Over 35,000 expected to be accredited for 2019 SEA Games

As of this month, counting only athletes and officials, nearly 11,000 application for accreditation from various sports have been received with barely three months to go before the opening ceremonies of the SEAG.

Alona Quintos, the director of accreditation and uniforms, on Thursday said at least 35,000 people are expected to sign up for the Games as the Sept. 30 accreditation deadline scheduled by the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee draws near.

According to Quintos, 9,552 have been screened while 8,213 personnel have been granted access to the 11-nation sportsfest to be held at New Clark City in Tarlac, Subic and Metro Manila from Nov. 30-Dec. 11.

"We are closely coordinating with the security department to ensure that everyone who gets accredited have cleared all security protocols,"’ said Quintos.

She explained that the printing of pre-valid accreditation cards (PVAC) of the 11 national Olympic committees would commence end of September.

Quintos likewise announced that around 1,500 journalists, photo journalists, videographers and broadcast personnel will comprise the covering media during the entire duration of the Games.

"We have set up a specific lane for every client group such as media, athletes and officials, etc. We want to make the experience of getting an accreditation as easy and comfortable as possible," said Quintos.

The World Trade Center in Pasay City will be the Main Accreditation Center set to cater sports to be played in Manila and Southern Luzon while the ASEAN Convention Center will serve both clusters in Clark and Subic.

The Main Accreditation Center will begin operations on November 20.

SIBOL eSports team for SEA Games unveiled

The Captains of SIBOL eSports

The Filipino eSports contingent for the upcoming SEA Games has been unveiled, with 27 making the cut out of the 77-strong training pool to comprise SIBOL and participate at the games.

The athlete breakdown is as follows:

Seven members each for the team-based games: Dota2, Arena of Valor, and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang

ML:BB - Kenneth Jiane "Kenji" Villa, Karl Gabriel "KarlTzy" Nepomuceno, Carlito "Ribo" Ribo, Jeniel "Haze" Bata-anon, Angelo Kyle "Pheww" Arcangel, Allan Sancio "Lusty" Castromayor, and Jason Rafael "Jay" Torculas.

DoTA 2 - Mc Nicholson "Mc" Villanueva, John Anthony "Natsumi" Vargas, Jun "Bok" Kanehara, Marvin Salvador "Boomy" Rushton, Bryle Jacob "CML" Alvizo, Van Jerico "Van" Manalaysay, and James Erice "Erice" Guerra

Arena of Valor - Kevin Kio "Gambit" Dizon, Jeremiah "1717" Camarillo, Jevan Lorenzo "Bents" Delos Santos, Lawrence Anthony "Rubixx" Gatmaitan, Miguel Klarenz "Miggie" Banaag, Bradie Ryan "Yats" Velasquez, and Kyle Jepherson "Vindiicated" Padlan

Two members each for the remaining games: StarCraft II, Hearthstone, Tekken 7

StarCraft II - Justin "NuksPH" Santos and Caviar "Enderr" Acampado

Hearthstone - Dustin "WaningMoon" Mangulabnan and Jacinta "Jia" Dee

Tekken 7 - Andreij Hosea "Doujin" Albar and Alexandre Gabrielle "AK" Laverez

With the lineups finalized, the focus is now on training and coaching them in order for each one to be ready to claim the gold medal, embodying the "Lakad Matatag" mentality.

Aside from the announcement, the Philippine Southeast Asian Games eSports Union (PSEU) also revealed that SMART is the official presenter of SIBOL, while Razer is set to assist with the team's training and preparation. The global gaming manufacturer is the official eSports partner for the SEA Games.

Smart Communications President Alfredo S. Panlilio shares, "eSports in the SEA Games is not just about making history; it is about building the foundation for all our young Filipinos who aspire to represent our country on a world stage. The athletes of Sibol are not just pioneers, they are our country’s pride. We at Smart wholly support our athletes in their SEA Games journey."

UE keeps undefeated HS Boys Volleyball record

Joshua Espenida

UNIVERSITY of the East survived Adamson University in five sets to stretch its unbeaten run to three games, while titleholder Nazareth School of National University triumphed anew in the UAAP Season 82 Boys' Volleyball Tournament on Wednesday at the Paco Arena.

The Junior Warriors improved to 3-0 after a nailbiter against the Baby Falcons, 20-25 25-20, 25-19, 22-25, 15-12, while the Bullpups beat De La Salle-Zobel, 25-10, 20-25, 26-24, 25-22.

Joshua Espenida led UE with 22 points, Francis Babon poured in 19 points and 12 receptions, and Mangahis added 15 points and 15 digs.

The Junior Warriors displayed tremendous composure in the deciding set to stay perfect.

"Medyo nawalan ng leadership noong mga set na naunahan kami pero when it comes to composure and veteran leadership, nakuha naman namin yon sa captain namin noong fifth set," UE assistant coach Richard Cuevas said.

Evander Novilla paced the Baby Falcons with 21 markers while Jefferson Marapoc registered 17 points, 25 receptions and 13 digs.

Arvin Bandola tallied 20 points built on 14 spikes and five blocks for NU, which continued its rise from a 0-2 start by winning its second straight match.

"On and off yung mood ng team kaya hindi nilla nailaro kung ano yung inensayo namin so I think kailangan pa rin namin i-tune yung play namin," said Bullpups coach Edgar Barroga.

Tied at 22 in the fourth set, NU converted three consecutive points highlighted by Bandola's game-clinching block, to even their record at 2-2.

Junior Green Spikers captain Miguel Aranton had 18 points.

De La Salle-Zobel and Adamson University are now level in the seventh spot with 0-3 cards.

Boys' volleyball action resumes with three matches on Saturday at the same Paco venue.

UST, NU-Nazareth still unbeaten in UAAP HS volleyball

UST Junior Tigresses.

UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas and Nazareth School of National University protected their immaculate records after beating separate foed in the UAAP Season 82 girls' volleyball tournament at the Paco Arena Wednesday.

The Junior Tigresses outlasted Far Eastern University-Diliman, 25-18, 27-25, 23-25, 25-20, to rose at 4-0 while the Bullpups made short work of University of the East, 25-17, 25-16, 25-21, to extend their perfect streak to three matches.

In the other match, defending champion De La Salle-Zobel notched its first win after walloping winless University of the Philippines Integrated School, 25-16, 26-24, 25-20.

Renee Lou Peñafiel topscored for UST with 21 points while Regina Jurado added 14 points.

"Sabi ko huwag hayaang maging setup nung fourth set ay mag catchup kami, if you're in control naman, why not take it one to 25 diba," said Junior Tigresses assistant coach Yani Fernandez.

Up by just a point in the fourth set, 19-18, UST went on a 6-2 burst, highlighted by three kills from Peñafiel, to prevail.

Jean Asis had 12 points for FEU, which dropped to a 2-2 slate.

NU had a balanced attack with six players scoring at least nine points, led by Mhicaela Belen and Alyssa Solomon.

UE, which was paced by Chrisann Susbilla's 10 points, slipped to 1-3.

Lorien Gamboa led the Junior Lady Spikers with 15 points while Irah Jaboneta chipped in 14 on 10 spikes and four aces.

Alliah Omar had 13 points for UPIS.

Girls' volleyball resumes with three matchups on Sunday at the Blue Eagle Gym. 

FEU sends DLSU to back-to-back losses

Patrick Tchuente

FAR Eastern University turned back La Salle, 66-55, Wednesday in the UAAP Season 82 Men's Basketball Tournament at Mall of Asia Arena.

Wendell Comboy delivered the daggers for the Tamaraws as he fired five of the last seven points to finish with 11 points, on a 3-of-9 clip from threes, while also grabbing two rebounds.

Cameroonian big man Patrick Tchuente also tallied a double-double of 19 points, 11 boards, and three blocks to level FEU's record to 2-2.

"I'm just proud of the way we played today coming off that loss to Ateneo," said coach Olsen Racela. "It just showed yung competititon this season is so balanced. Lahat ng teams are capable of winning any given moment."

FEU lost hold of a 14-point lead, 38-24, early in the third quarter and saw La Salle get to within six, 56-50, with 6:14 remaining, but Comboy anchored the Tamaraws' 10-3 blast to bring the lead back up to 11, 64-53 with 1:35 to play and cruise to the victory.

Brandrey Bienes added nine points and six rebounds, while Barkley Ebona chimed in eight points and six boards for FEU.

It was the second straight defeat for La Salle to drop to a 2-2 record.

Jamie Malonzo led the Green Archers with 20 points, 15 rebounds, and three assists in the defeat.

The Scores:

FEU 66 -- Tchuente 19, Comboy 11, Bienes 9, Ebona 8, Alforque 7, Gonzales 5, Tuffin 4, Torres 3, Cani 0, Nunag 0, Stockton 0.

LA SALLE 55 -- Malonzo 20, Caracut 10, Baltazar 6, Serrano 6, Melecio 5, Bates 2, Lojera 2, Meeker 2, Pado 2, Manuel 0.

Quarter Scores: 19-14, 36-24, 49-43, 66-55.

FEU remains undefeated in UAAP HS Boys Volleyball

Cajolo and Racaza celebrating the point for FEU

LAST year's runner-up Far Eastern University-Diliman continued its perfect run with a 28-26, 25-19, 25-17 victory over Ateneo in the UAAP Season 82 boys' volleyball tournament on Wednesday at Paco Arena.

Rans Cajolo led the Baby Tamaraws' onslaught with 15 points, France Racaza added 14 while Jerold Talisayan tallied 10 points, 15 digs and six receptions.

"Lesson sa amin ito na bigay todo dapat kahit anong kalaban, walang libreng bigay... nagrelax kasi ang players ko noong first set eh," said FEU-Diliman coach Rjhay Del Rosario.

Knotted at 12 in the third set, the Baby Tamaraws uncorked a 13-5 finishing kick, capped by Emmanuel Advincula's kill block to secure their third win as in many matches.

With the opening frame tied at 26, back-to-back drop shots by Racaza and Cajolo gave FEU-Diliman the upperhand.

The Baby Tamaraws dominated the attacking department 50-23.

Amil Pacinio paced the Blue Eaglets (0-3) with 13 markers.

Boys' volleyball action will resume on Saturday with three matches at the FEU-Diliman Gym.

UST, Adamson remain undefeated in UAAP HS Girls Volleyball

Raagas setting for UST

UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas and Adamson University remained undefeated, while Far Eastern University-Diliman notched its first win at the expense of defending champion De La Salle-Zobel in UAAP Season 82 girls' volleyball action at the Paco Arena Wednesday.

The Junior Tigresses beat University of the East, 25-15, 26-24, 11-25, 25-21, while the Baby Falcons crushed University of the Philippines Integrated School, 25-23, 25-4, 25-13.

The Baby Tamaraws sent the Junior Lady Spikers to their second straight loss with a 14-25, 25-20, 25-22, 25-20 victory.

UST and Adamson University sit atop the standings with identical 2-0 cards, while FEU-Diliman improved to 1-1 to level with UE in the young season.

Lefty Regina Jurado chalked up 17 points on nine attacks and eight service aces while Renee Peñafiel added 14 points for the Junior Tigresses.

The Baby Falcons fielded all of its players where six tallied at least five points, with Raisa Ricablanca leading the way with nine points.

"Tinitingnan ko lang kung sino ang okay, sino ang hindi. Ang maganda sa lineup, lahat pwede kong gamitin, pwede kong maging first six," said Adamson University coach Lerma Giron.

With the Junior Lady Spikers leading 16-13 in the fourth frame, the Baby Tamaraws delivered six unanswered points to take the lead for good, 19-16, and eventually the breakthrough win.

"Nag-adjust kami sa players namin kasi si (Nikka) Medina, off siya, kaya si (Zey) Pacia na middle, ginawa kong opposite," said FEU coach Rjhay Del Rosario.

Zey Pacia and Alexis Miner each had 11 points while team captain Lyann De Guzman chipped in 10 points and 11 digs for the Baby Tamaraws.

Reigning MVP Angel Canino chalked up 14 points for the De La Salle-Zobel.

Girls' volleyball action will resume with three matches on Sunday at the Blue Eagle Gym.

Balanga dominates in Magiting Cup 3rd leg

2/2 for Wilkins Balanga

Wilkins Balanga Pure continue their impressive form this season, securing the third leg of the Chooks Pilipinas 3x3 on Tuesday at the SM BF Paranaque Events Center.

Karl Dehesa put an exclamation point to the leg by nailing the title-clincher against arch-rivals Equalivet-Pasig Kings, 21-20 in the final.

He shared afterwards, "It was an experimental phase for us in the first leg but we've been for a long time now. We've been developing chemistry. But this is just the beginning. We can't be complacent and settle as the Chooks league champions. It's a great honor but we want to win international competitions."

Balanga had to fend off a game comeback from Pasig, as the top Filipino club team in the FIBA 3x3 rankings reversed a five-point deficit into a 20-19 lead with 127 seconds left in the game. But Dehesa took matters in his own hands by knocking down the game-winner nine seconds later.

The former PBA pro adds, "The shot was really set up for Chris. We wanted to get a two...Chris ended up passing it to me instead of Alvin, and I was like f--k it, I'm going to shoot it!"

The Pure got balanced scoring for its quartet, with Alvin Pasaol leading the way with seven points, Dehesa and Leonard Santillan each added five markers, while Chris De Chavez completing the scoring with four points.

Joshua Munzon led all scorers with ten points, while Dylan Ababou added eight markers.

Balanga retains their lead in the Level 7 FIBA-endorsed tournament with 260 points, while Pasig moved up to second place with 220 points. Both teams missed the second leg at SM City Fairview due to their preparations for the Chooks-to-Go Manila Challenger. Just behind them are Phenom-Basilan Steel and Fyr Fyter Bacolod,

The Pure established their dominance for this particular leg with an average margin of victory of 7.8 points in their five games, which included a 22-15 win over Uling Roasters-Gulf Bulacan in the quarters and a 21-14 win over Bacolod in the semis.

The Chooks-to-Go Harissa Roast side-events saw David Carlos remain the champion in the slam dunk competition, while Franky Johnson of Basilan made it three different winners in the two-point shootout.

The fourth leg of the Magiting Cup will take place on September 15 at SM BF Paranaque Events Center.

The Scores:

Balanga 21 - Pasaol 7, Santillan 5, Dehesa 5, De Chavez 4.

Pasig 20 - Munzon 10, Ababou 8, Thompson 1, De Vera 1.

Prado torches UE with 39, leads Adamson to victory

Mar Prado against a UE defender

Mar Prado lifted Adamson University to the win column, leading her team to an 82-57 win over University of the East, Wednesday afternoon at the University of Santo Tomas Quadricentennial Pavilion.

The third-year standout finished with 39 points to go along with eight rebounds. And she was pivotal during Adamson's second half surge.

Up by just three entering the second half, Prado was unstoppable in the paint, powering the Lady Falcons to a lead that went to as high as 22 points, 73-51, with three minutes left in the game.

Adamson head coach Ewon Arayi was pleased with how the Lady Falcons turned it around after their lopsided loss against National University last Saturday.

"As I always say nga winning is not everything to me. What is important to me as a coach, and even as a player before, is how you play the game," she said.

The Lady Red Warriors started the game on a good note but foul trouble hounded main gunner Tin Cortizano.

Kat Araja was the other Adamson player in double digits with 10 points to go along with six assists. Lhyn Bilbao hauled down 13 boards as well.

Cortizano ended up with 11 points and eight rebounds while Nins Cuadero and Jearzy Ganade pinched in 10 markers apiece for UE, who dropped to 0-2.

The Scores:

Adamson (82) - Prado 39, Araja 10, Bilbao 9, Dampios 9, Anticamara 4, Eli. Alaba 4, Catulong 3, Ela. Alaba 2, Mendoza 1, Flor 1, Omopia 0, Dela Cruz 0, Balane 0.

UE (57) - Cortizano 11, Cuadero 10, Ganade 10, Pedregosa 6, Terrinal 6, Ordas 5, Caraig 4, Fernandez 3, Nama 2, Tinio 0, Paule 0.

Quarterscores: 16-19, 34-31, 60-45, 82-57.

Ateneo keeps unbeaten record, survives gritty UST

Angelo Kouame rises to the occasion to keep Ateneo undefeated.

Ateneo escaped a gallant challenge from University of Santo Tomas, 71-70, to stay immaculate in the UAAP Season 82 Men's Basketball Tournament Wednesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Ange Kouame scored the go-ahead tip with 3:40 left that put the Blue Eagles, 68-67, before emphatically denying Soulemane Chabi Yo's jumper in the final minute, before Thirdy Ravena and Matt Nieto iced the game at the charity stripe in the waning seconds.

The Ivorian Kouame finished with 11 points, 10 boards, and two blocks, while the senior Ravena topped Ateneo with 17 points, 11 of which coming in the second half, to go with 10 rebounds, two assists, and two steals.

"We understood that game was going to be a really tough game. I feel fortunate we won the game. That's the kind of game that you can credit the team as much as you want, talk about character, and all of that, but I think that every applaud you give your team, you give the other. That could have gone either way," said coach Tab Baldwin of what he regarded as a "track meet" and lived up to everyone's expectations.

Gian Mamuyac also did his damage with 10 points and four rebounds, while Will Navarro had eight points, five rebounds, and five assists in the win to keep the Blue Eagles at the top of the standings at 3-0.

There's no doubt, though, that UST left a lot of impression on Ateneo with Baldwin having a lengthy talk with counterpart Aldin Ayo after the game.

Chabi Yo paced the Growling Tigers in the valiant stand with 25 points, 13 rebounds, two assists, and two blocks as they fell to a 2-1 slate.

Rhenz Abando, Mark Nonoy, and Renzo Subido all had nine in the losing cause.

The Scores:

ATENEO 71 -- Ravena 17, Kouame 11, Mamuyac 10, Navarro 8, Belangel 6, Maagdenberg 6, Ma. Nieto 5, Go 3, Wong 3, Mi. Nieto 2, Andrade 0, Daves 0, Tio 0.

UST 70 -- Chabi Yo 25, Abando 9, Nonoy 9, Subido 9, Huang 6, Cansino 4, Concepcion 4, Ando 2, Paraiso 2, Bataller 0.

Quarterscores: 23-13, 33-37, 53-56, 71-70.

Streak extends to 83 for National University

Camille Clarin

Picking up steam, National University handed De La Salle University a 54-point whipping, 112-58, in the UAAP Season 82 Women's Basketball Tournament, Wednesday at the University of Santo Tomas Quadricentennial Pavilion.

Center Rhena Itesi led NU's barrage with 20 points, 19 rebounds, and a block. while Season 80 MVP Jack Animam added 18 points and 13 boards.

Knowing that the Lady Archers are one of the contenders to watch for this season, NU head coach Patrick Aquino's call was to start aggressively.

"I told the girls to play hard. We've been coming off the start very slow. Going into the game, they are in it by the second quarter and then slow again in the third quarter," he said. "I just want us to be consistent with everything - to start strong and finish stronger."

The Lady Bulldogs picked it up a notch in the second period after scoring 29 points in the opening quarter, while limiting the Lady Archers to only nine.

Camille Clarin set the tone in the first half, scoring 11 of her 19 points in the opening frame. Kaye Pingol and Kelli Hayes produced 14 and 11 markers, respectively.

In the heat of a 60-percent field goal shooting, NU built a 35-point cushion at the half at 62-29.

Though La Salle tried to mount a third-quarter fightback but the lead was just too much to overcome as the Lady Bulldogs went to clinch their 83rd consecutive victory.

Chuchi Paraiso and rookie Kent Pastrana paced the Lady Archers with 14 and 11 points.

La Salle dropped their second straight game, falling to 1-2.

The Scores:

NU (112) - Itesi 20, Clarin 19, Animam 18, Pingol 14, Hayes 11, Cac 9, Supada 4, Canuto 4, Cacho 4, Bartolo 3, Harada 2, Fabruada 2, Del Carmen 2, Goto 0.

DLSU (58) - Paraiso 14, Pastrana 12, Revillosa 8, Binaohan 7, Quingco 6, Torres 3, Sario 3, Castillo 3, Okoli 2, Jimenez 0, Jajurie 0, Espinas 0, Camba 0, El Hadad 0.

Quarterscores: 29-9, 62-27, 70-43, 112-58

Irebu, UST overwhelms Ateneo in women's basketball

Grace Irebu trying to anticipate where the ball is for the rebound.

Grace Irebu unloaded 33 points as she kept University of Santo Tomas unbeaten through three outings with a 91-73 blasting of Ateneo Wednesday in the UAAP Season 82 women's basketball tournament at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Last year's MVP was unmatched down low for the Golden Tigresses as she went 12-of-20 from the field, while also grabbing 13 rebounds and two blocks to keep the Espana side at the top of the standings at 3-0.

"This year is gonna be different. My first objective is I want to bring my team to the Finals," said the Congolese Irebu, still motivated by last season's bronze medal finish.

Lon Rivera added 14 points, eight boards, three steals, and two assists, as Tantoy Ferrer got herself a double-double with 13 points and 18 rebounds in the win.

UST bucked its slow start and slowly pulled away in the third frame, flipping a close 46-42 lead to a commanding 64-50 advantage.

It was all Golden Tigresses from that point on, with Shen Callangan extending the lead to as much as 22, 88-66, with a layup with 1:26 to play to seal off the victory.

"We had a slow start nung first half, playing dismal defense so I told the girls that we need to go back sa trasition defense because doon kami nalalamangan ng Ateneo," said coach Haydee Ong.

The win set UST up to a collision course against defending champion National University on Sunday in a battle of unbeaten teams.

Alyssa Villamor carried the Lady Eagles with 17 points, six rebounds, and four assists, while Hazelle Yam got 15 points and five boards as they bowed to their first loss in three outings.

The Scores:

UST 91 -- Irebu 33, Rivera 14, Ferrer 13, Portillo 9, Callangan 6, soriano 5, Tacatac 4, Gandalla 3, Gonzales 2, Panti 2, Sangalang 0.

ATENEO 73 -- Villamor 17, Yam 15, Guytingco 12, Moslares 7, Payac 7, Aquisap 3, Cancio 3, Chu 3, Joson 3, Newsome 3, De Dios 0.

Quarterscores: 25-22, 41-39, 67-47, 91-73.

Abando shines as first Player of the Week for UAAP Season 82

Rhenz Abando has taken the league by storm in the first week of Season 82

The first Chooks-to-Go Collegiate Press Corps UAAP Player of the Week went to a guy who took the league by storm on its opening week.

Rhenz Abando impressed basketball fans with a 22-point debut against the University of the East this past Wednesday, helping the University of Santo Tomas exact a 95-82 victory.

The Philippine College of Science and Technology transfer would follow that up three days later with twelve points, seven rebounds, and a couple of assists and steals to help the Growling Tigers stun last season's finalists, the University of the Philippines, 85-69.

All in all, the La Union native averaged seventeen points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists, which elicited a unanimous decision amongst the print and online media in making the deliberations for the award. Rhenz would beat out his teammate Soulemane Chabi Yo, Mike Nieto and Gian Mamuyac of Ateneo, Lenda Douanga of Adamson, and L-Jay Gonzales of FEU for the nod.

UST head coach Aldin Ayo was all praise when asked about the forward's contributions. He says, "Ngayon, grateful ako na nangyayari yung ganito sa UST kasi si Rhenz, he's very talented, pero alam din niya kung anong kulang niya at dapat trabahuin niya." Aldin adds, "Si Rhenz, breadwinner 'to eh so when you have that player, 'di mo kailangan i-motivate 'yan. They're playing for their families and their community."

UE stuns UAAP Boys Volleyball defending champions NU-Nazareth

Francis Babon attempting to break through the NU-Nazareth wall.

University of the East sent defending champion Nazareth School of National University reeling to its second straight defeat, while University of Santo Tomas and Far Eastern University-Diliman also notched their second straight wins in the UAAP Season 82 boys' volleyball tournament on Sunday at the Blue Eagle gym.

The Junior Warriors rose to 2-0 following a shock straight-set 25-20, 25-18, 25-22 conquest of the Bullpups.

The Junior Tiger Spikers outlasted Ateneo, 25-15, 25-20, 23-25, 25-12, while the Baby Tamaraws topped De La Salle-Zobel, 25-20, 25-27, 25-20, 25-19.

Team captain Francis Babon topscored for UE with 12 points, 11 receptions and nine digs while Giles Torres and Joshua Espenida each had 10 hits.

Michaelo Buddin led NSNU with 12 points.

UST was able to utilize all of its players and had three players in double digits led by Rey De Vega's 13 points.

"Nagexperiment kami with different combinations so as to give other players exposure para in the future kailangan silang gamitin, they are ready," said assistant coach John Abella after the Junior Tiger Spikers followed up last Wednesday's season-opening win over the Bullpups.

Ateneo, which was paced by Alexis Mendoza with 10 points, fell in a tie with NSNU at 0-2.

Ahead by just two points in the fourth set, 8-6, UST needed a 17-6 blast, punctuated by CJ Segui's off the block kill to secure the second victory.

Emmanuel Advincula registered 16 points built on 12 spikes and four service aces while Angelo Lipata and France Racaza added 13 apiece for the Baby Tamaraws, who dominated the spiking department over the Junior Green Spikers, 64-50.

Action resumes on Wednesday with three girls' games and one boys' tilt at the Paco Arena. 

Philam Life 7s Football League kicks off 4th season

Opening of Season 4 of the 7s Football League

The McKinley-Hill Stadium in Taguig was the center of 7-on-7 football last Sunday, with the start of the fourth season of the Philam Life 7s Football League.

66 teams across seven divisions played quality football all day, highlighted by a title rematch in the Premier Division.

Defending champions Ghana FC fends off Super Eagles, 3-2. Stanley Edeme scored first for the former champions, but Ghana would answer with three straight goals coming from David Asare, Hosni Aosso, and Henos Dabo. Super Eagles would pull a goal back through Yohann Fofanna, but time ran out and Ghana FC holds on to the victory.

Ghana FC head coach Ayi Bimbo shares, "Coming to this game, I told them, we are not going for anything. We just have to play. For them, they are coming for revenge. That is in their mind. We just have to keep calm and work what we know best."

Newcomers DMatsunaga FA fends off Matu Deportivo in the penalty shootout, 3-2, after finishing it at 2-2 in full time.

Daniel Matsunaga shares post-match, "There are things that we still have to improve as a team. We will be working for it for sure for the next days. We will be working on our mistakes and try to get the next round again."

Laro FC spoiled the debut of Monte Manila FC, 2-1, as David Kaman and Maroo Yhico combined for Laro's goals, which came two minutes apart. William Guerridon managed to score Monte Manila's maiden goal after 23 minutes.

Former Philippines international Aly Borromeo shares, "It is really important to start the tournament with a good win—getting the confidence of the players going. Especially in this league today, there is a lot of good competition out there. It is important we got the first win today." He adds, "What is important is the rotation of the players in a tournament like this. You go all out for 3-4 minutes, sub, get the rotation going. We are lucky enough to get a good coach to take care of the substitutions. We did the rotations pretty well and we came out with two crucial goals, and we caught one in the end due to six fouls. We still got the victory, that is what is important."

Looking to move past their struggles last season, Superbad Pride FC made a strong start this time around with a 4-2 victory over Tondo FC.

Iggy Halili shares, "We wanted to win this one so bad. We talked before the start of the game—last season we started at the bottom, the best way for us is to win our first game."

Real Amigos benefited from their pre-season preparations to get themselves ready for 7s competition, pitching a 2-0 shutout to Futbol Funatics.

Real Amigos head coach Lerche Niang hopes they can meet fan expectations, says "We are really prepared for this. We hope to live to the expectations. We know that the league is very tough now. There are a lot of players coming in, ex-professionals—it is a strong league. I think we have what it takes to go far."

Completing the Premier Division fixtures in Matchday 1 is a 2-1 victory by Bohemian Sporting Club over Mondo International. The historic side scored goals from Hamed Hashimedi and Izo El-Habbib, with Wushoma Tatzuda scoring the lone Mondo goal late.

Here are the complete results for Match Day 1:

7s Football League: Premier Division

Laro FC 2 – Monte Manila FC 1
Bohemian Sporting Club 2 – Mondo International 1
Ghana FC 3 – Super Eagles 2
DMatsunaga FA 2 – Matu Deportivo 2 (3-2)
Superbad Pride FC 4 – Tondo FC 2
Real Amigos 2 – Football Funatics 0

7s Football League: Women’s Division

Kaya FC 5 – Beach Hut 1
Bohemian Sporting Club 4 – FutbolFunatics 2
Nomads 6 – Azzuri FC 6
Superbad 4 – Sims 1
Stallions 6 – Azzurri 0
Outkast FC 2 – Payatas FC 1

7s Football League: Men’s Division

Paha FC 5 – Mendiola 4
Coast Guard 5 – Komrads 4
Spoly 5 – Laro B 3
Manhur 3 – Soccerroo 2
DNO FC 4 – Manila Kings 1

7s Football League: U15

Tondo 1 – Socceroo 0
Makati Football Club 3 – Carribean 0
De La Salle Zobel 0 – Tuloysa Don Bosco 0
Bohemian Sporting Club 3 – Nomads 0
Makati Football Club 5 – Socceroo 0
Carribean 1 – Tondo 0
Zobel 1 – Nomads 0
Bohemian Sporting Club 3 – Tuloysa Don Bosco 2

7s Football Leauge: U13

Nomads 0 – De La Salle Zobel 0

Makati Football Club 5 – Socceroo 0
Tuloy sa Don Bosco 3 – Payatas FC 0
Angono FC 1 – Far 0
Nomads 1 – Socceroo 0
Makati Football Club 2 – De La Salle Zobel 0
Angono FC 2 – Payatas FC 0
Far 0 – Tuloy sa Don Bosco 0

7s Football League: U11

Xavier FC 1 – Socceroo 0
Mondo FC 2 – Carribean 0
Zobel 1 – Bohemian Sporting Club 0
Makati Football Club 3 – Tuloy sa Don Bosco 1
Xavier FC 4 – Carribean 0
Mondo FC 3 – Socceroo 1
De La Salle Zobel 2 – Tuloy sa Don Bosco 0
Makati Football Club 2 – Bohemian Sporting Club 0

7s Football League: U9

Striker FC Marikina 5 – Total FC 0
Makati Football Club 8 – Bohemian Sporting Club 0
Mondo FC 2 – Xavier FC 0
G8 3 – Aspire FC 0
Makati Football Club 6 – Total FC 0
Striker FC Marikina 3 - San Lorenzo FC 1
Aspire FC 2 – Xavier FC 0
Mondo FC 1 – G8 1

Ateneo denies La Salle in Green Archers season opener

Thirdy acrobatics.

ATENEO rode on its superb second quarter to trip fierce rival La Salle, 81-69, and stay unscathed in the UAAP Season 82 Men's Basketball Tournament Sunday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Seniors Mike and Matt Nieto were instrumental in the Blue Eagles breaking the dam thanks to a 28-point second quarter that gave the boys from Katipunan a 51-29 halftime lead after just holding a tight two-point lead, 30-28, early in the period.

Mike led Ateneo with 18 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two steals, while twin brother Matt added 15 points and three boards for the 2-0 Ateneo.

Gian Mamuyac also made his presence felt late, fending off La Salle after it got to within eight in the payoff period, burying timely buckets in the last three minutes before finishing with a career-best 14 points, four rebounds, two assists, and two steals.

"I think that break we had at the end of the second quarter was a surprise to us and it was a surprise for them, and in the end, it was the cushion I think that we depended on in the second half," said coach Tab Baldwin.

Ivorian center Ange Kouame was also happy to do the dirty work on the defensive end with his 19 rebounds and five blocks that overshadowed his measly six points.

"This is a typical Ateneo-La Salle game. It was tough every step of the way," sighed Baldwin, whose wards joined UST atop the standings at 2-0 before their face-off on Wednesday.

Jamie Orme-Malonzo led the Green Archers with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and two assists, highlighted by his slam dunk over Thirdy Ravena in the first quarter.

Andrei Caracut contributed 14 points on a 3-of-6 shooting from threes, while Justine Baltazar tallied a double-double with his 10 points, 12 rebounds, and two blocks.

The Scores:

ATENEO 81 -- Mi. Nieto 18, Ma. Nieto 15, Mamuyac 14, Navarro 8, Andrade 6, Kouame 6, Ravena 6, Tio 4, Belangel 2, Go 2, Daves 0, Maagdenberg 0.

LA SALLE 69 -- Malonzo 18, Caracut 14, Baltazar 10, Serrano 8, Melecio 7, Lojera 6, Manuel 6, Bartlett 0, Bates 0, Cagulangan 0, Cu 0, Hill 0, Meeker 0, Pado 0.

Quarterscores: 23-21, 51-29, 66-50, 81-69.

Pasig, Melbourne survive Manila Challenger qualifying

Pasig Chooks secure main draw berth.

Local team Pasig Chooks and Australia's Melbourne iAthletic complete the cast of teams in the main draw of the Chooks-to-Go Manila Challenger, after the qualifying matches that took place at the SM City Fairview Events Center.

The latter eased past Jakarta South, 21-2 before dispatching Narvacan, 22-13. The 3x3Hustle regulars are rewarded with a spot in Pool C where Russian side Gagarin and Serbian side Belgrade NetTV beckons.

The former, on the other hand, needed a little bit of drama to earn their spot.

After cruising to a 21-9 win over Zamboanga, the Chooks Pilipinas 3x3 President's Cup champions had to face the Chooks Pilipinas 3x3 Patriot's Cup champions Phenom Basilan (in its iteration as Isabela City Chooks) in what turned out to be a play-in for the remaining qualifying spot.

With Pasig trailing, 19-20, with 12.2 seconds left, Joshua Munzon managed to secure a rebound off a long distance attempt from Nikola Pavlovic. After drawing the Steel defense towards him, Munzon then threw a pass to the wide-open Serbian, who knocked down a one-legged fadeaway deuce to secure a 21-20 victory.

Nikola says, "It's tough but this is what we live for."

Pasig now joins Pool D alongside Slovenian side Kranj and Mongolian side Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy.

The main draw tips off this afternoon, with a couple of spots at the Jeddah Masters on the line. Joining Pasig as the lone Pinoy sides left in the Manila Challenger are Balanga Chooks, who are already assured of a berth in the Jeddah Masters. Balanga is in Pool A with Czech side Humpolec Bernard and the second-ranked team in the FIBA 3x3 rankings, Riga Ghetto.

Chooks-to-Go Manila Challenger set this weekend

Joshua Munzon set for global competition once again at the Manila Challenger.

The FIBA 3x3 World Tour heads to Philippines for the Chooks-to-Go Manila Challenger, as the country puts up a last-ditch effort to get themselves into the running for a berth in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

Fifteen teams have a chance to get a couple of berths into the Jeddah Masters in Saudi Arabia next month. Balanga Chooks is already assured of a berth for that particular tournament thanks to their efforts at the recently-concluded Patriot's Cup.

Balanga also happens to the be the lone Filipino side that will not go through qualifying, with the other four teams slotted to enter the first phase of action at SM City Fairview.

Narvacan will be dealing with Melbourne iAthletic and Jakarta South in QD A, while Pasig Chooks, Isabela Chooks, and Zamboanga comrpise QD B.

The QD A top-notcher will be slotted into Pool C with Gagarin and Belgrade NetTV, while the QD B top-notcher will be in Pool D with Kranj and Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy.

Leading the cast of favorites for the Manila Challenger is Riga Ghetto and the top-ranked player in 3x3, Karlis Lasmanis.

Coverage starts at 10am on ESPN5's social media channels, with televised action starting at noon.

Saint Clare blowout kicks off 19th NAASCU season

Defending champion Saint Clare College of Caloocan opened its quest for a rare four-peat by handing Technological University of the Philippines a 102-66 beating as the 19th season of the National Athletic Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (NAASCU) opened at the Cuneta Astrodome Thursday.  Philippine Christian University and Our Lady of Fatima University also registered positive starts to their respective campaigns by blasting their rivals.

The Saints showed the form that earned them the last three NAASCU trophies as they scored the last nine points to take the first period, 25-12.  The lead eventually grew to its highest, 100-63, as the Saint Clare bench did not relent and kept pouring it on the hapless Gray Hawks.

Big man Mohamed Pare had no match from the opposition as he frolicked inside for 19 points and 15 rebounds.  Fellow starter keyed the initial breakaway with 12 points on three triples while reserves Nathaniel Lopez and Jan Dominic Formento hit double figures with 14 and 11 respectively during the fourth period mopping up operations.

PCU leaned on the 40-point explosion of guard Mark Edison Ordonez to frustrate New Era University, 100-92.  Ordonez scattered majority of his points in the third period as they overturned their 40-41 halftime deficit and turned it into a 20-point cushion in the opening minutes of the fourth, 74-54.

Ordonez completed his smashing season debut with six assists and two steals as he continued to put in the key baskets to stymie the Hunters’ fourth period rally. Ranzel Casajeros sank five triples en route to 25 points while Kenneth Sumalacay followed with 13 points, seven rebounds and four steals and Jexter Tolentino with 12 points and seven rebounds.

In the main game, Our Lady of Fatima University led from start to finish over City University of Pasay, 100-74.  Former Junior Phoenix standout Nikko Panganiban made a rousing debut into the Seniors Division with 25 points and 11 rebounds while drawing help from Rommel Diosa with 13 and Cas de Vera with 10.

The simple opening rites featured speeches from Pasay City Mayor Imelda Rubiano-Calixto, Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) Chairman Steve Hontiveros and Secretary General Agus Mauro of the Southeast Asian Basketball Association.  Dr. Ernesto Jay Adalem of Saint Clare declared the tournament open.

How They Scored:

First Game

SAINT CLARE (102) – Pare 19, Lopez 14, Santos 12, Formento 11, Tiquia 8, Fontanilla 7, Jimenez 6, Victoriano 5, Penaredondo 5, Bautista 4, Manacho 4, Fuentes 2, Pablo 2, Tabajen 2, Decano 1.

T U P (66) – Reyes 15, Garcia 12, Felomino 7, Abejuela 6, Bringas 6, Vitug 6, Martinez 4, Nebre 3, delos Santos 2, Bayani 2, Afuang 2, Castaneda 1, Magbanua 0, Umali 0, Agcaoili 0, de Andres 0, Mangalindan 0.

Period Scores: 25-12, 45-29, 62-46, 102-66.

Second Game

PHILIPPINE CHRISTIAN (100) – Ordonez 40, Casajeros 25, Sumalacay 13, Tolentino 12, Eusebio 6, Okoronkwo 4, Quinto 0, Ramos 0, Garcia 0, David 0.

NEW ERA (92) – Comia 22, Estrella 20, dela Cruz 15, Quinga 11, Akindele 8, Reyes 6, Bercebal 3, Udjan 3, Gonzalo 2, Marticio 2, Bringas 0, Gabriel 0, Sabalza 0, Castillo 0.

Period Scores: 20-20, 40-41, 71-54, 100-92.

Third Game

OUR LADY OF FATIMA (100) – Panganiban 25, Diosa 13, de Vera 10, Essomba 9, Alarcon 8, Compas 8, Japzon 6, Pastrana 6, Alejandro 4, Lumbera 4, Romero 3, Dalupang 2, Suria 2, Bargola 0, Abila 0, Frias 0.

PASAY (74) – Olegario 23, Galit 15, R Chua 11, K Villagomez 6, Chio 5, D Chua 5, Vale 3, Aragon 2, Taroy 2, dela Cruz 2, Celestino 0, Sobrete 0, Pinuela 0, C Villagomez 0, Catarbas 0.

Period Scores: 22-10, 43-23, 74-54, 100-74.

LG Sakers, Ginebra renew acquaintances in upcoming exhibition

LG Sakers vs Barangay Ginebra

Korean Basketball League stalwarts LG Sakers make a return trip to the Philippines later this month for another go against crowd darlings Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in the Asian Basketball Showdown 2 on September 17 at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

Five years ago, the same two teams met at the same venue, with the Korean side winning, 81-75. The Gin Kings did not feature LA Tenorio and Japeth Aguilar for that matchup, having been fresh from their FIBA World Cup campaign in Spain with Gilas Pilipinas.

The Sakers finished with the third-best record in the 2018-19 KBL regular season, defeating Busan KT Sonic Boom in the quarterfinals before losing to the Incheon Electroland Elephants in the semifinals.

The Gin Kings are fresh from losing in the semifinals of the Honda Commissioner's Cup, bowing to TNT Katropa in four games. They hope to avenge their loss last time out, but at the same time be able to provide quality entertainment for the fans of both sides.

Both the Sakers and the Gin Kings are looking at this friendly as a means to prepare for their resepctive local campaigns, the upcoming KBL season and the Governors' Cup, respectively.

LG Electronics Philippines Managing Director Inkwun Heo shares, "In the spirit of celebration of the 70th anniversary of South Korean and Philippine diplomatic relations, we want to treat Filipinos to an experience they’ll never forget."

Much like their first meeting, the exhibition match is a free event, courtesy of LG Philippines. Fans just need to follow the full mechanics on Facebook.

Balanga takes first leg of Chooks 3x3 Magiting Cup

Alvin Pasaol deep in meditative state.

The third tournament of the Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3x3 commenced last Sunday at the SM Clark Events Center, with Wilkins Balanga claiming the first leg in dramatic fashion.

With memories of the Patriot's Cup finale 36 days ago still fresh, the Pure avenged that defeat in similar fashion against Phenom-Basilan-CTC Construction, claiming the 21-20 victory over the Steel.

Knotted at 20-all with 54 seconds left, Troy Rike had a clean hook shot underneath, but the ball only went halfway in before rolling out. With Balanga getting a new lease in life after the miss, Alvin Pasaol would make sure to take full advantage.

The burly forward powered his way to the paint against Franky Johnson, then throws up a wild shot with 40.6 seconds left to snatch the victory.

Pasaol shared afterwards, "Kinabahan ako. Tumigil yung mundo ko nun. Siguro bwenas na lang kami." He adds, "Sobrang saya na nakabawi pero isang tournament lang ito. Yung championship talaga yung goal namin. Sana magtuloy tuloy."

The match reflected the physicality and intensity 3x3 basketball is all about, with Leonard Santillan incurring a cut above his right eyebrow and Davon Potts suffering a busted lip.

About getting the cut, Santillan says, "Gusto ko bumalik. Buti naagapan kagad. Iniisip ko yung last conference kasi wala ako nung Grand Finals nun. Yun yung motivation."

Potts made an impressive debut in 3x3 for Basilan, securing the game clinchers for the Steel against SOGO-Vigan in the quarterfinals, 21-14, and Mindoro-7A in the semifinals, 21-13.

Balanga easily took care of things against Zamboanga-MLV in the quarterfinals, 21-9, before needing a two-pointer from Chris de Chavez to fend off rivals Pasig-Equaliver, 22-19.

The side events saw David Carlos claim the Coca-Cola Slam Dunk contest, while Mindoro's Rodel Vaygan topped the Coca-Cola Two-point shootout. Both guys received PhP 10,000 for their efforts.

The second leg of the Magiting Cup will take place on Friday, September 6, and will act as a prelude to the Chooks-to-Go Manila Challenger, which takes place on September 7-8.

The Scores:

Wilkins Balanga 21 - Pasaol 10, Dehesa 5, Santillan 3, De Chavez 2.

Phenom Basilan 20 - Johnson 9, Potts 6, Rike 4, Dionisio 1.

UAAP tacks on additional sports in collegiate, high school level

UAAP Season 82 President Emmanuel Fernandez

The University Athletics Association of the Philippines (UAAP) is opening the door for more student-athletes to showcase their talents by adding more sporting disciplines to its calendar.

During the press conference of the 82nd season of the league Sunday, season host Ateneo de Manila University announced the addition of new sporting events in both the collegiate and high school divisions.

"Starting this season, 3x3 Basketball will be an official sport. For the high school division, we are adding Boys' and Girls' Lawn Tennis as demo sports and Boys' and Girls' Beach Volleyball as medal events," announced UAAP President Em Fernandez.

For the past two seasons, 3x3 basketball was a demonstration sport. With the active participation of all the member schools, the league has deemed to upgrade it as an official sport, raising the medal events in the collegiate level to 31.

Far Eastern University will serve as the sub-host for this season's 3x3 basketball tournament that is set to take place on March 2020.

On the other hand, lawn tennis and beach volleyball in the high school division will be making its debut.

Beach volleyball, which will be sub-hosted by University of Santo Tomas, will open its curtains on January 2020 while lawn tennis, which will be sub-hosted by National University, is scheduled to take place on February 2020.

UAAP opens Season 82 with promise to go All For More

Hosts Ateneo de Manila providing glamor to the Opening Ceremonies

A higher level of sportsmanship and excellence is what fans can expect from athletes and coaches this year from one of the country’s most prestigious collegiate leagues.

After just 103 days since the closure of Season 81, the University Athletics Association of the Philippines opened Season 82 with an opening ceremony that serves as a send-off for the league’s athletes Sunday afternoon at the SM Mall of Asia Area in Pasay City.

The event, opened by the moving rendition of the Prayer for Generosity and the Philippine National Anthem by the Ateneo College Glee Club and the Ateneo Chamber Singers, featured top local bands such as Sponge Cola, the Itchyworms, Autotelic, December Avenue and IV Of Spades, as well as performances by the Company of Ateneo Dancers and the Blue Babble Battalion.

“We’re always asked, challenged to do the greater thing,” said Ateneo president Fr Jett Villarin, SJ.

Athletes who have played for and will represent the country in different international tournaments were recognized just before the Oath of Sportsmanship, which was read by Ateneo fencing sensation and World Cup bronze medalist Maxine Esteban.

“We as a country, we are hosting the 2019 South East Asian Games so it is another occasion for us to come together as Filipinos and I hope that is something that is also a greater thing to do beyond our teams, beyond our schools,” added Villarin.

Aside from Villarin, the other members of the Board of Trustees who attended the ceremony were De La Salle University’s Br Rey Suplido, University of the East’s Dr Ester Garcia, Far Eastern University’s Dr Michael Alba, National University’s Dr Renato Carlos Ermita Jr, University of Santo Tomas Rector Fr Herminio Dagohoy, University of the Philippines’ Dr Michael Tan and Adamson University’s Fr Marcelo V Manimtim.

The UAAP games are set to tip-off with Men’s and Women’s basketball games on September 4, 2019 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City and the UST’s Quadricentennial Pavillion in Manila.

Chooks 3x3 Magiting Cup set today

Franky Johnson trying to go past Karl Dehesa.

The quest to get the Philippines enough points to make a play for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics ratchets up with the start of the third tournament under the Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3x3 banner with the Magiting Cup, in partnership with Coca-Cola.

President's Cup champions Equaliver-Pasig tweaked its lineup with Leo de Vera and Travis Thompson joining Joshua Munzon and Dylan Ababou, while Patriot's Cup champions Phenom-Basilan-CTC Construction snapping up Aris Dionisio and Davon Potts alongside Franky Johnson and Troy Rike.

Two-time runners-up Wilkins Balanga will ride on the quartet of Alvin Pasaol, Karl Dehesa, Leonard Santillan, and Chris De Chavez.

Comprising the rest of the field for this twelve-team tournament are these returning squads:

Zamboanga Valientes-MLV: Jonathan Parreno, Das Esa, Jon Rebollos, Mark Tano
Uling Roasters-Gulf Supreme Boosters-Bulacan: Clarence Graham, Kobe Caronongan, Louis Montes, and Nelson Mendoza, Jr.
Sogo-Vigan: Christian Singson, Jan Jamon, Paulo Hubalde, Jojo Cunanan
Thunder-Gold's Gym Taguig: Inigo Arellano, Aurelio Opena Norberte, Jr. Mark Anthony Taylor, Geno Anderson
Mindoro Tamaraws-7A: Francis Nathaniel Acedillo, Jay Remon Axalan, Luigi Natada, Rodel Vaygan

Five newcomers get to join the fray in the first leg:

J&J Pateros: Ervin Flores, RJ Deles, Kiddo Cabrera, Rob Ricafort
Bicol Volcanoes: Andro Quinday, EJ Canelas, Mark Atabay, Aldrianne Anglim
Partas-Narvacan: Dan Reducto, Gian Abrigo, AJ Asis, Pari Llagas
Fyr Fyter-Bacolod: Raymund Ilagan, Mark Yee, Mark dela Cruz, Louie Medalla

With twelve teams, pool play begins with these groups:

Pool A: Basilan, Narvacan, Bacolod
Pool B: Pasig, Bulacan, Taguig
Pool C: Balanga, Vigan, Bicol
Pool D: Zamboanga, Mindoro, Pateros

Format is tweaked for the Magiting Cup compared to the previous campaigns, as the top two teams in each group will advance into the crossover quarterfinals.

PhP 100,000 awaits the champions.

Televised coverage will start at noon, but all matches will be streamed online on ESPN5's social media.