Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Tag: PVL

  • Smaller pool, bigger names: PVL Draft class still loaded with star power 

    Smaller pool, bigger names: PVL Draft class still loaded with star power 

    The 2026 PVL Rookie Draft may be the smallest in the league’s young history, but it hardly feels lacking in intrigue.

     

    Only 41 players made the final draft list released ahead of the June 3 selection day, a noticeable drop from previous years. But while the numbers dipped, the quality at the top of the class remained impossible to ignore.

     

    At the center of it all stands Alyssa Solomon — the towering National University opposite spiker widely expected to become the top overall pick after finally deciding to bring her game home following a season in Japan’s SV.League with Osaka Marvelous.

     

    Solomon’s arrival instantly gives this year’s draft its marquee attraction. The 6-foot-1 hitter spent the past year sharpening her game overseas, helping Osaka Marvelous reach the finals while producing 147 points across 30 matches against elite international competition.

     

    And yet, even beyond Solomon, this year’s class offers plenty of proven winners, decorated collegiate stars, and intriguing long-term prospects.

     

    National University continues to leave a massive imprint on the local volleyball landscape, with two-time UAAP Best Setter Lams Lamina also entering the draft after helping sustain the Lady Bulldogs’ dynasty run in recent years.

     

    University of the Philippines star Nina Ytang likewise headlines the frontcourt talent pool after carving out a historic collegiate career as the first four-time UAAP Best Middle Blocker. Her dominance at the net made her one of the most feared middle blockers of her generation and now positions her as one of the most coveted names available.

     

    Defense, meanwhile, gets its own headline act through UST libero Detdet Pepito, whose floor coverage and consistency made her one of the most reliable back-row anchors in the collegiate ranks.

     

    Several established scorers are also making the leap to the pros.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Former UST standouts Jonna Perdido and Xyza Gula headline the wing spiker group together with UP’s Irah Jaboneta, Joan Monares, Heart Magsombol, and Jum Gayo. Far Eastern University sends Tin Ubaldo, Ann Asis, and Florize Papa into the draft, while La Salle adds Ela Raagas, Michelle Beterina, and Sophia Sindayen to the mix.

     

    The talent pool stretches beyond the UAAP as well.

     

    Letran’s Lara Mae Silva, Natalie Estreller, and Julienne Castro banner the NCAA hopefuls alongside San Sebastian’s Katherine Santos, Christina Marasigan, and Kristine Dionisio. Other collegiate programs such as JRU, Lyceum, Mapua, San Beda, and Perpetual also have representatives hoping to earn professional opportunities.

     

    One of the more intriguing names in the draft is Fil-foreign hitter Jade Fuentes, who previously suited up for La Salle before continuing her career with Cal State Dominguez Hills in the United States. Fuentes recently expressed excitement about returning to Philippine volleyball and embracing what she called the country’s unmatched competitive atmosphere.

     

    Provincial standouts Kirsty Destajo of UNC-Sorsogon and Angel Galinato of the University of San Carlos also cracked the final list, further highlighting the expanding reach of the PVL talent search beyond Metro Manila’s traditional power schools.

     

    Now, despite having fewer applicants than previous years, the draft still feels capable of reshaping several franchises.

     

    Because while the class may be smaller, the names attached to it carry expectations of becoming the league’s next wave of stars.

     

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • Jade Fuentes returns to PH chasing second shot through PVL Draft 

    Jade Fuentes returns to PH chasing second shot through PVL Draft 

    For Jade Fuentes, the 2026 PVL Draft is more than just a professional opportunity.

     

    It’s a return to the place where a once-promising Philippine volleyball journey was unexpectedly put on pause.

     

    Years after quietly leaving the country during the pandemic, the Filipino-American outside hitter is back — this time hoping to finally write the chapter she once never got to finish.

     

    Before building her game in the United States with California State University Dominguez Hills in NCAA Division II play, Fuentes was already familiar with the local volleyball scene. She previously suited up for the powerhouse De La Salle University Lady Spikers program from 2020 to 2022, serving as a reserve during UAAP Season 84 and later seeing action in the Shakey’s Super League.

     

    But just as her Philippine volleyball journey was beginning to take shape, COVID changed everything.

     

    “When I first played in the Philippines, it was for DLSU for 2020 to 2022. So I was a reserve for [UAAP] Season 84 and then I played in the Shakey’s [Super] League. And because of COVID, I wanted to go home and be with my family,” Fuentes explained during a pre-draft gathering for aspirants under Hustle & Groove management.

     

    “But I always knew that I would come back for the draft because I loved the environment here in the Philippines. And so I trained and played at Cal State Dominguez Hills and that was CCAA Division II. And I’m just super excited to be back here.”

     

    Now, Fuentes returns to the Philippines carrying not only improved skills from her years overseas, but also a stronger sense of purpose.

     

    The 2026 PVL Draft represents a full-circle opportunity for the Fil-Am hitter, whose family traces its roots to Antipolo City. After completing her degree in psychology as a Summa Cum Laude graduate in the United States, Fuentes decided it was finally time to pursue the professional dream she once postponed.

     

    And beyond the volleyball itself, it was the culture surrounding the sport in the Philippines that kept pulling her back.

     

    “I’m super excited to be in the competitive spirit that the Philippines has. And the amazing fans and the environment,” she shared.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Her return also comes with a sense of familiarity. Several of her former teammates have already become established names in Philippine volleyball, and reconnecting with them has only strengthened the feeling that she’s exactly where she’s supposed to be.

     

    “A hundred percent [it’s a full circle moment]. It’s especially been super nice seeing all my old teammates like ate Thea [Gagate], ate Fifi [Sharma], Sophia [Sindayen], who’s also going to be doing the draft with me,” Fuentes said.

     

    “It’s just been super nice being able to have a full circle moment where I’m able to see all my old teammates and just hang out with them and be able to play volleyball with them again.”

     

    Still, despite the excitement surrounding her return, Fuentes remains grounded entering a draft class loaded with high-profile talent and experienced collegiate stars.

     

    Rather than making bold promises, the former DLSU reserve simply wants teams to see the intangibles she believes separate her from the rest of the field.

     

    “I want to show that I’m a fierce competitor and that I have leadership skills that I can bring on to whatever team that I go on. And I also just want to make an impact and help better my team in whatever way possible,” Fuentes said.

     

    This time around, though, Fuentes isn’t arriving in Philippine volleyball as someone trying to find her footing.

     

    She’s returning as someone determined to finish what she started.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • “This is our new era”: Mandy Romero optimistic after Capital1 lands No. 2 pick in PVL Rookie Draft

    “This is our new era”: Mandy Romero optimistic after Capital1 lands No. 2 pick in PVL Rookie Draft

    The Capital1 Solar Spikers have positioned themselves for another significant roster upgrade ahead of the upcoming Premier Volleyball League (PVL) season after securing the second overall pick in the 2026 PVL Rookie Draft during the lottery held on Monday, May 25, at the TV5 Media Center.

     

    Despite entering the lottery with the highest probability of landing the top selection at 40 percent, the Solar Spikers ultimately fell just short as the Galeries Tower Highrisers claimed the first overall pick. Still, Capital1 remains firmly in an advantageous position heading into the draft, holding a high-value selection that could further accelerate the franchise’s rapid rise in the PVL.

     

    The result, however, did little to dampen the optimism within the Capital1 camp, as co-owner Mandy Romero expressed confidence that the organization is steadily entering what she described as a “new era” for the franchise.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    Romero pointed to the team’s aggressive off-season moves as evidence of its evolving identity, highlighted by the addition of PVL star power in former Most Valuable Player winners Vanie Gandler and Erika Santos, who are set to join emerging cornerstone Bella Belen in a rapidly reshaped roster.

     

    “We are very, very happy. I think it’s really meant to be that we are entering this new year of Capital1, and we really hope that everyone joins us in all of our ride. We have had a lot of changes in the off-season, and hopefully, this next draft will bring together all the passion, the grit, and the fire that we need to be a champion contender. That’s our dream,” Romero said.

     

    Even with the No. 2 pick, Capital1 is widely expected to target another impact player capable of immediately contributing to a roster that is increasingly being built for championship contention. While Romero did not disclose specific names, she emphasized that the franchise is prioritizing a player who can provide both leadership and offensive firepower.

    “We are looking for someone who will play in the court, they are ready to be part of this team, they are ready and very determined to achieve our new heights together. On behalf of my sister and I, we are praying that we enter this 2026 as a completely ‘new era,’” she added.

     

    Capital1’s trajectory has been one of the most closely watched developments in recent PVL seasons. The franchise previously held the first overall pick in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft, selecting Belen, who was widely regarded as one of the most promising talents in Philippine volleyball history. The former University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) standout quickly validated that reputation, delivering a standout rookie campaign capped by Rookie of the Year honors and a Best Outside Spiker award.

     

    With Belen continuing to anchor the team’s core and the arrivals of Gandler and Santos significantly strengthening the supporting cast, Capital1 is beginning to form a more balanced and competitive lineup. The added depth is expected to reduce pressure on Belen while giving the Solar Spikers multiple scoring options as they aim to transition from rebuilding side to legitimate title contender.

     

    Romero emphasized that beyond talent acquisition, the organization’s growth has also been driven by culture-building and continuity within the locker room. She noted that the team’s young core has embraced the franchise’s long-term vision and is committed to developing together as a cohesive unit.

     

    “It’s all a matter of, again, prayers, chance, but at the same time having the culture that we are building here at Capital1. I’m very proud, my sister is very proud to say that the players we have feel like they are part of the team here, feeling like we are building a franchise together, and they are excited to be part of the still the youngest team here in the PVL. We hope to sustain that and that we will continue to again reach this new chapter together,” Romero concluded.

     

    With the 2026 PVL Rookie Draft scheduled for Wednesday, June 3, at the Novotel Manila Araneta City, Capital1 now enters the event with high expectations and a clear direction—armed with a strong young core, veteran reinforcements, and another opportunity to secure a player who could shape the next phase of the franchise’s rise in the PVL.

     

     

     👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans. 

  • Galeries’ Jean Asis calls Alyssa Solomon a “generational talent” ahead of 2026 PVL Rookie Draft 

    Galeries’ Jean Asis calls Alyssa Solomon a “generational talent” ahead of 2026 PVL Rookie Draft 

    The Galeries Tower Highrisers have positioned themselves for a major roster boost ahead of the upcoming Premier Volleyball League (PVL) season after securing the first overall pick in the 2026 PVL Rookie Draft during the lottery held on Monday, May 25, at the TV5 Media Center.

     

    With the top selection in hand, the Highrisers now hold the rights to one of the most highly anticipated prospects in recent Philippine volleyball history, with former University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) star and current Alas Pilipinas standout Alyssa Solomon widely projected as the frontrunner to be taken first overall. Solomon’s stock has risen significantly following her standout performances both for the national team and for Japan’s Osaka Marvelous in the SV.League, where she has continued to develop her game against elite international competition.

     

    Her combination of power, athleticism, and composure has made her a focal point of early draft discussions, with many viewing her as a potential franchise cornerstone for Galeries as they continue to rebuild and strengthen their PVL program.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    Adding to the intrigue, second overall pick in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft, Jean Asis, expressed excitement about the possibility of teaming up with Solomon should the Highrisers ultimately use their top selection on the star outside hitter. Asis, who has quickly become one of the key young pieces of the franchise, described Solomon as a “generational talent” and recalled her brief experience training alongside her.

    “When Solomon trained with us before, she was really easy to play with on the court. You can feel that she is someone you can rely on during games and competitions. Honestly, I’m excited no matter who becomes my teammate as long as that player can really help the team. That’s what I’m looking forward to the most,” Asis said in a media interaction.

     

    Despite the excitement surrounding a potential high-profile addition, Asis emphasized that the Highrisers remain focused on continuity and identity as the foundation of their growth. With Galeries undergoing a significant roster overhaul ahead of the 2026 campaign—retaining only four players in Asis, Julia Coronel, Roselle Baliton, and Winnie Bedana—the team is still in the process of solidifying its long-term core.

     

    The Highrisers showed signs of progress in the previous PVL All-Filipino Conference, where they reached the second stage of the Play-In, and the young core believes that experience will serve as a stepping stone moving forward.

     

    “Whoever the coaches choose, as long as that person is willing to help the team improve and grow stronger, I will be happy with it. I think we just want to maintain the culture that we already have within the team. There may just be additions to the roster, but overall we want to keep the same environment and identity we have been building in Galeries. I think whoever the new player is, they will eventually adapt to the culture we are trying to build,” Asis added.

     

    As the franchise prepares for a pivotal offseason, expectations are now centered on how the top pick will shape the next phase of the Highrisers’ development, with fans eagerly awaiting whether Solomon—or another emerging talent—will be the centerpiece of their long-term project.

     

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans. 

  • Ara Galang returns to national team spotlight with Alas Pilipinas call-up 

    Ara Galang returns to national team spotlight with Alas Pilipinas call-up 

    At a time when Alas Pilipinas Women is searching for stability amid major roster changes, one of Philippine volleyball’s most respected veterans is quietly stepping into the picture.

     

    Ara Galang, long regarded as one of the most recognizable faces in local volleyball, has officially joined the expanded Alas Pilipinas Women training pool ahead of the 2026 AVC Women’s Cup set for June 6 to 14 in Candon City.

     

    The development adds another experienced presence to a national team currently navigating transition following several withdrawals and unavailable players in the lead-up to the regional tournament.

     

    Interim head coach Shaq Delos Santos confirmed that Galang has already begun training with the squad.

     

    “Yes, nagte-training na po siya [Ara],” Delos Santos told said in an interview. 

     

    For Galang, the call-up represents another chapter in a career that has already seen nearly every stage Philippine volleyball has to offer.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Now 31 years old, the veteran winger enters the national team setup not just as another addition to the roster, but as a player capable of providing calm, maturity, and leadership to a younger and evolving Alas squad.

     

    Over the years, Galang has built a reputation as one of the sport’s most resilient figures, overcoming injuries and career setbacks while remaining a steady presence in both the collegiate and professional ranks. 

     

    Her experience in high-pressure matches and championship environments could become a valuable asset for a national team still trying to reshape its identity ahead of a busy international calendar.

     

    Her inclusion also reflects the growing urgency surrounding Alas Pilipinas Women preparations as the program works to rebuild depth following the absence of several key players from previous national team campaigns.

     

    While the spotlight has largely focused on younger stars and emerging names in recent months, Galang’s arrival gives the team something equally important — familiarity, composure, and veteran leadership at a crucial time.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • Capital1 chases back-to-back No. 1 picks in high-stakes PVL Draft Lottery 

    Capital1 chases back-to-back No. 1 picks in high-stakes PVL Draft Lottery 

    Capital1 once again finds itself in prime position to shape the future of the Premier Volleyball League.

     

    After choosing Bella Belen a year ago, the Solar Spikers head into the 2026 PVL Draft Lottery carrying the highest probability of securing the No. 1 overall pick for the second straight year.


    The PVL confirmed on Sunday the four teams included in this year’s draft lottery ahead of the official draw on Monday, May 25. Capital1 holds the highest chance of securing the top overall pick with four lottery balls, giving the team a 40-percent chance of landing the No. 1 selection. 

     

    Galeries Tower follows with three balls for a 30-percent probability, while Zus Coffee owns a 20-percent chance with two balls. Choco Mucho, entering the lottery for the first time, carries the lowest odds at 10 percent.

     

    Yet despite Capital1 holding the edge, recent history has already shown that the lottery guarantees nothing.

     

    Last season, Nxled entered the draw with the best odds only to slide down to the fourth overall selection, opening the door for Capital1 to jump ahead and select Belen.

     

    Now, the possibility of pairing another elite talent with Belen has become one of the biggest storylines surrounding this year’s draft.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Among the names generating the most attention is former National University standout Alyssa Solomon, who is widely viewed as the presumptive No. 1 overall prospect of the class.

     

    Solomon skipped last year’s rookie draft to continue her overseas development with Osaka Marvelous in Japan’s SV.League, where she appeared in 30 games and produced 147 points behind 116 attacks, 27 blocks, and four aces.

     

    Her return to the local scene instantly changes the complexion of the draft. A proven winner in the UAAP, a national team standout, and now armed with international professional experience, Solomon enters the draft carrying expectations rarely seen from a rookie prospect.

     

    Should Capital1 secure the top selection, the franchise could potentially reunite Solomon with familiar faces from National University, including reigning Rookie Draft top pick Bella Belen.


    Another intriguing possibility is UST standout and former Golden Tigresses captain Detdet Pepito, who also remains among the highly regarded names expected to headline the draft class.

     

    For Capital1, the timing could not be better. After acquiring former MVPs Vanie Gandler and Erika Santos in free agency, the Solar Spikers are quickly transforming from an expansion franchise into one of the league’s most aggressive roster-builders.

     

    Landing the No. 1 pick again would only strengthen the perception that the organization is accelerating toward contender status far quicker than expected.

     

    Still, the unpredictability of the lottery remains part of the intrigue. While probabilities favor Capital1, every team involved still has a legitimate shot at changing its future overnight.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • PVL Press Corps unveils major awardees for PVL Awards Night  

    PVL Press Corps unveils major awardees for PVL Awards Night  

    From rising superstars and breakout scorers to seasoned veterans and inspiring comeback stories, the 2025-26 PVL season produced no shortage of memorable performances.

     

    Now, the league’s brightest names are set to take center stage once more as the best players and biggest stories of the year will be celebrated in the 2nd Pilipinas Live PVL Press Corps Awards Night on May 30 at Novotel Manila Araneta City in Cubao.

     

    Headlining the annual recognition rites is Capital1 rookie sensation Bella Belen, whose seamless transition to the professional ranks earned her the Rookie of the Year award after an impressive debut season.

     

    The former National University star immediately became one of the Solar Spikers’ focal points, showcasing her all-around brilliance on both offense and defense while proving she could thrive under the pressure that came with being the top overall pick of the 2025 PVL Draft.

     

    Belen tallied 69 media votes, 26 team votes, and 91.284 statistical points to finish with 186.284 total points and beat fellow rookies AC Miner, Jean Asis, and Riza Nogales for the recognition.

     

    Her stellar campaign also earned her a place in the season’s Mythical Team and the Best Outside Spiker award after emerging as one of the league’s top scorers and receivers during the All-Filipino Conference.

     

    Joining her in the Best Outside Spiker category is PLDT star Savi Davison, who once again established herself as one of the league’s most consistent offensive weapons.

     

    But the awards night won’t simply celebrate new stars — it will also honor the veterans and comeback stories that shaped the season.

     

    Creamline icon Alyssa Valdez will receive the Miss Quality Minutes award after repeatedly delivering in crucial moments for the Cool Smashers during one of the franchise’s toughest title runs.

     

    With several key Creamline stars dealing with injuries late in the conference, Valdez stepped up with timely performances that helped steady the team en route to its 11th PVL championship.

     

    Another emotional highlight of the night belongs to Kianna Dy, who captured the Comeback Player of the Year award following her inspiring return from a lengthy knee injury recovery.

     

    After missing 559 days, the PLDT standout gradually rediscovered her rhythm and eventually became a major piece in the High Speed Hitters’ successful campaign that included titles in the PVL On Tour and Invitational Conference before a bronze medal finish in the All-Filipino Conference.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Meanwhile, Erika Santos’ rise into stardom earned her the Most Improved Player award.

     

    Following her move from PLDT to Cignal, Santos blossomed into one of the league’s premier scorers and helped power the Super Spikers to a breakthrough finals appearance in the All-Filipino Conference. Her breakout year also included winning MVP honors during the 2025 PVL On Tour.

     

    Farm Fresh standout Trisha Tubu will also be recognized after winning Best Opposite Spiker honors behind a season that elevated both her reputation and the Foxies franchise.

     

    Tubu spearheaded Farm Fresh’s historic fourth-place finish in the All-Filipino Conference while cementing herself as one of the league’s most dangerous scorers.

     

    Several of the PVL’s most reliable veterans and specialists are likewise set to receive recognition.

     

    Cignal playmaker Gel Cayuna earned Best Setter honors after orchestrating one of the league’s top offenses, while PLDT defensive anchor Kath Arado took home the Best Libero award once again behind another elite season on the floor.

     

    Creamline veteran Pangs Panaga and PLDT ace Majoy Baron, meanwhile, secured the Best Middle Blocker citations after anchoring their respective teams at the net throughout the year.

     

    Taken together, the awardees perfectly captured the story of the PVL season itself — a campaign defined by new stars emerging, veterans continuing to deliver, and players overcoming adversity to leave their mark on the league.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

     

    Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!

  • This Week’s Sports Fixtures: PVL, NBA, PBA, and Alex Eala’s French Open (May 25 – 31)

    This Week’s Sports Fixtures: PVL, NBA, PBA, and Alex Eala’s French Open (May 25 – 31)

    A busy stretch of sports action as multiple leagues and tournaments headline the week from May 25 to 31, 2026. Featuring the PVL Draft Lottery, French Open matches with Alex Eala, pivotal PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinal games, and heated NBA Conference Finals clashes, the slate is filled with marquee events across volleyball, tennis, and basketball. As pressure builds in both the NBA and PBA playoffs, every contest carries added weight in the race for championships.


    PVL

     

    May 25 (Monday)

    • 2026 PVL Draft Lottery

    Tennis – French Open 

     

    Women’s Singles – Round of 128 (May 26 – Tuesday)

    • 5:00 PM – Alex Eala vs Iva Jovic

    Women’s Doubles – Round of 64 (TBD)

    • Alex Eala and Victoria Mboko vs Leylah Fernandez and Diana Shnaider

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.


    PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup

     

    May 27 (Wednesday) – Smart Araneta Coliseum

    • 5:15 PM – Rain or Shine Elasto Painters vs Brgy. Ginebra San Miguel
    • 7:30 PM – TNT Tropang 5G vs Meralco Bolts

    May 29 (Friday) – Smart Araneta Coliseum

    • 5:15 PM – TNT Tropang 5G vs Meralco Bolts
    • 7:30 PM – Rain or Shine Elasto Painters vs Brgy. Ginebra San Miguel

    NBA Playoffs

     

    Eastern Conference Finals

     

    May 26 (Tuesday) – Game 4

    • 8:00 AM – New York Knicks vs Cleveland Cavaliers

    May 28 (Thursday) – Game 5 (If Necessary)

    • 8:00 AM – New York Knicks vs Cleveland Cavaliers

    May 30 (Saturday) – Game 6 (If Necessary)

    • 8:00 AM – New York Knicks vs Cleveland Cavaliers

    Western Conference Finals

     

    May 27 (Wednesday) – Game 5

    • 8:30 AM – San Antonio Spurs vs Oklahoma City Thunder

    May 29 (Friday) – Game 6

    • 8:30 AM – San Antonio Spurs vs Oklahoma City Thunder

    May 31 (Sunday) – Game 7 (If Necessary)

    • 8:00 AM – San Antonio Spurs vs Oklahoma City Thunder

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • Former Cignal standout Tin Tiamzon joins stacked Akari squad 

    Former Cignal standout Tin Tiamzon joins stacked Akari squad 

    Former Cignal Super Spikers standout Tin Tiamzon has officially joined the Akari Chargers, giving the franchise another experienced weapon as it looks to finally break through in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League season.


    The Chargers announced the signing on social media, describing the veteran outside hitter as “A steady presence and reliable force on the court, Tin is ready to bolster the Chargers for the battles ahead.”

     

    For Akari, the move is more than simply adding depth. It is another statement that the franchise is serious about transforming itself from a middle-of-the-pack squad into a legitimate title contender.

     

    Tiamzon arrives after helping Cignal reach the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference finals, where the Super Spikers eventually settled for runner-up honors after being swept by Creamline. 

     

    Shortly after the championship series, Cignal took a leave of absence and amid uncertainty Tiamzon became a free agent.

     

    Her availability became one of the most talked-about developments in the offseason after Cignal temporarily stepped away from league competition, triggering a wave of player movement across the PVL. 

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Former teammates Vanie Gandler and Erika Santos transferred to Capital1, while Gel Cayuna and Jackie Acuña moved to Nxled.

     

    Now, Tiamzon lands with an Akari squad already loaded with firepower on the wings.

     

    She joins a deep spiker rotation featuring Ivy Lacsina, Grethcel Soltones, Eli Soyud, Faith Nisperos, and Chenie Tagaod, while also reuniting with fellow De La Salle products Fifi Sharma, Justine Jazareno, and Mars Alba.

     

    The 28-year-old outside hitter brings more than experience. She also carries a winning pedigree built through years inside one of the country’s most successful volleyball programs.

     

    Before returning to the PVL with Cignal in 2025, Tiamzon built her reputation at De La Salle University, where she helped the Lady Spikers win three UAAP women’s volleyball championships from Seasons 78 to 80 under veteran coach Ramil de Jesus. 

     

    She also became a key piece for F2 Logistics, helping the Cargo Movers capture the 2017 Philippine SuperLiga Grand Prix title.

     

    Her professional journey has not been linear. After stepping away from volleyball in 2023 to spend time with family in Canada, Tiamzon returned to competition with Cignal and immediately reminded everyone of her value as a dependable two-way player. 

     

    That veteran composure and versatility could be exactly what Akari needs. The Chargers have remained competitive since entering the PVL in 2022 but have yet to make a deep championship breakthrough, finishing in the middle tier of the standings in all four conferences last season. 

     

    Management has responded by aggressively reshaping the roster, recently parting ways with Dani Ravena and Bea Bonafe while continuing to stack the lineup with established talent.

     

    With Tiamzon now entering the fold, Akari gains another proven scorer capable of stabilizing the floor in high-pressure situations. More importantly, the Chargers are assembling a roster filled with players who understand championship expectations.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • Bella Belen named Rookie of the Year after stellar PVL debut campaign 

    Bella Belen named Rookie of the Year after stellar PVL debut campaign 

    Former University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) standout Bella Belen continues to elevate her status as one of the brightest rising stars in Philippine volleyball, further strengthening her growing reputation as the sport’s next major cornerstone.

     

    Now starring for the Capital1 Solar Spikers in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), Belen capped off an impressive campaign by being named Rookie of the Year, a recognition that underscores her immediate impact at the professional level after a decorated collegiate career. The award will be formally presented during the 2nd Pilipinas Live PVL Press Corps Awards Night on Saturday, May 30, at Novotel Manila Araneta City in Cubao, Quezon City.

     

    Belen dominated the voting process, collecting 69 media votes and 26 team votes, along with 91.284 statistical points for a total of 186.284 points. Her all-around brilliance placed her well ahead of her fellow 2025 PVL Draft classmates, including AC Miner (85 points), Jean Asis (83.89), and Riza Nogales (64.47), in a decisive win that highlighted her immediate rise as a professional force.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    Beyond her Rookie of the Year recognition, Belen also secured a spot in the league’s elite Mythical Team and was named Best Outside Spiker, further cementing her status as one of the most complete young players in the league today.

    Her performance throughout the season reflected both offensive firepower and defensive consistency. Belen finished third overall in the PVL scoring charts during the preliminary round with 218 total points, posting a 35.16% spiking success rate. She also proved her versatility on the defensive end, finishing second overall in reception with an impressive 40.84% efficiency rating, showcasing her ability to contribute in all phases of the game.

     

    The recognition places Belen among an elite group of PVL standouts honored for their performances throughout the season. Other major awardees include Savannah Davison of the PLDT High Speed Hitters and Creamline Cool Smashers veteran Pangs Panaga, both of whom were also recognized as Best Outside Spikers and Best Middle Blocker, respectively.

     

    Cignal Super Spikers playmaker Gel Cayuna was named Best Setter, while PLDT’s defensive anchor Kath Arado took home Best Libero honors. Farm Fresh Foxies standout Trisha Tubu earned Best Opposite Spiker, and PLDT’s Ralf Ricafort was recognized as Coach of the Year for his leadership throughout the campaign.

     

    Creamline Cool Smashers, meanwhile, were named Team of the Year following another dominant season, further solidifying their status as one of the league’s premier dynasties.

     

    Other individual recognitions included Erika Santos of Cignal Super Spikers as Most Improved Player, Kim Kianna Dy of PLDT High Speed Hitters as Comeback Player of the Year, and Alyssa Valdez of Creamline Cool Smashers receiving the Miss Quality Minutes award.

     

    With her latest accolades, Belen’s rapid ascent from collegiate standout to professional star continues to draw attention, as she further establishes herself as one of the key figures expected to shape the future of Philippine volleyball.

     

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.