbonia first made a name for himself as a standout player for Ateneo de Davao before continuing his basketball journey at Ateneo de Manila University.

     

    While championships often define careers, Thompson and Pinto’s trip to Agusan del Sur served as a reminder that some moments transcend the game itself.

     

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  • PBA motoclub alleges scam in Poland after exhibition game falls through

    PBA motoclub alleges scam in Poland after exhibition game falls through

    Former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) players Paul Artadi, Jayjay Helterbrand, Rico Maierhofer, and other members of the PBA Motoclub have allegedly fallen victim to a scam during a recent trip to Poland, where they were scheduled to headline an exhibition basketball event for the Filipino community.

     

    The controversy came to light after Artadi took to social media to share details of what transpired, claiming that the group was unable to participate in the highly anticipated exhibition game after event organizers failed to fulfill their financial obligations.

     

    According to Artadi, the PBA Motoclub had traveled to Poland for a Filipino community event scheduled on Sunday, June 21. However, despite making the journey and preparing to play, the former PBA stars ultimately decided not to take the court after their agreed talent fees were allegedly not paid.

     

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    “We got scammed. Big time. Mula pa sa Warsaw. Bumili pa sila ng ticket pero wala. Nganga. Hindi kami nakalaro kasi hindi kami binayaran ng talent fee so we are sorry. Pero walang may gusto, di ba,?” Artadi posted on Facebook.

     

    The former Magnolia and Air21 guard expressed frustration over the incident, emphasizing that the situation not only affected the players but also the Filipino fans who had eagerly awaited the event.

     

    “Kawawa ‘yung mga Pilipinong naloloko. Hindi natutulog si Lord. Ingat tayong lahat. Lesson ‘to sa amin. Big time,” he added.

     

    The PBA Motoclub is a group composed of former professional basketball players who share a passion for motorcycles and content creation. Over the years, the group has built a following through motorcycle vlogs, community outreach activities, and exhibition games across the Philippines and abroad. Their appearances often draw large crowds, particularly among overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) eager to reconnect with Philippine basketball personalities.

    Artadi later revealed that the organizer involved in the event eventually issued an apology. Nevertheless, the damage had already been done, with many members of the Filipino community reportedly purchasing tickets in anticipation of the exhibition game.

     

    Despite the disappointing turn of events, members of the PBA Motoclub made an effort to interact with fans who attended the gathering. Rather than simply leaving the venue, the former players reportedly stayed behind to meet supporters, sign autographs, pose for photos, and distribute memorabilia.

     

    Jeck Maierhofer, wife of former PBA player Rico Maierhofer, detailed the group’s efforts in a social media post, praising the players for making time for fans despite not receiving compensation for their appearance.

     

    “Finally, to my husband na kahit kanina walang bayad nagsabi sya na magpakita sa fans at mag meet and greet nalang, nagpa-agaw pa sila ni JJ ng Nike shoes and jerseys. Mga boys, Ryan, JC, PJ, Paul, Jerwin na game na game nag picture taking and signature kanina kahit walang bayad hinarap nila ang mga tao sa Poland! Bumyahe sila ng 5 hours balikan sa Warsaw to Wroclaw total of 10 hours! Mablebless kayo! Ang babait ng’ puso nyo,” Jeck stated.

     

    Her account highlighted the commitment shown by the group, which reportedly traveled approximately five hours each way between Warsaw and Wroclaw—a 10-hour round trip—to attend the event. Even after learning that the exhibition game would not push through under the agreed terms, the former players chose to engage with supporters who had made the effort to attend.

     

    The incident has generated sympathy from basketball fans online, particularly among Filipinos abroad who viewed the situation as an unfortunate setback for both the athletes and the overseas Filipino community that had looked forward to the event.

     

    As of writing, no further details have been released regarding any potential legal action or reimbursement efforts for affected ticket holders. The PBA Motoclub, meanwhile, has continued to express gratitude to the Filipino fans in Poland who showed their support despite the circumstances.

     

    The episode serves as a cautionary tale for athletes, performers, and organizations participating in overseas events, underscoring the importance of securing contractual obligations and financial arrangements before traveling. For the members of the PBA Motoclub, however, the experience appears to have reinforced their appreciation for the Filipino community overseas, whose support remained unwavering even amid disappointment.

     

     

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  • William Navarro set to appeal PBA ban, eyes return to local league

    William Navarro set to appeal PBA ban, eyes return to local league

    Alas Pilipinas standout William Navarro is preparing to challenge the Philippine Basketball Association’s (PBA) decision to impose a three-year ban following his move to an overseas club, with his camp hoping league officials will reconsider the penalty that has placed his local basketball future in jeopardy.

     

    Navarro signed with Korean Basketball League (KBL) side KCC Egis on August 5, 2025, bringing an abrupt end to his brief stint with the Magnolia Hotshots. The versatile forward appeared in just five games during the PBA Philippine Cup, averaging 7.6 points and 5.6 rebounds as Magnolia managed only one victory during that stretch before bowing out to TNT Tropang Giga in the quarterfinals.

     

    Prior to joining Magnolia, Navarro had established himself as one of the league’s emerging stars with NorthPort. He posted impressive averages of 20.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.1 steals per game in the Philippine Cup, earning recognition as one of the Batang Pier’s cornerstone players.

     

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    Navarro’s agent, PJ Pilares, confirmed that they are seeking an audience with PBA commissioner Willie Marcial and the league’s Board of Governors in hopes of overturning or reducing the sanction.

     

    “We are holding on to the hope that the league will listen to us with an open mind. In a basketball player’s life, three years spans the absolute peak of an athlete’s career, and wiping that away leaves a devastating impact,” Pilares said.

     

    The ban stems from Navarro’s decision to sign with KCC Egis while the PBA’s newly implemented policy was in effect. The rule imposes a 36-month suspension on rookie players who join other leagues despite having active offers from their respective PBA teams.

    Pilares maintained that Navarro and his camp did not violate any league regulations at the time of the signing.

     

    “The PBA has always prided itself on being a compassionate, a player-first league. The board members are fathers and leaders who understand the struggles of these athletes. They don’t just protect franchises; they care about the human beings wearing the jerseys. I am deeply hoping they heed our heartfelt plea,” he added.

     

    The policy was introduced following Jamie Malonzo’s decision to turn down a two-year contract offer from Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in favor of a move to Japan’s B.League with the Kyoto Hannaryz.

     

    Despite the ban, Navarro’s PBA rights recently changed hands after Titan Ultra Giant Risers acquired them in exchange for the rights to Arvin Tolentino. The development has provided a potential pathway for the 29-year-old should his appeal succeed.

     

    Navarro’s stint in South Korea lasted one season. He averaged 5.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.1 assists across 21 appearances for KCC Egis before being released by the club on May 29.

    With two years still remaining on his suspension, Pilares believes a return to the PBA would offer Navarro the opportunity to revive his career and maximize his prime years.

     

    “This trade is exactly what William needs right now. It’s a breath of fresh air. We actively sought this change of scenery because the Titan Ultra roster has a glaring need for a versatile forward of his caliber. Unlike his previous stint with Magnolia, where his playing minutes were divided in a crowded rotation, Titan Ultra offers him the keys to the ignition. This is his best stage to show what he is truly capable of,” Pilares concluded.

     

    As Navarro’s camp prepares its appeal, the case could become a significant test of the PBA’s relatively new policy on overseas signings. With the former NorthPort star still in the prime of his career and a potential opportunity awaiting with Titan Ultra, the league’s decision may ultimately determine whether one of Philippine basketball’s most versatile forwards gets a second chance to resume his PBA journey.

     

     

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  • TNT makes Roger Pogoy its priority with new three-year deal 

    TNT makes Roger Pogoy its priority with new three-year deal 

    TNT Tropang 5G wasted little time addressing one of its biggest offseason priorities following its heartbreaking Game 7 loss to Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals.

     

    Before free agency could even become a discussion, the franchise moved as fast as they could to secure veteran guard Roger Pogoy, rewarding one of its most dependable performers with a new three-year contract extension.

     

    The decision underscores just how valuable Pogoy remains to TNT’s championship aspirations. While the team fell short in its bid for another title, the veteran wing emerged as the club’s most consistent local contributor throughout the Finals series.

     

    Pogoy carried a significant offensive load against Ginebra, finishing as TNT’s top local scorer in the championship round with averages of 16.57 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game. He also shot an efficient 44 percent from the field and 82 percent from the free-throw line.

     

    His impact extended well beyond scoring. Pogoy was also tasked with one of the toughest assignments in the series, defending Ginebra import Justin Brownlee. 

     

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    Across the PBA’s 50th Season Commissioner’s Cup, the 34-year-old guard posted averages of 13.43 points, 3.95 rebounds, and 2.00 assists per game, continuing to provide steady production for a TNT squad that reached another Finals appearance.

     

    With his previous contract set to expire in August, Pogoy was on track to become an unrestricted free agent. TNT, however, had no intention of letting one of the cornerstones of its roster test the open market.

     

    “Pirma na lang ang kulang,” team manager Jojo Lastimosa said.

     

    The extension keeps intact a partnership that dates back to 2016, when Pogoy entered the PBA through the Gilas Pilipinas special draft and began what has become an entire professional career with the telecommunications franchise.

     

    For Pogoy, the new deal represents another vote of confidence from an organization that has consistently trusted him in crucial moments.

     

    “Very thankful sa management and siyempre kay Lord for all the blessings. Pag balik na after ng bakasyon,” Pogoy said, when asked about the formal contract signing.

     

    Lastimosa made it clear that retaining Pogoy was never up for debate.

     

    “He’s a TNT lifer just like Jayson (Castro). Very rare these days,” he said. 

     

    As TNT begins preparations for another title run, its first major move of the offseason sends a clear message and that is to keep proven winners in the fold remains a top priority, and few have embodied the franchise’s identity more than Pogoy.

     

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  • “Kumpleto na career ko”: Troy Rosario cherishes first championship with Barangay Ginebra

    “Kumpleto na career ko”: Troy Rosario cherishes first championship with Barangay Ginebra

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel once again reinforced its reputation as one of the Philippine Basketball Association’s most successful and resilient franchises, defeating TNT Tropang 5G, 88-76, in a winner-take-all Game 7 on Wednesday, June 17, to capture the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup championship.

     

    While much of the spotlight naturally fell on resident import Justin Brownlee and Finals MVP Scottie Thompson, one player quietly delivered the kind of performance that helped tilt the series in Ginebra’s favor. Veteran forward Troy Rosario emerged as one of the Gin Kings’ most valuable contributors throughout the conference, providing timely scoring, rebounding, and defensive versatility whenever his team needed it most.

     

    For Rosario, the championship carried a deeper significance beyond simply adding another title to his résumé. Growing up as a fan of Barangay Ginebra, the 34-year-old forward fulfilled a lifelong dream by winning a championship with the franchise he had always admired.

     

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    “Hindi pa ‘ko magre-retire, pero ngayon pa lang kumpleto na career ko sa pro,” Rosario said in a media interaction.

     

    Rosario’s journey to this moment has been marked by perseverance and patience. After battling injuries that limited his effectiveness in previous conferences, he entered the Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup healthy and determined to make an impact. His presence gave Ginebra another reliable frontcourt option, complementing the team’s established stars while embracing the role asked of him by the coaching staff.

     

    His contributions were particularly evident in the deciding Game 7 against TNT. Rosario delivered one of his best performances of the Finals, finishing with 13 points on an efficient 6-of-10 shooting clip from the field. He also grabbed seven rebounds and dished out an assist, helping Ginebra control the tempo and maintain its advantage during crucial stretches of the contest.

    More importantly, Rosario’s energy and activity on both ends of the floor provided the Gin Kings with stability whenever TNT attempted to mount a comeback. His ability to defend multiple positions and convert key scoring opportunities proved invaluable in a championship-clinching victory that showcased Ginebra’s trademark depth and experience.

     

    Reflecting on the title run, Rosario expressed satisfaction not only with winning another championship but also with finally being able to contribute at full strength after previous injury setbacks.

     

    “Sweet kasi alam ko na hindi ako nakapag-perform sa last Commissioner’s Cup dahil sa injury. I’m happy na ngayon healthy, and nagawa ko ‘yung role ko, And finally, nakuha ‘yung championship na healthy rin,” he added.

     

    Rosario’s strong showing throughout the Finals was significant enough for him to be considered among the leading candidates for the PBA Finals Most Valuable Player award. Although the honor ultimately went to Thompson, Rosario remained focused on the bigger picture — helping Ginebra secure another championship banner.

     

    The veteran forward has enjoyed success at every stage of his basketball career. From winning titles in college and the PBA D-League to capturing gold medals with the Philippine national team in the Southeast Asian Games, Rosario has built an impressive collection of accomplishments. Now, with a second PBA championship to his name and his first wearing the iconic Ginebra colors, he considers this latest achievement among the most meaningful of his career.

     

    “I won championships sa college, sa D-League, at sa SEA Games. Tapos ngayon, pangalawa na sa PBA. I’m happy na nagawa ko ‘to habang malakas pa. And I hope makaisa pa,” Rosario concluded.

     

    As Barangay Ginebra celebrates another championship in its storied history, Rosario’s contributions serve as a reminder that title runs are often built not only on superstar performances but also on the sacrifices and consistency of role players who rise to the occasion. In a Finals series defined by grit, determination, and championship experience, Rosario proved to be one of the crucial pieces in Ginebra’s successful quest for the Commissioner’s Cup crown.

     

     

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  • “No doubt he is the GOAT”: Tim Cone hails Justin Brownlee after PBA triumph

    “No doubt he is the GOAT”: Tim Cone hails Justin Brownlee after PBA triumph

    For years, Justin Brownlee’s greatness in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has been defined by one enduring standard: championships. On Wednesday, June 17, he added yet another defining moment to a legacy that continues to grow into one of the most remarkable careers ever seen in the league.

     

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel defeated TNT Tropang 5G, 88-76, in a decisive Game 7 of the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup Finals, reclaiming the crown after a hard-fought series and once again affirming their status as one of the league’s most dominant franchises. For Brownlee, the victory marked his seventh PBA championship since first joining the league in 2016—an achievement that places him alone at the top of the all-time list for most successful imports in PBA history.

     

    The win also carried added significance for Ginebra, as it ended a two-year title drought and restored the Gin Kings to familiar championship territory. In a league where dynasties are hard to maintain and success is often fleeting, Ginebra once again proved their resilience on the biggest stage, with Brownlee at the center of it all.

     

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    TNT Tropang 5G had long been considered one of the few teams capable of disrupting Ginebra’s championship rhythm in recent years, having previously denied the Gin Kings in critical playoff moments. But in this winner-take-all showdown, Ginebra flipped the narrative, delivering a composed and physical performance when it mattered most to finally overcome their familiar postseason rival.

     

    A decade after first stepping onto a PBA floor, Brownlee continues to redefine what longevity and sustained excellence look like for an import player in the league. His ability to deliver in high-pressure moments has made him a constant difference-maker for Ginebra across multiple championship runs, solidifying his status as one of the most influential figures in modern PBA history.

    For Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone, there is little debate about Brownlee’s place in basketball history, especially after yet another title-clinching performance.

     

    “I don’t think there’s any doubt that he is the GOAT (Greatest of All Time). Although, there’s always going to be people who think otherwise. I think Michael Jordan is the GOAT, some people think it’s LeBron James or Kobe Bryant, there’s always going to be arguments. But, for me? My opinion, Brownlee’s the GOAT,” Cone said in a media interaction.

     

    Brownlee’s latest championship also saw him surpass Alaska legend Sean Chambers, who previously held the benchmark for import success under Cone with six championships. With seven titles now to his name, Brownlee stands alone atop that historic category, further strengthening his case as the most accomplished import in league history.

     

    Beyond the numbers, Brownlee’s impact has extended far beyond scoring averages and trophy counts. His consistency, leadership, and adaptability have made him a cornerstone of Ginebra’s identity and a fan favorite in one of the most passionate basketball markets in Asia.

     

    As celebrations continue for the Gin Kings, attention will soon shift to another stage where Brownlee remains a vital piece of the puzzle. He is expected to rejoin Gilas Pilipinas as the national team prepares for the next window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers scheduled in July, where he will once again carry the country’s hopes on the international stage.

     

    For now, though, the PBA belongs once again to Barangay Ginebra—and to Justin Brownlee, whose legacy continues to grow with every championship moment.

     

     

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  • Calvin Oftana chooses recovery over Gilas duty after injury-plagued stretch

    Calvin Oftana chooses recovery over Gilas duty after injury-plagued stretch

    Calvin Oftana kept showing up.

     

    Whether it was for TNT or Gilas Pilipinas, the veteran forward rarely stepped away from the court despite carrying injuries that gradually became harder to ignore.

     

    Now, after another demanding campaign ended with TNT falling short in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals, Oftana has decided it is finally time to stop playing through pain.

     

    The TNT star confirmed that he will miss Gilas Pilipinas’ campaign in the third window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers as he undergoes a minor foot procedure and begins a much-needed recovery period.

     

    “Wala. Pahinga muna ako,” Oftana said shortly after TNT’s 88-76 loss to Barangay Ginebra in Game 7 on Wednesday night at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    The decision marks a rare break for one of Philippine basketball’s busiest players.

     

    Behind the scenes, Oftana had been battling a troublesome foot injury for quite some time, an issue that affected him throughout the recently concluded Finals series. At the same time, he was also dealing with a recurring calf problem while juggling commitments between club and country.

    The physical toll eventually caught up with him.

     

    Yet even with those concerns, Oftana still chose to suit up for the championship-deciding game.

    He logged 31 minutes in Game 7, finishing with five points, three rebounds, three assists, and a steal as TNT attempted to defend its title. But with his body far from full strength, the challenge proved difficult against a Ginebra squad that eventually pulled away.

     

    For Oftana, playing was never guaranteed.

     

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    “Sabi ko nga sa mga kasama ko, dasal muna ako; kung bigyan ako ng sign ni Lord na maglaro kahit may iniinda, maglalaro ako sa Game Seven,” he said.

     

    “‘Yun nga, napanaginipan ko tumatakbo ako, sabi ko baka yun yung sign,” he added with a chuckle, trying to be an image of optimism.

     

    “Pero, mahirap maglaro nang may iniinda. Ayaw naman natin nun. But hats off to Ginebra.”

     

    The former NCAA MVP admitted that stepping away now is less about basketball and more about preserving his health for the long run.

     

    Instead of joining Gilas in the upcoming international window, Oftana plans to focus on rehabilitation and recovery. The timeline means he could also miss the opening portion of the next PBA conference.

     

    After years of answering every call, the 30-year-old believes rest has become a necessity rather than an option.

     

    “Mami-miss ko ‘yung first quarter ng next conference. Kailangan na magpahinga siguro dahil sa sobra na rin sa laro,” he said.

     

    “Pero hindi naman rason ‘yun. Dapat maging healthy. Gusto ko lang maging healthy sa next conference.”

     

    For a player known for his durability and willingness to play through adversity, that goal may be the most important one yet.

     

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  • John Abis caps memorable rookie campaign with Ginebra championship 

    John Abis caps memorable rookie campaign with Ginebra championship 

    John Abis may have played a limited role during Barangay Ginebra’s championship run, but the rookie forward is savoring every moment of a title experience he waited years to achieve.

     

    Fresh off helping the Gin Kings capture the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup crown, Abis admitted he is still trying to process what it means to become a champion in his first conference in the professional ranks.


    “Di ko alam kung anong mararamdaman ko o anong sasabihin ko. Basta thank you Lord lang eh kasi naramdaman ko to, naranasan ko to na mag-champion dito pa sa PBA,” said Abis.

     

    Ginebra secured the championship after defeating TNT Tropang 5G in a do-or-die Finals showdown, ending a three-year title drought and snapping a string of frustrations in import-laden conferences.

     

    For Abis, the achievement carried added significance. The former University of Perpetual Help Dalta Altas standout had previously fallen short of winning championships during his younger playing days, making his first taste of success even more memorable.

     

    “Sobrang lucky ko kasi nakaramdam talaga ako ng champion and first ko pa, then rookie year ko pa,” he said.

     

    The 23rd overall pick in the 2025 PBA Draft was not among Ginebra’s primary scorers, but he provided valuable minutes throughout the conference and Finals whenever called upon by coach Tim Cone.

     

    Abis finished the Commissioner’s Cup with averages of 2.40 points and 1.70 rebounds per game, while earning praise for his hustle plays, defensive effort, and energy off the bench.

     

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    The 6-foot-3 forward maintained that his focus remains on contributing to the team in whatever role is needed.

     

    “Gusto ko lang makatulong sa team. Always ready lang kapag tinawag ni coach,” said Abis.

     

    The rookie also acknowledged the role of Ginebra’s passionate fan base in the team’s championship campaign. The Never Say Die faithful packed arenas throughout the Finals and provided the support that helped fuel the Gin Kings’ title charge.

     

    “Sa suporta ng NSD, walang makakatalo sa suporta ng NSD dito. Talagang solid silang sumuporta sa amin. Nagpapasalamat talaga kami sobra kasi grabe yung support nila. Grabe yung atmosphere ng NSD,” he said.

     

    As Ginebra begins preparations for the upcoming Governors’ Cup, Abis vowed to continue bringing the same intensity and work ethic that helped him earn a championship ring in his rookie season.

     

    “Same pa rin. Doon pa rin yung hustle ko. Di mawawala yan. Number one yun. Bibigay ko lang yung best ko. One hundred percent best,” he said.

     

    For a player drafted outside the first two rounds and still carving out his place in the league, the first chapter of Abis’ professional career could hardly have gone better. He arrived as a rookie looking for an opportunity. He finished his first conference as a PBA champion. 

     

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  • Blackwater bets on proven winner as Kentrell Barkley brings championship pedigree to PBA 

    Blackwater bets on proven winner as Kentrell Barkley brings championship pedigree to PBA 

    Blackwater is not taking a chance on an unknown name for the upcoming PBA Governors’ Cup.

    Instead, the Bossing are bringing in a player whose passport is stamped with championships, MVP trophies, and scoring exploits from leagues across Asia.

     

    Kentrell Barkley will be Blackwater’s import for the season-ending conference, adding another chapter to a basketball journey that has already taken him through multiple countries and several championship runs.

     

    For the Bossing, the move is about more than adding talent. It is about bringing in a player who has consistently found ways to impact winning wherever he has played.

     

    Coach Pat Aquino confirmed that the 29-year-old reinforcement is expected to arrive next week, giving him ample time to familiarize himself with the team before the Governors’ Cup opens on July 10.

     

    Standing 6-foot-5, Barkley fits comfortably within the PBA’s import height limit while bringing a résumé that few incoming reinforcements can match.

     

    His most recent success came in Indonesia, where he established himself as one of the league’s premier players. He captured the IBL Most Valuable Player award in 2024 and earned a spot on the league’s Mythical Team. This season, he further showcased his versatility by finishing as the league’s top rebounder while suiting up for Kesatria Bengawan Solo.

     

    But Indonesia is only one stop in a career built across the region.

     

    After going undrafted in the NBA and spending a season with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in the G League, Barkley took his game overseas and quickly made a name for himself.

     

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    His impact was immediate in Taiwan, where he helped Taiwan Beer win a championship and earned the league’s Best Foreign Player award in 2020.

     

    He added another title to his collection in 2023 with the Saigon Heat in the Vietnam Basketball Association, where he completed a dominant campaign by winning both the league MVP and Finals MVP honors.

     

    That same year, Barkley also proved he could fill up the scoreboard at will, finishing as the scoring champion of the ASEAN Basketball League Invitational Tournament while representing the Singapore Slingers.

     

    Now, the next challenge awaits in the PBA.

     

    For Blackwater, the arrival of Barkley represents a chance to inject experience, production, and a winning mentality into a team looking to make noise in the Governors’ Cup. For Barkley, it is an opportunity to test his game in one of Asia’s most passionate basketball environments.

     

    The Bossing are hoping that the latest stop in Barkley’s well-traveled career will bring the same results he has delivered nearly everywhere else — victories, accolades, and perhaps another championship chase.

     

     

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