NU hopes for golden clincher

c/o UAAP

Games today at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

2 p.m. – UST vs NU (Men's Finals)

4 p.m. – NU vs UST (Women's Finals)

National University seeks to secure an achievement last seen this decade with a double championship Wednesday afternoon at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Bulldogs are looking to match the 2015 achievement of Ateneo de Manila University by securing both collegiate championships.

A couple of phenoms back then pulled off the achievement, with Alyssa Valdez anchoring a 16-0 sweep in the women's division and Marck Espejo finally giving the Blue Eagles their first UAAP men's title.

Fast forward nine years later, and a new set of sensations seek to fulfill that destiny.

Alyssa Solomon led four Lady Bulldogs in double figures with fourteen spikes and three blocks, with Bella Belen potentially making her case as the league's Most Valuable Player with thirteen spikes and eight digs in their 25-23 25-20 25-20 victory last Saturday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

As for the University of Santo Tomas, they remain hopeful for a full deck, pending the availability of Angge Poyos.

The true freshman and likely Rookie of the Year winner stepped on her teammate Em Banagua's foot during the second set with both teams level at 11-11, incurring a right ankle injury that prematurely concluded her participation in Game 1.

Poyos contributed seven points and eight digs at the time, needing assistance to exit the game and was spotted with a walking boot afterwards. It evoked memories of Eya Laure's sprained ankle back in Game 2 against Blue Eagles five years ago.

UST head coach Kungfu Reyes said at the time, "Part yun ng laro na, unfortunately, naka apak ng kasama. Medyo unusual, pero andiyan na, so moving forward, kailangan lang naming may mag step-up."

In case the open spiker misses out on the game, Reyes believes in a collective effort to make up for her absence. "Kung ma-miss out niya yun, sayang yung experience itself. So hopefully, maging motivation yun sa kanila na mag-step up hindi lang isang tao, kundi yung grupo," he adds.

"Yun ang isang bilin namin sa kanila. Hindi namin hinihingi yung output ni Angge sa isang tao. Kailangan talaga nilang mag tulungan. Andiyan pa rin Xzya [Gula], si Reg [Jurado], so depende na lang sa magiging takbo ng ensayo namin," he continued.

With ten points, Jurado was the only Tigress to score in double figures aside from Jonna Perdido, who led the squad with seventeen markers that included the team's lone block point.

Preceeding the women's matchup at 2pm is men's matchup between the same schools.

The Bulldogs are looking to secure their fourth straight title and sixth championship overall, fresh from a 25-17 26-24 25-19 triumph last Saturday afternoon.

Behind a three-man effort of Nico Almendras, Buds Buddin, and Leo Aringo, who combined to score 47 of NU's 76 points in the 78-minute affair.

Kicking things off that day are the league's individual awards that will be handed out at 1pm.

UP starts Filoil Preseason title defense strong

c/o Filoil

The title defense for the University of the Philippines at the Filoil EcoOil 17th ECJ Preseason Cup started off well, as the Fighting Maroons took out the De La Salle Green Archers, 89-77, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

JD Cagulangan led all scorers with nineteen points, while complementing him is Francis Lopez with sixteen markers, while adding three rebounds, four assists, and three steals.

Dikachi Ududo seeks to fill the massive hole left by Malick Diouf, and the foreign student-athlete did his part with six points, ten rebounds, and a couple of rejections.

UP seemed to have all the answers to every counter that the recently-minted PBA D-League Aspirants Cup champions had. The Green Archers managed to cut the deficit to 75-79 with less than six minutes left in the final period, but JD and Francis closed things out by scoring all the points in the final 10-2 burst.

Cagulangan shared afterwards, "Very excited kami na La Salle agad makakatapat kasi para sa'kin, big game para sa'min ito. Buti naman, nag-respond naman nang maayos ang buong team."

Maroons mentor Goldwin Monteverde adds, "Happy in a sense na, alam naman nating first game pa lang ito, pero seeing the players respond, ok na ok sa'kin yun. Ang importante sa'kin is getting the exposure we need for all our players, especially against La Salle pa."

Kevin Quiambao led DLSU with fifteen points and nine rebounds, while Mike Phillips and Henry Agunanne each netted thirteen markers.

Preceeding this much anticipated UAAP finals rematch was San Beda's 76-69 victory over Letran.

The Red Lions bucked the absence of James Payosing and Yukien Andrada with a twenty-point explosion from Josh Tagala, mostly from his six triples.

The bulk of his scoring came in a 19-5 run in the third period, allowing the NCAA champions to retake the lead over their archrivals. He also scored their last five points of the game to seal the victory.

Tagala says about his performance, "Ako kasi, palagi lang akong ready. Ginagawa ko lang trabaho ko sa practice and 'di ako magrereklamo sa playing time. Especially now na undermanned kami, kinailangan mag-step up."

Head coach Yuri Escueta adds, "It's always nice winning against your rivals kasi it gives the community something to cheer for. Very happy for Josh Tagala's game din today, but it wasn't a surprise for me. He's always the first one in the gym, practicing his shooting."

Jimboy Estrada led the Knights with sixteen points, while Kobe Monje added fourteen in Allen Ricardo's tournament debut as their new head coach.

Kickstarting the tournament was Mapua's 75-67 victory over Lyceum, where Chris Hubilla netted a near double-double with seventeen points and nine rebounds. Providing additional support for the Cardinals is MC Cuenco, who also scored seventeen points while adding three rebounds and five assists.

Leading the way for the Pirates in the defeat is JM Bravo with sixteen points, six boards, and four dimes.

Completing the slate is University of Perpetual Help System Dalta's 91-89 double overtime victory over Jose Rizal University, where Chris Pagaran scored 23 points, as well as the University of the East's 65-57 triumph over Adamson, with Precious Momowei carrying the Red Warriors through his sixteen points and fourteen rebounds.

The Filoil EcoOil 17th ECJ Preseason Cup is co-presented by Bostik El Heneral and ABC Tile Adhesive, with SMART Sports, Strong Group Athletics, and Hanes serving as major sponsors. Serving as the official outfitter is Tela.com, with Molten acting as the official game ball. Also named as minor sponsors are Reyes Barbecue, KFC, Brothers Burger, Wallem Philippines Shipping, Harbor Star Shipping Services, and Akari.

Tournament matches will be broadcast on the Filoil EcoOil Sports platforms on Facebook and YouTube, with simultaneous streaming via SMART Sports, Puso Pilipinas, and SMART Livestream.

BOX SCORES

FIRST GAME

MAPUA 75 - Cuenco 17, Hubilla 17, Escamis 8, Jabonete 7, Mangubat 7, Fermin 5, Bancale 5, Abdulla 4, Concepcion 3, Agemenyi 2, Recto 0, Fornis 0

LPU 67 - Bravo 16, Guadana 12, Alattica 10, Barba 6, Penafiel 6, Aviles 6, Villegas 5, Versoza 4, Moralejo 2, Montano 0, Daileg 0, Caduyac 0, Palligayan 0, Fuentes 0

QUARTERS: 15-19, 34-41, 55-47, 75-67

SECOND GAME

PERPETUAL 91 - Pagaran 23, Orgo 16, Boral 16, Pizarro 11, Nunez 7, Gojo Cruz 5, Abis 4, Manuel 4, Thompson 3, Sevilla 2, Gelsano 0, Movida 0, Montemayor 0

JRU 89 - Raymundo 21, Argente 16, Medina 15, Barrera 14, Lozano 8, Panapaanan 5, De Jesus 2, Ramos 2, Sarmiento 2, Guiab 2, Garcia 2, De Leon 0, Pabico 0, Benitez 0, Ferrer 0, Samontanes 0

QUARTERS: 20-22, 40-36, 68-55, 77-77, 85-85 (OT1), 91-89 (OT2)

THIRD GAME

UE 65 - Momowei 16, Maga 13, Spandonis 10, Galang 10, Lingolingo 5, Cruz-Dumont 4, Mulingtapang 4, Abate 3, Robles 0, Go 0, Mahilim 0

ADAMSON 57 - Mantua 10, Manzano 9, Ramos 8, Ignacio 7, Anabo 7, Dignadice 5, Edding 3, Barcelona 3, Ronzone 2, Canete 2, Fransman 1, Torres 0, Barasi 0, Sicat 0

QUARTERS: 18-12, 31-31, 46-42, 65-57

FOURTH GAME

SAN BEDA 76 - Tagala 20, Puno 13, Calimag RC 8, Sajonia 6, Royo 5, Calimag Ri 5, Alloso 5, Celzo 4, Torres 4, Gonzales 3, Peregrina 2, Songcuya 1, Estacio 0

LETRAN 69 - Estrada 16, Monje 14, Manalili 8, Montecillo 8, Javillonar 7, Cuajao 5, Go 5, Galoy 2, Ariar 2, Baliling 2, Pradela 0

QUARTERS: 24-17, 41-39, 61-56, 76-69

FIFTH GAME

UP 89 - Cagulangan 19, Lopez 16, Alarcon 9, Abadiano 8, Belmonte 8, Ududo 6, Alter 6, Torculas 5, Torres 4, Felicilda 4, Fortea 2, Briones 2, Stevens 0

LA SALLE 77 - Quiambao 15, Phillips 13, Agunanne 13, Policarpio 10, Austria 6, David 5, Macalalag 4, Marasigan 4, Abadam 2, Dungo 2, Ogana 2, Cortez 1, Gollena 0

QUARTERS: 31-22, 46-41, 69-66, 89-77

NU claims Game 1 in women's volleyball finals

c/o UAAP

Games Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena

2 p.m. – UST vs NU (Men Finals)

4 p.m. – NU vs UST (Women Finals)

National University is at the cusp of completing its redemption tour on Saturday, securing Game 1 of the UAAP Season 86 Women's Volleyball Finals against the University of Santo Tomas, 25-23 25-20 25-20, Saturday inside a packed SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

Head coach Norman Miguel says about the victory, "Masayang masaya kasi nauna na kami sa Game 1. Nag work yung game plan kahit papaano naapply namin so masayang masaya."

The match took a turn in the second set, when Angge Poyos suffered a right ankle injury stepping on Em Banagua's foot after a block play with the game tied at 11. The true freshman needed assistance as she was helped out off the court and did not return.

With UST needing to adjust without their key spiker, NU rode on Alyssa Solomon, Vange Alinsug, and Bella Belen to eke out the second set victory, capped by a Sheena Toring's slide attack at set point.

The Golden Tigresses made a valiant stand in the third, managing to cut the deficit to 19-21 off back-to-back NU errors, but Toring and Alinsug settled things down to finish off the match after almost a couple of hours.

Belen notes post-match, "Siguro for Game 2 hindi kami dapat makampante, kailangan isipin namin syempre UST yan, palaban yung team na yan kailangan yung mindset namin is tapusin na namin sa Game 2. Kailangan hindi na namin paabutin ng do-or-die pa."

The Season 84 MVP contributed thirteen points and eight digs, with Alyssa Solomon leading the change with fourteen attacks and three blocks. Alinsug added twelve points and six receptions, while Toring notched six spikes, three blocks, and an ace.

Camilla Lamina tossed seventeen excellent to help set the table.

As for UST, only two players managed to score in double figures, with Jonna Perdido tacking seventeen points and nine receptions, while Regina Jurado logged ten markers of her own.

With 20,955 in attendance, it made for a happy weekend, as their male counterparts also pulled off a a straight sets victory earlier in the day against the same school, 25-17 26-24 25-19.

NU will have the chance to clinch the title on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, with UST hoping to force a winner-take-all next week at the same venue. 

SBP forms alliance with Uratex Dream for FIBA Women’s Series debut of Gilas Women

c/o SBP

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas is taking a solid step to boost our chances in qualifying for 3x3 basketball in the Olympics.

The NSA has formalized a partnership with club side Uratex Dream in a move to help improve its FIBA 3x3 ranking.

SBP Executive Director Erika Dy shares, "Federation ranking is almost everything in the 3x3 universe. The more high-level events you join, the more points you earn."

She adds, "This partnership allows us to join up to 10 stops of the Women’s Series which could improve our ranking by more than 10 spots by the end of the season."

Unlike 5x5, 3x3 uses its rankings to help determine not just its Olympic participants, but also its field in its major national team competitions like the World Cup. Asian rival China, for instance, locked in its berth to Paris by November 2023 thanks to its ranking strength in both men and women.

Dy also notes that SBP President Al S. Panlilio has given his blessing towards this route to Los Angeles in 2028. "SBP president Al has always pushed for the growth of 3x3 as he firmly believes the Philippines should be competing at the Olympic level," she says.

Dream owner Peachy Medina is set to provide Gilas Women with financial and personnel resources. 

Anton Altamirano will collaborate with Dream coach Kat Quimpo on finding ways that the Philippines can maximize points on the scheduled Women's Series legs, with the 2024 edition having started already a few weeks ago in Springfield. Anton has experience navigating the FIBA 3x3 experience, having coached at the Challenger and 3x3 World Tour circuit.

He says about this partnership, "We are very thankful to the efforts of SBP headed by our executive director Ms Erika Dy and with the partnership of Uratex Dream; we are joining the Women’s series for the very first time."

Anton also adds, "This is a very good development and it will help us in boosting our federation rankings in our ultimate goal of the 2028 Olympics. Every step is important and this is definitely one of the first steps towards the main goal."

Women's basketball advocate Medina is very much thrilled to have this partnership. "I am very grateful to SBP for making this happen. This is indeed a giant leap for Philippine women’s basketball," she says.

Quimpo, on the other hand, is ecstatic about this development. The former Ateneo mentor says, "SBP's decision to join the FIBA WS is a testament of how invested the federation is in the development of women's basketball in the country and how far we have come to confidently compete against the world's best teams." 

There are eighteen more legs scheduled in the tour, with the next one coming at the end of the month in Marseille.

Set to be the initial pool of candidates for the WS Tour are Gilas Women stalwarts Camille Clarin, Mikka Cacho, and Angel Surada, with 3x3 standouts Hazelle Yam, Allana Lim, and Sam Harada. Completing the group is the top-ranked 3x3 Filipina in Kaye Pingol and Tantoy Ferrer, who is fresh from helping the University of Santo Tomas claim both 3x3 and 5x5 titles in the UAAP.

Femi Edu and Kristian Porter Commit to Ateneo

Femi Edu and Kristian Porter

Ateneo de Manila University has secured the commitments of two promising young prospects: Femi Edu and Kristian Porter. The two 18-year-olds are set to join the Blue Eagles program and will be eligible starting UAAP Season 87.

Femi is the younger brother of Gilas Pilipinas Men pool member AJ, stands at 6-foot-4, and plays guard.

Meanwhile, Kristian is the younger brother of former Blue Eagle Kris and is a 6-foot-5 forward.

For Edu, the decision to choose Ateneo was influenced by the university's esteemed education.

“I've heard many positive things about the school, both academically and otherwise. I simply want to be a part of that,” said Edu, who is planning to enter the school's Computer Science program.

The visit from Blue Eagles head coach Tab Baldwin to the Edu family home last February played a significant role in his decision.

“That was certainly significant because it helped foster a relationship with Tab. My family really appreciated it,” added Edu, who will arrive in the country late June after graduating from Copleston High School in Ipswich. “It played a major role in my decision to choose Ateneo.”

Meanwhile, choosing Ateneo was an obvious choice for Porter, who attended Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu before transferring to Ateneo de Manila High School for senior high.

“Throughout my entire school life, I've been an Atenean. From Ateneo de Cebu to Ateneo de Manila, so you could say I bleed blue. Continuing this tradition into my college years brings me immense joy,” said Porter, who is also part of the Gilas Youth team that placed sixth in the FIBA Under-18 Asian Championship back in 2022.

Porter is excited to reunite with fellow Magis Eagles Jared Bahay, Michael Asoro, and Raffy Celis, as well as to play alongside former Gilas teammates Mason Amos, Kyle Gamber, Kobe Demisana, and Lebron Nieto at Ateneo.

“It warms my heart to see familiar faces from my past. Being able to play alongside them once again, especially on the collegiate stage, is nothing short of amazing. It makes me reminisce about our shared memories and reflect on our journey to where we are now,” expressed Porter, who will enroll in the school's Interdisciplinary Studies program.

“It fills me with overwhelming happiness, and I can't help but wear a smile from ear to ear. I genuinely hope that each and every one of us achieves our dreams and aspirations in the future.”

Baldwin is excited to have both Edu and Porter in his pool as they bring size to the Blue Eagles that lost Kai Ballungay after Season 86.

“Obviously, we are excited. He's a good young player, an excellent athlete with good size. The challenge he probably needs to overcome as quickly as possible is transitioning from the England-style of basketball to ours. As everyone knows, England's a soccer-dominated culture. There's experience and competition he needs to adapt to,” Baldwin remarked about Edu.

“He is an outstanding young man from a good family, and we are excited to have him in our program.”

On the other hand, Baldwin sees Porter as someone who will deliver immediate impact to the Blue Eagles.

Porter is a two-time UAAP High School Boys’ Basketball Mythical Team member. During his senior year, he put up numbers of 18.08 points, 15.46 rebounds, and 2.23 steals per game.

“We're really happy with Kristian being part of the program. He will be an impact player very quickly,” Baldwin said. “We need depth in our frontline, and he provides that. He is going to play significant minutes for us. I love his basketball IQ."

“Our goal with Kristian is to develop his physical attributes as well as his skills. As an undersized big man, we aim to expand his game and transition him towards the perimeter. He has to work really hard to achieve that, but his basketball IQ and skill level will allow him to be an impact player right away.”

UAAP Women's Football Final set, FEU and DLSU seek 12th title

c/o UAAP

Match Friday at Rizal Memorial Football Stadium

5 p.m. - FEU vs DLSU

For the third straight season, Far Eastern University and La Salle are set to tangle for the right to be considered as the best collegiate football program for women's football, as they face off for the UAAP title this Friday afternoon at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.

Kick-off is scheduled at 5pm, with one of these two teams set to claim their twelfth title that evening.

Both teams got a win against each other in the previous two finals appearances, with the Taft-based booters claiming their three-peat in Season 81 with a 2-0 victory pre-pandemic, while the Lady Tamaraws securing theirs with a 2-1 triumph in extra time.

FEU won both elimination round meetings this season, overcoming a personnel disadvantage to win 3-2 back on March 16, and then a 3-1 dress rehearsal last April 27 with both teams having already locked in their finals berths.

With a one-game final, anything can happen, and the defending champions are very aware of the situation.

Sarah Tulabing said after their 7-0 demolition of Ateneo this past Saturday, "Pag dating sa finals wag lang po kami pakampante."

She adds, "Alam po namin na La Salle is malakas talaga na kalaban namin. Ibigay lang po namin yung best po namin sumabay lang sa system ni coach."

A championship tonight would allow FEU to match La Salle's achievement back in 2017 (Season 79) of winning all nine of its scheduled fixtures in a season.

Head Coach Let Dimzon is aware of the magnitude of the event and hopes her wards can handle the moment.

She says, "Rizal Memorial is near La Salle so mas maraming tao. So we need support coming from the FEU community. At the same time, yung preparation namin for the final, kailangan pa rin mataas."

The former student-athlete adds, "Kailangan yung focus namin toward that game, kung ano yung mga wins na nangyari in the first round and second round, kailangan mapataas pa namin yung performance nila individually, especially when they’re in front of the goal."

"Even now, marami pa kaming chances in front. Hindi pa rin namin silang na-convert into scoring, especially coming from Dionesa. I think yun na lang yung kailangan namin tutukan na focusing on some players na maayos nila yung lapses nila sa harapan."

Amidst their two defeats to the defending champions, La Salle is still a force to reckon with, having players with senior national team experience in Anicka Castaneda, Maye Mendano, and Shai del Campo, who is neck-and-neck with fellow recent call-up Dionesa Tolentin in the Golden Boot race.

Tolentin has nine goals so far this season, with del Campo notching eight. Shai's teammate Maria Layacan is not that far behind with six goals so far.

The Lady Booters have been in this situation before and were able to overcome it back in Season 80, with eventual Finals MVP Kyla Inquig scoring both goals in their 2-1 knockout of UST.

The team believes that the key for the match is overcoming the psychological challenge.

Layacan shares, "For me ung eagerness to play with heart yun yung the best na kailangan namin puso namin talaga eh. Kailangan namin gigil: gigil magtulungan sa loob, magsalita sa loob, gigil makascore at gigil ilaro. Hindi lang para sa teammates kung di sa community ng La Salle and sa mga sponsors namin."

Head coach Alvin Ocampo believes that a Season 80 repeat would be a major feather in their cap.

"We played them already in the PFF Women’s League twice. We played them in the first round and second round. It would be the greatest feeling to beat them in the final because hindi pa kami nananalo. It would be nice to break that jinx come Friday."

NUNS claim inaugural UAAP JHS Boys title

c/o UAAP

National University Nazareth School capped off the inaugural edition of the UAAP Season 86 Junior High School Basketball Tournament in style on Saturday afternoon at the Amoranto Arena.

Rob Celiz knocks down a buzzer-beating corner triple to clinch the championship for the Bullpups over Far Eastern University-Diliman, 68-67.

With 1.7 seconds remaining, Mot Matias found Celiz free off an elevator action in the baseline, and the latter got off the attempt over the outstretched arms of Jharred Gutierrez, to the combined delight and agony of everyone in attendance at the packed Quezon City venue.

The second-generation Bulldog shared afterwards, "Sabi ko, babawi talaga ako. Wala akong masabi, babawi talaga ako at buti na lang na-shoot."

Head coach Kevin de Castro says about his ward, "Wala akong masabi sa kanya. Sabi ko sa kanya, bibigay ko yung bola sa kanya. Kahit nagkamali siya nung 26 seconds, sa kanya pa rin yung final play." He adds, "Pagka-shoot, napaluhod nga ako."

Celiz would be named as the Finals MVP for his clutch heroics, as aside from that title-clincher, he took over the final period, scoring eleven of his fourteen points in the final period, while adding six rebounds.

De Castro finally secures an elusive title for the Bullpups, after falling short in the finals in the UAAP High School Basketball Tournaments in the last couple of seasons.

He says about finally getting this moment, "Sobrang saya. Yung game talagang hard-fought. Eto yung dini-dream nila, yung game-winning shots."

NUNS needed a strong final burst to eke out the victory. The Bullpups trailed 59-45 midway into the fourth, with the trio of Shaun Lucido, Matias, and Celiz anchoring the comeback to tie things up at 65 with 64 seconds left.

The Baby Tamaraws believed they had it after JB Carunungan nailing a long fadeaway to retake the lead at 67-65, setting the scene for the dramatic ending.

Named afterwards as the league's Most Valuable Player, Lucido finished with 24 points, four rebounds, and three steals to lead the way for NUNS, while Matias added thirteen points, four rebounds, and four steals.

Shaun, who is from Bicol, says afterwards, "Pagpasok ko pa lang sa NU, nasa isip ko na kailangan ko mapa-champion ang school na ito at makilala ako dito sa Manila. Talagang pinagtrabahuan ko po ito since Day 1."

Travis Pascual led FEU-Diliman with thirteen points, while Pat Pasinos added a near-double-double with eleven points and nine rebounds.

Gutierrez, Mark Dulin, and Cagurungan each added eight points for the Mark Isip-coached side.

Joining Lucido and Matias in the inaugural Mythical Team are Lorenz Cinco of UST, Ken Atienza of La Salle-Zobel, and Alfonso Tan of Ateneo.

Earlier, the third place game saw the University of the East defeat the University of Santo Tomas, 90-81.

The Scores:

Final:

NUNS 68 - Lucido 24, Celiz 14, Matias 13, Vitug 6, Sison 4, Tulabut 4, Mejia 0, Sundiang 0, Tolentino 0, Callueng 0, Quinto 0.

FEU-D 67 - Pascual 13, Pasinos 11, Gutierrez 8, Dulin 8, Cagurungan 8, Dagcutan 6, Carino 6, Chua 3, Lopez 2.

Quarterscores: 22-20, 29-32, 43-51,  68-67

Bronze medal match:

UE 90 - Abellar 20, Aguas 15, Roquid 11, Mesina 11, Dahino 10, Bual 8, Garcia 7, Bungar 4, Oraa 2, Ferreros 2, Cadorna 0, Dalosa 0.

UST 81 - Sy 22, Cinco 14, Cabanero 14, Castro 11, Bohol 8, Knowles 5, Valenzona 4, Guerrero 3, Bathan 0, Siguan 0, Dela Cruz 0, De Castro 0.

Quarterscores: 23-16, 46-33, 70-60, 90-81. 

Inaugural LALIGA Extra Time in the Philippines highlights sports development, LALIGA Youth Tournament

LALIGA Extra Time

As LaLiga continues to make inroads and extend its roots in the Philippines, the top-flight league in Spain arranged to have its LALIGA Extra Time make its inaugural run in the country on Tuesday.

The event aims to gather the movers and shakers in the football scene in order to share knowledge and bring together the community. For this case, the theme is "Football Priorities in the Philippines: Grassroots, Competitions, and Infrastructures."

Panel discussions took place with the participation of representatives from Villarreal CF, the Philippine Football Federation, the Philippines Football League, the Negros Occidental Regional Football Association, Kaya FC, Aboitiz Group, Futbol Funatics, and GOM Academy, among others, with nearly a hundred guests in attendance, including the Spanish Ambassador to the Philippines, Mr. Miguel Utray Delgado.

LALIGA Managing Director for Southeast Asia, Japan, South Korea, and Australia Iván Codina shares, "After 7 years in the country, we are aware that football in the Philippines is at a clear moment of boom where the right momentum can take it to new heights, and LALIGA wants to be part of it. For instance, with such inspiring and ambitious projects as the LALIGA Youth Tournament, which was announced today. Surrounded by some of the most influential players in the sports industry, LALIGA EXTRA TIME has also served to lay some foundations to ensure a prosperous future for football in the country."

One of the highlights that took place in the event was the unveiling of the Philippine leg of the LALIGA Youth Tournament, a competition that LALIGA specifically tailored for the region. Rely San Agustin of the RSA1 Sports Group and Epic Management Inc. president Ed Pasion shared a few details of the competition slated to take place later this year at New Clark City.

Another highlight featured the gains of the Villarreal Philippines Academy, with Villarreal CF international coach Alejandro “Nano” Márquez and VCFP Academy Director Eumir Siao. The academy, which is the first full-time academy of a Spanish side to have taken foothold in the country, recently held a camp at the end of last month at its location in Alabang.

Kicking off activities was a panel looking into the state of grassroots development in the country. GOM Academy founder Darren Hartmann hosted the panel, which featured PFF Grassroots Head Dave Javellana, Futbol Funatics co-founder Candice Grey del Rosario, and Kaya FC President and General Manager Paul Tolentino.

The other panel looked into the need of proper infrastructures for a successful football structure. Hosted by San Agustin, it involved PFF Head of Competitions and PFL Commissioner Coco Torre, Aboitiz Group VP for Lima Operations Clifford Academia, and newly-elected NORFA head Jose Miguel Valmayor. The three shared their experience and wisdom to help build discussion around the present and the future of football.

PUMA forms partnership with Philippine Men’s National Football Team

The Philippine Men's National Football Team during the Philippines versus Iraq game last March 26, 2024 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium

The Philippines Senior Men's National Football Team has an official outfitter.

PUMA made it official that they are ready to support Filipino football from the ground up, with global sports brand in it for the long haul through a four-year partnership.

PUMA Philippines Country Manager Paolo Misa shares, "We at PUMA are thrilled to partner with the Philippine Men's National Football Team. With our history of supplying uniforms for world-class football clubs and national teams, we are excited to add the Philippines to our roster. The talent within the PMNFT is undeniable, and we look forward to supporting them for the next few years."

As a form of support for the PMNFT, PUMA put up a special activation event inside the PFF Fan Zone during the WCQ/ACQ match against Iraq last March 26, Visitors got to try on PUMA cleats and tested their capabilities onto a mini-turf. They also got a special performance from football freestyler Philip Warren Gertsson, who also performed during the halftime break. The PUMA Palermo, which was launched recently, was also in display in the event.

In setting up their partnership, PFF Director of National Teams and PMNFT Manager Freddy Gonzalez says, "We want to not only be the best in our region, we also want to be a force in Asia, and eventually a player on the world stage. It's vital that we have partners that share our long-term vision and our deep passion for football. PUMA is a premier global brand that not only reflects our lofty ambitions, but personifies the culture we are building across our National Teams. To reach our goals, we must embody a tradition of continuous improvement in everything that we do. We need to be Forever Faster."

PFF President John Gutierrez adds, "Representing the country at any level is the highest honor for a player, and the experience of doing so must carry the corresponding prestige. With PUMA, we're grateful to have a World Class partner that shares our vision and our boldness to dream big. To build long-standing structures for football to grow and thrive, we need committed partners who believe in the great potential of the sport in the country. This partnership with PUMA is a key component to the PFF's plans to comprehensively develop the game in the Philippines."

The PMNFT is poised for a fresh start this year as they set their sights on keeping their World Cup dreams alive, and reinventing their identity in a year where they are aiming to win the 2024 ASEAN Championship.

This partnership between PUMA and the PMNFT underscores a new chapter for Filipino football, marking the beginning of an exciting journey towards international recognition and success.

Philippine Air Force stuns Tuloy FC to secure first win

c/o Romeo Martinez

The elusive first victory in their return to top-flight club football finally arrived for Philippine Air Force FC.

Needing four matches, it finally happened on Sunday night, as they emerged as 2-1 winners against Tuloy FC.

Ronald Macasinag opened scoring in the 21st minute for the Airmen, with a composed finish into the bottom right hand corner past Tuloy keeper Archie Pabelliar.

Jed Delariarte doubled the lead for Air Force twenty minutes later, converting one from close range.

The second half saw Tuloy produce plenty of scoring opportunities, but Zaldy Abraham proved ready to prevent those shots from moving past his line. One of those was the UST alumnus parrying a Syrn Saut free kick with twenty minutes remaining in the match.

Tuloy would finally pull one back in the 87th minute thanks to John Lloyd Jalique, but they were unable to find the equalizer in time.

Erwin Oro shared post-match, "Ang pinagpa-praktisan namin, lumabas, nagamit namin ang mga tactics namin." He also praised the leadership of captain Glenn Bulaquina, noting that "Pinatapang niya ang team."

Air Force seeks to capitalize on this momentum in their upcoming matchup this weekend against Maharlika on May 5 before flying out to Iloilo to face Kaya FC on May 8.

UE ends volleyball season with a victory

c/o UAAP

The University of the East ended their season in the UAAP Season 86 Women's Volleyball tournament on a winning note, dispatching the University of the Philippines, 23-25 25-17 27-25 25-22, Saturday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

The Lady Warriors snapped their five-game losing skid to finish their campaign at 3-11, the same record as Adamson University. It was their best post-pandemic season even, and a two-win improvement from this past season.

Interim head coach Dr. Obet Vital shared to the media afterwards, "Given the rookies that we have playing, I felt that we did pretty good. Could have done better but very proud of the accomplishments so far."

UE had to survival a game final effort from their fellow Strong Group-backed squad in the final set, as the Fighting Maroons, led by Irah Jaboneta and Jewel Encarnacion, crawled back from a 14-20 deficit to be at 22-23, but a Casiey Dongallo crosscourt kill, followed by a block point from her teammates allowed them to end the match with a victory after two hours and twelve minutes.

Dongallo finished with 25 spikes, a couple of blocks, and an ace. The freshman added nine digs for good measure to cap her impressive season.

She shared afterwards, "Masaya kasi even though may goal kami na hindi namin nagawa pero nandito pa rin kami nanalo naman kami sa last game namin and naibigay namin yun sa seniors kasi sabi ko sa kanila aalis sila sa UE na iba naman yung history."

Providing backup offensively are Riza Nogales and Kayce Balingit, who contributed seventeen and ten points, respectively.

Kizzie Madriaga lobbed twelve excellent sets, while libero Ange Reyes netted four digs.

Jaboneta and Steph Bustrillo led the way in the defeat with fifteen markers each, while Nina Ytang added thirteen of her own. The Maroons finished the season at 1-13, losing their final seven assignments.

The match proved to be the final collegiate game for Dea Villamor, Dara Nieva, and Jen Zeta of UE and Abi Goc for UP.

Air Force seeks first win in PFL against Tuloy

c/o Matchday Media

With nary a win so far in the Philippines Football League, Air Force seeks to claim it on Sunday night at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium, hopeful that their matchup against Tuloy FC would bear that fruit.

Kick-off has been moved to 9:00 pm as a result of the earlier matches scheduled that day moved later due to the prevailing heat conditions in the country.

Although suffering two tough defeats to Mendiola FC 1991 and One Taguig FC, the Airmen did manage to make things difficult against a fellow league returnee in United City FC.

Jan Delariarte's header from twelve yards out allowed PAF to score their first goal of the campaign, a bright spot in their 4-1 defeat.

Serving as Air Force's foil in this Sunday's quest for an inaugural victory is a Tuloy side that has a built an impressive following with their style of play. Anchoring their offense are the duo of John Jalique and Harry Nunez, with the latter having been called up for national team duty.

Tickets for the match cost just PhP 150, whilst bleacher area seating is free of charge. Matches are streamed online, as well as on Premier Football.

Philippines remains key NBA market

In revealing its social and digital engagement data, the Philippines remains an essential market for the National Basketball Association.

The Asia-Pacific region, according to the league, accounted for a 54% year-over-year increase in NBA League Pass average viewership, yielding its highest-ever mark in the region.

On that specific aspect, Filipinos were second in the region with regards to average viewership and watch hours on LP, behind Australia.

One can potentially credit interest in the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament, which is now called the Emirates NBA Cup. The IST generated 74% higher viewership on LP compared to non-IST games during the duration of the competition, which was won by the Los Angeles Lakers.

To produce localized content, the NBA collaborated with over twenty celebrities and influencers, with a combined 90 million followers on their social media profiles. Among those the league tapped is K-Pop group Le Sserafim.

In the Philippines' case, the league made December its "Republika ng NBA" month, the first-of-its-kind celebration of the NBA fandom in the Philippines. A record 116 million video views were generated from its local-based content, the most for the Asia-Pacific region.

Highlighting its reputation as the social media capital of the world, the Facebook page of NBA Philippines reached six million fans, which is the most compared to its regional counterparts.

In addition, the two NBA Stores in the Philippines, located at SM Megamall and the SM Mall of Asia, remained a place to be for shoppers.

As of February this year,  foot traffic increased by more than 175% year-over-year, with sales in both outlets as well as online, doubled year-over-year.

Busan KCC Egis and Suwon KT Sonicboom earn EASL 2024-25 Season berths

 

L-R: Henry Kerins (CEO, EASL); Heo Hoon (player, Suwon KT Sonicboom); Moon Seong Gon (player, Suwon KT Sonicboom); Song Young Jin (Head Coach, Suwon KT Sonicboom), Chun Chang Jin (Head Coach, Busan KCC Egis), Heo Ung (player, Busan KCC Egis); Song Kyo Chang (player, Busan KCC Egis); Mark Fischer (CCO, EASL)

With the conclusion of the Korean Basketball League semifinals, we now know the first two teams comprising the East Asia Super League for the upcoming 2024-25 season.

Busan KCC Egis was the first team in after dispatching Wonju DB Promy in four games, 3-1. The other team is Suwon KT Sonicboom, who outlasted Changwon LG Sakers, 3-2.

The winner of their best-of-seven matchup, scheduled to take place on April 27 until May 9, will be placed into Group B for the upcoming EASL season. The other side is allocated into Group A.

Both EASL Chief Executive Officer Henry Kerins and Chief Commercial Officer Mark Fischer graced the KBL Finals Media Day in Seoul on Thursday to congratulate both teams for earning their qualification.

Kerins says, "The strength of the Korean Basketball League was shown when two Korean teams made it to the EASL Final Four 2024 in March. We have no doubt that Busan KCC Egis and Suwon KT Sonicboom will once again show that KBL teams are elite clubs in the Asia region, will compete for the championship in the EASL 2024-25 Season."

With two teams down, six spots remain to complete the 2024-25 field: with a couple each from the other three leagues: the B.LEAGUE in Japan, the P.LEAGUE= in Chinese-Taipei, and the Philippine Basketball Association in the Philippines.

The identities of these teams will be revealed in the next few months.

NU sneaks way into Game 1 baseball win

c/o UAAP

Game on Sunday at the UP Baseball Field

4 p.m. - DLSU vs NU (Finals Game 2) (NU leads series 1-0)

Nigel Paule guided National University to a come-from-behind 8-4 victory against back-to-back defending title-holders De La Salle University in Game 1 of the UAAP Season 86 Baseball Finals on Thursday at the UP Baseball Field.

The Bulldogs, who last lifted the trophy in Season 74 (2011-12), will aim to clinch the title against the Green Batters on Sunday at 4 p.m. in Game 2 of the Finals at the same Diliman venue.

With a precarious 5-4 lead they secured in the eighth inning, the left fielder delivered his second hit of the game, a left-liner that brought in Herald Tenorio and John Kiel Olazo to extend the lead.

An additional run was scored after a subsequent attempt on the final out by Gio Gorpido misfired from substitute pitcher Lord Aragorn De Vera, giving the Bulldogs a significant four-run cushion at 8-4, which they held on to for the win.

"Inisip ko lang na kailangan ko ibigay 'yung best ko today kasi kailangan naming manalo ng Game 1," said Paule, the homegrown outfielder from National University Nazareth School, reflecting on his mindset for the day.

The back-to-back champions from Taft seized an early 4-0 lead in the first two innings of the game, with De Vera, JR Samuel, and Pio Villamiel providing the offensive spark for the squad.

De Vera, the second-year infielder from Faith Catholic School, crossed the plate twice off single-base hits from Samuel in the first and Villamiel in the second, with the bottom of the order for the Green Batters, Ezy Bautista, and JM Segui, adding two more in the second.

That was all De La Salle could manage, as NU broke through in the third to fifth innings before completing the comeback in the seventh inning.

"Yung kalaban namin is championship caliber talaga, so lagi naming sinasabi sa training at sa mga conferences namin na kailangan naming sabayan 'yung kalaban. Kailangan lang huwag kaming bibigay pero ibibigay namin dapat lahat sa loob ng field," said first-year Bulldogs head coach Romar Landicho, who replaced Egay delos Reyes during the off-season, on the squad's mindset as the game progressed.

Two runs from Kenneth Maulit and Olazo in the said frame set up the comeback for the Bustillos-based side and forced Green Batters starter and reigning Finals MVP to retire to the dugout after the inning.

The pitching change in the following inning backfired on the holders, as Peter Nonaillada allowed three straight hits from Calanday and the Maulit brothers, Kevin and Kenneth, to load the bases for the Bulldogs.

Four balls from De Vera, who took over the mound from Nonaillada, sent Tenorio to first and advanced Cyril Antipolo, who ran for Calanday, home, setting up Paule's decisive hit and the eventual win.

Amiel De Guzman, on the other hand, was superb in the last seven innings of the game after a shaky start, allowing just three hits in that period and shutting down the De La Salle bats.

With a significant opportunity to end the series and the 12-year wait for NU, Landicho knew that they must prepare to give their all on Sunday.

"Yung mentality namin dapat gutom kami sa championship. Na-adapt naman na 'yun ng players at 'yun naman 'yung pinapakita ng players," the freshly tenured mentor Landicho ended.

The Lines:

TEAM 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E

NU      0 0 0 0 0 0 2 6 0 - 8 14 3

DLSU 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -  4 9 3

Cignal TV, POC set for Paris 2024 partnership

c/o Cignal

With the countdown to the 2024 Paris Olympics reaching 100 days, the Philippine Olympic Committee and Cignal TV are set to join forces in launching Isang Daang Taon Laban Para sa Bayan: Celebrating 100 Years of Filipino Excellence in the Olympics.

This campaign kicks off the country's quest towards the quadrennial event, as it seeks to build on the successes in Tokyo, where we finally snagged our first gold medal thanks to Hidilyn Diaz. It also celebrates the centennial of the Philippines' participation in the Summer Games. Sprinter David Nepomuceno is the first Filipino Olympian, as he participated in the 100m and 200m events of the eighth edition of the Games.

Cignal TV and MediaQuest President & CEO Jane J. Basas shares, "Cignal TV has always believed in the skills and talent of the Filipino athlete and this partnership only reiterates our commitment to them. We want them to know that we’re with them every step of the way."

On the POC's part, President Abraham ‘Bambol’ Tolentino adds, "We’re honored to have Cignal TV be our gracious partner for the Paris-bound athletes and this early, we have high hopes of another memorable showing in the Olympics."

A growing crop of Pinoys seek to replicate Diaz's achievements a few years ago, led by gymnast Carlos Yulo, vaulter EJ Obiena, boxers Eumir Marcial and Nesthy Petecio, as well as Vanessa Sarno.

Cignal TV will use its full arsenal at its disposal in documenting Team Pilipinas' buildup and preparations, including their moments at the country's chosen French headquarters in Metz. Content will then be shown on the varying MediaQuest platforms, whether through mainstream platforms or through digital and social media.

Villarreal Philippines set to host Open Clinic

Villarreal Philippines

With the increased interest in playing football sprouting in this Philippines, a LaLiga club has expressed interest in taking root.

Villarreal CF, through the Villarreal Academy international expansion project, established its first-ever official partner academy in the Philippines, going by the name Villarreal Philippines Academy.

At the end of the month, the VPA will hold its inaugural event, the Villarreal Philippines Open Clinic 2024, opening its doors to all local players. It will take place at the Alabang Country Club on April 27 and 28, as well as May 1.

To help with the event, Villarreal CF coach Alejandro “Nano” Márquez will be coming over from Spain to assist the academy in player selection for the VPA teams. Armed with a UEFA license, Márquez will help determine who will comprise teams that would have the chance to participate in international events and tournaments.

Villarreal Philippines Academy director, Mr. Eumir Siao, encourages young players in the Philippines to come along for this unique event: “This April, we invite everyone to take part in the first-ever open clinic with Villarreal CF in the Philippines. This is a breakthrough in bringing proven international methodologies in professional football to our Filipino football landscape. We are working together to improve the level of football in the Philippines through the clinics and workshops that we aim to provide. We believe that through the development of the grassroots level with proper methodology and international exposure, we are creating a pathway for the kids to reach their potential of having football as a profession.”

To register for the Open Clinic or for more information on Villarreal Philippines Academy visit: www.villarrealphilippines.com.

UP set for title defense at 2024 Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup

La Salle's Kevin Quiambao, UP's Francis Lopez, San Beda's James Payosing (Photos courtesy of UAAP Media Bureau/NCAA Philippines/GMA Sports)

The 17th edition of the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup is set to commence in less than a month.

All eight schools from the UAAP and all ten schools from the NCAA will participate in the 2024 edition, which will start on May 11, as each side is set to undertake their own respective preparations for their upcoming league campaigns.

Considered as among the favorites are defending champions the University of the Philippines, with JD Cagulangan and Francis Lopez set to anchor a successful title defense under Goldwin Monteverde.

Serving as the likely main foils are the respective league champions in La Salle and San Beda.

The Green Archers conquered the Fighting Maroons in the UAAP finals, with Topex Robinson still armed with a ferocious frontcourt of league MVP Kevin Quiambao, Mike Phillips, and Jonnel Policarpio.

As for the Red Lions, Yuri Escueta will still have Finals MVP James Payosing, while also integrating a bunch of transfers that will be eligible for the historic centennial season of the NCAA, led by Bryan Sajonia, formerly of Far Eastern University.

All eight UAAP teams will comprise one group, while all ten NCAA teams will comprise the other group. Teams within each group will go through a single round robin, with the top four teams advancing into the crossover playoffs.

Overseeing the tournament are its regulars: Commissioners Joe Lipa and Bert dela Rosa, tournament director Bennett Palad, media head and consultant Virgil Villavicencio, and marketing and finance head Diana Layug.

In addition, the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup will also hold the Hanes 1-on-1 King of the Hardcourt tournament.

La Salle stuns champs in UAAP Men's Volleyball

c/o UAAP

Men

*FEU 10 1

*NU 9 3

DLSU 8 3

UST 7 5

Ateneo 6 6

AdU 4 7

UE 1 10

UP 1 11

*Final Four

Games Wednesday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

10 a.m. – DLSU vs AdU (Men)

12 noon – UE vs FEU (Men)

2 p.m. – DLSU vs AdU (Women)

4 p.m. – UE vs FEU (Women)

De La Salle University showcased immense poise in a four-set thriller to pull off a shocker, upsetting three-time defending champion National University, 25-19, 25-18, 31-33, 27-25, in the UAAP Season 86 Men’s Volleyball Tournament Final Four race on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Green Spikers remain in third place with an 8-3 mark as a result of their third straight win, good enough for at least a playoff for a Final Four berth. Their record is a half a game off the Bulldogs, who dropped to 9-3 with the defeat.

It came to grit and heart down the stretch as Nico Almendras tried to lift NU at 25-all in the fourth but Noel Kampton went through the block before Nathaniel Del Pilar’s smart move to send back a floating ball for the De La Salle win in two hours and 17 minutes.

The Bulldogs tried to negate that final play with a foot fault challenge at the centerline but after review, it was deemed that Vince Maglinao nor Del Pilar crossed the line.

“Gusto na namin talaga. Sabi ko nga sa kanila para hindi tayo magdoubt, ilabas niyo lahat yung gusto niyong ilaro,” said Green Spikers head coach Jose Roque.

It was as tight as ever in the fourth as NU managed to deny De La Salle the win at 28-27, calling for a block touch challenge on Almendras’ crosscourt hit that went long, which was reviewed to have a touch to stay alive.

Off-the-bench Jan Abanilla drilled a down-the-line kill before JM Ronquillo’s attack went out, allowing the Bulldogs to extend the match, 33-31.

“Yung third set is really not for us. Maraming errors and hindi siya para sa amin pero nilaban namin. Nung fourth set, same naghabol ulit kami and thank God na nakuha namin,” said Maglinao, who had 22 points and eight receptions.

Ronquillo also came up big with 19 points as well as Kampton, who posted 18 points, 22 receptions, and seven digs.

Del Pilar also breached double figures with 12 points.

La Salle hopes to match NU’s record with a victory on Wednesday against Adamson at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

Almendras’ mammoth game of 22 points, 39-of-51 excellent receptions, and 12 digs went for naught.

The Bulldogs also drew 16 points from Michaelo Buddin in just three sets of play.

They will look to rebound on Saturday against Adamson as well, also at the Big Dome.

UST pounds Ateneo in women's football

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 86 Women’s Football Tournament Standings

FEU 15 points (+15)

DLSU 12 points (+14)

UP 7 points (-1)

Ateneo 4 points (-20)

UST 3 points (-8)

Men's Matches today at the UP Diliman Football Stadium

4 p.m. - UP vs UE

6:30 p.m. - UST vs FEU

UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas got its breakthrough win in the UAAP Season 86 Women’s Football Tournament by blanking Ateneo de Manila University 3-0 Saturday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.

Goalkeeper Lizlie Garcia led the way to secure a clean sheet, while Rica Gerona, Biancy Sy, and Gly Añonuevo provided the goals to snap their five-game losing streak this year, while also avenging its 2-0 loss to Ateneo in the first round last March 23.

Garcia performed a routine stop against Ateneo’s Angely Alferez’s penalty kick to set the tone for the Lady Booters in the first half, with the game still scoreless after teammate Jearfelyn Grace Ramos failed to open the scoring for UST by missing her penalty.

Come the second half, Gerona started UST’s goal rush in the 51st minute while Sy converted a penalty in the 68th minute and Añonuevo wrapped up the three points in the 79th minute.

The win ensured that all teams this season have earned at least one victory. The Lady Booters, though, remained bottom of the standings with three points and a minus-8 goal difference after this match.

“Nakaka-miss manalo,” said coach Aging Rubio. “Regardless sa performance namin in the previous games, at least ngayon may result na nakikita. Masaya kami na nanalo and we will continue to work hard para sa upcoming games namin para somehow kaya pa rin namin ipanalo.”

On the other hand, the Blue Eagles are still in fourth place with four points and a minus-20 goal difference. This result meant that Ateneo was officially out of the running for a ticket to the final.

Both teams will return to action this Saturday at the same venue.

Ateneo will face archrival De La Salle University at 4 p.m. while UST will go up against defending champion Far Eastern University at 6:30 p.m.

Adamson keeps postseason hopes alive

c/o UAAP

Adamson University revived its flickering Final Four hopes by surviving the University of the Philippines in a thrilling match, with scores of 25-17, 23-25, 20-25, 25-23, 15-13 in the UAAP Season 86 Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila on Saturday.

All it took was a cool and calm timeout by head coach JP Yude late in the fourth set, and a lot of grit and fight in the decider for the Lady Falcons to reach for the skies again after a nightmare six-game slump, improving their record to 3-8 at solo sixth.

However, a Far Eastern University win in its last four games will complete the Final Four cast.

“Sabi ko sa mga bata kailangan trabahuhin talaga always, na huwag tumigil every time kasi wala namang imposible kung gugustuhin talaga nila, yung willingness talaga na manalo,” said Yude.

The Fighting Maroons threatened to send Adamson into a seventh-straight loss with a 22-20 lead in the fourth then came the timeout that lit a fire in the Lady Falcons.

Barbie Jamili, May Ann Nuique, and Ayesha Juegos worked double time to overturn that deficit into a 25-23 fourth-set escape.

Then in the fifth, it was the closest of battles as Jewel Encarnacion, Joan Monares, and Niña Ytang answered every Adamson point to force a 13-all tie.

In the ensuing play though, Abi Goc committed a costly service error that the Lady Falcons capitalized on as Jen Villegas blocked Irah Jaboneta in the following play for the Adamson win in two hours and 33 minutes.

Jamili led the Lady Falcons with an all-around showing of 16 points, 14 excellent receptions, and 11 digs, while Nuique backed her up with 15 points.

Villegas and Red Bascon chipped in 12 and 10 points as well as they enjoyed 35 free points from UP.

“Sobrang saya lang kasi sunod sunod po yung talo, masakit para sa amin. Itong panalong ito emotional lang kami lalo na yung mga senior,“ said an emotional Karen Verdeflor, who had a defensive masterclass of 25 digs and 15 receptions.

Adamson’s next game will be on Wednesday against defending champion De La Salle University at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

Ytang led all scorers with 17 points as the Fighting Maroons sagged to their fifth straight loss, sinking to 1-11.

Monares and off-the-bench Jewel Encarnacion each delivered 16 points while Steph Bustrillo poured 10 points across three sets.

UP will be back next Saturday against FEU at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

FEU, UST revisit rivalry

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 86 Collegiate Volleyball Standings

Women

*UST 10 1

*DLSU 9 1

*NU 9 2

FEU 6 4

Ateneo 3 8

UE 2 8

AdU 2 8

UP 1 10

Men

*FEU 9 1

*NU 9 2

DLSU 7 3

UST 7 4

Ateneo 5 6

AdU 4 6

UE 1 9

UP 0 11

*Final Four

Games today at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium

10 a.m. – AdU vs UP (Men)

12 noon – FEU vs UST (Men)

2 p.m. – AdU vs UP (Women)

4 p.m. – FEU vs UST (Women)

Far Eastern University is eager to secure a spot in the Final Four of the UAAP Season 86 Women's Volleyball Tournament as it aims for a major upset against league-leading University of Santo Tomas today (Saturday) at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.

With a 6-4 record, the Lady Tamaraws can end three seasons of no semifinals action with a win against the Golden Tigresses, whom they pushed to a five-set marathon in the first round before ultimately succumbing.

UST (10-1), De La Salle University (9-1), and National University (9-2) have already secured their tickets to the postseason.

Their 22-25, 21-25, 25-23, 25-20, 15-7 stinging loss to the Golden Tigresses would be their main motivation coming into their 4 p.m. clash, according to Lady Tams head coach Manolo Refugia.

"Siguro mas gutom kaming bawian talaga si UST kasi 'yung naramdaman ng mga players noong natalo talaga kami, syempre, masyadong heartbreaking 'yun kasi up by two kami," said Refugia.

UST is hopeful that Angge Poyos is ready to play today, after sitting out their victory against the University of the Philippines this past Wednesday due to dehydration.

Stepping in the freshman's place are the duo of Jonna Perdido and Regina Jurado, who produced 24 points each against the Fighting Maroons.

"Yung old rivalry ng FEU at UST hindi pa rin nawawala yan kaya definitely magiging neck-to-neck at nail-biting 'yung bakbakan nito especially may gusto rin silang patunayan kasi nandoon sila sa top four," said long-time UST coach Kungfu Reyes.

In the other women's volleyball matchup, Adamson University and UP aim to halt their respective skids in the 2 p.m. collision.

The Lady Falcons (2-8) have dropped their past six games to be at the brink of postseason elimination, while the Fighting Maroons (1-10) have suffered defeats in their previous four games.

Adamson got the better of UP in their first-round face-off, 25-22, 25-22, 28-26.

In the men's division, the Tamaraws seek to strengthen their position at the top of the table at 12 p.m. against the Golden Spikers, who are looking to secure at least a playoff for a Final Four spot.

Kicking things off at 10 a.m. will be the Soaring Falcons trying to breathe life into their dwindling playoff chances against the winless Fighting Maroons.

Air Force seeks PFL redemption against One Taguig

c/o Pat Reyes

Air Force seeks to bounce back when it takes on One Taguig FC when the Philippines Football League resumes action this weekend.

The Airmen take on OTFC to kick off Saturday action at 3pm, fresh from a 7-0 battering by Mendiola, whilst Taguig is coming off a 4-1 victory over newcomers Manila Montet FC on Sunday night.

Even with the lopsided defeat, the squad remains in good spirits. They managed to have chances to break through against Mendiola, although they were unable to convert.

Stephen Obero and Karl Bronda both threatened the Mendiola goal in the first half. A few minutes before half time, Jed Delariarte nearly scored off a free kick only to see the ball hit the crossbar.

In the second half, Jan Estampador sent a shot inches over the bar, and Jan Delariarte, Jed’s brother, also had shots on goal as did substitute Jomar Lestingio, who forced a save from the Mendiola goalkeeper.

The outcome could have been worse, but keeper Zaldy Abraham managed a few class saves, including a leaping parry to deny Mendiola striker Seyedsajad Mohebizadeh.

Erwin Oro, who shares coaching responsibilities with Joebel Bermejo, shares, "Mataas pa rin ang morale ng mga bata. We are working hard sa training to make adjustments sa next game against Taguig."

Air Force will be tangling against a One Taguig side that is newcomer "in name" only. A lineup that features a few familiar names in Kevin Ingreso, Stephan Schroeck, Arnel Amita, Jordan Jarvis, Yrick Gallantes, and Quincy Kammeraad, among others, they defeated their fellow newcomers on Sunday night, although it took them a while to break through.

The match is set for streaming both on the league website, as well as through its Youtube channel. Tickets available via TicketMax or at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium, with the Grandstand costing PhP 150.

You can check out more updates from the team through its Facebook page.

PUMA reveals SCOOT ZEROS x CHEETOS® Collection via Foot Locker Philippines

Scoot Zeros x Cheetos

Recently, PUMA held an exclusive launch of the SCOOT ZEROS x CHEETOS® SS2024 collection at the Greenhills Mall branch of Foot Locker in San Juan, revealing the collaboration between PUMA and Scoot Henderson of the Portland Trailblazers.

In partnership with Foot Locker Philippines, PUMA put forth a special in-store experience for attendees at the event, with the presence of fun booths to try things. This partnership highlights both parties commitment to each other in being able to deliver top-tier products and experiences to Filipino sportswear enthusiasts.

Hosted by Migs Bustos and with DJ Rammy Bitong handling the 1's and 2's, people got a chance to take a photo beside the Giant Cheetos Bag, as well as exchanged pics for prizes at the Snap & Win station.

Those who think they got the skills can shoot hoops at the Shoot Like Scoot booth, as well as check out the Basketball Arcade. And for those who purchased PUMA items during the day can play Jenga Agenda, but those who purchased items from the SCOOT ZEROS x CHEETOS® collection can step inside the Get Those Cheetos Wind Machine booth, in which they can get a chance to grab free items.

The Scoot Zeros features a synthetic, mesh, and textile upper, PROFOAM EVA midsole for instant cushioning, Formstrip lockdown support, and full-coverage rubber outsole with an anti-slip traction pattern. As for the design, it is inspired by their partnership with CHEETOS®, and of course, the addition of Scoot's personal logo.

Fans can still purchase the PUMA SCOOT ZEROS x CHEETOS at either select PUMA stores nationwide, or online for just PhP 5,900.

“Game On!” podcast airs beginning April 12

Ang dating palabas sa telebisyon, ngayon nasa podcast na.

GMA Integrated News, in collaboration with GMA Regional TV and Synergy, is putting forth its inaugural sports podcast, "Game On!." 

Hosted by the trio of Martin Javier, Anton Roxas, and Martin Antonio, Game On! will be chock full of stories, interviews, and special features on a variety of athletes, coaches, and sports luminaries.

The first episode is set to be released on April 12, with new episodes to be released every Friday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and other social media platforms.

With this announcement, Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy Oliver Victor B. Amoroso says, "We are very much thrilled to be launching the newest player in the podcast community and GMA Network’s first-ever sports podcast, “Game On!” As we keep with the technological trend, we are exploring to present sports in a more exciting and entertaining way."

He adds. "We invite all sports enthusiasts to join the country’s most trusted sports personalities Martin, Anton, and Hammer in promoting Philippine sports and the Filipino athletes. They will surely make sports a lot more fun and interesting as they discuss the latest sports trends and leagues, and interview athletes, coaches, and more."

It's a new element on Javier's plate, which already includes a segment within GMA's flagship news broadcast, 24 Oras, via "Game Changer." Martin shares about Game On!, "Sports talk like you’ve never had it before. “Game On!” podcast will bring fun and meaty conversations with your favorite personalities in sports."

For Roxas, this is an opportunity where he can chime and discuss the latest trends in sports, having spent countless years as a sports commentator. He says, "With this new platform, we hope to entertain, inform and bring people closer to their favorite sports personalities in a way that’s uniquely ours."

With his experience on the court, the man dubbed as "Coach Hammer" will be able to share his sports knowledge and background. The former Red Lion shares, "Game On” podcast will be a deeper and more fun discussion of things in and around sports."

The "Game On!" podcast is one of the newest initiatives coming out of the GMA Integrated News Digital Strategy and Innovation Lab (DigiLab).

UP snaps Adamson winning streak in softball finals opener

c/o UAAP

Game on Saturday at the UP Baseball Field

4 p.m. - UP vs Adamson (Finals Game 2, UP leads series 1-0)

Game 1 of the UAAP Season 86 Softball Finals provided some drama at the UP Baseball Field, as the University of the Philippines outlasted Adamson in eight innings, 3-2.

With the extra innings rule in place putting a runner on second base, Danica Aquino fires an RBI double  off April Minanga to send Generose Torremocha home to break a 1-1 tie.

After a fielder's choice that moved her to third, Joyce Rasco would contribute an RBI single allowing Aquino to score the third run of the match.

Armed with a two-run lead, the Fighting Maroons rode on the arm of its ace, KC Valino to finish things off at the bottom of the eighth inning.

Adamson managed to pull a run back after a two-out RBI double from MJ Maguad, but Valino forces a Roma Jane Cruz pop fly to Francisco to end the game and snap their winning streak at fifteen matches dating back to last season.

The San Miguel National High School product completed the game with just four hits and issuing six strikeouts. She shared, post-game, "Nag-flash sa 'kin mukha ng papa ko nung may naka-hit nung dulo. Parang ang sabi niya, 'Ayusin mo bato mo.' So, inisip ko kailangan kong i-sakto bato ko kundi magagalit siya."

Valino adds about what they need to clinch the title, "Last na eh, kailangang ibuhos namin to lahat sa Sabado."

UP gave up the opening run of the game on a couple of miscues, with Aquino mishandling the ball that allowed Remelie Herrero to be safe at second, and followed that with an errant throw from Valino allowing Herrero to touch home from second base.

The Maroons could have had a chance to equalize in the sixth inning, but Angel Pascual was called out on third after the Lady Falcons secured the out on a relay throw.

However, they finally got an equalizer in the final inning in regulation, as Martine Francisco's RBI single scored Algrace Adajar from second.

Adamson could have clinched the game at the bottom of the seventh, with a sacrifice bunt and a sacrifice fly able to move a runner onto third base, but Valino forces a flyout from pinchhitter Feelyn Pajotal to send things into extras.

UP head coach Ron Pagkaliwagan says about they ground this out, "Ang sinabi ko lang sa players ko is, 'Don't dwell on the call. Judgment call 'yun.' Ni-remind ko lang sila na last innings, hangga't sa last out, walang bibitaw kasi ito 'yung pinaghirapan namin buong year."

Game 2 of the Finals is slated on Saturday afternoon at 4pm, with the match streamed through Pilipinas Live.

The Maroons will have a chance to win their first softball title since Season 70, and fifth overall.

The Lines:

TEAM 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8  R H E

UP       0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2   3 8 2

AdU    0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1   2 5 1

UST solidifies postseason case in men's volleyball

c/o UAAP

The University of Santo Tomas bolstered their quest to secure a top-four spot in the UAAP Season 86 Men's Volleyball Tournament Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, dispatching the University of the Philippines, 25-13 25-22 25-21.

Josh Ybañez led the charge yet again in the straight sets victory, contributing 21 spikes, a couple of aces, while also tacking on five digs and ten receptions.

Gboy de Vega added thirteen points and eleven receptions, most of them coming in the second set.

Assistant coach Ben Mape shares, post-match, "Yung nangyayari sa team namin medyo nakukuha na namin yung rhythm kasi yun yung naging problema namin nung first round. This time, napag-aralan na namin yun during the break so na-focus namin yung communication with each other."

Lasting just 81 minutes, their third consecutive victory puts UST at 7-4, temporarily 1.5 games ahead of Ateneo, with the Blue Eagles currently in match against National University.

Looming ahead this coming Saturday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium is a matchup against league-leading Far Eastern University.

Mape says about this matchup, "Hindi namin ini-aim na bumawi. Ang ini-aim namin ay iperform ng mga bata yung best performance na meron sila kasi kailangan mapapunta kami sa position na makakapunta kami sa semis." The Golden Spikers lost their first round meeting against the Tamaraws in five sets.

As for the Fighting Maroons, they absorbed their 15th consecutive loss dating back to last season, dropping to 0-11 in this tournament.

Angelo Lagando paced the Diliman-based side with twelve points, while Jaivee Malabanan had ten points, nine receptions, and four digs.

Already eliminated from contention, UP will attempt to secure their first win on Saturday against Adamson University, who currently stands at 4-6.

UAAP Softball Finals set

c/o UAAP

Game today at the UP Baseball Field

4 p.m. - Adamson vs UP (Finals Game 1)

Adamson University begins its quest for another title defense this Wednesday afternoon, as Game 1 of the UAAP Season 86 Softball finals takes place at the UP Baseball Field.

The Lady Falcons completed a sweep of the double round-robin eliminations, extending their winning streak to fifteen matches, dating back from last year.

Seasoned mentor Ana Santiago says, "... Basta kami, lalaban kami ng honest na laro at pinakita namin 'yung kanina. We'll prepare for the Finals and lalaban lang kami."

The defending champions have Finals MVP Glory Alonzo and rising pitcher April Minanga as options on the mound, while providing the bats are Angelu Gabriel and Khrisha Cantor.

Serving as the foil is sub-hosts the University of the Philippines, who needed a walkoff 3-2 victory in the playoff against the University of Santo Tomas. The Fighting Maroons are back in the finals again after falling short last season, hoping things will be different this time.

Mentor Ron Pagkaliwagan shares, "This is the break we have been waiting for. This is what we have worked for the whole year; this is the fruit of our hard labor. We'll get ready and let's see sa Finals."

UP will rely on last season's MVP Nickole dela Cruz and Danica Aquino to jumpstart their offense with KC Valino to backstop their pitching.

The finals will be streamed LIVE on Pilipinas LIVE.