JRU, EAC attempt to end losing woes today

Jose Rizal University and Emilio Aguinaldo College are seeking to end their skid against separate opposition this afternoon at the Filoil Flying V Centre.

The Heavy Bombers are coming off a debilitating 74-58 loss to Letran last Friday, dropping them to 0-4 this season. They seek to get themselves back on track against College of Saint Benilde at noon today, with the Blazers also smarting from a loss against defending champions San Beda last week.

Speaking of the Red Lions, they will also be in action later this afternoon, with a 4pm tip against the winless Generals.

The defending champions are seeking to remain in lockstep with Lyceum atop the standings as the last two undefeated teams in the NCAA, with a win putting them a game behind the Pirates.

Unlike JRU though, EAC has had a chance to secure a win in all of their three matches, with the opportunity to securing a hard-earned victory in their final possession in the past couple of games.

The other collegiate matchup sees Arellano go up against Mapua at 2pm, with both teams fresh from contrasting results last Friday.

The Chiefs eked out an 82-81 squeaker against San Sebastian, while the Cardinals fell victim to Lyceum, 94-81.

CJ Perez shines as NCAA Player of the Week

Lyceum has not missed a beat in the 94th Season of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, with many crediting CJ Perez for keeping things smooth sailing for the Pirates.

Last season's Most Valuable Player decided to showcase himself this week, in particular, with his gaudy numbers against Arellano and Mapua.

In a battle of undefeated teams, Perez scored a career-high 31 points with six rebounds, six assists, and five steals help Lyceum overcome a slow start against the Chiefs, 82-65.

He would then follow that up with a near-triple-double performance with nineteen points, nine rebounds, and eight assists to dispatch the Cardinals, 94-81.

Such feats were not left unnoticed, as the NCAA Press Corps awarded Perez with the latest Chooks-to-Go Player of the Week nod, beating out Prince Eze, Robert Bolick, Levi dela Cruz, and Mike Harry Nzeusseu.

CJ credited his teammates and head coach Topex Robinson for his production, sharing to the media, "Syempre na-inspire ako sa pagbibigay ng kumpyansa sa’min ni coach. Hindi ko rin magagawa ‘yun kung ‘di dahil sa mga teammates ko. ‘Yung collective effort talaga ang key doon kaya ako nakakagawa ng ganoon.

He adds, "Syempre ‘di ko naman nagagawa ‘yung ganon (good performance) kung wala ang trust ni coach at ng mga teammates ko. ‘Yung effort na ibibigay ko this season, all out talaga"

CJ still thinks that there is still room to improve for his game, as he plays out his final season in the league before he takes the plunge into the pro ranks.

Lyceum remains unbeaten, Letran, Arellano keep pace

Games Tuesday at the Filoil Flying V Centre

8am La Salle-Greenhills vs JRU (HS)
10am Mapua/Malayan vs Arellano (HS)
12nn CSB vs JRU
2pm Mapua vs Arellano
4pm EAC vs San Beda
6pm EAC-ICA vs San Beda (HS)

Colegio de San Juan de Letran decided to use its size advantage in trampling Jose Rizal University, 74-58 to secure their second win of the season.

The Knights imposed their will through a couple of transfers, former CSB Blazer Christian Fajarito and former La Salle Green Archer Larry Muyang, as they combined for 28 points and seventeen rebounds.

Fajarito almost matched the Heavy Bombers' scoring output in the second quarter, netting eight points as they turned that 22-19 deficit at the end of the first quarter into a 39-31 halftime lead.

Muyang then did some damage in the third quarter, scoring eleven points to JRU's twelve to break the game open after the third quarter, 65-43.

Head coach Jeff Napa shared after the match, "We are blessed to have been gifted big men this season."

The lead would eventually balloon to 27 points before they stepped off the gas in the end, as Letran feasted in the paint with fifty points, while doubling their offensive rebound total.

Jed Mendoza topscored for JRU with sixteen points, as they drop to 0-4 this season.

In the most entertaining game of the three collegiate games scheduled, Levi Dela Cruz bailed Arellano out with a game-winning triple with 4.2 seconds left to secure the 82-81 overtime victory over San Sebastian.

The Golden Stags had a chance to snatch the win back on the ensuing possession, but dela Cruz intercepted the inbound pass to secure Arellano's second win of the season.

Like their 75-69 OT win over EAC earlier this month, dela Cruz saved his scoring when they needed him the most, with all ten of his points came in the fourth quarter and overtime.

Michael Calisaan led San Sebastian with 28 points and seventeen rebounds, as they fall to 2-3 this season.

In the final collegiate game scheduled, Lyceum maintained their spotless record in smashing Mapua, 94-81.

Last season's Most Valuable Player CJ Perez followed up his 31-6-6 earlier this week with a 19-9-8 near-triple-double performance for the Pirates, with Mike Harry Nzeusseu adding sixteen points and sixteen rebounds.

A 29-point third quarter allowed Lyceum to establish a thirteen-point lead against the Cardinals, even extending the lead to fifteen early in the fourth quarter. Although Mapua would manage to make it a game later on by reducing the deficit to just 80-76 with under four minutes left, an 11-2 run would restore a double-digit lead and preserve the win for last season's losing finalists.

Laurenz Victoria led Mapua with twenty points, while Eric Jabel added eighteen, as they drop to 1-2.

The collegiate scores:
Letran 74 – Fajarito 14, Muyang 14, Calvo 9, Quinto 8, Balanza 7, Ambohot 7, Mandreza 4, Balagasay 3, Celis 3, Batiller 2, Taladua 2, Agbong 1, Yu 0, Banez 0

JRU 58 – Mendoza 16, Esguerra 11, David 10, Miranda 9, Dela Virgen 6, Bordon 4, Mallari 2, Padua 0, Silvarez 0, Dela Rosa 0, Ramos 0, Estrella 0

Quarterscores: 19-22; 39-31; 65-43; 74-58

Arellano 82 – Alban 18, Alcoriza 15, Dela Cruz 10, Sera Josef 8, Villoria 8, Concepcion 7, Canete 6, Santos 5, Dela Torre 3, Sacramento 2, Bayla 0, Ongolo Ongolo 0, Codinera 0, Segura 0, Abdurasad 0

San Sebastian 81 – Calisaan 28, Calma 15, Capobres 12, Dela Cruz 10, Are 8, Ilagan 4, Valdez 2, Sumoda 2, Villapando 0, Baytan 0, Desoyo 0, Isidro 0

Quarterscores: 17-12; 31-25; 43-53; 72-72; 82-81 (OT)

Lyceum 94 – Perez 19, Nzeusseu 16, Marcelino JC 13, Ayaay 11, Santos 8, Caduyac 5, Lumbao 5, Tansingco 4, Valdez 4, Pretta 3, Marcelino JV 2, Ibanez 2, Yong 2, Cinco 0, Serrano 0

Mapua 81 – Victoria 20, Jabel 18, Serrano 8, Aguirre 8, Lugo 7, Bunag 7, Pelayo 7, Bonifacio 4, Biteng 2, Pajarillo 0, Gamboa 0

Quarterscores: 24-18; 39-41; 68-55; 94-81

CBS Sports on Jalen Green

Colin Ward-Henninger wrote about Jalen Green for CBS Sports, and they managed to put out a video accompanying the piece.

Green, of course, is the top-ranked CBB from the Batch of 2020, who happens to have just claimed the Most Valuable Player nod for the just concluded FIBA U17 Championships.

Of course, Filipino basketball fans remember his from his NBTC exploits when he played here earlier this year. The video includes footage from the NBTC.

SBP Statement on Philippine Participation in the 2018 Asian Games

Here is the complete statement from the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, Inc. (SBP) on their decision regarding the Philippines' participation in the 2018 Asian Games in Palembang, Indonesia. 

The SBP remains committed to the continuous development of Philippine basketball, and to attaining the best possible results for our teams in the global stage. We thank Rain or Shine, especially its owners Terry Que and Raymond Yu, as well as NLEX Coach Yeng Guiao and Rain or Shine Coach Caloy Garcia, for expressing their willingness to represent our nation in the upcoming Asian Games.

However, to allow our National Team and our organization to regroup, prepare for the process of appealing the FIBA Disciplinary Panel’s recent Decision, and aim for sustainable success in future tournaments—including the upcoming FIBA World Cup Qualifiers and the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup—we have reached the conclusion that, with the forgoing considered and after consulting with the basketball community, the time and chance to participate in the 2018 Asian Games would not be optimal.

We apologize to the Asian Games organizers, to the fans of the Philippine team, and to the Asian basketball community for this withdrawal. The SBP resolves to improve its systems, and to prepare programs that will better ensure respectable performances of our teams internationally, of which our countrymen can be truly proud.

The Asian Games is scheduled to take place on August 18 to September 2, with the first window of the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers set to take place on September 13 and 17. It had been reported earlier that the Philippines would have been composed of a PBA team mainly reinforced by Rain or Shine that would be coached by Yeng Guiao of NLEX.

Perpetual spoils EAC homecoming

NCAA Season 94 standings

Games today at the Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan

8am JRU vs Letran (HS)
10am Arellano vs San Sebastian (HS)
12nn JRU vs Letran
2pm Arellano vs San Sebastian
4pm Mapua vs Lyceum
6pm Mapua/Malayan vs Lyceum (HS)

The surprising early run of Perpetual and their newcomers continues, as the Altas spoiled Emilio Aguinaldo's portion of the NCAA on Tour with a 76-74 victory last Thursday afternoon at the Generals' home gym in San Marcelino.

It was Kim Aurin's turn to shine for the Frankie Lim-coached side, as the JRU transfer had a near triple-double performance with twelve points, nine rebounds, and eight assists in under 37 minutes of action. He also added a steal and a block for good measure.

Edgar Charcos continued to put up offensive numbers, as the UE transfer finished with a game-high 22 points. Like Aurin, Prince Eze almost had a triple-double for the Altas, netting fifteen points, 22 rebounds and nine blocks, as they moved into solo third place behind undefeated Lyceum and San Beda.

Eze was instrumental in limiting his EAC counterpart Hamadou Laminou, who finished with twelve points and eight rebounds.

The Generals once again fell short in the final stretch, as a late run by Perpetual allowed the visitors to snatch a 75-69 lead with under a minute left, and although they managed to whittle that back down to a two-point deficit, Jerome Garcia missed a game-tying jumper at the buzzer to send the Generals alongside JRU at 0-3 for the season.

True freshman Maui Cruz led EAC with eighteen points, three rebounds, and a couple of assists, while Garcia finished with seventeen markers.

EAC did managed to secure a afternoon split, as the Brigadiers managed to snatch their first win of the season with an 83-78 victory over the Junior Altas.

Cjay Boado led all scorers with 23 points, while Ely Ilustrisimo and Bhen Lozano combined to score 25 for EAC-ICA.

Mark Gallano led Perpetual with twenty points, as they suffered their first defeat of the season.

The scores:
HS

EAC 83 – Boado 23, Ilustrisimo 14, Lozano 11, Sumagaysay 10, Sanosa 8, Balowa 8, Murillo 4, Pascual 3, Mejia 2, Encila 0, Quebral 0, Calara 0, Rivera 0

Perpetual Help 78 – Gallano 20, Galman 14, Coloma 8, Duka 8, Orgo 6, Galoy 6, Nunez 4, Defante 4, Barcuma 3, Kawamura 3, Romilla 2, Agbayani 0

Quarterscores: 25-17; 41-41; 59-61; 83-78

College

Perpetual Help 76 – Charcos 22, Eze 15, Aurin 12, Peralta 11, Coronel 6, Razon 5, Cuevas 2, Pedrosa 2, Mangalino 1, Tamayo 0

EAC 74 – Cruz 18, Garcia 17, Laminou 12, Natividad 10, Bautista 5, Diego 4, Mendoza 3, Gonzales 2, Robin 2, Tampoc 1, Magullano 0, Neri 0, Bugarin 0, Fuentes 0

Quarterscores: 20-17, 38-34, 56-57, 76-74

NCAA Press Corps Officers revealed

On Tuesday, the new set of officers for the NCAA Press Corps was elected, with Norman Riego of ABS-CBN Sports being named unanimously as the group's new president.

Riego succeeds Cedelf Tupas of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, who alongside with Reuben Terrado of Spin, will stay on as the Press Corps' advisers.

Completing the NCAA Press Corps' cast of officers are the following:

Vice President: Christian Jacinto (Spin)
Secretary: Randolph Leongson (Spin)
Assistant Secretary: Peter Atencio (Manila Standard)
Treasurer: Matthew Li (Tiebreaker Times)
Auditor: Yo Sarmenta (ESPN5)
Board of Directors: Joey Villar (Philippine Star), Theodore Jurado (People's Journal), Marivic Awitan (Balita)

Emilio Aguinaldo College, Perpetual Help set for NCAA on Tour matchup

Games today at the Emilio Aguinaldo College Gym

2pm HS
4pm College

Emilio Aguinaldo College is hoping a little bit of home cooking can cure their losing skid this afternoon against the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta in the third edition of the NCAA On Tour.

The Generals have lost both of their games so far this season, and head coach Ariel Sison notes that both losses came at the end due to a weak endgame, says "If you’ve noticed, we’ve always finished badly. Now if we could somehow find a way to finish big, we’ll have a chance."

In their first match of the season, they managed to whittle down a large deficit to Lyceum but losing Hamadou Laminou in the fourth quarter due to fouls hurt their cause, whilst in their loss to Arellano last week saw them wilt in the fourth quarter and overtime as Ian Alban and Levi dela Cruz took over.

EAC will be facing a Perpetual Help side that has been the beneficiary of Edgar Charcos's production in their two matches so far.

The UE transfer has averaged 20.5 points for the Altas, as he has taken over the playmaking duties with Kieth Pido sidelined for the campaign due to a foot injury in preseason.

Head coach Frankie Lim shared to the media, "He’s a big reason why we’re playing like this, I’m confident he could sustain it."

Meanwhile, in the first game of the doubleheader, top meets bottom as the Junior Altas and the Brigadiers face off at 2pm.

Lyceum, San Beda remain unbeaten in NCAA

Lyceum maintained its spotless record in the NCAA after defeating fellow undefeated Arellano, 82-65 on Tuesday afternoon at the Filoil Flying V Centre.

The Pirates rode on a career-best performance from CJ Perez against the Chiefs, scoring 31 points while grabbing six rebounds, issuing six assists, and contributing five steals in their fourth straight win.

In relying on last season's Most Valuable Player, they also overcome a slow start, as Arellano zoomed off to a 33-17 late in the first quarter, before they tightened their defensive screws, allowing just 32 points for the subsequent 30 minutes.

Head coach Topex Robinson praised his opposition after the game, says "Arellano is really a dangerous team. We have to respect them. They really played well as a team."

Joining Lyceum atop the NCAA standings are defending champions San Beda, after dispatching College of Saint Benilde, 75-69.

Red Lions rode on Robert Bolick in the fourth quarter to pull off the comeback against the Blazers, as he scored twelve of his 25 points in the final period.

In the other collegiate game scheduled, San Sebastian kept Jose Rizal University winless this season, 86-76.

Alvin Capobres scored sixteen points for the Golden Stags, who moved back to .500 with the victory.

The scores:

Lyceum 82 - Perez 31, Nzeusseu 15, Ayaay 13, Marcelino JV 10, Serrano 4, Pretta 3, Caduyac 2, Cinco 2, Marcelino JC 2, Ibañez 0, Santos 0, Tansingco 0.

Arellano 65 - Cañete 12, Alban 11, Alcoriza 10, Villoria 9, Meca 6, Dela Cruz 4, Concepcion 4, Sera Josef 3, Codiñera 2, Ongolo Ongolo 2, Santos 2, Abdurasag 0, Dela Torre 0, Sacramento 0.

Quarterscores: 19-33; 37-41; 58-54; 82-65

San Sebastian 86 – Capobres 16, Bulanadi 14, Ilagan 13, Calisaan 10, Valdez 9, Are 7, Calma 6, Dela Cruz 4, Villapando 4, Sumoda 2, Desoyo 1, Arciaga 0

JRU 76 – Dela Virgen 14, Padua 13, Mendoza 8, Miranda 8, Ramos 8, Esguerra 7, Mallari 7, David 4, Santos 3, Bordon 2, Silvarez 2, Estrella 0, Aguilar 0, Dela Rosa 0

Quarterscores: 27-15; 51-34; 65-56; 86-76

San Beda 75 – Bolick 25, Mocon 14, Abuda 12, Tankoua 6, Soberano 5, Eugene 4, Nelle 3, Oftana 2, Canlas 2, Tongco 2, Cuntapay 0, Doliguez 0

CSB 69 – Leutcheu 22, Young 15, Haruna 10, Naboa 7, Dixon 6, Gutang 4, Carlos 3, Pasturan 2, Velasco 0, Domingo 0

Quarterscores: 15-24; 33-38; 52-52; 75-69

Ceres-Negros set to clinch PFL title

Ceres-Negros FC's Bienvenido Maranon being guarded by Global-Cebu FC's Jinggoy Valmayor

Ceres-Negros is set to clinch back-to-back Philippines Football League titles provided the results go their way against Global-Cebu FC tonight at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.

Kick-off for today's matchup is set at 7pm, with tickets into the stadium costing PhP100.

The table was set when the two teams clashed this past Saturday, with the Busmen running roughshod over the league doormats, 7-1, also at Rizal Memorial.

Ceres-Negros just needs at least a draw from their remaining four matches to assure themselves of the championship, as they currently have 51 points. Kaya FC-Iloilo is second place with 33 points.

Securing the league title allows Ceres-Negros guaranteed access to continental football next season, as they enter the AFC Champions League playoff, and in case they fail to qualify there to the group stage, an automatic bid into the AFC Cup.

They are already set to have their AFC Cup Zonal Final matchup against Singapore Premier League's Home United. The first leg will take place at Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod on August 1, with the return leg in Singapore a week later.

In addition to tonight's matchup, the PFL will also have the rescheduled match between JPV Marikina and Davao Aguilas at 3pm. The game will be played at the PFF Training Center in Carmona, after weather conditions forced the postponement a few days ago.

Both matches will be streamed LIVE on pfltv.ph.

Lyceum, San Beda, Arellano stake unbeaten records

Season 94 standings

Games today at the Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan

8am Lyceum vs Arellano (HS)
10am San Sebastian vs JRU (HS)
12nn Lyceum vs Arellano
2pm San Sebastian vs JRU
4pm San Beda vs CSB
6pm San Beda vs La Salle-Greenhills (HS)

Today's six-game bill kicks off NCAA Season 94 action this week at the Filoil Flying V Centre, highlighted by all three unbeaten collegiate teams staking their records this afternoon.

Two of those three will be facing off, with 3-0 Lyceum facing 1-0 Arellano at noon.

Both teams won their matchups last week in contrasting fashion, with the Pirates plastering Jose Rizal University 88-56 last Friday and the Chiefs eking out a 75-69 overtime victory over Emilio Aguinaldo College last Thursday.

Powering the three-game winning streak has been the old reliables for Topex Robinson, as Mike Harry Nzeusseu, Jaycee Marcelino, and CJ Perez have combined to average almost fifty points.

Even with the streak, Topex shared to the media after their game versus JRU, "We’ll try to treat our next games the same way we did in our first three, which is always to go hard for a win."

As for the Chiefs, they managed to buck the absence of key cog Kent Salado by riding on Ian Alban and Levi dela Cruz late when they hosted their matchup in their own gym against Emilio Aguilando College.

Alban's offensive heroics in the fourth quarter helped force overtime, while dela Cruz scored the final seven points of the game to snatch away the win against the Generals.

An interesting subplot to the matchup sees the Lyceum transfer Alban face his old team for the first time since making the switch from Intramuros to Legarda.

The other undefeated team so far this season, San Beda, is set to finally play after having their last two scheduled games moved due to weather conditions.

The Red Lions will be facing a CSB side fresh from a 90-79 victory over Mapua to put themselves in the win column at 4pm.

Sandwiched between the Lyceum-Arellano and the San Beda-CSB matchups is San Sebastian going up against JRU at 2pm.

The Heavy Bombers are one of two teams still looking for a win this season, and they are facing a San Sebastian side that is smarting from a loss to Letran last Friday.

For the high school ranks, Arellano seeks to join idle Perpetual atop the standings as they face Lyceum at 8am, whilst perceived title contenders San Beda face defending champions La Salle-Greenhills at 6pm, with the loser set to suffer their second defeat this season. Capping off the six-game bill is a 10am matchup between Light Bombers and the Golden Staglets, with the winner getting their second win overall.

Tough Mudder Philippines successfully held in Alabang

The first Tough Mudder Philippines event also attracted participants from countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and even USA.

The first Tough Mudder event in the country successfully took place this past weekend at Portofino Amore in Alabang, with over a couple thousand participants.

Tough Mudder Senior Operations Manager for International Events Nathan Bassett on the first-ever Tough Mudder Philippines shares, "Yes it has been fantastic. I think the ColorManila team and Proactive, have really done a good job pulling off an amazing event. It has been a challenging week with all the rains and the flooding, but the event that they put on this weekend has been fantastic, and I see that the participants are all having a great time."

Bassett adds, "Today we got a taste of having the 5K and the half (8K). And we’re hoping to bring the full (16K) over here, and bring the best obstacles that we’ve got for a full event."

The event is a partnership between Tough Mudder and Proactive Sports Management, who is best known handling the ColorManila-related mass participation events.

Proactive VP Justine Cordero shares, "We’re very happy that we have a lot of mudders today who joined. I’ve seen the participants enjoying themselves as they went through the obstacles, and they’re also helping each other out… it’s all about teamwork. It’s also about exceeding, challenging your own self, and overcoming your fears. The Filipinos really know how to have fun."

Notable participants in Tough Mudder Philippines include Brand Ambassadors Raymond Gutierrez, Gretchen Ho, and Fabio Ide, as well as Will Devaughn, Erwan Heusssaff, Nico Bolzico, Vince Velasco, and Dyan Castillejo

Tough Mudder Philippines was made possible with the assistance of Cobra, Merrell Philippines, Black Arrow Express, Pretty Huge Obstacles, Vivere Hotel, Crystal Clear, Anytime Fitness, Snippet Media, and Manila Times.

Proactive also shares that their next mass participation event will take place this October with the Yakult 16-miler at the CCP Grounds.

Calvo steps up to become Player of the Week

In a moment where the team needed him to lead, JP Calvo answered.

After Letran suffered a 78-75 loss to Perpetual in their season opener, Knights head coach Jeff Napa asked for his veterans to step up and take command.

And it showed in their 83-76 victory over San Sebastian last Friday, as Calvo shot 6/11 from the field on his way to sixteen points.

Such prowess and assertive on-court leadership garnered the attention of the media, as he is bestown as the Chooks-To-Go Player of the Week by the NCAA Press Corps.

JP shared after the game, "Kasi ang maganda lang dito nagtutulungan kami. Tinutulungan din nila ako kung paano ko sila dalhin." He also credited his teammates, noting, "Sa dulo, sila yung kakapitan ko. Nagtutulungan lang kami."

Napa shared that he met with Calvo and Bong Quinto in order to help steer the Knights back to the right track, "Kinausap ko yung dalawang veterans ko. Pinakata ko sa kanila yung bigger picture. Yung teammates nila sumunod naman sila," he says.

JP beat out Quinto, Ian Alban and Levi dela Cruz of Arellano, and Yankee Haruna of College of Saint Benilde for the citation.

Lyceum secures third straight victory in NCAA

Games on Tuesday at the Filoil Flying V Centre:

8am Lyceum vs Arellano (HS)
10am San Sebastian vs JRU (HS)
12nn Lyceum vs Arellano
2pm San Sebastian vs JRU
4pm San Beda vs CSB
6pm San Beda vs La Salle-Greenhills (HS)

Lyceum ensured its hold atop the NCAA Season 94 Seniors basketball tournament last Friday, demolishing Jose Rizal University, 88-56 in the middle portion of the NCAA collegiate tripleheader.

The Pirates held the Heavy Bombers to just seven points in the second quarter to establish a 45-23 halftime lead, and then poured it on after the break, eventually erecting a 36-point lead at 71-35 before cruising their way to the end for their third straight win.

Head coach Topex Robinson shared to the media after the game, "From start to finish, we want to make sure the game will be out of reach because we don’t want to commit the same mistakes that we made in our game against EAC where we blew a big lead."

JRU absorbed their second straight loss to join idle Generals at the bottom of the league.

The other collegiate matches saw both College of Saint Benilde and Letran enter the win column.

The Blazers rode on a strong fourth quarter to secure a 90-79 victory over Mapua, as Yankee Haruna bounced back from a first half benching in their season opener to unload a game-high nineteen points.

A 17-0 run by CSB secured the win for head coach Ty Tang, with Haruna scoring eight of those points.

Justin Gutang also contributed a double-double with seventeen points and ten assists, as well as three rebounds.

The Knights rode on their veteran leadership to secure an 83-76 victory over San Sebastian in the final collegiate game of the week.

Jerrick Balanza, JP Calvo, and Bong Quinto combined for 48 points, allowing Letran to join CSB, Mapua, and idle Perpetual at 1-1, while sending the Golden Stags to 1-2.

In the other three games that took place last Friday comprising the high school portion of the NCAA's 94th season, Mapua/Malayan rode on Clint Escamis' 28 points in their 95-81 victory over La Salle-Greenhills in their first meeting since the NCAA Finals, Lyceum pipped JRU, 88-87, in a match that featured 30-point outbursts from Junior Pirate John Barba and Light Bomber John Amores, and Letran securing a 62-59 win over San Sebastian.

The scores:

CSB 90 – Haruna 19, Gutang 17, Dixon 13, Leutcheu 8, Pasturan 8, Naboa 6, Domingo 6, Carlos 5, Young 5, Nayve 3, Barnes 0, Velasco 0

Mapua 79 – Serrano 14, Lugo 14, Bunag 11, Pelayo 8, Bonifacio 8, Jabel 8, Victoria 6, Aguirre 6, Gamboa 3, Salenga 1, Biteng 0, Pajarillo 0

Quarterscores: 15-15, 46-36, 61-59, 90-79

Lyceum 88 – Nzeusseu 21, Perez 12, Marcelino JC 12, Cinco 11, Yong 6, Ibanez 5, Marcelino JV 4, Valdez 4, Ayaay 3, Pretta 3, Santos 2, Lumbao 2, Serrano 2, Caduyac 1, Tansingco 0

JRU 56 – Mendoza 14, Mallari 10, Dela Virgen 7, Padua 6, Miranda 5, David 5, Esguerra 4, Bordon 4, Estrella 1, Dela Rosa 0, Silvarez 0, Aguilar 0, Santos 0, Ramos 0, Doromal 0

Quarterscores: 21-16, 45-23, 71-39, 88-56

Letran 83 – Quinto 17, Calvo 16, Balanza 15, Muyang 8, Fajarito 7, Ambohot 6, Batiller 6, Agbong 3, Celis 3, Taladua 2, Mandreza 0, Balagasay 0, Yu 0

San Sebastian 76 – Bulanadi 21, Ilagan 18, Calisaan 11, Dela Cruz 9, Valdez 6, Capobres 6, Calma 2, Desoyo 2, Sumoda 1, Are 0, Villapando 0, Baytan 0

Quarterscores: 15-18, 39-34, 59-50, 83-76

Arellano doubles up on NCAA on Tour

Hosts Arellano made sure their long-delayed season debut for NCAA Season 94 will not be a disappointing one, as they rode on the duo of Levi dela Cruz and Ian Alban to tow the Chiefs to a 75-69 OT victory over Emilio Aguinaldo College.
Playing in front of their home crowd as part of the NCAA on Tour series, Lyceum transfer Alban scored eight of his thirteen points in the fourth quarter, including the game-tying basket with 39 seconds left to knot things up at 63 to force overtime.

Dela Cruz then took over in the five-minute extension, scoring the last seven points of Arellano in the game. His steal and fastbreak layup gave the Chiefs the lead for good with 2:20 remaining in overtime, then followed that with a triple with 106 seconds left. He would then score an insurance basket with 21 seconds left for the final score.

According to head coach Jerry Codinera, "When we had a big problem when we lost (Kent) Salado. We’re just thankful we have these guards to help fill the void."

The Generals were hampered with missed free throws all game long, muffing 29 out of 46 foul shots, including the last five attempts that could have stemmed their scoring drought in the final three minutes of the game.

Archie Concepcion led the Chiefs with fifteen points and ten rebounds. Rence Alcoriza also added twelve points, five rebounds, a couple of steals, and a block.

The trio of Hamadou Laminou, Juju Bautista, and Maui Cruz each contributed fourteen markers for EAC, which fell to 0-2.

Earlier that afternoon, the Braves rode on Rom Junsay's shoulders to extract themselves out of a 21-point deficit to beat EAC-ICA, 79-77.

The Mapua/Malayan transfer scored 24 of his 34 points in the second half to ensure Arellano will have a winning afternoon.

Cjay Boado led the Brigadiers with 23 points, with Adrian Balowa adding 19 markers.

The scores:

First Game (jrs)

Arellano U 79 – Junsay 34, Espiritu 13, Fermin 10, Sunga 10, Domingo 5, Tolentino 3, Fornis 2, Templonuevo 1, Sahali 1, Liangco 0, Nepomuceno 0, Cabili 0, Recto 0

EAC 77 – Boado 23, Balowa 19, Sumagaysay 11, Ilustrimo 11, Sanosa 4, Lozano 2, Pascual 2, Quebral 2, Rodrin 2, Encila 1, Murillo 0, Calara 0, Rivera 0, Papa 0

Quarterscores: 12-24, 27-42, 56-57, 79-77

Second Game (srs)

ARELLANO 75 – Concepcion 15, Alban 13, Alcoriza 12, Dela Cruz 12, Villoria 9, Canete 7, Meca 4, Serajosef 2, Dela Torre 1, Abdurassad 0, Bayla 0, Codinera 0, Ongolo Ongolo 0, Sacramento 0, Santos 0

EAC 69 – Bautista 14, Cruz 14, Laminou 14, Garcia 7, Mendoza 7, Natividad 5, Robin 4, Diego 2, Magullano 2, Bugarin 0, Cadua 0, Gonzales 0, Neri 0, Tampoc 0

QUARTER SCORES: 20-13, 31-26, 49-48, 63-63, 75-69 (OT)

Tough Mudder Philippines still open for interested participants

Tough Mudder Philippines Ambassador Xian Lim trying
out the Kong Infinity obstacle, at Tough Mudder Scotland

For those who want a good challenge, the first Tough Mudder Philippines is still taking in interested participants.

Set to take place this weekend at Portofino Amore in Alabang, the Tough Mudder Philippines is the first Tough Mudder event of its kind in the country.

Considered as the fastest-growing mass participation event in the world with over three million people having joined previously, Tough Mudder has events spanning all across the world.

According to Proactive Sports Management COO Justine Cordero, "We are very proud to be the local licensee of Tough Mudder for the country. We will bring Tough Mudder’s signature obstacle courses, and this event will give you the same experience of participating in Tough Mudder events in other parts of the world. It is high time that we brought Tough Mudder to the Philippines and we encourage runners to take advantage of this event. We would like to encourage everyone to sign up for the much-awaited Tough Mudder Philippines event, set this weekend, July 21-22, 2018."

Tough Mudder CEO and co-founder Will Dean shares, "Tough Mudder events have united millions seeking a more engaging, communal form of active lifestyle. We are excited to partner with Proactive Sports Management, who has a proven track record for success for athletic events in the Philippines. To ensure locals and tourists alike will have the same unparalleled experience that has made Tough Mudder the must-do event for OCR enthusiasts and weekend warriors alike."

There are two race lengths (5K or Half) available for participants, with the option to choose from two kits for either race.

The 5K Basic costs PhP 1,700 and comes with an event singlet, race bib, finisher's shirt, and finisher's headband. The 5K Premium costs PhP 3,200 and contains the 5K Basic package, as well as a drybag (10L) and a towel.

The Half Basic costs PhP 2,900 and comes with an event singlet, race bib, finisher's shirt, and a finisher's headband. The Half Premium costs PhP 4,400 and contains the Half Basic package, as well as a drybag (10L) and a towel.

Among the expected Tough Mudder Philippines participants is brand ambassador Xian Lim, who actually took part in this kind of event recently in the UK. Others celebrities like Raymond Gutierrez, Gretchen Ho, and Daniel Matsunaga are also ticketed to join in.

For further details, one can check out www.toughmudder.ph and Facebook.com/ToughMudderPhilippines.

Arellano hosts NCAA on Tour today

Games today at the Arellano University Gym in Legarda

2pm: Arellano vs EAC-ICA (HS)

4pm: Arellano vs EAC (Seniors)

Arellano finally gets to showcase its wares with the "NCAA on Tour" heads to Legarda this afternoon for its second stop in the NCAA's 94th season.

The Braves and the Chiefs' season debuts were called off twice in consecutive weeks, both due to inclement weather conditions, and are hoping that today's matches against the Brigadiers and Generals, respectively, will push through.

According to Arellano head coach Jerry Codinera, "The boys are excited and eager to play this season." He also lamented that the weather has limited their practice schedule, adding "We couldn’t practice for several days because some of the players got stranded due to flooding and we also can’t use our court because of the moist caused by the rains." He did say, "we’ll just do what we can to win."

The Chiefs will be relying on a collective effort from the likes of Michael Canete, Rence Alcoriza, and Levi dela Cruz to replace Kent Salado, who is missing the season due to a knee injury, whilst counting on Elie Ongolo Ongolo to replenish what Lervin Flores gave them before graduating.

Meanwhile, EAC is coming off a 106-97 loss to Lyceum last Friday, and is counting on their impressive run late in the third and early fourth quarter from that game to provide inspiration into this matchup.

After a season cut short by an ACL injury, Hamadou Laminou made an impressive return to NCAA action with 34 points, sixteen rebounds and four blocks, before fouling out in the fourth quarter to put a damper on the EAC's upset hopes. Head coach Ariel Sison shares, "I’m happy with how he (Laminou) played in our last game and I’m hopeful he could sustain that kind of game the rest of the way."


In addition, high school rivals Guilmer dela Torre and Maui Cruz are now bringing their rivalry into the collegiate realm, from being a Brave and a Brigadier to a Chief and a General.

Henry forces NCAA postponement

Another Tuesday waylaid by the weather.

Complications from Tropical Storm Henry (international name Son-Tinh) forced the NCAA to postpone its Season 94 matches today at the Filoil Flying V Centre.

The announcement had been made at the end of the first quarter between Perpetual Help Junior Altas and the Arellano Braves, with the former leading, 21-19, after the league initially said that games are a go for today.

When seeking confirmation of the postponent, NCAA Management Committee chairman Frank Gusi affirmed the pronouncement.

He adds that the Junior Altas-Braves match will be replayed from the start and the other matches will be rescheduled towards the end of the eliminations.

This makes it back-to-back Tuesdays that the league had to postpone its matches as a result of the weather after Gardo forced the cancellation of matches for what would have been the second playdate of the season and first with college and high school matches on the same date.

The league is scheduled to resume play on Thursday with the second installment of the NCAA on Tour series, where Arellano is finally set to make its season debut against Emilio Aguinaldo College at the Arellano Gym.

San Beda, Mapua seek co-leadership in NCAA Season 94 collegiate action

Games today (July 17) (Filoil Flying V Centre, San Juan)

8am: Perpetual vs Arellano (HS)
10am: Letran vs Mapua/Malayan (HS)
12nn: Perpetual vs Arellano
2pm Letran vs Mapua
4pm San Beda vs JRU
6pm San Beda vs JRU (HS)

The Tuesday NCAA six-game bill scheduled today at the Filoil Flying V Centre will feature a couple of teams seeking to join idle Lyceum atop the standings.

San Beda and Mapua attempt to snatch back-to-back victories against teams seeking to bounce back from defeats in their season openers.

The Red Lions are slated to cap off the collegiate action at 4pm against Jose Rizal University, while before that, the Cardinals will be tacking Letran at 2pm.

The defending champions fended off Perpetual on Opening Day, 67-65, whilst Mapua spoiled the homecoming of the Heavy Bombers, 72-60 in the first NCAA on Tour game of the season.

The other collegiate matchup features the season debut of Arellano as they face the Altas at noon time.

The Chiefs seeking a decent campaign without key contributor Kent Salado, who is sitting out the season due to injury. Jerry Codinera might just resort to true freshman Guilmer dela Torre in filling that role, although he has other returnees in Michael Canete, Levi dela Cruz, and Rence Alcoriza.

On the other hand, Perpetual is fresh from their 78-75 win over Letran last Friday, with UE transfer Edgar Charcos peppering the Knights with 27 points.

Jaycee Marcelino secures first NCAA Season 94 POTW

With Emilio Aguinaldo College chasing Lyceum down after whittling a huge 31-point lead to just three at the end of the third quarter, Jaycee Marcelino made sure that the Pirates will not be victims of an upset from the Generals.

Last season's Rookie of the Year scored thirteen of his career-high 24 points in the final quarter to lead the team to a 106-97 win. He also collected eight rebounds, a couple of assists, and five steals in just over 25 minutes.

He shared with the media after the game, "Ayaw ko matalo eh kaya pinag-pursigihan kong magtrabaho sa court para maibalik namin ang lamang namin at manalo kami." Jaycee adds, "Yung mga ganitong laro, challenge ito sa amin para alam na namin ang dapat naming gawin pag ganito ulit ang nangyari."

Tandem that with his opening day performance of thirteen points, five rebounds, four assists, and a couple of steals to lead Lyceum to an 85-80 victory over San Sebastian, and it was not surprising that the NCAA Press Corps selected him as their first Chooks-to-Go Player of the Week for the season.

Marcelino would beat out teammate CJ Perez, Perpetual Help's Edgar Charcos, Mapua's Laurenz Victoria, San Sebastian's Michael Calisaan, and San Beda's Robert Bolick for the nod.

Perpetual, San Sebastian bounce back with victories

Games on Tuesday at the Filoil Flying V Centre:

8am Perpetual vs Arellano (HS)
10am Letran vs Mapua/Malayan (HS)
12nn Perpetual vs Arellano (Seniors)
2pm Letran vs Mapua (Seniors)
4pm San Beda vs JRU (Seniors)
6pm San Beda vs JRU (HS)

University of Perpetual Help System Dalta and San Sebastian College-Recoletos bounced back from their disappointing season openers to net themselves wins in the two other collegiate matches that took place at the Filoil Flying V Centre.

Edgar Charcos made sure that his NCAA debut was not a fluke, as he towed the Altas to a 78-75 victory over Letran in the third game of the collegiate triple-header.

The UE transfer led the way on offense with 27 points, a couple of rebounds, and four assists, while helping anchor a defense that limited the Knights to score a couple of points in the final 7+ minutes of the game. That sterling display was capped off by not only Prince Eze and Kim Aurin denying JP Calvo a chance to tie the game with over 21 seconds left, but also with a defense that prevented Letran from getting a good clean look at a game-tying offensive play.

True freshman Jielo Razon added thirteen points, while Jeffrey Coronel and Aurin finished with twelve and ten points, respectively.

Old reliables Bong Quinto and Calvo led Letran with a combined 29 points.

Before Perpetual and Letran took to the court, the Golden Stags downed College of Saint Benilde, 85-78.

Egay Macaraya's squad rode on a strong fourth quarter to snatch the victory away from the Blazers, capped off by an RK Ilagan triple with 96 seconds remaining.

Ilagan would finish with sixteen points on 4/9 shooting from beyond the arc, while Michael Calisaan contributed a double-double with eighteen points and ten rebounds, as well as three assists and four steals.

Edward Dixon led CSB with twelve points.

The Blazers played without Yankie Haruna and Clement Leutcheu for the first half, as a result of a disciplinary benching from head coach Ty Tang. Fortunately for CSB, they managed to hang on and kept themselves deadlocked with the Golden Stags at 44 during that stretch. Haruna would finish with ten points and four rebounds, while Leutcheu ended up with six points, ten rebounds, a couple of assists, a steal, and a couple of blocks.

Second Game

San Sebastian 85 – Calisaan 18, Ilagan 16, Bulanadi 13, Calma 10, Capobres 7, Villapando 7, Dela Cruz 6, Are 4, Sumoda 4, Desoyo 0, Valdez 0.

St. Benilde 78 – Dixon 12, Haruna 10, Pasturan 9, Gutang 8, Belgica 6, Leutcheu 6, Young 6, Carlos 5, Naboa 5, Velasco 4, Pagulayan 3, Domingo 2, Nayve 2, Barnes 0.

Quarterscores: 24-27; 44-44; 63-64; 85-78.

Third Game

Perpetual Help 78 – Charcos 27, Razon 13, Coronel 12, Aurin 10, Eze 7, Peralta 4, Mangalino 3, Gallardo 2, Canoy 0, Cuevas 0.

Letran 75 – Quinto 15, Calvo 14, Ambohot 11, Muyang 10, Fajarito 7, Yu 6, Balanza 5, Batiller 5, Balagasay 2, Agbong 0, Mandreza 0.

Quarterscores: 21-23; 45-44; 60-61; 78-75

Lyceum takes early NCAA lead

Games on Tuesday at the Filoil Flying V Centre:

8am Perpetual vs Arellano (HS)
10am Letran vs Mapua/Malayan (HS)
12nn Perpetual vs Arellano (Seniors)
2pm Letran vs Mapua (Seniors)
4pm San Beda vs JRU (Seniors)
6pm San Beda vs JRU (HS)

Lyceum rode on a career performance from Jaycee Marcelino in the fourth quarter to fend off Emilio Aguinaldo College, 106-97, to snatch solo leadership in the 94th collegiate basketball season of the NCAA at the Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan last Friday.

The PCCL Finals MVP scored 13 of his career-high 24 points in the fourth quarter to help shepherd the Pirates to a win over the Generals, after a wild third quarter that allowed them to not only erect a 31-point lead, but also allow EAC to whittle that back down to three. He also contributed eight rebounds, two assists, and five steals.

Lyceum head coach Topex Robinson shared to the media after the game, "We can’t relax against any team in this league and EAC reminded us that we really can’t."

Season 93 MVP CJ Perez added twenty points, five rebounds, a couple of assists, and six steals, while Ralph Tansingco and Jaycee's twin brother Jayvee combined for 21 markers. The trio made up for Mike Harry Nzeusseu's disappointing follow-up to his 20-20 game last Saturday, as foul trouble limited the Cameroon native to just seven points and seven rebounds in 17.5 minutes of action.

Hamadou Laminou's 34 points, sixteen rebounds, and four blocks led the charge for the Generals, but their hopes of pulling off the upset were pretty much dashed when he fouled out during the fourth quarter. Jerome Garcia and Jethro Mendoza's timely sniping eventually yielded twenty and thirteen points, respectively.

The scores:

First Game

LPU 106 – JC Marcelino 24, Perez 20, Tansingco 11, JV Marcelino 10, Nzeusseu 7, Serrano 7, Ayaay 6, Caduyac 5, Ibanez 4, Valdez 4, Lumbao 3, Yong 3, Pretta 2, Santos 0, Cinco 0

EAC 97 – Laminou 34, Garcia 20, Mendoza 13, Bautista 10, Robin 9, Magullano 5, Natividad 3, Cruz 2, Tampoc 1, Neri 0, Diego 0, Cadua 0, Bugarin 0, Gonzales 0

Quarterscores: 30-13; 59-38; 80-77; 106-97

JRU, Mapua split NCAA on Tour doubleheader

Games today at the Filoil Flying V Centre

8am EAC-ICA vs Lyceum (HS)
10am La Salle-Greenhills vs San Sebastian (HS)
12nn EAC vs Lyceum (srs)
2pm CSB vs San Sebastian (srs)
4pm Perpetual vs Letran (srs)
6pm Perpetual vs Letran (HS)

The first NCAA on Tour playdate yielded a split for Mapua and JRU yesterday afternoon at the JRU Gym in Mandaluyong City.

The Light Bombers took advantage of the Red Robins' shooting struggles in escaping with an 80-70 victory in the first part of the doubleheader.

Marwin Dionisio came off the bench to contribute a double-double for JRU with 19 points and eleven rebounds, whilst the trio of Cadell Buno, John Amores and Thomas Vasquez combined to score almost forty points to help the Light Bombers in securing a winning start to the season.

JRU head coach Vic Lazaro shared after the game, "We won against them last year, in the first round. The boys showed they want to beat them again, they played with heart."

Mapua/Malayan's key returnee from last season's finals effort, Clint Escamis, was limited due in large part to foul trouble, as he committed four fouls in the first half. He was limited to just nine points all game.

The second game of the doubleheader saw the Cardinals beat the Heavy Bombers, 72-60.

True freshmen Warren Bonifacio and Eric Jabel stepped up to the plate for Mapua, with the former contributing a near double-double performance of ten points and nine rebounds and the latter scoring seven of his nine points in the fourth quarter.

Asked about the performance of his two freshmen, head coach Atoy Co shares, "They’re good but they have a lot more to show."

Key holdover Laurenz Victoria led Mapua with eleven points, although he was limited due to cramps late in the fourth.

JRU was led by RJ David's twelve points, while Jed Mendoza added eleven markers in the defeat.

Mapua was buoyed by a strong start early on, erecting a 25-14 lead. Although JRU managed to whittle down that lead to 34-31 at the half, the Cardinals managed to gather themselves and preserve the victory.

Meanwhile, the NCAA finally is slated to have its first six-game bill of the season after Tuesday's matches were wiped out as a precaution due to Typhoon Gardo.

Three squads will make their season debut later in Emilio Aguinaldo College, College of Saint Benilde, and Colegio de San Juan de Letran. The Generals will be opening their campaign against a Lyceum side looking to kick off their week with back-to-back victories. The Blazers and Knights are going up against teams that lost on Opening Day last Saturday in the form of the Golden Stags and the Altas, respectively.

The scores:

First Game (Juniors)

JRU 80- Dionisio 19, Buno 14, Amores 13, Vasquez 12, Baluyot 8, Mendoza 6, Portales 4, Icban 4, delos Santos 0, Macatangay 0, Fortuna 0, Garcia 0

Mapua/Malayan 70- Sarias 16, Mariano 13, Escamis 9, Policarpio 8, Quimado 8, Hernandez 7, Smith 6, Arches 3, Dennison 0, Chavez 0, Fransman 0, Diaz 0

Quarterscores: 18-12; 43-33; 63-60; 80-70

Second Game (Seniors)

Mapua 72 – Victoria 11, Bonifacio 10, Jabel 9, Pelayo 8, Serrano 8, Biteng 8, Lugo 6, Gamboa 6, Bunag 4, Aguirre 2, Salenga 0, Garcia 0

JRU 60 – David 12, Mendoza 11, Bordon 9, Esguerra 6, Silvarez 6, Dela Virgen 5, Santos 4, Padua 4, Miranda 3, Estrella 0, Mallari 0, Aguilar 0

Quarterscores: 25-14, 34-31, 52-47, 72-60

NCAA on Tour kicks off today

Games today at the Jose Rizal Gym:

2 p.m.- JRU vs Mapua (jrs)
4 p.m.- JRU vs Mapua (srs)

After a playdate wiped out due to the weather, the 94th season of the NCAA resumes today with the first of five set of matches under its "NCAA on Tour" concept, as Jose Rizal University hosts a doubleheader against Mapua inside its campus in Mandaluyong this afternoon.

At 4pm, the Heavy Bombers are looking to kick off their campaign on a positive note, doing so having lost most of their core due to their completion of eligibility.

Without Teytey Teodoro and John Grospe, as well as their foreign student-athletes AbdulRazak AbdulWahab and Abdel Poutouchi, head coach Vergel Meneses will be looking at Jed Mendoza to help steer things, with Mark dela Virgen, Darius Estella, and Aaron Bordon taking on additional roles.

Meneses reflected a little bit of honesty when asked about their upcoming campaign, noting, "It will be a tough season for us but we will try to compete even though we’re really a young team."

As for the Cardinals, the Atoy Co-coached squad continues to pick up the pieces from the departure of Allwell Oraeme last season, elevating Warren Bonifacio and Jasper Salenga from the Mapua/Malayan Red Robins to pair with big man Christian Bunag.

The Fortune Cookie shares, "We have some new players coming in and we feel they will help us in our campaign." He adds, "I’m very optimistic we will improve on our performance last year."

The winner is set to join idle San Beda and Lyceum atop the standings, after the Red Lions and Pirates opened things last Saturday.

Before the seniors clash, the high school ballers take their turn first at 2pm.

WWE Raw comes to FOX+

WWE Raw. LIVE on FOX+

Good news for Filipino wrestling fans, as WWE Raw will be shown LIVE on FOX+ every Tuesday morning starting July 17 at 8am.

For wrestling fans, the drama and spectacle of the WWE is one that they anticipate and wait for every week. Every one has their own wrestling hero they look up to, whether it is brute strength of the current WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar and the Monster Among Men Braun Strowman to the agility of the current WWE Cruiserweight Champion Cedric Alexander or the skills of the current Intercontinental Champion Dolph Ziggler, who recently defeated Seth Rollins for the belt. Even the ladies have someone to look up to, whether it is current RAW women's champion Alexa Bliss to former champion Nia Jax, or even the currently suspended newcomer Ronda Rousey.

Aside from Raw, FOX+ will also stream WWE's weekly highlight shows: Afterburn, Experience, and This Week.

This is a sort-of homecoming for FOX, who once held the rights for the WWE until last year.

Download the streaming app, which is available for both iOS and Android devices, and interested users can sign up for a 30-day free trial. And at PhP 249 per month, it's very much affordable.

Aside from the WWE, FOX+ also has some of your favorite American series, Hollywood blockbusters, NatGeo documentaries, and live sporting events like the ongoing Wimbledon tennis tournament.

Xian Lim tries out Tough Mudder

Xian Lim trying out Tough Mudder

Xian Lim has been living out the sporting dream as of late.

After recently making his Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League debut for Mandaluyong, the actor and Tough Mudder Philippines Brand Ambassador also shared his experience at the Tough Mudder.

He was one of eleven thousand participants at the Tough Mudder Scotland 2018, which was held at Drumlanrig Castle & Estate in Thornhill. There, Xian had to go through 10.6 miles that contained 27 obstacles, including the likes of Mud Mile, Devil's Beard, Bale Bonds, Hero Walls, Skid Marked, Birth Canal, Sewer Rat, Kiss of Mud, Funky Monkey, and Kong Infinity.

Xian shares, "Alone we can do little, but together we can do so much more. That’s what I learned here at Tough Mudder. It is absolutely an amazing experience we had here in Scotland… I can’t wait for July 21-22, when we finally have Tough Mudder in the Philippines."

He also shared his experience on his Instagram account.

Scotland experience...

A post shared by Xian Lim (@xianlimm) on Jul 6, 2018 at 5:40am PDT

Proactive VP Justine Cordero shares, "We wanted to bring our Tough Mudder Philippines Brand Ambassador Xian Lim to Scotland, so he can try the various obstacles himself, most of which, we will be bringing to the Philippines this July 21-22, 2018, at Portofino Amore, in Alabang. This will also be the first Tough Mudder which will be mounted in South East Asia."

She adds, "Our Brand Ambassador Xian Lim was also able to experience himself how the thousands of participants, who didn’t know each other, helped each other out in going through the various race obstacles; espousing values of teamwork and cooperation. The Philippines will finally have that Tough Mudder experience this coming July 21-22, 2018."

For Tough Mudder Legionnaire Chris James, who has participated in 81 Tough Mudder events and helped Xian with some of the obstacles, he says, "It’s all about fun, it is like being a kid again. It is a fantastic thing to do, and there’s nothing else like it. You get to be human and have fun. It doesn’t matter how rich you are, how poor you are, or what your background is. Everyone just has a really good time, and that’s what it is all about. That’s why I keep on coming back. Helping people is a fantastic thing, by just being putting your hand out, someone else will pull you up." He also adds, "Tough Mudder brings out something tribal and fantastic… it creates a community where people help each other out. And you don’t tend to see that out there in the real world sometimes."

The Tough Mudder Philippines route starts out at Portofino Amore, Vista Land, which is located along Daang Hari Road in Alabang, with the course integrating portions of the recently enhanced bike trail, alonside the rolling hills and various varieties of mud in the adjacent farmland. Course designers will carve out a creative and muddy course that will integrate the natural surroundings. They will make sure that not only is the course challenging, but also picturesque.

Participants have four racing options: Tough Mudder 5K Basic, Tough Mudder Half-Basic, Tough Mudder 5K - Premium, and Tough Mudder Half-Premium.

At PhP 1,700, the 5K Basic comes with an event singlet, racebib, finisher's shirt, and finisher's headband. The Half-Basic comes with the same package, but at PhP 2,900.

As for the 5K Premium that is priced at PhP 3,200, it comes with the 5K Basic package with a 10L drybag and towel. The Half-Premium costs PhP 4,400 and comes with the Half-Basic package with a 10L drybag and towel.

For more details and interested participants, one can check out www.ToughMudder.ph or Facebook.com/ToughMudderPhilippines.

ONE Championship to hold world title fight on ONE: Kingdom of Heroes

The people present for ONE Championship's press conference to kick off their ONE: Kingdom of Heroes event this October.

ONE Championship made sure its return to Bangkok will be a special event, revealing that their upcoming live event at the Thai capital, called ONE: Kingdom of Heroes, will have a major boxing title defense.

In a partnership with Nakornloung Promotions, ONE will be co-promoting Thai boxing superstar and the WBC super flyweight champion Srisaket Sor Rungvisai, making it the main even of ONE: Kingdom of Heroes on October 6 at the Impact Arena

Rungvisai is considered as the sixth-best pound-for-pound fighter by The Ring Magazine, toting a 45-4-1 record with 40 knockouts. After two title defenses in the United States, he will have the chance to defend the title at home.

At the W Hotel, ONE Championship Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong shares, "It is my honor and my pleasure to see some of the greatest martial artists on the planet compete in ONE Championship. The thing that makes ONE Championship different from any other organization in the world, is that we want to build and unleash martial arts superheroes to ignite the world with inspiration, hope, dreams, strength, and courage. This coming October, Thailand will host the biggest event in martial arts history as talented athletes from boxing, mixed martial arts and Muay Thai will join together under one roof in celebrating Asia’s greatest cultural treasure. ONE Championship will create an indelible legacy on 6 October."

World Boxing Council Vice President Police General Kovid Pakdeepoom shares, "We are thrilled to work with ONE Championship for the upcoming event in October. Our association with a world-class organization like ONE Championship satisfies our goal in nurturing the legacy of boxing across the globe. ONE Championship has made groundbreaking initiatives in the development of mixed martial arts and other forms of martial arts in Asia and around the globe. Certainly, there’s so much that everyone should be excited about this event in Bangkok."

Thainchai Pisituttinan of Nakornloung Promotions adds, "Our work in boxing has always been driven by our passion and love. The best part of it is that we get to give life-turning opportunities to boxers and their families. Each of them has their own stories, but they are all driven by the same dream - to be the world champion. I am glad that our promotion and ONE Championship have coalesced in having a common mission and vision for combat sports athletes around the globe. I just cannot begin to say how massive of an event this will be. History will be made on 6 October."

Rungvisai states, "I am happy and honored to take part in this historical ONE Championship's event. I was at ONE Championship's event in Bangkok earlier this year, and it blew my mind with its world class production, entertainment, and fights. I would also like to thank everyone who made this possible. With ONE Championship opening its doors for athletes like me to showcase our talent on the global stage, it means a lot. This is a new challenge, and I love challenges. I am looking forward to defend my WBC World title belt in ONE Championship."

For further updates on ONE Championship, one can check out www.onefc.com.

Weather postpones NCAA games scheduled today

The NCAA yesterday decided to postpone the basketball matches scheduled today at the Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan, citing inclement weather conditions brought about by Typhoon Gardo.

In a statement, NCAA Management Committee chair Frank Gusi says, "Because of the bad weather, we are postponing all NCAA games tomorrow (today)."

He added that the postponed matches will be rescheduled to the latter portion of the first round, which is scheduled to conclude on August 21.

The affected matches are the following matchups between these HS and collegiate teams:

Colegio de San Juan de Letran vs Emilio Aguinaldo College
Perpetual Help System Dalta vs La Salle-College of Saint Benilde
Arellano vs San Beda

The Squires/Knights, /Brigadiers/Generals, Greenies/Blazers, Braves/Chiefs were set to make their season debuts.

With the postponement, the next scheduled NCAA playdate is this coming Thursday, with Jose Rizal University and Mapua kicking off the second season of the NCAA On Tour at the former's gym.

Perpetual pips San Beda to kick NCAA HS campaign

Perpetual Help System Dalta pulled off a 72-69 victory over San Beda yesterday to kick off the High School Basketball tournament for the NCAA's 94th season at the Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.

The duo of Mark Gallano and Edzel Galoy joined forces to lead the Junior Altas with each netting sixteen points, including the former's assist to the latter late to give Perpetual the lead against the Red Cubs for good with seconds remaining in the game.

Their head coach Michael Saguitsuit shared that "the boys showed heart," in pulling off the win, something they have yet to do against the perennial powerhouse in years.

In a way, this sort of avenges the loss their elder counterparts endured during the opening of the NCAA tournament this past Saturday.

In the second game of the doubleheader, San Sebastian pipped Lyceum, 69-68. NBTC Div II MVP and Cagayan de Oro-native Milo Janao starred for the Staglets with a team-high 22 points.


The scores:

First Game (jrs)

Perpetual Help 72- Gallano 16, Galoy 16, Kawamura 15, Orgo 11, Barcuma 6, Duka 3, Nunez 3, Coloma 2, Defante 0, dela Cruz 0, Lauchengco 0, Romilla 0

San Beda 69- Estacio 20, Alcantara 12, Pelipel 9, Coyoca 7, Sanchez 7, Ynot 5, Talampas 5, Valencia 4, Compolente 0, Llarena 0, Oliva 0

Quarterscores: 21-18; 34-33; 59-48; 72-69

Second Game (jrs)

SSC 69- Janao 22, Balo 12, Baclaan 10, Perez 8, dela Cruz 8, Are 4, Timbancaya 3, Solatorio 2, Bonalos 0, Cortes 0, Suico 0, Austria 0

LPU 68- Barba 27, de Leon 14, Jugar 11, Gudmalin 7, Tulabut 4, de Guia 3, Omandac 2, Caringal 0, Dejelo 0, Nocal 0, Pagdanganan 0, Santos 0

Quarterscores: 11-17; 34-42; 53-57; 69-68

San Beda, Lyceum highlight NCAA Season 94 opening

San Beda kicked off its title defense as they were successful in fending off an upset-conscious Perpetual Help System Dalta, 67-65, to open the collegiate basketball portion of the 94th season of the NCAA this past Saturday.

Struggling all game long on the offensive end, Robert Bolick stepped up on the other end to preserve the win for the Red Lions. Last season's Player of the Year by the Collegiate Press Corps intercepted a pass from Edgar Charcos to Prince Eze on the final offensive play, as the Altas were looking to set up for either a game-tying or game-winning basket.

Bolick would finish with a team-high fifteen points, anchored on his perfect 8/8 free throws. He shot 3/14 from the field and contributed three of the five total assists of the Red Lions. Robert would share to the media afterwards, "I need more practice."

Javee Mocon and Donald Tankoua contributed fourteen and twelve points, respectively, in helping preserve the win for San Beda.

University of the East transfer Edgar Charcos led the Altas with fourteen points, highlighted by a couple of triples in the final period that helped them take the lead in the fourth quarter. He is one of the numerous newcomers new head coach Frankie Lim integrated onto the squad with just four holdovers from last season.

The second game of the doubleheader saw Lyceum beat San Sebastian, 85-80. The Pirates rode on Mike Harry Nzeusseu's 23 points and 20 rebounds to overcome their 29 turnovers in defeating the Golden Stags.

RK Ilagan led San Sebastian with eighteen markers, but had to sit most of the final quarter after fouling out early in the period.

Preceding the basketball action was the NCAA conducting their Opening Ceremonies. This season's president Anthony Jose Tamayo ushered in the proceedings, which came with a colorful production number, as well as a parade of all ten schools with their basketball student-athletes for both in the high school and collegiate levels.

The Scores:

First Game

San Beda 67 – Bolick 15, Mocon 14, Tankoua 12, Eugene 8, Soberano 6, Abuda 3, Kwekuteye 3, Presbitero 2, Doliguez 2, Cabanag 2, Oftana 0, Tongco 0, Nelle 0, Carino 0, Cuntapay 0

Perpetual Help 65 – Charcos 14, Eze 13, Coronel 13, Razon 10, Aurin 8, Peralta 7, Mangalino 0, Cuevas 0, Tamayo 0, Pasia 0

Quarterscores: 13-10, 23-23, 44-40, 67-65

Second Game

LPU 85 – Nzeusseu 23, Perez 15, Marcelino JC 13, Serrano 6, Pretta 6, Yong 6, Marcelino JV 5, Ayaay 4, Caduyac 4, Ibanez 2, Santos 1, Cinco 0, Tansingco 0, Valdez 0

San Sebastian 80 – Ilagan 18, Bulanadi 15, Calisaan 12, Calma 10, Valdez 7, Sumoda 6, Dela Cruz 5, Desoyo 4, Villapando 3, Capobres 0, Are 0, Baytan 0

Quarterscores: 22-14, 43-43, 67-60, 85-80

NCAA Season 94 kicks off today

The traditional post of the head coaches with the basketball. (From L-R: JRU assistant coach Vic Lazaro, Lyceum head coach Topex Robinson, CSB head coach Ty Tang, Letran head coach Jeff Napa, Arellano head coach Jerry Codinera, Perpetual head coach Frankie Lim, San Sebastian head coach Egay Macaraya, San Beda head coach Boyet Fernandez, Mapua head coach Atoy Co, and EAC head coach Ariel Sison)

Games today at the Mall of Asia Arena:


12nn.- Opening Ceremony

2 p.m.- San Beda vs Perpetual Help (srs)

4 p.m.- LPU vs San Sebastian (srs)

The 94th season of the NCAA kicks off at noontime today, with the league's opening ceremonies, as current hosts University of Perpetual Help System Dalta has picked the theme to be "NCAA Season 94: UnParalleled Heights in Sports Development."

The Altas will then open the basketball tournament at 2pm against defending champions San Beda, with current coach Frankie Lim facing the team he led to championships a decade earlier.

The Red Lions are virtually bringing back their entire core from last season's title run, with only Davon Potts and Arnaud Noah departing from the team, with the Toba Eugene of Nigeria being picked as the second foreign student-athlete to accompany incumbent Finals MVP Donald Tankoua.

With a lineup backstopped by Robert Bolick and Javee Mocon, supplemented by a supporting cast of Clint Doliguez, Franz Abuda, Jose Mari Presbitero, AC Soberano, Radge Tongco, Jeramer Cabanag, and Calvin Oftana, and boosted by true freshman Evan Nelle, San Beda is considered as consensus favorites alongside fellow finalists last season in Lyceum.

Head Coach Boyet Fernandez did stress that the league is balanced and that anyone can beat anyone. He shares, "Yes, we have experience and we're almost intact. But I still think it will be tough this season because teams have beefed up."

In the second game of the basketball doubleheader, CJ Perez and the Pirates face off against Michael Calisaan and San Sebastian College-Recoletos.

Lyceum is coming off the first 18-0 eliminations campaign in league history, and although they fell short against the Red Lions in the finals, the crew of head coach Topex Robinson aim to extend the dividends from last season onto this season with holdovers Mike Harry Nzeusseu, Jesper Ayaay, and the Marcelino twins.

The NCAA has made some tweaks to its set-up under commissioner Bai Cristobal, as they are tapping referees from the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League to handle officiating, while also bringing back the hugely popular "NCAA on Tour."

Current NCAA president Anthony Tamayo bared this season's schedule for the NCAA On Tour, with the following playdates:

July 12 at Jose Rizal Gym
July 19 at Arellano Gym
July 26 at the Emilio Aguinaldo Gym
August 2 at Letran-Calamba
August 9 at Perpetual Help Gym

ABS-CBN Sports set for NCAA Season 94 basketball coverage

The head coaches at the bottom row, with ABS-CBN Sports head Dino Laurena

S+A is set to once again showcase the 94th season of the NCAA when it kicks off tomorrow at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

They will start the coverage with the Opening Ceremonies at 12nn, followed by a doubleheader starting at 2pm, with San Beda facing hosts Perpetual followed by Lyceum going up against San Sebastian at 4pm.

The collegiate basketball matches will be shown LIVE on both S+A and S+A HD all season, as well as being streamed on sports.abs-cbn.com. Coverage will be handled by an elite broadcast crew led by Andrei Felix, Anton Roxas, Migs Bustos, Martin Antonio, and Mikee Reyes, with Mico Halili and LA Tenorio serving as the new additions. Handling courtside duties are stalwarts Ceej Tantengco and Roxanne Montealegre, joined by courtside alumnae Angelique Manto and Ganiel Krishnan and newcomers Chase Orozco and Aya de Quiroz.

A new element for the NCAA from ABS-CBN Sports is the introduction of "Upfront" to the coverage. Hosted by the squad of Manto, Martin Javier, Janeena Chan, and Turs Daza with the special participation of Ricci Rivero and Alyssa Valdez, Upfront will now allow viewers to get to know the student-athletes of the NCAA.

NCAA them moves into its regular time slots of Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. With Thursdays being allotted for the league's "NCAA On Tour." ABS-CBN Sports' official hashtags for this season are #NCAASeason94 and #GalingNCAA

LG, Grand Hyatt set up World Cup screenings at Pool House

LG + Grand Hyatt World Cup screening

For those still looking a great place to watch the World Cup, LG and the Grand Hyatt Hotel inside the Bonifacio Global City have a partnership ongoing that can help provide the ultimate World Cup viewing experience for the football fan.

The Pool House at Grand Hyatt has been hosting viewing events since the tournament started, showing the matches onto a giant 86-inch UHD television. Fans, whether as a hotel guest or as a local can pop into the poolside venue and cheer on their favorite teams without the need for a reservation or paying a fee. One can even "dive in" and enjoy a dip onto the pool while watching arguably the biggest sporting spectacle in the world.

Aside from the monstrous 86-inch screen, LG also has its OLED TV E8 on display at the Pool House. Its AI technology and Alpha 9 Intelligent Processor makes it one of the better options to watch football on. Its richness in color, amazing sound, stunning clarity and quick motion-handling feature, alongside its high contrast and perfect black levels ensure that one will not miss every move being showcased on the fields of Russia.

To mark that partnership, LG Philippines and Grand Hyatt Hotel executives got together to formalize matters.

From left to right: Mr. Bogensperger (Grand Hyatt Manila General Manager), Ms. Ledesma (Grand Hyatt Manila Director of Sales and Marketing), Ms. Ryu (Philalphakor Internation Inc. Director), Mr. An (LG Electronics Philippines VP for Home Entertainment), Mr. Ganser (Grand Hyatt Manila Director of Food & Beverage)

You can catch the remaining World Cup matches at these times.

Quarterfinals:

July 6 at 10pm: Uruguay vs France
July 7 at 2am: Brazil vs Belgium
July 7 at 10pm: Sweden vs England
July 8 at 2am: Russia vs Croatia

Semifinals:

July 11 at 2am: Uruguay-France winner vs Brazil-Belgium winner
July 12 at 2am: Russia-Croatia winner vs Sweden-England winner

Third place playoff: July 14 at 10pm

Final: July 15 at 11pm

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, Inc. and Basketball Australia co-statement

The Basketball Federations of the Philippines and Australia released the following statement, likely the final one before FIBA would reveal its ruling in the aftermath of July 2 incident. 

Following the incident that occurred during the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 Asian Qualifiers game between our senior men’s national teams on Monday, July 2, we wish to issue the following statement:

We deeply regret the events that took place during the game. The actions displayed have no place on any basketball court.

We wish to apologize to the entire basketball community worldwide - and in particular to our fantastic fans in the Philippines and Australia - for the behavior displayed by both teams and for bringing the game of basketball into disrepute.

We fully accept our responsibility and are collaborating in the ongoing proceedings to investigate the incidents.

We will do everything in our power to prevent this from happening again.

Basketball has a unique power to unite and we look forward to continuing bringing people together in the true spirit of friendship and sportsmanship in future games.

It has been co-signed by their respective heads: Al Panlilio (SBP president) and Ned Coten (Basketball Australia Chairman)

Post-match Statements from Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, Inc. and Basketball Australia

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, Inc. released their statement on the incident involving the Philippines and Australia in the July 2 FIBA World Cup Qualifier.

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) apologizes to Filipino basketball fans and to the basketball community for the incident that occurred during last night’s game. As hosts, we regret having breached the bounds of traditional Filipino hospitality. As the national team representing flag and country, we likewise extend our apologies to the Filipino people.

SBP stands by its conviction that violence has no place in sports.

We will review the incident comprehensively and await the decision of FIBA with respect to disciplinary proceedings on the matter.

The SBP statement is after Basketball Australia released a couple of statements in the aftermath of the incident.

The first came after the game.

Basketball Australia deeply regrets the incident in tonight’s match between the Boomers and the Philippines in Manila. We are extremely disappointed with what happened and our role in it.

“This is not the spirit in which sport should be played and certainly not in the spirit in which we aim to play basketball.

"We apologise to our fans and will await the penalties to be handed down.

The second was done the morning after, as Chief Executive Anthony Moore addressing it publicly, which the federation streamed through its Facebook page.



FIBA has only addressed this matter on a simple tweet.

Following the incident that occured in the third quarter of the Philippines-Australia game on Monday in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 Asian Qualifiers, FIBA will now open disciplinary proceedings against both teams. The decision(s) will be communicated in the coming days.

— FIBA media (@FIBA_media) July 2, 2018

Defending champions Red Lions finalize roster

With the spectre of the foreign student-athlete ban looming in two years, Defending champions San Beda selected a couple of big men to hold down the fort in their title defense.

It was no surprise that team management made the decision to retain Donald Tankoua after his impressive season en route to being named as the Finals MVP, and subsequently being honored by the collegiate scribes with the Pivotal Player nod.

Joining the 6'6" Cameroon native as the two foreign student-athletes the Red Lions will be utilizing for the 94th season of the NCAA is the 22-year old Toba Eugene.

The 6'9" Toba impressed head coach Boyet Fernandez with his height and athleticism during the preseason, allowing him to finally displace Arnaud Noah from the Red Lions roster. The former Finals MVP had managed to fend off Toba the past couple of seasons for that slot.

Donald and Toba complete the solid Red Lion core of Robert Bolick, Javee Mocon, AC Soberano, Jomari Presbitero, Clint Doliguez, Franz Abuda. The group is supplemented by the addition of true freshman Evan Nelle, who came up from the Red Cubs.

San Beda kicks off its basketball season this Saturday in the NCAA Tip-off against hosts University of Perpetual Help System Dalta at 2pm. The Altas are now coached by Frankie Lim, who once helmed the Red Lions a decade earlier.

In the other matchup, last season's losing finalist Lyceum faces off against San Sebastian at 4pm.

SBP statement on Philippine Arena decal removal by Australia

Late last night, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas released this statement in aftermath of what transpired on Sunday. 

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas through its Legal Counsel, Atty. Aga Francisco, conveyed to Fiba during the technical meeting for the Philippines-Australia match on July 1, a very diplomatic but strong message about the UNIRATERAL AND UNCALLED FOR tampering of the stickers on the hardcourt of the Philippine Arena by the Australian team.

During the closed door practice of the Australian National Team from 2:30 to 4:30pm, members of the Australian team forcibly removed the stickers of the game sponsors from the hardcourt of the Philippine Arena WITHOUT FIRST CONFERRING WITH FIBA OR SBP LOC. As it was a closed door practice, no member of Fiba or the Local Organizing Committee was present to prevent the removal of the stickers which permanently damaged the floor of the court.

According to the Australian team, they were concerned about the safety of their players citing a slippery surface.

The Local Organizing Committee through SBP Deputy Executive Director Bernie Atienza acknowledged the right of the visiting team to complain but didn’t have the right to remove anything as all the stickering of the floor has been approved by Fiba. The stickering was approved by Fiba’s branding manager who was present for the placement of the stickers.

Atty. Francisco added that this is no mere small incident but could be “international in nature” as the owners and operators of the Philippine Arena could possibly file a criminal action of malicious damage to property through pre-meditation and in conspiracy with each other.

The Australians through their representatives to the Technical Meeting admitted fault and deeply apologized for the incident. However, Atty. Francisco urged Fiba to act decisively on the incident for fear of “turning this into an UNSAVORY international incident. Fiba should take action in order that the owners will be appeased so they will not file action.”

SBP is awaiting FIBA’s response to the matter.

The decals removed were mainly the ones on the free throw line. The center court ones featuring FIBA sponsor TCL remained on the floor.

KD set for Philippine visit on July 8

KD coming.

Kevin Durant is set to make his way to Manila next week.

Sponsored by Nike, the back-to-back NBA champion and Finals MVP will be in the country on July 8 with the objective of sharing his stories of self-belief and uncompromising drive to Filipino basketball fans, no matter what circumstances they face in life.

Durant aims to share the lessons the brought him from the DMV to Texas and to the NBA. Such lessons include the countless hours he spent in the gym to hone his game, his sacrifices for the love of the game, to going beyond the fear of failure. He wants Filipino ballers to push harder every time, even when they are already at the top of their game. KD is set to spread the word and belief of giving one's relentless focus and commitment to the game with consistency, on and off the court at all times.

For the Manila visit, a champion's welcome will be held at 9th Avenue across the Nike Park Fort inside Bonifacio Global City at around 1230pm, where fans who turn up can get the opportunity to see KD in person, then followed by a meet-and-greet with a select group of Nike members and fans at the store.

There will also be a training session with selected ballers who have been consistently raising their game with the Nike Hyper Court. He would be sharing some of those workouts, drills, and inspirational beliefs at the KD Nike Hyper Court Team All-Star Challenge inside the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

Nike Philippines Country Marketing Manager Jino Ferrer shares, "We are thrilled to have Kevin Durant with us this time around for the first time ever in Manila. Fresh off a recent amazing season, this is an opportune moment to welcome and celebrate his journey of hard work and perseverance, which brings him to where he is today, with all aspiring Filipino ballers. We hope he will also be able to feel and experience the enthusiasm of the Filipinos’ puso, where basketball lies at the heart of the nation."

Interested fans can register here in order for you to watch the KD Nike Hyper Court Team All-Star Challenge.

In line with this announcement, a couple of KD 11 kicks have been launched for Filipino sneaker enthusiasts.

The "Still KD" will be launched at selected outlets today, while limited quantities of the "Peach Jam" will be released exclusively at Titan Park Fort and Nike Park Fort on July 8.