Tag: PBA

  • Terrafirma guard Mark Nonoy considered AWOL ahead of PBA Commissioner’s Cup

    Terrafirma guard Mark Nonoy considered AWOL ahead of PBA Commissioner’s Cup

    The Terrafirma Dyip are heading into the new conference with a cloud of uncertainty surrounding one of their young guards.

     

    Team sources revealed that Mark Nonoy has not reported to practices for months and is now considered AWOL (Absent Without Official Leave) as the franchise prepares for its campaign in the Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup.

     

    According to insiders, the 5-foot-9 playmaker has been absent from team activities since the Dyip resumed preparations in early January. His prolonged absence has also meant that he remains unavailable as Terrafirma opens its conference schedule against Titan Ultra at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

     

    “Si Nonoy considered AWOL since January,” said a source familiar with the situation.

     

    The 25-year-old guard has reportedly been unreachable for much of that stretch, leaving the team without clarity regarding his status just days before the season tips off.

     

    Nonoy’s absence is not the only roster concern for Terrafirma. The Dyip’s 14-man lineup for the conference opener will also be without forward Louie Sangalang, who has emerged as one of the club’s most reliable big men in recent seasons.

     

    Neither the team nor the league has officially addressed Sangalang’s situation, although sources said the rugged forward is currently serving a suspension related to an unspecified violation.

     

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    Meanwhile, speculation has swirled around Nonoy’s whereabouts. Unverified posts circulating on social media appear to show the former De La Salle Green Archers and UST Growling Tigers guard playing in unsanctioned local tournaments in Iloilo during the league break.

     

    Under PBA rules, active players are prohibited from participating in so-called “ligang labas” unless they receive clearance from both the league and their mother team.

     

    Sources confirmed that Nonoy traveled to Iloilo during the holiday period, though the circumstances behind his extended absence remain unclear.

     

    There have also been whispers suggesting that frustration over delayed compensation may have played a role in his decision to stay away from the team, though neither the Dyip nor league officials have commented on the claim.

     

    “Last time ko siyang nakausap sabi niya pabalik na siya ng Manila,” said one person close to the former UAAP Rookie of the Year.

     

    In the meantime, Terrafirma has already withheld the salary of Nonoy, who still has one year remaining on his contract with the franchise.

     

    The guard was selected 10th overall by the Dyip in the Season 49 rookie draft but only joined the team after completing his prior commitment with the Iloilo United Royals in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League.

     

    As the Dyip begin another conference, the team now faces an unexpected storyline off the court — one involving a young guard whose absence continues to raise more questions than answers.

     

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  • Arwind Santos open to PBA comeback at 44 — but only if he’s playing, not cheering

    Arwind Santos open to PBA comeback at 44 — but only if he’s playing, not cheering

    For a player who spent nearly two decades soaring above the rim and winning championships, the competitive fire still burns in Arwind Santos. Even at 44 years old, the former Philippine Basketball Association Most Valuable Player admitted that a return to the league he once dominated remains a possibility. When asked about the idea of suiting up again, the veteran forward did not hesitate with his response.

     

    “Oo naman. Open ako,” Santos said when asked if he still considers making a comeback to the PBA.

     

    The conversation resurfaced after Santos reminded fans that he still has something left in the tank during the side events of the league’s Season 50 All-Star Weekend. Playing for the Rookies/Sophomores squad in an exhibition matchup at Candon City Arena, the veteran forward showed he could still keep pace with younger players and make his presence felt on the court.

     

    Nicknamed “Spiderman” during his prime years, Santos nearly recorded a double-double, finishing with 14 points and eight rebounds while helping steer the Rookies/Sophomores to a high-scoring 154-150 victory over the Juniors side. He also provided leadership and stability down the stretch before coach Dayong Mendoza called him back to the bench in the final five minutes of the contest.

     

    His performance even put him in consideration for the exhibition game’s MVP award before the honor eventually went to sophomore guard Jerom Lastimosa. For Santos, however, the recognition that mattered most came from younger players who told him he could still compete at the professional level.

     

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    “Sabi nga nila, puwede ka pa, e,” Santos recalled. “But it’s up to you guys.”

     

    While the encouragement was flattering, the former MVP made it clear that he would only consider a return under one condition. Santos stressed that if he ever steps back into the PBA court, it would not be merely as a veteran presence on the bench.

     

    “Sabi ko sa kanila (teammates), kung maglalaro ako, ayoko yung papalakpak lang sa bench. Gusto ko maglalaro ako,” Santos said. “Hindi ako pupunta (sa game) para mag-cheer lang.”

     

    Few players in league history possess a résumé as decorated as Santos’. Selected second overall in the 2006 draft by the Air21 Express, he later built a legendary run with the San Miguel Beermen, where he captured all nine of his championships between 2011 and 2019.

     

    Santos also played a crucial role in San Miguel’s dominant “Death Five” lineup alongside Marcio Lassiter, Chris Ross, Alex Cabagnot, and nine-time MVP June Mar Fajardo. That core powered the Beermen to five consecutive Philippine Cup titles and cemented one of the most dominant dynasties in league history.

     

    Now several years removed from those championship runs, Santos is not making any guarantees about a return. But after showing flashes of his old form on the All-Star stage, the door for one more chapter in his PBA journey remains slightly open — provided he gets the chance to truly play.

     

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  • Willie Miller confident Mikey Williams will regain form with Converge despite slow start

    Willie Miller confident Mikey Williams will regain form with Converge despite slow start

    Patience will be key for Converge as it integrates Mikey Williams into its backcourt rotation for the upcoming PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

     

    Deputy coach Willie Miller admitted that the Filipino-American guard is still working his way back into peak condition, but he remains confident that the former TNT star will rediscover the form that once made him one of the league’s most feared scorers.

     

    Williams only recently returned to the Philippines after spending time in the United States, and while he has already joined the FiberXers in practice, Miller said there are still a few adjustments needed before the explosive guard reaches full rhythm.

     

    “Yung shooting niya andun pa rin. Hindi pa rin nawala,” noted the two-time MVP.

     

    “Tingin ko yung timing lang talaga ang kulang pa sa kanya.”

     

    Miller, who is responsible for overseeing Converge’s guards, made it clear that getting Williams back into game-ready shape is now part of his responsibilities with the team.

     

    “Sa mga guard ako ang assigned. Sa big men, si DI (Danny Ildefonso) diyan,” said the former Letran standout, referring to fellow assistant coach Danny Ildefonso.

     

    “Ikukundisyon natin yan,” he added.

     

    Williams arrived in the country last week and wasted little time reconnecting with his new squad, attending practice just a day or two after landing.

     

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    The prolific guard joined Converge through a blockbuster trade last year that sent Jordan Heading to TNT, ending Williams’ previous chapter with the Tropang Giga where he played a major role in winning two PBA championships.

     

    Although he has been away from competitive basketball in the league, Miller shared that Williams stayed active while in the US.

     

    “Nagpapa-kundisyon naman siya sa US. Madalas din daw siyang maglaro sa mga pick up games. Minsan may mga former NBA players pa siyang nakakalaro,” Miller shared.

     

    “Pero siyempre, iba pa rin talaga yung competitive games.”

     

    Beyond Williams’ individual preparation, Converge also faces another challenge — blending a roster packed with talent.

     

    The FiberXers feature a star-studded lineup that includes Williams, Juan Gomez De Liano, Alec Stockton, Kurt Reyson, MJ Garcia, Archie Concepcion, Calvin Abueva, Justine Baltazar, Justin Arana, and Jonnel Policarpio, along with towering 7-foot import Kylor Kelley.

     

    For Miller, the key will be building chemistry so the team can maximize its depth without sacrificing offensive flow.

     

    “Sabi nga ni Gov (coach Delta Pineda) good problem yan. In time, pag nakuha na yung chemistry ng team, tingin ko hindi naman yan magiging problema,” he said.

     

    Miller pointed out that powerhouse teams like San Miguel Beer, TNT, and Barangay Ginebra have managed to succeed despite having multiple stars sharing the floor.

     

    If the FiberXers can find that same balance, Converge may soon become one of the most dangerous teams in the conference.

     

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  • Calvin Oftana cautions against high expectations for TNT import Bol Bol

    Calvin Oftana cautions against high expectations for TNT import Bol Bol

    The arrival of Bol Bol has instantly made TNT one of the most talked-about teams ahead of the 2026 PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

     

    But for Tropang Giga forward Calvin Oftana, the presence of the 7-foot-3 former NBA big man doesn’t automatically translate to a championship repeat.

     

    Speaking on the sidelines of the PBA All-Star Weekend, Oftana stressed that reputation alone won’t decide the outcome of games once the conference begins.

     

    “Hindi naman porke ganito yung import ninyo, ganun ang import ninyo,” said Oftana.

     

    “Pagdating naman kasi sa laro iba na yung mindset nun. Lahat gustong manalo.”

     

    The Gilas Pilipinas forward admitted he has yet to spend much time on the court with Bol as he was busy with national team duties during the recent FIBA World Cup qualifiers before turning his attention to rehabilitating an ankle injury.

     

    Because of that, Oftana said he hasn’t been able to fully gauge where the towering reinforcement currently stands in terms of conditioning.

     

    “So far OK naman siya pero sabi nga nila wala raw sa kundisyon,” he said.

     

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    Fortunately for TNT, the team still has time to build chemistry before opening its campaign. The Tropang Giga are scheduled to play their first game of the conference on March 20 against Rain or Shine.

     

    Despite the attention surrounding Bol’s arrival, Oftana shared that the South Sudanese-American has kept a low-key presence within the team.

     

    “Approachable naman siya, pero mahinhin,” said the former NCAA MVP from San Beda.

     

    “Pero ganun naman ang mga import. Dati si Rondae (Hollis-Jefferson) ganun din naman. Pero kalaunan nung naglalaro na kami, nakukuha na namin yung loob niya. And napapatawa na siya ng mga kasama ko.”

     

    Even as TNT prepares to defend its crown, Oftana believes the road to another title will be far from easy.

     

    He pointed to several contenders who could stand in the way of the Tropang Giga’s bid, including powerhouse teams San Miguel Beer and Barangay Ginebra, along with guest squad Macau Black Bears.

     

    “Maraming quality imports na dumating ngayon this conference,” Oftana admitted.

     

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  • Japeth Aguilar turns back the clock, becomes oldest MVP in PBA All-Star Game history

    Japeth Aguilar turns back the clock, becomes oldest MVP in PBA All-Star Game history

    Veteran high-flyer Japeth Aguilar proved that age is just a number as he delivered a spectacular performance to headline the 2026 PBA All-Star Game in Candon City.

     

    Celebrating his 10th appearance in the league’s annual midseason showcase, the 39-year-old Barangay Ginebra big man turned in a crowd-pleasing performance to power Solid North to a 147-142 victory over South on Sunday night at the Candon City Arena.

     

    Aguilar dazzled the fans with 29 points, highlighted by a flawless display in the dunk attempts where he converted all seven tries — each worth three points in the All-Star format.

     

    His final slam came with just 24 seconds remaining and effectively sealed the win for the North squad, extending its dominance in the exhibition to six straight victories over the South since the 2010 edition.

     

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    For his efforts, Aguilar was named the Most Valuable Player, making him the oldest player ever to capture the award in the history of the PBA All-Star Game.

     

    “I’m just enjoying this All-Star game,” said Aguilar.

     

    The achievement also gave Aguilar his third All-Star MVP recognition, though it marked his first time winning the honor outright.

     

    He previously shared the award with Arwind Santos in 2019 and with Robert Bolick in 2024.

     

    Aguilar’s latest accolade also came with a historical footnote. The veteran center surpassed the previous record held by Santos, who was 37 years old when he won the All-Star MVP in 2019.

     

    More than the numbers, Aguilar’s performance served as a reminder that even after nearly two decades in the league, the athletic big man can still rise above the rim — and the competition — when the spotlight shines brightest.

     

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  • Meralco still searching for import as Commissioner’s Cup opener nears

    Meralco still searching for import as Commissioner’s Cup opener nears

    Time is ticking for Meralco as the 2026 Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup approaches, yet one key piece of its roster puzzle remains unresolved.

     

    With only 12 days left before the Bolts open their campaign, the team has yet to officially name its import, leaving a notable vacancy in the lineup released by the franchise on Friday.

     

    The absence of a designated reinforcement raised eyebrows, especially since Puerto Rican big man Ismael Romero had long been linked to the role. Romero had been working with the team during its stint in the East Asia Super League, fueling speculation that he would carry the import duties once the conference begins.

     

    But uncertainty surrounding Romero’s situation may have complicated those plans.

     

    The 6-foot-8 forward recently drew attention for the wrong reasons during the Dubai International Basketball Championship in January while playing for Al Ahli Tripoli. In a heated moment during a game, Romero kicked former PBA player Nick Demusis, sparking controversy. The incident has lingered in basketball circles, and Romero has yet to publicly apologize.

     

    Whether Meralco ultimately sticks with Romero or looks elsewhere for a reinforcement remains to be seen as the countdown to the conference continues.

     

    While the import slot remains undecided, the Bolts have already finalized much of their local core, including several players who will be making their PBA debuts with the team. 

     

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    Jason Brickman and Vince Magbuhos are set to suit up for Meralco after completing their commitments in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League last year. Their arrival adds fresh playmaking and depth to a roster eager to make a deeper run in the mid-season conference.

     

    Veteran guard Chris Newsome is expected to spearhead Meralco’s campaign after another strong season, supported by a familiar cast that includes Aaron Black, Chris Banchero, Cliff Hodge, and Anjo Caram.

     

    Also returning to the fold are Bong Quinto, Raymond Almazan, Allein Maliksi, Jansen Rios, Kyle Pascual, Brandon Bates, and CJ Cansino, while newly acquired forward Javee Mocon strengthens the team’s frontcourt rotation.

     

    The Bolts are looking to bounce back after bowing out in the quarterfinals of last year’s Commissioner’s Cup, and the organization hopes the current lineup can push the team deeper into the playoffs this time around.

     

    Meralco begins its campaign on March 18 against the Converge FiberXers at the Ynares Center, by which time the Bolts will need to have their import situation settled.

     

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  • Converge governor praises Mikey Williams’ attitude upon his return to the PBA

    Converge governor praises Mikey Williams’ attitude upon his return to the PBA

    After nearly three years away from competitive basketball in the league, Mikey Williams is beginning a new journey and this time with Converge, as he works his way back toward the PBA spotlight.

     

    The former Finals MVP has already touched down in Manila and wasted no time settling into preparation mode, according to Converge team governor Archen Cayabyab. From the moment he arrived earlier this week, Williams showed eagerness to get back to work.

     

    “Very highly motivated siya. Talagang naka-focus ang bata. Ang unang nga niyang hinanapan, gym. Gym kaagad. He is totally fit. Talagang babawi siya ngayong this coming conference,” Cayabyab said.

     

    Williams has already started participating in team activities with the FiberXers as they gear up for the upcoming PBA Commissioner’s Cup. 

     

    His reintegration into the squad began during the team’s bonding trip in Laguna, where he joined teammates in a recent team-building activity before returning to on-court preparations.

     

    The Converge guard is now working through the early stages of his comeback, focusing not only on conditioning but also reconnecting with the rhythm of team basketball. 

     

    His last appearance in a competitive PBA game dates back to April 21, 2023, when TNT edged Barangay Ginebra, 97-93, in the Finals — a series that saw Williams capture his second Finals MVP award.

     

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    While the talent and experience are unquestioned, Cayabyab acknowledged that the adjustment period is still ongoing, especially with the Commissioner’s Cup approaching quickly.

     

    “Kailangan pa natin chemistry sa mga ka-teammates niya, mga kasama niya. Pero okay naman nakita ko, nag-observe naman ako last night. Talagang kasama niya ang buong team, nag-enjoy siya. At home siya, sa totoo lang,” the team’s governor said.

     

    Building familiarity with the system and establishing chemistry with new teammates remain among the priorities as Williams prepares for his first appearance in a Converge uniform. The FiberXers are scheduled to open their campaign against the Macau Black Bears, giving the returning guard limited time to fully settle in.

     

    Despite the tight timeline, Cayabyab expressed confidence that Williams’ basketball intelligence will help him adapt quickly to the team’s structure.

     

    “Sinabi niya kumbaga hindi siya pumunta sa team para makasira sa team. Pero nandito siya para makatulong sa goal ng team na gusto makarating sa semis muna hanggang sa makarating ng championship,” he said.

     

    Cayabyab admitted the biggest concern lies in the timing and game rhythm Williams needs to regain after such a long layoff.

     

    “Almost three years, ang inaalala ko ang timing niya. Baka manibago pa siya kasi next week na, may laro na kami. So hindi pa siya masyadong familiar sa system pero very high IQ naman si Mikey. Madali niya makukuha ‘yan,” said the amiable Cayabyab.

     

    For Converge, Williams’ arrival represents both a boost in talent and a renewed sense of optimism. For the guard himself, the upcoming conference offers a chance to rediscover his form and prove he can still be a difference-maker in the league.

     

     

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  • Mikey Williams nears long‑awaited PBA return, logs in with Converge FiberXers

    Mikey Williams nears long‑awaited PBA return, logs in with Converge FiberXers

    After a lengthy absence, Mikey Williams is finally preparing to light up the Philippine Basketball Association once again — this time with the Converge FiberXers.

     

    Williams confirmed his return via an Instagram Story, where he revealed that he has arrived in the Philippines, is already with the FiberXers, and has taken part in recent team‑building activities. His caption summed up the moment simply but meaningfully: “It’s all God… And just like that, it begins.”

     

    The sharpshooting guard hasn’t appeared in a PBA game since the 2023 Governors’ Cup, where he delivered a memorable performance for TNT Tropang Giga. Williams finished that series with a brilliant 38‑point outing in Game 6 of the finals and averaged 22.0 points while leading TNT to the championship, earning his second Finals MVP in the process. That came on the heels of his first Finals MVP in the 2021 Philippine Cup, when he carried TNT to its first title in six years shortly after being drafted.

     

    Across his first three seasons in the league (2021–2023), Williams established himself as one of the most electric scorers in the PBA, averaging 18.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game while thrilling crowds with his shooting range and clutch instincts. 

     

    He also earned Rookie of the Year honors in 2021, led the league in scoring early in his career, and secured Mythical Team nods — achievements that cemented his status as a franchise cornerstone during his time with TNT.

     

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    Off‑court dynamics, however, kept Williams away from the league for nearly two years. Contract talks with TNT stalled after the 2023 season, eventually leading to TNT terminating his contract while still retaining his rights. This impasse kept him from taking the court professionally in the PBA and led to speculation about his future — including appearances abroad such as at the Dubai International Basketball Championship in early 2025.

     

    Everything changed mid‑2025, when the PBA approved a one‑for‑one trade sending Williams’ signing rights from TNT to Converge in exchange for veteran guard Jordan Heading. With that move, the doors finally opened for Williams to sign with a new team and make his highly anticipated comeback.

     

    Now rostered alongside standout talents like Juan Gomez de Liaño, Justine Baltazar, Justin Arana, Alec Stockton, and Calvin Abueva, Williams adds a proven scorer and leader to a Converge core that has been reshaped for deeper postseason runs.

     

    For PBA fans, his return is more than a roster addition — it’s the homecoming of one of the league’s most electrifying offensive forces. After years of negotiation drama, geographical hiatus, and what‑ifs, Mikey Williams’ comeback promises to be one of the most watched storylines of the season. 

     

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  • Yeng Guiao and Rain or Shine brace for towering tests in Commissioner’s Cup opening games 

    Yeng Guiao and Rain or Shine brace for towering tests in Commissioner’s Cup opening games 

    Size will greet Rain or Shine Elasto Painters the moment the Commissioner’s Cup tips off.

     

    In a conference known for unleashing high-impact imports, Rain or Shine may have drawn the most daunting opening stretch of all in the Philippine Basketball Association 50th Season. Their first two assignments? A 7-foot-6 giant and a 7-foot-3 former NBA mainstay.

     

    The Elasto Painters begin their campaign on March 14 at the Ynares Center Montalban against guest team Macau Black Bears, which is set to parade Sam Deguara. At 7-foot-6, Deguara is poised to become the tallest player ever to suit up in the league’s 50-year history — a literal and symbolic reminder of how this midseason tournament shifts the competitive landscape.

     

    Six days later, the challenge only intensifies. Rain or Shine heads to the Smart Araneta Coliseum for a March 20 clash with TNT Tropang Giga, where 7-foot-3 Bol Bol will make his much-anticipated PBA debut. With a six-year NBA résumé from 2019 to 2025, Bol arrives not merely as a tall reinforcement but as one of the most decorated imports in the field.

     

    For a Rain or Shine squad built more on speed and grit than sheer height, the early matchups present a puzzle.

     

    “Problema talaga ‘yan,” admitted head coach Yeng Guiao when asked how his team plans to deal with towering reinforcements like Deguara and Bol.

     

    “I think we will only know how we can look for a scheme to siguro not to totally neutralize them but make them a little bit less effective when we see them play mismo. What we can do now is rely on the videos and past tapes nila, past performances. But iba pa rin ‘yung mag-adapt sila sa style ng PBA,” Guiao said.

     

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    The veteran tactician, known for squeezing advantages out of undermanned lineups, is approaching the challenge cautiously.

     

    “We will see how they will adapt. We will see if they have any weaknesses kung may weakness sila. We will try to do something to counter their size. Ang nakakatakot baka wala silang weakness,” Guiao added.

     

    Among the two, Bol looms as the greater concern.

     

    “Si Bol Bol, napapanood ko naman sa NBA, napapanood ko naman highlights niya. I think he will be a problem among all the imports. Ang pinakamalaking concern ko si Bol Bol. Wala pa kaming nakikitang paraan para mapigilan siya.”

     

    “He can own the paint, offense and defense. He is a human cheat code actually,” Guiao said.

     

    The Commissioner’s Cup has always been a tournament where matchups dictate destiny. For Rain or Shine, destiny arrives early — and it stands well over seven feet tall.

     

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  • All PBA teams locked in with imports for Commissioner’s Cup

    All PBA teams locked in with imports for Commissioner’s Cup

    With less than a month before the PBA Commissioner’s Cup tips off, the league’s import landscape is officially complete, promising plenty of size and star power for the mid-season conference.

     

    Leading the arrivals is Marcus Lee, who joins the San Miguel Beermen to reinforce a squad chasing back-to-back championships. At 6-foot-11, Lee brings collegiate experience from University of Kentucky and University of California, as well as an extensive overseas career after going undrafted in the 2018 NBA Draft.

     

    Kylor Kelley is set to patrol the paint for Converge FiberXers after a stint with the South Bay Lakers. The 7-foot center is expected to anchor Converge’s defense while providing key rim protection.

     

    Guest team Macau Black Bears also solidified its lineup with towering presences, signing 7-foot-6 Sam Deguara and 6-foot-7 veteran Tony Mitchell. League rules allow only one import on the court at a time, with the other serving as backup. 

     

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    Other notable reinforcements include former NBA player Bol Bol for TNT Tropang Giga, Terrell Brown-Soares for Magnolia Hotshots, Daniel Ochefu for Blackwater Bossing, Israel Romero for Meralco Bolts, Jaylen Johnson for Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, James Dickey for Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters, Cady Lalanne for NLEX Road Warriors, and longtime Ginebra reinforcement Justin Brownlee.

     

    Finally, Michael Gilmore completes the Titan Ultra Giant Risers’ import roster, making this season’s mid-season conference one of the tallest in recent memory.

     

    With all teams fully equipped, the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, set to begin on March 11, promises high-flying action and a showcase of talent both local and imported. 

     

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