PBA Kicks Off Historic Golden Season With Solid Opening Weekend

Over the last five decades, the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has evolved into something far greater than just a basketball league. For generations of fans, the PBA has become a tradition, a part of everyday life. For aspiring players, it has become a dream to chase the pinnacle of basketball in the country. And for the Philippines itself, it stands as an institution, a formative and enduring part of the nation’s culture and passion for the game.

The PBA has created stars and legends, produced unforgettable moments, and built communities that transcend the court. And as it continues to thrive, the league marked a new milestone in its storied journey. Last October 4 and 5, the Philippines’ premier basketball league welcomed its historic 50th season in style, a golden celebration honoring its fans, its heroes, and its legacy.

A Thank You to the Fans

The PBA would not be where it is today without its legions of fans. Whether they’re Dugong San Miguel, a member of the Barangay, or part of the Tropa, the fans are part of the PBA family, and they’re the ones who keep the league going strong. That’s why Saturday’s Fans Day festivities were a way for the league to show its unending gratitude.

Held at the historic Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, fans were treated to a Meet and Greet with some of the PBA’s brightest stars, as well as a surprise performance from the PBA All-Star Band featuring PBA stars June Mar Fajardo, Japeth Aguilar, Raymond Almazan, Ricci Rivero, and Keith Datu. The day culminated in a thrilling fireworks display that lit up the Quezon City sky.

Celebrating 50 Years of Pinoy Hoops Legacy

Saturday night was a celebration of the PBA’s stars and legends, as the league’s 50 Greatest Players and Hall of Fame inductees were honored at the PBA Fellowship Night, which took place at the Meralco Theater in Ortigas.

Among the greats who graced the event were the likes of Romeo Frank, Danny Basilan, Felix Flores, Angelito “Amang” Ladores, Jimmy Manansala, Woodrow Balani, Manny Victorino, Rudolph Klutch, Danny Florencio, Marlou Aquino, Bong Hawkins, Hector Calma, Jojo Lastimosa, Gerry Esplana, and Elmer Cabahug.

Undeniable icons like Atoy Co, Benjie Paras, and Alvin Patrimonio were also some of the night’s most notable attendees.

Aside from honoring the PBA’s hardcourt heroes, the PBA Fellowship Night was also a way to recognize and give thanks to the PBA’s often unheralded stars, including former production staff, media members, and referees.

Performances by Gary Valenciano, Martin Nievera, Bituin Escalante, and Mitoy Yonting with The Draybers made a memorable night even more special, as the event played out like a heartwarming reunion for the PBA family.

Honoring Excellence

On Sunday, the best players of the previous season got their turn in the limelight, as the annual Leo Awards honored those whose performances stood out during the PBA’s 49th Campaign.

June Mar Fajardo, who’s already considered one of the best to ever play in the league, continued to make history as he claimed his record-setting ninth PBA Most Valuable Player award. This honor placed him in a different stratosphere as the only player to win the prestigious award more than four times in his career.

While Fajardo continues to add to his legacy, freshman RJ Abarrientos is just starting to build his. The Barangay Ginebra San Miguel ace captured the first of what should be many individual accolades after being named PBA Season 49’s Rookie of the Year.

The five best players from last season were named to the PBA First Mythical Team. The marquee name, of course, was Fajardo, who was joined by Robert Bolick, CJ Perez, Arvin Tolentino, and Calvin Oftana.

Fajardo was also named to the league’s All-Defensive Team, along with Glenn Khobuntin, Zavier Lucero, Stephen Holt, and Joshua Munzon.

Speaking of Munzon, the Titan Maxx star was also named Most Improved Player, while Rain or Shine’s Gian Mamuyac took home the Sportsmanship Award.

Closing Out with a Clasico

Sunday night marked the start of PBA Season 50, and fans got to witness an opening day concert featuring the likes of Randy Santiago, K Brosas, Mitoy Yonting, Ana Ramsey, Carmela Lorzano, Mike Hanopol, Jett Pangan, Quest, Sam Coloso, and Cueshé, who performed the official theme song for the new season.

To put a bow on an incredible opening weekend and to officially get the PBA’s golden season underway, two of the league’s most decorated and most popular franchises faced off. Barangay Ginebra San Miguel took on the Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots in what’s known as the Manila Clasico, the PBA’s equivalent of a rivalry game.

Under the brightest of lights and in the presence of the PBA’s Greatest Players, Hall of Famers, and the Board of Governors, Ginebra and Magnolia put on a show as always. In the end, it was Magnolia who came away with an 80-73 win for the first W of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup.

The PBA’s Solid Weekend wasn’t just a spectacle—it was a statement. That after fifty years, the league still knows where it comes from, and who it plays for.

Beyond the hardwood, the trophies, and the legends, the PBA has always been about the fans. And as the league steps into its next chapter, one thing remains certain: the game stays solid because of the fans whose passion never fades.

Don’t miss the solid hoops action from the PBA’s historic 50 Season! The PBA 50 Philippine Cup airs live on RPTV, PBA Rush, and Pilipinas Live every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

ANTA named as PBA Official Footwear

ANTA and the Philippine Basketball Association

ANTA continues to make waves in the local basketball scene, as the global sportswear giant is now the official footwear partner of the Philippine Basketball Association.

League commissioner Willie Marcial says, "We are thrilled to welcome ANTA as our official footwear partner. ANTA's commitment to innovation and quality aligns perfectly with our vision to elevate Philippine basketball. This partnership promises exciting developments for PBA players and fans, and we are confident it will contribute significantly to the continued growth of the sport."

ANTA Philippines General Manager JP Paglinawan adds, "Teaming up with the PBA gives us the opportunity to support these athletes perform at their best at the highest level of basketball locally. Partnering with the PBA comes at a perfect time when ANTA is growing at a very rapid pace across the country. Together, we look forward to further developing the future of both brands and more importantly, Philippine basketball."

Aside from the league, ANTA formed partnerships with three PBA ballclubs to act as its team outfitter: the TNT Tropang Giga, the Magnolia Hotshots, and the Rain or Shine Elastopainters. The deal with the Elastopainters in particular includes a future rollout of community programs that reflects ANTA's dedication in supporting local basketball and fostering its future.

ANTA also unveiled its advertisement that illustrates its partnership with the PBA, which includes PBA greats Alvin Patrimonio and Benjie Paras and its current standouts. 

In addition, they have extended their specific partnership with San Beda, one in place thanks to their ANTA Varsity Project, to include the Red Lions' participation in the upcoming PBA D-League under Marinerong Pilipino.

RPTV set to retain PBA coverage

RPTV

The PBA has a new home, sort of.

With TV5 taking over what used to be CNN Philippines, the media entity has now rebranded the channel into RPTV, the newest free-to-air offering sports, news, and entertainment designed to entertain all members of the Filipino family.

And one of the offerings RPTV will have in place is the oldest professional league in Asia.

As the new free-to-air home of the PBA, basketball fans will be able to watch the league's catalog LIVE, including PBA 3x3 and the upcoming PBA D-League.

Aside from the PBA, it is expected that the channel will show PVL matches and Gilas Pilipinas games.

With regards to entertainment offerings, viewers will continue to enjoy the top-rating daily noontime show EAT... Bulaga, with a variety of local content and movies being showing throughout the day.

Those who want to get their news in the morning will be able to partake of Ted Failon and DJ Chacha's program, and the highly popular Wanted Sa Radyo of Senator Raffy Tulfo will also be on simulcast.

In revealing the lineup, TV5 President and CEO Guido R. Zaballero shares, "The birth of RPTV is aligned with our commitment to elevate the standards of entertainment, sports and public service broadcasting in the Philippines."

RPTV is available on Channel 9 (analog), Channel 19 and Channel 18.3 (DTT), and with over three hundred cable and satellite providers. In addition, it is also part of the catalog of channels available through Cignal Play.

Chiba upends TNT in EASL

c/o East Asia Super League

Chiba Jets remained undefeated in East Asia Super League action after defeating TNT, 75-66 on Wednesday at the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex.

The B-League side rode on the hot hands of Yuki Togashi and the game-long brilliance of John Mooney To earn their third win in Group A.

Togashi converted Four triples in the first half to end up with fourteen points, helping the Jets establish a lead that ballooned to as high as twenty.

Mooney pounded the paint for thirty points and grabbed Sixteen rebounds, feasting in the paint with stabs and putbacks by going 12/19 from the field.

DJ Stephens also contributed a double-double of his own with fifteen points and ten rebounds, while also remaining active on the defensive end with four steals and three blocks.

Keeping the Tropang Giga afloat in the first half was JD Tungcab, who scored all of his ten points in the second quarter, impressing the coaching staffs of both sides afterwards.

Quincy Miller took over in the third, matching the Jets’ third quarter output with fourteen markers to make it a game after three. He would tack on six more in the final period, as they tried to cut into the deficit further.

Miller would finish as the Tropang Giga’s leading scorer and rebounder with 22 points and thirteen boards. The Baylor alum stepped in due to Rondae Hollis-Jefferson being sidelined due to a case of gastroenteritis. Tungcab was the only other player in double figures, while Calvin Oftana adding eight markers, six rebounds, three assists, and three steals.

Back-to-back defeats for TNT against Chiba puts the Tropang Giga in an early bind at the bottom of Group A, with their next matchup coming on November 15 against the Fubon Braves.

Learning experience for Wilcon Depot in PBA 3x3 debut

Terence Tumalip

The inaugural 3x3 leg for newcomers Wilcon Depot at the PBA 3x3 Season 3 First Conference can be chalked to learning experience.

The new side in 3x3 basketball fell short of making an impact at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay, coughing up in the quarterfinals against Terrafirma, 18-20. TH Tumalip led Wilcon Depot in the loss with seven points and six rebounds, with Yutien Andrada adding four markers.

Keith Datu was limited to three points and a couple of rebounds, while Ael Banal misfired by connecting on just 3/13 from the field.

Although encouraged, coach Anton Altamirano cited the quartet's lack of condition as a factor for their exit, noting that it will motivate them to do better in the next legs. He says, "It was a tough reality check for us. We're still not in game shape and it only tells us that we need to strive harder if we want to progress further."

Wilcon Depot did top Pool B, winning all three of its assignments. They stunned Cavitex, 18-16, then taking care of business against Purefoods (18-13), and San Miguel (21-16).

They have a chance to bounce back with the second leg taking place next week, July 10-11, at the Ayala Malls Circuit in Makati.

Wilcon Depot set for PBA 3x3 participation

From L-R: Keith Datu, Yutien Andrada, TH Tumalip, PBA 3x3 Tournament Director Joey Guanio, Wilcon Depot 3x3 Head Coach Anton Altamirano, Wilcon Depot Inc. SEVP-COO Rosemarie Bosch-Ong, Wilcon Depot 3x3 Team Manager Eric Altamirano, Ael Banal, Louie Vigil, Strength and Conditioning Coach Marco Yulo, Wilcon Depot 3x3 Assistant Team Manager Cay Lim, and Physical Therapist Khristian Callao.

The third season of PBA 3x3 will have a new player, as Wilcon Depot is set to join the opening conference set to commence next week.

The country's leading home improvement and construction supplies retailer is taking over the Anton Altamirano-coached side that had been previously been supported by Platinum Karaoke. Their partnership was unveiled on Thursday at The Westin Manila, with Commissioner Willie Marcial and 3x3 Tournament Director Joey Guanio representing the league.

Wilcon Depot Inc. Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Rosemarie Bosch-Ong says, "We are taking our commitment to another level as we venture into the basketball world. Wilcon Depot's participation in the third season of PBA 3×3 represents our passion for every Filipino homeowner and our dedication to fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. This exciting endeavor allows us to further connect with our customers and sports enthusiasts alike."

She adds, "We're proud of this endeavor and we have high hopes that our brand can fare well and compete at a high level in PBA 3x3."

Having won a couple of legs during its previous iteration, the team Wilcon is taking over remains relatively intact for the upcoming campaign.

Leading the team is skipper Yutien Andrada, with Ael Banal and TH Tumalip backstopping him. Keith Datu also returns after after joining the team in Thailand back in March, as the former J&T Express baller prepares for the upcoming PBA Draft.

Joining the team is Louie Vigil, who was previously with San Miguel.

Altamirano shares about their new partnership, "We're grateful for this opportunity and we have our full trust that the players we have can represent Wilcon Depot well in the 3x3 stage." Complementing him are assistant coach Matthew Sia and strength and conditioning coach Marco Yulo. Outfitting the side is MNL Kingpin.

Wilcon Depot 3x3 will make its debut in the first leg of PBA 3x3 this coming July 3 and 4 at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay.

Jimmy Alapag statement on Ivan Johnson

On Monday night, recently-retired point guard and newly-minted Talk N' Text manager Jimmy Alapag decided to release a statement regarding their import, Ivan Johnson. Sports Desk's Cesca Litton posted the statement (broken into two parts) on her Instagram account. We have decided to copy that and place it within one post.

There is no room in the game of basketball for making degrading, or racial comments towards any player / coach. It's not good for the game, and more importantly our youth who watch and support the PBA and dream one day to be a part of it. Physicality and emotion is part of the game, especially in a finals series, but the contact and remarks, specifically aimed at Ivan Johnson, have been uncalled for. He's been a consummate pro as a member of the Talk N' Text team from Day 1, despite many who continually try to bring up his past.

He's a good husband, a loving father to his boys, and a hardworking teammate who stands up for his brothers. He's kept his temper in check, despite being provoked at every opportunity during games. As professionals, there is always a fine line between competitiveness and sportsmanship, but those lines have been crossed in this series. We have a responsibility as professionals to do our best to uplift the game. When we do otherwise the essence of this game suffers. We owe it to the true fans to showcase our skills and talent, nothing more.

Here are the two IG posts from Cesca that contained the statement:

Official statement of Talk n' Text team manager, Jimmy Alapag. Part 1.

A photo posted by Cesca Litton (@checklit) on Apr 27, 2015 at 8:04am PDT

Official statement of Talk n' Text team manager, Jimmy Alapag. Part 2.

A photo posted by Cesca Litton (@checklit) on Apr 27, 2015 at 8:04am PDT

2014-15 PBA D-League Draft Results

Here are the results from the recently-concluded PBA D-League Draft, an event that garnered a little controversy thanks to the final pick

1st round:

1. Cagayan Valley: Moala Tautuaa
2. Tanduay Light: Chris Newsome
3. Cafe France-CEU: Arnold Van Opstal
4. Cebuana Lhullier: Norbert Torres
5. Jumbo Plastic: Kris Rosales
6. M-Builders-FEU: Anthony Hargrove
7. Wang's Basketball: Robert Hainga
8. Racal-St, Clare: Fabren Redoh
9. Hapee-San Beda: Maverick Ahanmisi
10. AMA: Rizalde Angeles
11. MP Hotel: Hernal Escosio
12. Bread Story-Lyceum: John Azores

2nd round:

1. Tanduay Light: Roi Sumang
2. Cagayan Valley: Jonathan Grey
3. Cafe France-CEU: Bong Galanza
4. Cebuana Lhullier: Bradwyn Guinto
5. Jumbo Plastic: Jerramy King
6. M-Builders-FEU: Achie Inigo
7. Wang's Basketball: Joseph Ambohot
8. Racal-St. Clare: Elmer Managuelod
9. Hapee-San Beda: Chris Javier
10. AMA: Josue Diswe
11. MP Hotel: Rashwan McCarthy
12. Bread Story-Lyceum: Joseph Gabayni

3rd Round:

1. Cagayan Valley: Edzel Mag-isa
2. Tanduay Light: Leo De Vera
3. Cafe France-CEU: Yutien Andrada
4. Cebuana Lhullier: Simon Enciso
5. Jumbo Plastic: Sidney Onwubere
6. M-Builders-FEU: Raymar Jose
7. Wang's Basketball: Steve Camaya
8. Racal-St. Clare: Jan Acebron
9. Hapee-San Beda: Nico Elorde
10. AMA: Miggy Magpantay
11. MP Hotel: Dan Alberto
12. Bread Story-Lyceum: Jeb Bulawan

4th Round:

1. Tanduay Light: Gino Jumao-as
2. Cagayan Valley: Mark Olayon
3. Cafe France-CEU: Jonar Huertas
4. Cebuana Lhullier: Almond Vosotros
5. Jumbo Plastic: Joseph Eriobu
6. M-Builders-FEU: Ron Dennison
7. Wang's Basketball: John Pontejos
8.  Racal-St. Clare: Jon Ortuoste
9. Hapee-San Beda: Jeson Cantos
10. AMA: Jayson Jordan
11. MP Hotel: Jeof Acain
12. Bread Story-Lyceum: Sraj Elmejrab

5th Round:

1. Cagayan Valley: Ivan Hernandez
2. Tanduay Light: Ronnie de Leon
3. Cafe France : Tim Habelito
4. Cebuana Lhullier: Carl Ravanes
5. Jumbo Plastic: Jawhar Purdy
6. M-Builders-FEU: Rey Nambatac
7. Wang's Basketball: Javee Mocon
8. Racal-St. Clare: James Mallari
9. Hapee-San Beda: Hesed Gabo
10. AMA: Jezer Calma
11. MP Hotel: Helino Francisco
12. Bread Story-Lyceum: Tirso Lesmoras

6th Round:

1. Tanduay Light: Kent Lao
2. Cagayan Valley: Gwynne Capacio
3. Cebuana Lhullier: Glenn Ayala
4. M-Builders-FEU: JR Gallarza
5. Wang's Basketball: Kevin Lina
6. Racal-St. Clare: John Ambulodto
7. Hapee-San Beda: Mike DiGregorio
8: AMA: Mike Malones
9: MP Hotel: Jopet Quiro
10. Bread Story-Lyceum: Dexter Zamora

7th Round:

1. Cagayan Valley: John Nepomuceno
2. Tanduay Light: Sandy Cenal
3. Cebuana Lhullier: Reje Cartel
4. Wang's Basketball: Morris Pallares
5. Racal-St. Clare: Jon Ibarra
6. Hapee-San Beda: Ranbill Tongco
7. AMA: Jessmar Sabangan
8. MP Hotel: Emman Calo
9. Bread Story-Lyceum: Wilson Baltazar

8th Round:

1. Tanduay Light: Kyles Lao
2. Cagayan Valley: Dhon Reverente
3. Racal-St. Clare: Darwin Lunor
4. Hapee-San Beda: Geron Lontoc
5. AMA: Carlos Dizon
6. MP Hotel: Meylan Landicho
7. Bread Story-Lyceum: Wilson Taladua

9th Round:

1. Cagayan Valley: Aldrei Blanco
2. Tanduay Light: Oda Tampus
3. Racal-St. Clare: Mark Dulalia
4. AMA: Ian Macaranas
5. MP Hotel: Mark Panerio
6. Bread Story-Lyceum: Mark Malabanan


10th Round:

1. Tanduay Light: Dawn Ochea
2. Cagayan Valley: Aldinar Yusop
3. AMA: Paul Cruz
4. MP Hotel: Elvin Chan
5. Bread Story-Lyceum: Joem Lacastestantos

11th Round:

1. Cagayan Valley: Jumabon Bulac
2. AMA: Ermin Discipulo
3. MP Hotel: Chris Masaglang
4. Bread Story-Lyceum: John Lasa

12th Round:




1. AMA: Philip Torres
2. MP Hotel: Lance Abude
3. Bread Story-Lyceum: Marvin Moraga

13th Round:

1. AMA: Ken Ballesteros

14th Round:

1. AMA: Ken Santiago

15th Round:

1. AMA: Daniel Padilla

The Aspirants' Cup will commence on October 27.

2014 Gatorade PBA Draft results

Here are results from the just-concluded PBA Draft.

DRAFTING ORDER (1st Round)

1. GlobalPort - Stanley Pringle
2. Rain or Shine - Kevin Alas
3. San Miguel Beer - Ronald Pascual
4. NLEX - Matthew Ganuelas
5. Alaska - Chris Banchero
6. Barangay Ginebra San Miguel - Rodney Brondial
7. GlobalPort - Anthony Semerad
8. Barako Bull - Jake Pascual
9. Rain or Shine - Jericho Cruz
10. Barako Bull - David Semerad
11. KIA Motors - Manny Pacquiao
12. Blackwater - Juami Tiongson

DRAFTING ORDER (2nd Round)

13. Alaska Aces - Rome Dela Rosa
14. Rain or Shine - Kevin Espinosa
15. Barako Bull - Philip Paredes
16. Alaska Aces - Junjun Alas
17. GlobalPort - Prince Caperal
18. Barako Bull - Philip Morrison
19. GlobalPort - John Pinto
20. Talk ‘N Text - Harold Arboleda
21. Rain or Shine - Michael Gamboa
22. Barako Bull - Gab Banal
23. Blackwater - Frank Golla
24. Kia Motors - Kyle Pascual

DRAFTING ORDER (3rd Round onwards)

25. KIA Motors - Rene Pacquiao
26. Blackwater - Brian Heruela   
27. Blackwater - Maclean Sabellina   
28. KIA Motors - Kenneth Ighalo   
29. KIA Motors - Paolo Taha   
30. Blackwater - Juneric Baloria   
31. Blackwater - Raul Soyud           
32. KIA Motors - Jeremy Bartolo         

33. KIA Motors - Anthony Gavieres           
34. Blackwater - Clark Bautista           
35. Blackwater - Reneford Ruaya           
36. KIA Motors - Richard Cole           
37. KIA Motors - Victor Giorgio Umali           
38. KIA Motors - Jonathan Banal            39. KIA Motors - Michael Acuna           
40. KIA Motors - Mark Romero41.  KIA Motors - Francis Bercede

Statement from Globalport re: Draft Lottery

We are happy that the issue regarding the draft lottery has been put to rest together with a bright promise for improvements and changes in its process.

We would like to thank the PBA Board of Governors for the early resolution of this incident, and acknowledge the efforts of the Rain or Shine franchise to be one with the Board in solidifying the integrity of the league.

We are very excited for this coming 2014 Draft which boasts of the country’s best and brightest talents and future basketball superstars.

The GlobalPort franchise has the honor of choosing this year’s number one pick, we vow to choose wisely, not only to make our team better but to provide you, our fans, PBA fans, the best that professional basketball has to offer.

Paul Lee celebrates his birthday with the game-winner

Tied game. 1.6 seconds. In the era of the 0.4, that is an eternity of basketball remaining. All you need is to find the right play. And Yeng Guiao found that play, with an assist to Paul Lee.



Rain or Shine escape with the win, thanks to the birthday boy. Game 2 is on Sunday afternoon.

James Yap saves the day for the SanMig Coffee Super Mixers

c/o PBA Images via Interaksyon

Ginebra was leading by 2. Shotclock off. Then James Yap does James Yap things.



Game 6 is on Monday.

PBA suspends and fines Yeng Guiao

c/o Sports5

The PBA today has decided to suspend Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao for Game 5 of their best-of-seven series against the Petron Blaze Boosters.

PBA commissioner Chito Salud released a statement on Wednesday afternoon explaining the suspension, which goes as follows:

Following this morning’s meeting with Coach Yeng Guiao regarding his use of a dirty finger pointed toward the commissioner’s and tech committee table, this Office hereby metes out on Coach Guiao the penalty of one (1) game suspension and a fine of one hundred thousand pesos (Php 100,000.00) for persistent conduct unbecoming of a Coach exhibited in a manner positively indicating disrespect, if not disdain or scorn, for the league as an institution and its fans. I would like to state unequivocally that this disciplinary sanction cannot fully convey the sense of regret of this Office for the insulting and unsavory antics Coach Guiao continues to display and foist on the players, the referees, his peers and the entire viewing public of the PBA, especially the youth, despite repeated well-meaning advice and counsel from this Office in the past. I invite him to reflect upon his responsibility to the public, the league and the Rain or Shine organization which he represents, even as I reiterate that the PBA will fulfill its own responsibility to tirelessly uphold the principles of decency and sportsmanship.

Game 5 is to take place this Friday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

JR Quinahan beats the buzzer and the Meralco Bolts

c/o Mico Halili's Twitter account

Gary David tied the game at 86 with the long three with under 9 seconds left. On the next possession, Paul Lee missed his corner jumper and the ball went out of bounds. Fortunately for the Tondo native, possession was still with Rain or Shine, albeit with 0.7 left. Yeng Guiao then asks for a timeout.

The play was simple, considering the time remaining. Gabe Norwood is the man tasked to inbound the ball. The other four guys on the court were Lee, Jeff Chan, and the Extra Rice, Inc. Only thing they can do is a catch-and-shoot. If Derek Fisher can do it with 0.4 left, one can definitely do it with 0.7 left.

The Elastopainters were misfiring on their jumpers late in the game, especially from three-point distance, but at least they had the chance to win knowing they still had OT in their back pocket. However, they didn't need to go into a five-minute extension, as Gabe found Quinahan open, and the winning streak is now a franchise-best six games.

Here is how the Rain or Shine - Meralco game ended (c/o Sports5)

PBA gives its verdict re: Dillinger, Abueva

Here is the complete statement from PBA Commissioner Chito Salud on the incident that took place during the Meralco-Alaska game on January 10:

Upon review of the incident and hearing the testimonies of Calvin Abueva, Jared Dillinger and Gary David, hereunder is this Office’s ruling:

During the fourth quarter of the game Jared Dillinger was going strong to the basket. As he was going for a layup, Calvin Abueva cleanly blocked his shot. After the block, Abueva’s right hand landed on the face of Dillinger. While unintentional, the impact of that contact caused a bruise on the left eye of Dillinger. Dillinger then pulled the jersey of Abueva to prevent a hard fall, at which time Abueva’s forearm landed diagonally on Dillinger’s neck and face with such force causing Dillinger’s nose to bleed. Dillinger thereafter regained¬ his balance and grabbed Abueva. Dillinger testified that he grabbed Abueva initially by the jersey. While Dillinger denied that he choked Abueva, it was clear in the video that he had his hands around the neck area of Abueva for the purpose of physically restraining him. While Abueva categorically confirmed that he was not choked by Dillinger, he stated that pressure was exerted on his collar bone. It can be gleaned from the video that Dillinger grabbed Abueva by the neck and while on a strangle/chokehold-like gesture was yelling and screaming at Abueva. Dillinger asserted that he was telling Abueva “to espect me and respect the game,” repeatedly. At this point the referees were able to separate the two players. Gary David, who was not involved in the play at all, was seen raising his right arm with a closed fist toward the direction of the fallen Abueva.

David testified that he was merely reminding Abueva that the latter’s antics were already hurtful to other players. He admitted that he did raise his arm with a closed fist at Abueva out of frustration.

Considering the foregoing factual and testimonial evidence, this Office is hereby upgrading the Technical Foul for taunting called on Jared Dillinger to Flagrant/Unsportsmanlike conduct, as his act of physically restraining Calvin Abueva by grappling him by the neck, along with the taunting and trash-talking, is clearly unnecessary. A fine of ten thousand pesos (Php 10,000.00) is hereby meted out to Dillinger.

This Office is likewise upgrading Calvin Abueva’s Technical Foul for 2nd motion to Flagrant/Unsportsmanlike conduct for the hard blows, inadvertent as they may seem, he landed on Jared Dillinger causing the latter’s face to bleed and bruise. A fine of ten thousand pesos (Php 10,000.00) is hereby meted out to Calvin Abueva. Additionally, this office has reviewed Abueva’s proclivity to exaggerate fouls against him and other forms of physical contact in which he is involved. In accordance with this office’s memo on flopping dated July 26, 2013, Abueva is being fined an additional three thousand pesos (Php 3,000.00).

As for Gary David, he had no reason to intervene in the incident in question. He was clearly seen, not in the act of pacifying the parties involved, but instead was shown to have taken a fighting stance that could have exacerbated the incident. For this unsportsmanlike conduct, David is being fined the amount of five thousand pesos (Php 5,000.00).

Reviews of incidents such as these are conducted by my Office as a matter of course, motu proprio. I again remind our players and teams that the highest tenets of sportsmanship should never be secondary to their passion for the game.

The Calvin Abueva - Jared Dillinger tussle

Meralco has now won back-to-back games since Danny Ildefonso joined the team, winning 74-65 over Alaska. However, this video below caught everyone's attention.



This sequence ended with just double technicals on Calvin Abueva and Jared Dillinger.

Quotes:

From Interaksyon:

Jared Dillinger: “We’re two men with high emotions going after the ball. No hard feelings between me and Calvin. He works hard, he’s intense. We just knew the importance of this game is high so both teams were really working their butts off tonight. It’s just two guys going after the ball playing with intensity.”

Luigi Trillo: “Both teams wanting to win and it’s part of it. It’s basketball. We need to be better.”

Also from Interaksyon:

Fred Uytengsu: “Here, Dillinger was clearly seen choking Calvin. The last time there was strangulation in the league, (Renaldo) Balkman was banned in the league and that was against his own teammate. Watch closely, Dillinger realized he lost control of the situation so he backed off. You can see it in his eyes that he made a mistake. You call a double technical, I think double technical is fine. But if you did like that on a player, read the rule book, that should be an ejection. They said they will review it. I said what’s to review? It’s pretty obvious.”

From Spin:

Ryan Gregorio: “I respect the game of Abueva. I think he brings in a lot of positives in the game. However, his (Abueva) extra curricular activities seem to hurt other players. Probably, inadvertently, but still, I thought some were overreactions. The bloodied nose of JD (Dillinger) was a prime example. Damage was done. But I leave it to the league. The PBA has a strict anti-flopping policy. They know better. We don’t like flopping in the league. It’s hard enough for the referees to call the legitimate calls and legitimate non-calls. Now if you fake it, wow, it’s gonna be harder for them (referees to make the right call)."

Also from Spin:

Dillinger: “Well, Calvin is known a little bit of a flopper here and there, but that’s part of his game,” “The rift between me and Calvin, I fully understand. That’s two men going after the ball with emotions flying,” “The game is on the line, but i have nothing against him (Abueva). I know he was going hard. I’m going hard, but sometimes, emotions overflow a little bit. Both teams knew the importance of this game, so both teams played it like it was a playoff game,”

Calvin Abueva: “Wala naman akong sinabi eh, siya (Dillinger) ang napikon. Kailangan lang namin ibalik yung laro namin na nagpapanalo kami,”

Also from Spin:

Uytengsu: "I don't think the fine could do anything. I think the player should be kicked out (of the game) and (that) may change the complexion of the game. At this point I think the league can't fix the mistake they've made, hopefully they just do something about it but honestly it's just very disappointing. The league should do the right thing. If you are now telling other players it's okay to strangle another player, I mean, we're supposed to be the professional league, we're supposed to be setting the example. So, I don't know what example we are sending to college players, to the youth. That that's okay? Yes, I think players lose control at some point and I think it's the league's responsibility to step in and punish the players - whether it's an Alaska player, a Meralco player, or any player in the league."

Japeth Aguilar and Barangay Ginebra beats Meralco at the buzzer

c/o PBA website

Barangay Ginebra was down to Meralco five points with 15.1 seconds left, 82-77. The Bolts were at the cusp of being able to replicate their win over the current league leaders.

Then the following things happened:

Jay-R Reyes, whom Head Coach Ato Agustin inserted in place of Greg Slaughter, nails a corner three with 12.8 seconds remaining. Ginebra down two, 82-80. Reyes, prior to this game, missed his only three pointer he attempted this conference and is a career 26.5% shooter from there (he did shoot 40% in one season, back with Rain or Shine in 08-09).

Mark Caguioa immediately fouls John Wilson, who came into the game shooting 74% from the line and earlier in the game split his charities. He misses both free throws, yet puts out a wry smile. Ball goes out and in the ensuing review, the officiating trio of Mariano, Tankion and Gruta awarded possession to Ginebra.

With 11.8 seconds remaining, this is how it went down.



The Gilas Pilipinas standout finished with 15 points, 11 rebounds, an assist, four blocks and a reminder why Barangay Ginebra owns the mantra "Never Say Die."

Japeth Aguilar saves Ginebra

c/o InterAKTV's Paolo Papa

How did we get here: Barangay Ginebra is down a point after Larry Fonacier nails a baseline jumper with 22.9 seconds left to give Talk 'N Text the lead. Ato Agustin uses a timeout, intending for LA Tenorio and Japeth Aguilar to work together on a pick or screen and roll situation. It's a familiar thing to see, since they played together for SMART-Gilas Pilipinas, after all.

Let's proceed from there, shall we.



Japeth finished with 21 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 blocks in a game that left us all awe-struck from Sunday night until now.

Sports Advisory for PBA and UFL games to be televised today, November 28

Heads up.

The PBA has a doubleheader scheduled later today featuring the matchup of the Alaska Aces and the Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters, as well as the GlobalPort Batang Pier against Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.

If you want to catch these two games LIVE, you can watch them on AksyonTV starting at 530pm.

If you missed out on the games, you can still watch them again, this time on TV5. The Ginebra-GlobalPort game will be shown tonight at 11pm, followed by the Alaska-TNT game at 1am.

If you think that is really late, TV5 will also have a replay of the two games tomorrow, November 29, starting at 8pm. They will show the Alaska-TNT game first, followed by GlobalPort-Ginebra.

For football fans, due to the sudden change of schedule, with the PBA having to temporarily take over AksyonTV's time slot, the UFL will be shown on IBC-13, starting at 5pm, featuring the remaining UFL Cup quarterfinal matches (Air Force vs Union Internacional - Manila & Stallion vs Pachanga Diliman).

The PBA is also scheduled to have a doubleheader on Tuesday, December 3 featuring TNT vs GlobalPort and Meralco vs Ginebra, so they will show that doubleheader on AksyonTV, forcing the UFL to move its telecast of the UFL Cup semifinal matches to IBC-13.

ICYMI: 2013 PBA Draft Results

Greg Slaughter is the 2013 PBA Draft's 1st overall pick. c/o Pranz Kaeno Billones of InterAKTV

Here are the results from the 2013 PBA Draft held last Sunday at the packed Robinson's Midtown in Manila.

Before the Draft, Enrico Villanueva on Twitter revealed that he was traded to GlobalPort. The PBA would then later on officially confirm the structure of the deal, which sent Willie Miller and Hans Thiele to Barako Bull in exchange for the former Ateneo slotman.

Overall, 44 out of the 79 draftees were selected, with former FEU and Cagayan Valley big man Mark Bringas serving as this year's "Mr. Irrelevant," being the final pick in the 7th round by the Meralco Bolts.

Round	Team	Pick	Trade Notes
1st	Barangay Ginebra	Greg Slaughter
1st	SanMig Coffee	Ian Sangalang
1st	Rain or Shine	Raymond Almazan
1st	Barako Bull	James Forrester	Pick traded to Barangay Ginebra for Rico Maierhofer and Willie Wilson
1st	Barako Bull	Terrence Romeo	Pick traded to Petron for Mark Isip and Magi Sison, who then traded pick to GlobalPort for Yousef Taha
1st	Barako Bull	RR Garcia	Pick traded to GlobalPort for Denok Miranda
1st	GlobalPort	Isaac Holstein
1st	Alaska	Ryan Buenafe
1st	Rain or Shine	Alex Nuyles
1st	SanMig Coffee	Justin Chua
2nd	GlobalPort	Nico Salva
2nd	Rain or Shine	Jeric Teng
2nd	SanMig Coffee	Justin Melton
2nd	Barako Bull	Jeric Fortuna
2nd	Alaska	JP Erram	Pick traded to Talk 'N Text for 2015 2nd round pick
2nd	Air21	Eric Camson
2nd	Talk 'N Text	Robby Celiz
2nd	Alaska	Ping Exciminiano
2nd	Rain or Shine	Gayford Rodriguez
2nd	Barako Bull	Carlo Lastimosa
3rd	Air21	Joshua Webb
3rd	GlobalPort	Jopher Custodio
3rd	Barako Bull	Darwin Cordero
3rd	Barangay Ginebra	LA Revilla	Pick traded to GlobalPort along with 2016 & 2017 2nd round picks for 2014 1st round pick
3rd	Petron	Sam Marata
3rd	Meralco	Anjo Caram
3rd	Talk 'N Text	Eliud Poligrates
3rd	Alaska	Raymund Ilagan
3rd	Rain or Shine	Ervic Vijandre
3rd	SanMig Coffee	JR Cawaling
4th	GlobalPort	PASS
4th	Air21	Angelo Ingco
4th	Barako Bull	Jett Vidal
4th	Barangay Ginebra	John Usita
4th	Petron	Nate Matute
4th	Meralco	Mike Parala
4th	Talk 'N Text	Oping Sumalinog
4th	Alaska	PASS
4th	Rain or Shine	PASS
4th	SanMig Coffee	PASS
5th	Air21	Randolph Chua
5th	GlobalPort	PASS
5th	Barako Bull	Mike Silungan
5th	Barangay Ginebra	Alvin Padilla
5th	Petron	PASS
5th	Meralco	Mark Lopez
5th	Talk 'N Text	Byron Villarias
5th	Alaska	PASS
5th	Rain or Shine	PASS
5th	SanMig Coffee	PASS
6th	GlobalPort	PASS
6th	Air21	PASS
6th	Barako Bull	PASS
6th	Barangay Ginebra	Jens Knuttel
6th	Petron	PASS
6th	Meralco	Ron Guevarra
6th	Talk 'N Text	PASS
6th	Alaska	PASS
6th	Rain or Shine	PASS
6th	SanMig Coffee	PASS
7th	Air21	PASS
7th	GlobalPort	PASS
7th	Barako Bull	PASS
7th	Barangay Ginebra	PASS
7th	Petron	PASS
7th	Meralco	Mark Bringas
7th	Talk 'N Text	PASS
7th	Alaska	PASS
7th	Rain or Shine	PASS
7th	SanMig Coffee	PASS