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  • Adrian Nocum shines as Rain or Shine’s new floor leader, bags Player of the Week

    Adrian Nocum shines as Rain or Shine’s new floor leader, bags Player of the Week

    Adrian Nocum’s expanded responsibilities have quickly translated into one of the biggest individual honors of his young PBA career.

     

    The Rain or Shine guard was named the PBA Press Corps Player of the Week for the period of July 21 to 26 after playing a key role in the Elasto Painters’ turnaround following the mid-conference trade of Gian Mamuyac.

     

    Rather than looking outside the roster to fill the void left by Mamuyac, Rain or Shine entrusted more of the playmaking duties to Nocum—and the young guard has delivered.

     

    Over his last two games, Nocum averaged 15.5 points, 9.0 assists, and 4.5 rebounds, emerging as both a reliable scorer and the team’s primary facilitator.

     

    His development at point guard was most evident against Barangay Ginebra, where he dished out a career-high 10 assists while adding 13 points to steer the Elasto Painters’ offense.

     

    Nocum followed that performance with another all-around effort against Phoenix Super LPG, producing 18 points and eight assists in Rain or Shine’s first game since Mamuyac’s departure.

     

    His improved decision-making has impressed head coach Yeng Guiao, who admitted the coaching staff deliberately expanded Nocum’s role as the team’s floor general.

     

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    “We actually, on purpose, try him a lot more minutes at the point,” said Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao. “His decision-making is getting better, more matured, and he is also, partly, nagpapakita din siya ng leadership.”

     

    The move has paid immediate dividends.

     

    Behind Nocum’s steady play, Rain or Shine has bounced back to an even 2-2 record, joining Blackwater and Meralco in a tie for second place in Group B as the Elasto Painters continue to find their rhythm in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup.

     

    The weekly recognition also highlighted Nocum’s emergence as one of the conference’s early breakout performers. He earned the honor over fellow standouts Caelan Tiongson of Rain or Shine, Schonny Winston of Converge, and Juami Tiongson of Terrafirma.

     

    For Rain or Shine, Nocum’s rise has become more than just a bright spot. As the Elasto Painters adjust to life after Mamuyac, the young guard has shown he is capable of taking on a larger leadership role—one that is already producing victories and now, his first PBA Press Corps Player of the Week award.

     

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  • Robert Bolick credits Jimmy Alapag’s leadership as NLEX stays perfect at 4-0

    Robert Bolick credits Jimmy Alapag’s leadership as NLEX stays perfect at 4-0

    Jimmy Alapag’s influence on NLEX is being measured by more than just wins.

     

    Four games into his first stint as a PBA head coach, the Road Warriors remain the league’s lone unbeaten team, but for star guard Robert Bolick, the biggest change has come in the culture Alapag has built inside the locker room.

     

    Fresh off a commanding 110-96 victory over San Miguel Beer on Sunday, Bolick pointed to his rookie mentor’s humility and unwavering optimism as key reasons behind NLEX’s blazing start in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup.

     

    “Kagandahan kay coach Jimmy, legend na pero napaka-humble. Grateful kami sa mga tinuturo niya,” Bolick said.

     

    The Road Warriors improved to 4-0, becoming the only undefeated team left in the conference while continuing one of the franchise’s best starts in recent memory.

     

    According to PBA chief statistician Fidel Mangonon III, it marks only the fourth time NLEX has opened a conference with four straight victories, matching similar runs in 2017, 2022, and 2023.

     

    The hot start has also placed Alapag in select company. Mangonon noted that the former Gilas Pilipinas captain became the first rookie PBA head coach to win his first four games since Ato Agustin guided San Miguel to a 5-0 opening in the 2010-11 Philippine Cup.

     

    While Alapag has quickly made history, Bolick continues to lead by example on the floor.

     

    Against the Beermen, the three-time PBA All-Star flirted with a triple-double, finishing with 14 points, 12 assists, and nine rebounds while controlling the game’s tempo from start to finish.

     

    Rather than forcing his offense, Bolick once again embraced his role as the team’s facilitator, trusting the Road Warriors’ growing collection of scorers to carry the load.

     

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    “Meron na kaming players na kayang mag-contribute sa scoring and para sa akin, kung hindi sila mainit, tatrabahuhin ko. Pero alam kong mainit ‘yung mga kasama ko tulad ngayon, hahanap ako ng paraan para malibre sila or doon sa kung saan sila makaka-shoot na komportable,” Bolick emphasized.

     

    That unselfish approach has become one of NLEX’s biggest strengths.

     

    Import DeQuan Jones paced the balanced attack with 27 points, Schonny Winston added 24, Anthony Semerad chipped in 15, while Xyrus Torres contributed 13 as four Road Warriors scored in double figures to overwhelm San Miguel.

     

    For Bolick, however, the biggest difference isn’t reflected in the stat sheet.

     

    He believes Alapag’s calm demeanor has helped the team stay composed regardless of the situation, creating an atmosphere where confidence never fades—even when adversity strikes.

    “Napaka-positive niya. Ngayon lang ako nakakita ng coach na positive na kahit sobrang sama na ng nangyayari, positive pa rin,” the veteran guard expressed.

     

    That positivity has translated into results as NLEX continues to build momentum early in the conference.

     

    The Road Warriors now turn their attention to another major test when they put their unbeaten record on the line against the Converge FiberXers on Saturday, August 1, at the Mall of Asia Arena, with Alapag looking to extend what has already become one of the best coaching debuts in recent PBA history.

     

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  • Rain or Shine thriving without Leonard Santillan, but forward eager to rejoin in October 

    Rain or Shine thriving without Leonard Santillan, but forward eager to rejoin in October 

    Rain or Shine has managed to steady its campaign even without one of its key frontcourt players, giving injured forward Leonard Santillan plenty of reasons to be optimistic as he works toward an October return.


    The Elasto Painters stumbled out of the gate in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup with back-to-back losses, but they have quickly regained their footing by stringing together consecutive victories. 

     

    Their latest statement came in a convincing 110-99 victory over Barangay Ginebra, where import Aaron Fuller erupted for 37 points while Caelan Tiongson chipped in 21 to fuel the team’s resurgence.

     

    The turnaround has lifted Rain or Shine to fourth place in the Group B standings with a 2-2 win-loss record. The Elasto Painters will look to continue their climb when they face the Magnolia Hotshots on Friday, July 31, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    Watching from the sidelines, Santillan has been encouraged by how Rain or Shine has responded despite missing one of its regular contributors.

     

    “Mga two months pa ito. Sana makabalik na ako agad para makatulong sa team,” Santillan said.

     

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    He has yet to make his conference debut as he continues his rehabilitation. According to Santillan, the team’s medical staff is targeting his return after the league’s scheduled break.

     

    “Ang sabi naman, October. October yung target. Sakto pagbalik sa break ng PBA,” the 6-foot-5 forward said.

     

    While eager to get back on the floor, Santillan has enjoyed seeing his teammates fill the void in the frontcourt. He singled out rookie Christian Manaytay for making the most of his opportunities while also recognizing the work being put in by Luis Villegas and veteran Beau Belga.

     

    “Masaya naman kasi ganun naman talaga yung tinatrabaho nila. Nag-e-extra work sila,” he said.

     

    “Lalo na yung rookie namin na si Christian. Sobrang sipag ng batang ‘yun. Sila Luis, Kuya Beau, sobrang sipag din. Natutuwa ako na maganda yung pinapakita ng team,” Santillan added. 

     

    Rain or Shine’s recent run has eased the pressure of Santillan’s absence, with the Elasto Painters showing improved depth and production in the frontcourt. The emergence of younger players has helped stabilize the rotation, allowing the team to stay competitive while waiting for one of its key forwards to regain full fitness.

     

    For now, Santillan remains focused on completing his recovery, with October set as the target for his return. If Rain or Shine can maintain its winning form beginning with its showdown to its upcoming matches, the Elasto Painters could receive a timely boost when the versatile forward is finally cleared to rejoin the lineup.

     

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  • San Miguel coach Leo Austria reveals angioplasty after health scare, eyes PBA return

    San Miguel coach Leo Austria reveals angioplasty after health scare, eyes PBA return

    Despite navigating the early stages of the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup without longtime head coach Leo Austria on the sidelines, the San Miguel Beermen have managed to establish themselves as one of the tournament’s early contenders.

     

    The Beermen have opened their campaign with a 3-1 record, placing second in Group A after four games. Their impressive start, however, has come amid the absence of Austria, who has been recovering from a recent heart procedure that temporarily forced him away from coaching duties.

     

    Austria made his first public appearance since undergoing treatment during San Miguel’s 110-96 loss to the NLEX Road Warriors at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, July 26. Although he was not on the bench, the 68-year-old coach watched the game from the stands before speaking to members of the media about the health scare that sidelined him for the opening stretch of the conference.

     

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    The decorated mentor revealed that the issue was discovered during a routine medical examination required for the renewal of his Games and Amusements Board (GAB) coaching license.

     

    “We had a medical check-up to comply with the renewal of our GAB licenses. The results showed that there was something wrong with my ECG. A week later, we got the results, and I immediately showed them to my cardiologists, Dr. Tony Leachon and Dr. Rommel Galvez,” Austria said.

     

    His doctors subsequently recommended additional tests, including a stress test, after detecting irregularities in his initial results.

    “He told me I had to undergo a stress test to determine the condition of my heart. After the scan, they found something abnormal. To confirm everything, I had to undergo an angiogram, and that’s when they confirmed that my arteries were blocked,” Austria explained.

     

    Following the diagnosis, Austria underwent an angioplasty, a minimally invasive procedure performed to restore blood flow by opening blocked coronary arteries. He was discharged from the hospital on July 9 and has since been focusing on his recovery while closely monitoring his condition.

     

    Austria admitted that he initially hoped to return to the sidelines in time for San Miguel’s season opener. However, team governor Robert Non—who previously underwent the same procedure—urged him to prioritize his health before making his comeback.

     

    “For the first game, I thought I was already going to coach. Fortunately, Boss Robert was there and told me, ‘No, no, you have to take a rest,’ because he had gone through the same angioplasty. It’s not an easy procedure. I’m very thankful to him and coach Al Chua for giving me time to recover. I’m so grateful to them,” Austria said.

     

    While Austria has remained away from the bench, the Beermen have continued to perform at a high level under the guidance of the coaching staff, collecting three victories in their first four assignments before suffering their first defeat against the Road Warriors. The team’s strong start has allowed San Miguel to remain firmly in the hunt near the top of the Group A standings despite the absence of one of the league’s most accomplished coaches.

     

    Austria, who has guided the Beermen to 11 PBA championships during his illustrious coaching career, expressed confidence that his return is only a matter of time. Although he declined to provide a definitive timetable, he believes he will be back on the sidelines once he fully adjusts to the medication prescribed following the procedure and regains full strength.

     

    “It’s only a matter of a few more games before I return to coaching. Bypass surgery is much more difficult. That’s why I’m confident I can come back. It’s just a matter of time. I just need to make sure I return at 100 percent,” Austria said.

     

    For San Miguel, Austria’s recovery remains the top priority. With the Beermen continuing to deliver positive results in his absence, the organization has afforded its veteran tactician the time and support needed to make a complete recovery before resuming his coaching responsibilities. Should the team’s early form continue, Austria could soon return to a squad well-positioned to challenge for yet another Governors’ Cup title.

     

     

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  • Converge, TNT search for answers as struggling imports take center stage 

    Converge, TNT search for answers as struggling imports take center stage 

    Tuesday’s showdown between Converge and TNT may ultimately be decided by the players both teams expected to carry them.

     

    Instead, it has become a battle between two imports still searching for consistency.

     

    When the FiberXers and the Tropang 5G square off at 7:30 p.m. at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, much of the spotlight will fall on Justin Hudson and Darius Days—two reinforcements who have yet to consistently deliver despite the strong performances of their local teammates.

     

    For Converge, the supporting cast has done more than enough to keep the team among the early contenders.

     

    The FiberXers raced to a 3-0 start behind dominant wins over Titan Ultra, Terrafirma, and the Macau Giant Pandas before finally suffering their first defeat against unbeaten San Miguel Beer, 128-122.

     

    Even in that loss, Converge showed it could compete with one of the league’s top championship favorites.

     

    Justin Arana and Justine Baltazar combined for 45 points and 17 rebounds while battling June Mar Fajardo inside, and Juan Gomez de Liano, Mikee Williams, and Alec Stockton continued to provide reliable scoring.

     

    The one missing piece has been Hudson, who has struggled to establish himself as the consistent offensive force Converge envisioned when it brought him in.

     

    His production becomes even more important against a TNT squad desperate to avoid falling deeper in the standings.

     

    The Tropang 5G, meanwhile, have bigger concerns than simply replacing import scoring.

     

    The defending Governors’ Cup champions have been hit hard by injuries, with Calvin Oftana, Jayson Castro, Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser, and Kelly Williams all unavailable, leaving Chot Reyes to rely on a thinner rotation than expected.

     

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    The results have reflected those absences.

     

    After escaping the Macau Giant Pandas in their opener, TNT dropped consecutive games to NLEX and Terrafirma, slipping to 1-2 and outside the current Top Four.

     

    Like Hudson, Days has struggled to consistently impact games, making Tuesday’s matchup an opportunity for either import to finally swing momentum in his team’s favor.

     

    For Converge, a victory would immediately erase the sting of losing its unbeaten record against San Miguel and reinforce the belief that it belongs among the conference’s contenders.

     

    For TNT, the stakes are even higher.

     

    Another defeat would leave the defending champions digging an even deeper hole early in the conference while waiting for their injured stars to return.

     

    Both teams already know their local stars can compete. Now, they need their imports to prove they can do the same.

     

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  • Converge reunites with Jamaal Franklin, parts ways with Jalen Hudson ahead of TNT clash

    Converge reunites with Jamaal Franklin, parts ways with Jalen Hudson ahead of TNT clash

    Converge wasted little time searching for answers after suffering its first setback of the PBA Season 50 Governor’s Cup, turning to a familiar face in hopes of keeping its strong start on track.


    The FiberXers have officially replaced import Jalen Hudson with returning reinforcement Jamaal Franklin, bringing back one of the franchise’s most productive imports ahead of Tuesday’s showdown against TNT at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

     

    The team confirmed the move through its official social media post.

     

    “Welcome Back, Jamaal Franklin!”

     

    The roster change comes after Hudson’s brief four-game stint with Converge. Although he showed flashes of his scoring ability, the former import struggled to find consistency throughout the conference.

     

    Hudson averaged 12.25 points, 6.75 rebounds, and 4.25 assists before being released by the FiberXers.

     

    He made an encouraging debut by tallying 20 points, eight rebounds, and four assists against Titan Ultra, but his production steadily declined over the next few games, highlighted by a two-point outing against Terrafirma.

     

    With Converge sitting at 3-1 and third in the Group A standings following its first loss of the conference to the San Miguel Beermen, management opted to make a change before the tournament reaches its crucial stretch.

     

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    That decision brings Franklin back to a team where he previously thrived wherein the high-scoring forward last suited up for Converge during the 2023 conference, producing outstanding averages of 34.0 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game. 

     

    Behind his all-around brilliance, the FiberXers compiled a 6-5 record to secure seventh place in the elimination round before bowing out in the quarterfinals.

     

    Franklin’s return also restores an import known for his ability to impact every facet of the game rather than simply carrying the scoring load.

     

    Before establishing himself as one of the most accomplished imports to play in Asia, Franklin was selected 41st overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2013 NBA Draft. Although he never played in an NBA regular-season game with Memphis, he developed in the NBA G League with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants before continuing his career in China with the Zhejiang Lions. 

     

    He later earned an NBA opportunity with the Denver Nuggets during the 2015-16 season before becoming a longtime standout in the Chinese Basketball Association beginning in 2017.

     

    Franklin is expected to make his season debut for Converge when the FiberXers take on TNT on Tuesday, with the team hoping his familiarity with the system can provide an immediate spark as it looks to bounce back from its first defeat.

     

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  • This Week’s Sports Fixtures: PBA, PVL On Tour, and Alex Eala Mubadala DC Open (July 27 – August 2)

    This Week’s Sports Fixtures: PBA, PVL On Tour, and Alex Eala Mubadala DC Open (July 27 – August 2)

    Philippine sports fans have a busy week ahead as major competitions take center stage, featuring a packed PBA Season 50 Governor’s Cup schedule, the continuation of the PVL On Tour, and Alex Eala’s appearance at the Mubadala DC Open. Basketball action dominates the local calendar, while volleyball and international tennis provide additional highlights for Filipino supporters.


    PBA Season 50 Governor’s Cup

     

    Tuesday, July 28 — Ninoy Aquino Stadium

     

    5:15 PM – Phoenix Fuel Masters vs Blackwater Bossing

    7:30 PM – TNT Tropang 5G vs Converge FiberXers

     

    Wednesday, July 29 — Ninoy Aquino Stadium

     

    5:15 PM – Terrafirma Dyip vs Macau Giant Pandas

    7:30 PM – San Miguel Beermen vs Titan Ultra

     

    Friday, July 31 — SM Mall of Asia Arena

     

    5:15 PM – Rain or Shine Elasto Painters vs Magnolia Hotshots

    7:30 PM – Meralco Bolts vs Barangay Ginebra San Miguel

    Saturday, August 1 — SM Mall of Asia Arena

     

    5:15 PM – Converge FiberXers vs NLEX Road Warriors

    7:30 PM – TNT Tropang 5G vs San Miguel Beermen

     

    Sunday, August 2 — Smart Araneta Coliseum

     

    5:15 PM – Rain or Shine Elasto Painters vs Meralco Bolts

    7:30 PM – Barangay Ginebra San Miguel vs Magnolia Hotshots

     

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    PVL On Tour

     

    Saturday, August 1 — Polomolok, South Cotabato

     

    4:00 PM – Nxled Chameleons vs Galeries Tower Highrisers

    6:30 PM – Akari Chargers vs Choco Mucho Flying Titans

     

    Mubadala DC Open — Women’s Singles

     

    Round of 32 — Tuesday, July 28

     

    11:00 PM (PHT)
    Alex Eala vs Qinwen Zheng

     

    With several high-profile matchups lined up, the week offers plenty of storylines across different sports. The PBA continues its heated Governor’s Cup battles as teams fight for positioning, while the PVL On Tour brings volleyball action closer to fans outside Metro Manila. Meanwhile, Alex Eala will look to make another strong international impression as she faces a tough challenge in the Mubadala DC Open.

     

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  • Tim Cone calls out Barangay Ginebra’s “really poor effort” after Rain or Shine loss

    Tim Cone calls out Barangay Ginebra’s “really poor effort” after Rain or Shine loss

    The struggles of reigning Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) champions Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in the 2026 Governors’ Cup deepened on Sunday night after another disappointing performance saw them fall to the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, 99-110, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

    The defeat marked another setback for the league powerhouse, which has yet to find its rhythm early in the conference. After entering the Governors’ Cup with championship expectations, Barangay Ginebra has instead found itself searching for consistency, now sitting at 1-2 in the standings.

     

    Rain or Shine controlled much of the contest behind standout performances from Aaron Fuller and Caelan Tiongson. Fuller led all scorers with 37 points, while Tiongson added 21 points to help the Elasto Painters secure a statement victory against one of the PBA’s most decorated franchises.

     

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    For Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone, the loss was particularly frustrating—not because of execution alone, but because of what he felt was a lack of effort and intensity from his players.

     

    Cone expressed his disappointment during the postgame press conference, saying his team was simply outworked by Rain or Shine in every aspect of the game.

     

    “I’m disappointed with our effort tonight. Really, really, really poor effort. It was the worst we have had in a long time. Rain or Shine outhustled us in all departments tonight, and they had a greater sense of urgency,” Cone said.

    The numbers reflected Cone’s concerns. Barangay Ginebra struggled with ball security throughout the game, committing 21 turnovers, while also losing the rebounding battle, 46-37. The Gin Kings were also dominated inside, getting outscored in the paint, 52-22, as Rain or Shine consistently found ways to attack their defense.

     

    Beyond the statistics, Cone stressed that the bigger issue was the team’s inability to match the hunger and intensity displayed by the Elasto Painters.

     

    The veteran tactician also acknowledged that a possible championship hangover may have contributed to Barangay Ginebra’s slow start. Coming off another title run, Cone admitted that maintaining the same level of focus and motivation can sometimes become a challenge for teams that have recently reached the top.

     

    “Sometimes, coming off a championship, it’s tough to get guys going. Somehow, I’m gonna have to light a fire under our players, especially our key guys,” Cone said.

     

    Despite the team’s early struggles, Cone remained confident that Barangay Ginebra can turn things around. He pointed to the squad’s history of overcoming adversity and believes the players will eventually rediscover the level of commitment needed to compete for another championship.

     

    The coach also defended new import Riley Grigsby, who has carried much of the offensive responsibility early in the conference. While acknowledging Grigsby’s contributions, Cone emphasized that the rest of the lineup must provide more support if the Gin Kings want to remain in the title race.

     

    “Riley’s doing enough for us to win, but everybody else needs to contribute at this point. They will probably be more on the horizon at this point, but eventually, we will figure it out. Generally, we always do, but again, it’s like pulling teeth trying to get our guys focused and locked in on what we do and to play hard,” Cone said.

     

    With the Governors’ Cup still in its early stages, Barangay Ginebra has plenty of time to recover, but Cone knows improvements must come quickly as the competition continues to intensify.

     

    The Gin Kings will look to end their slump and return to the win column when they face the Meralco Bolts on Friday, July 31, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

     

     

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  • Yeng Guiao credits Adrian Nocum’s maturity after career night lifts Rain or Shine over Ginebra 

    Yeng Guiao credits Adrian Nocum’s maturity after career night lifts Rain or Shine over Ginebra 

    Rain or Shine’s early struggles in the PBA Season 50 Governor’s Cup may have forced adjustments, but those changes are beginning to reshape the team’s identity.


    After dropping its first two games of the conference, the Elasto Painters have responded with consecutive victories, and much of that resurgence has come from a different version of Adrian Nocum. Rather than relying solely on his trademark athleticism and scoring ability, the explosive guard has embraced a larger responsibility as Rain or Shine’s primary playmaker.

     

    That transformation was on full display Sunday night as Rain or Shine outlasted Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, with Nocum orchestrating the offense in one of the finest all-around performances of his young PBA career.

     

    The 26-year-old produced 13 points, grabbed 13 rebounds, and dished out a new PBA career-high 10 assists, surpassing his previous best while recording his highest assist total of the conference. It also marked another steady step in his development after consistently creating opportunities for teammates throughout the tournament.

     

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    Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao revealed that Nocum’s emergence as a floor general has been a deliberate move after the team’s sluggish start.

     

    “We’re actually, on purpose, trying to play him a lot more minutes at the point,” said Yeng Guiao after their 0-2 start to the Season 50 Governors’ Cup.

     

    The gamble has quickly paid dividends. Nocum has now recorded at least six assists in every game this conference and has raised his average to 7.75 assists per contest, while continuing to provide scoring with 17.5 points per game. 

     

    His ability to balance attacking the basket with creating for teammates has given Rain or Shine’s offense a different rhythm during its two-game winning streak.

     

    For Guiao, the numbers only tell part of the story.

     

    “His decision-making is getting better, more mature, and he’s also partly… nagpapakita rin siya ng leadership,” lauded the champion bench tactician.

     

    Nocum’s growth has also coincided with a broader shift inside the Rain or Shine locker room. Following the trade that sent former captain Gian Mamuyac elsewhere, Caelan Tiongson has taken over the leadership role, and Guiao believes that transition has encouraged more players—including Nocum—to embrace greater accountability on and off the floor.

     

    “Si Caelan, as the leader now, is also able to inspire other guys to be part of that leadership and be accountable to their teammates. I think that’s part of the maturity of the team. We’re able to adjust to situations,” he said.

     

    While the statistical leap has been impressive, Nocum admitted the adjustment hasn’t come easily. Long recognized as one of Rain or Shine’s most explosive finishers, he has had to rethink his approach by focusing more on directing the offense and making the right reads.

     

    Still, the results have made the transition worthwhile. With back-to-back victories, the Elasto Painters have climbed back to an even 2-2 record after opening the conference with two straight defeats.

     

    “Siyempre from 0-2, ngayon 2-2 na,” the 2024 All-Rookie Team member said.

     

    Rain or Shine will now look to extend its winning streak to three when it takes on the Magnolia Hotshots on Friday, July 31, carrying with it a renewed confidence built around Nocum’s continued evolution from high-flying scorer into a dependable floor general.

     

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  • Fran Yu dedicates Titan Ultra’s first PBA win to late childhood friend JV Gallego 

    Fran Yu dedicates Titan Ultra’s first PBA win to late childhood friend JV Gallego 

    For Fran Yu, Titan Ultra’s long-awaited breakthrough victory meant far more than ending a losing streak.

     

    Moments after helping the Giant Risers score a stunning 103-87 upset of defending champion TNT in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup on Wednesday, the veteran guard made it clear who the win was really for.

     

    “Thank you, tol, binigay mo yung panalo sa amin,” he said with a smile after Titan Ultra finally entered the win column.

     

    “Para sa kanya itong game na ito.”

     

    The heartfelt message was for former Batang Gilas guard and NCAA champion JV Gallego, Yu’s childhood best friend who tragically passed away in a vehicular accident along the NLEX early Saturday morning. He was 28.

     

    While the victory gave Titan Ultra something to celebrate, it also became a deeply emotional night for Yu, who has spent the past week grieving someone who had been part of nearly every step of his basketball journey.

     

    Long before either reached the collegiate or professional ranks, Yu and Gallego were teammates at Chiang Kai Shek College, where they formed one of the school’s most dependable backcourts from grade school through high school.

     

    “One-two punch talaga kami nun sa Chiang Kai from grade school to high school,” Yu recalled. “Lagi lang akong under his wings kasi ako yung point guard, siya yung scorer sa team namin.”

    Their careers eventually took different paths.

     

    Gallego first suited up for National University before transferring to San Beda, while Yu continued his development at the University of the East before moving to Colegio de San Juan de Letran.

     

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    Even as opponents, their friendship never changed.

     

    “Nagkalaban na kami,” he said. “Masaya lang balikan lahat ng memories na magkasama kami tsaka nung magkalaban na kami.”

     

    Fate, however, gave them one final chance to reconnect.

     

    Yu revealed they had reunited on Friday night—just hours before Gallego’s fatal accident. He never imagined it would be the last time they would see each other.

     

    “Ang daming tumawag sa akin nung umaga. Nung una, hindi ako makapaniwala,” Yu said, recalling the moment he learned of the heartbreaking news through mutual friends.

     

    Since then, the Titan Ultra playmaker has made it a point to visit Gallego’s wake every evening, hoping to honor the friendship they had built over so many years.

     

    “Every night, pumupunta ako kasi nga matagal kaming hindi nagkita,” he said. “Ano ba naman yung one week na magpunta ka sa wake niya para maalala mo lahat.”

     

    Playing with a heavy heart, Yu contributed five points and orchestrated Titan Ultra’s offense with a game-high 11 assists as the Giant Risers snapped their three-game skid and secured their first victory of the conference.

     

    To him, it wasn’t a coincidence.

     

    Yu believes Gallego was watching over him all night, giving him the strength to play through the grief.

     

    “Lagi kong pinagdadasal sa kanya na sana lagi niya akong gabayan sa game, gabayan niya yung family niya,” he said. “At saka binigyan niya ako ng lakas ngayon para maglaro.

     

    “Mami-miss namin siya ng mga kaibigan namin.”

     

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