Claret, Southridge make UAAP debuts in high school football

Matches Saturday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium

2 p.m. — UST vs SRG

4:30 p.m. — Ateneo vs DLSZ

7 p.m. — FEU-D vs CSQC

GUEST schools Claret School of Quezon City and PAREF Southridge School are set for a baptism of fire as they make their UAAP Season 87 High School Boys' Football Tournament debut today (Saturday) at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.

The Southridge Admirals will face last season’s runners-up University of Santo Tomas Junior Golden Booters while the Claret Red Roosters take on defending champions Far Eastern University-Diliman Baby Tamaraws in the evening match at 7:00 p.m.

Baby Tamaraws head coach Albert Besa acknowledges the challenge of keeping the throne, as they aim for a record-extending 13th straight championship in a league that now features six teams.

“Our target is to give it our best, and hopefully, the results will follow,” said Besa, who is also currently coaching the Philippine Women’s National Futsal Team in its 2025 AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup qualification campaign in Uzbekistan.

“There’s a lot of pressure on the team to defend the title and complete the treble, but with hard work and if it’s His will, we will achieve the 13-peat,” he added.

Despite the tough opening fixture, the Red Roosters are eager to prove their mettle.

Head coach Feb Baya, a former University of the Philippines standout, emphasized the importance of a solid defensive strategy.

“We know FEU has been a dominant force and the defending champions, so we’ve prepared by emphasizing defensive stability,” said Baya. “Our priority is to keep our shape tight as a team, especially with our back four. It’s about staying disciplined defensively and being decisive when opportunities come.”

The Junior Golden Booters, meanwhile, are determined to overcome the heartbreak of last season’s 3-0 loss in the Final against FEU-D.

This season, UST is driven to finally claim its first high school football title.

“Objective ng team na makapasok muna ulit sa finals this season,” said UST coach Marjo Allado. “Once na ma-qualify sa finals, try namin yung best na manalo kung sino din yung magiging opponent.”

Like Claret, Southridge is eager to showcase its readiness for UAAP-level competition.

Admirals team manager Ryan Fermin shared how the team prepared extensively over the past four months, including through the holiday period, to make the most of their league debut.

“We’ve prepared very hard to come up with a tactical game plan to hopefully manage UST’s strengths while exploring ways to attack them,” said Fermin.

He also noted the advantage of having played two to three practice matches against UST, saying, “It gave us a chance to understand them better. We also studied how their men’s team played in the first round to identify similar traits with their juniors.”

Between the two matches, the storied Ateneo-La Salle rivalry will take center stage at 4:30 p.m.

The two schools enter the season with contrasting narratives.

The Blue Eagles aim to improve on three consecutive last-place finishes in Seasons 82, 85, and 86.

Despite the success of its collegiate men’s team, Ateneo’s last high school football crown came in Season 72.

“From last year’s result and standing, my goal is to improve Ateneo’s performance this season,” said Blue Eagles head coach JP Merida, who guided Ateneo’s collegiate men’s team to the Season 87 Final last December. “It’s a big challenge because of the competitive recruitment landscape in the high school division, but we’ll try our best to make it to the final match.”

On the other hand, the Junior Green Booters are determined to finally secure the title after narrowly missing out in Seasons 79, 80, and 85.

DLSZ’s only high school football championship came in Season 70 when the event was still a demonstration sport.

“To win, of course,” said Matthew Nierras, part of the Junior Green Booters’ coaching staff. “Our last and only championship was in Season 70 under Coach Hans (Smit). We’ve come close several times, especially in Season 85, so the goal is to finally win it all this year.”

Macau chosen to host 2025 EASL Final Four

Studio City Event Center c/o EASL

The EASL is set to host the second edition of its postseason in Macau, highlighting its commitment to expanding its presence in the Greater Bay Area.

Known for its modern infrastructure and strong sports scene in the GBA, the Macau SAR is considered as one of the ideal locations to host major events, providing convenience and a unique cultural atmosphere combined with excellent travel connections and top-notch hospitality.

Set to take place at Studio City Event Center of Melco Resorts and Entertainment, the top four teams in the preliminaries will face off in a knockout affair to determine a new champion.

On March 7, these four teams will face off in a semifinal doubleheader, with the winners advancing into the championship game a couple of days later on March 9. The losing semifinalists will tangle in the third place game on the same date.

EASL Champions get a US $1 million in prize purse, with the runner-up securing US $500,000. Finishing in third nets US $250,000.

In making the announcement, league Chief Executive Officer Henry Kerins says, "EASL is beyond excited to announce that the EASL Final Four 2025 will be held in Macau SAR, a region that has become a cornerstone of our expansion in the GBA. This milestone reflects our deep commitment to the region and to showcasing premium basketball as a driver of economic growth, cultural vitality, and community engagement. Macau’s modern infrastructure and passionate fan base make it the perfect destination to host this high-stakes event, and we can’t wait to see the energy it will bring to the region."

On the end of Melco and Studio City, Melco Senior Vice President and Studio City Property General Manager Kevin Benning adds, "Melco and Studio City are committed to offering innovative and inspirational tourism and entertainment experiences to residents and guests from around the world. We are thrilled to be collaborating with EASL to bring such top-tier Asian basketball matchups once more to Studio City Event Center. We look forward to continuing our support for EASL in elevating Asian basketball in the Greater Bay Area."

In addition, the league is highlighting a couple of its partners who have served as its main sponsors.

Spalding remains to be the provider of basketballs for all of its 34 league matches, cementing its role as a trusted brand for the league.

Jeju Samdasoo has served as the league's official water partner this season in all markets except in Okinawa and Macau, quenching the thirst of players and fans with its premium bottled water. 

adidas reveals Predator 25 targeting the Modern Goalscorer

c/o adidas

adidas has revealed its latest version of their iconic Predator line of football shoes, one that you can already avail at your favorite place to purchase kicks.

Called the Predator 25, it blends archival color nods and design features with the latest technology tailored towards the new generation of footballers.

What immediately stands out is its vibrant red colorway, which is often associated with its classic tongue decorating the entire upper portion of the boot, highlighting its iconic DNA.

The wavy black lines weaving through its three stripes on the medial and lateral sides of the boot is a true homage to one of its predecessors, the Predator Accelerator from 1998. Adding to the aesthetic is the "Predator" branding that is displayed on the side of the heel and on the tongue.

On the technological aspect, adidas tweaked the upper construction for the Predator 25, integrating an upgraded STRIKESKIN that has been re-engineered in order to enhance the grip between the boot and the ball through higher and longer quantities of rubber elements on the strike zone of the boot, as well as HYBRIDTOUCH 2.0 applied across the upper of the boot with less layers to reduce break-in time and provide a more moulded fit. At the same time, this feature would provide additional cushioning in key areas for comfort and a soft touch on the ball.

CONTROLFLAME 2.0, which is a lightweight soleplate that supports traction, acceleration, and rapid rotational movement of players through full-length tooling and external heel counter, returns after being initially introduced a year ago.

Also being included is the fold over tongue, which has been refreshed to enhance striking made possible through new rubber elements enabling improvements in touch and feel, and protection through an additional layer of foam.

In unveiling the Predator 25, adidas GM for Football Sam Handy says, "The Predator franchise has always been based on pushing the boundaries of boot design – starting with a product that fundamentally altered the landscape of the game. Last year we revisited the archive to reconnect the tongue with a new generation of player. For Predator 25 we focus on adding more character via an adapted visual story that hints at - and reskins - beloved aspects of earlier icons. Under the hood, we have tweaked and upgraded the existing performance technologies, to create something really special for 2025."

One of adidas' many ambassadors has been tapped to spread the gospel of the latest Predator.

Arsenal and England sensation Alessia Russo shares her thoughts about the boot: "For me, the Predator boot is about being bold and making a statement on the pitch – from how it supports your goals to how iconic its design is. The tongue, which is hands down my favourite thing about it, is even better on this one, and the colourway is something else – I’m buzzing to play in it this year and see what I can do in front of goal."

Expect the big names of the sport to be toting these kicks, from the likes of Jude Bellingham and Pedri, to the best female footballer in the world, Aitana Bonmati.

The Predator 25 comes with laced and laceless versions, as well as a classic laced with a fold over tongue.

At prices starting at PhP 13,000, football enthusiasts will be able to purchase these kicks starting January 16 at adidas outlets and selected retailers, or one can purchase them directly at adidas.com.ph.

Hong Kong, Macau keep postseason hopes flickering

c/o EASL

The newcomer teams secured key wins on Wednesday night to bolster their cases to make the EASL Final Four.

Earlier in the evening, Macau capped off its prelims with an 89-78 triumph over Busan KCC Egis, finishing their Group B campaign at 3-3.

The Black Bears were leading 68-66 with six minutes left, before ending the game on a 21-12 run thanks to the efforts of Adonis Thomas and Jenning Leung, as well as from Damian Chong Qui and Samuel Deguara.

Chong Qui would finish with 23 points and eleven assists, while Deguara was a rebound short of a 20/20 performance with 24 points and nineteen boards.

Cady Lalanne impressed in his EASL debut for Busan, matching himself against the Maltese-Italian giant with 27 points and thirteen boards, as well as four assists. Heo Ung added twenty markers in the defeat, which was their fourth in five and effectively eliminated them from postseason contention.

Macau's hopes now rest on the aspirations of the New Taipei Kings and the Meralco Bolts, who will face off on February 12, but before that, those two teams will have separate opposition next week, with NTK facing Busan on the 21st, and the Bolts hosting Ryukyu Golden Kings on the 22nd.

In the other matchup, fellow newcomer Hong Kong Eastern dismantled San Miguel Beermen, 84-74 at the PhilSports Arena, earning a third win over their opposition in the last month.

Chris McLaughlin led the way with fifteen points and seventeen rebounds, extending his double-double streak to five matches.

The visitors took advantage of a strong start, erecting an 11-1 lead and never really looked back, except for a stretch in the fourth period that that managed to reduce the deficit to just seven points at 75-68 with under 3.5 minutes remaining. Unfortunately for the Beermen, they were unable to cut the deficit further, as they remain winless in five outings so far continentally.

Their inability to kick things off well in their matches have been a noticeable trend in their last few matches. San Miguel trailed 22-12 in their previous meeting with Eastern, whilst their matchup last week against Hiroshima saw them trail 30-18 at the end of the first period.

With their third straight victory in Group A, Hong Kong moves to 3-2, with a huge matchup against Taoyuan Pauian Pilots looming on February 5. A win would secure them a spot in the EASL Final Four on their inaugural campaign.

HK Eastern seeks to complete San Miguel sweep

c/o EASL

San Miguel and Hong Kong Eastern face off in one of two scheduled East Asia Super League matches on Wednesday.

Set to tip off at 810pm, the Beermen are hoping third time's the charm against their opposition, having fallen short in both meetings so far, as HK Eastern is a guest team in the ongoing PBA Commissioner's Cup.

Their first meeting took place in Hong Kong last December 18, with the hosts fending off San Miguel's late comeback attempt to end up 71-62 winners.

Four days later, they met again, with Eastern securing a 99-91 overtime triumph, with Glen Yang scoring 26 points. The game served as the debut for Jabari Narcis, who contributed 28 points and ten rebounds. Narcis is expected to make his EASL debut after sitting out last week's matchup against the Dragonflies in Hiroshima, providing much needed help for Torren Jones and JuneMar Fajardo.

Already eliminated from postseason contention having lost all four games so far, San Miguel is seeking to secure a strong finish in continental play, hoping that this would lead into some positive momentum domestically.

The Leo Austria-coached side are currently eighth place toting a 4-4 record, good enough to be in the final postseason spot for this conference.

In addition, they could also serve as spoilers to both HK Eastern and Suwon KT Sonicboom, whom they finish Group Stage action with this coming February 12.

After losing their first two continental matches, HK Eastern have won two straight games, following up their win over the Beermen with a 69-61 victory over Suwon last January 7. Both of these matches taking place at their home digs at Southorn Stadium.

Thanks to Hayden Blankley's thirteen points and five rebounds, they are now currently in third place in Group A at 2-2. With Hiroshima having locked up the one spot in the group, it will be a battle with Suwon and current second placers Taoyuan, whom HK Eastern will visit next month, for the other semifinal berth up for grabs.

Chris McLaughlin and Cameron Clark have been vital in setting things up for Hong Kong, with Blankley, Yang, and Kobey Lam serving as an effective supporting cast.

They are also looking to have this current stretch to translate in their stint in the PBA, where they are currently 6-3 and a game behind Northport atop the standings.

In the other scheduled continental matchup, Busan KCC Egis and the Macau Black Bears face off in Korea.

With both teams toting three losses, the loser of this matchup is pretty much eliminated from postseason contention.

Macau made history on their previous encounter, as Damian Chong Qui produced the league's first triple-double last November, but the Black Bears are coming off a blowout defeat to New Taipei last month.

Busan recently rejiggered their lineup, sending Deonte Burton to former EASL participants Anyang JKJ in exchange for Cady Lalanne, hoping his presence will improve their play.

Both EASL games are set to be broadcast domestically through either One Sports, One Sports+, or Pilipinas Live.

Dr. Obet Vital, Casiey Dongallo, three others join UP

c/o OASD

The shoe has officially been dropped, as the University of the Philippines through its Office for Athletics and Sports Development, announced that Dr. Obet Vital and Casiey Dongallo have committed to the program.

Vital served as an assistant to Jerry Yee in the University of the East, eventually taking on interim head coaching duties when Yee was suspended by the league last season.

He also served as the mentor of California Academy For Lilminius, where he coached Dongallo at the high school level before they moved up in the collegiate ranks with the Lady Warriors.

Now with the Fighting Maroons, Vital will serve as an assistant to newly-installed head coach Benson Bocboc, while also overseeing the grassroots program and the university's training pool.

The Cebuano native set a record for points scored in a single season for what turned out to be her lone season at UE with 291 points, and she will play an integral role for the Lady Maroons when she becomes eligible next season.

Also joining Dongallo in serving residency this coming season are her former teammates at CAL who committed to UE: Kizzie Madriaga, Jelai Gajero and Jenalyn Umayam. Madriaga served as the team captain, whilst Gajero missed out on last season due to injury and was set to play a key role for the Lady Warriors this season.

These moves are aimed to bolster a program that won just one game last season, and has hopes of making the postseason for the first time since 2017 when the team still had Tots Carlos and Isa Molde. Backed by Frank Lao and his Strong Group Athletics program, they have already made some inroads for the upcoming season, securing commitments from incoming freshmen Kianne Olango, Yesha Noceja, and Bienne Bansil, snapping up Kassy Doering, who impressed fans as a soon-to-be one-and-done standout during the preseason, and tapping Alohi Robins-Hardy as an assistant whilst she waits for her eventual PVL debut.

From the incumbents, Nina Ytang is coming off a campaign where she became the second-best middle blocker, while Nica Celis and Irah Jaboneta provide veteran leadership for a young side.

Last season's head coach and now the university's program director for volleyball Oliver Almadro says about these recent events, "Their arrival is a sign that Mr. Frank Lao, SGA, and OASD are really sincere in developing the UP volleyball program. Their addition to our roster, together with our recruits this year, will definitely make our team a contender in the following years."

OASD Director Bo Perasol adds, "It's about time na palakasin din natin ang volleyball teams natin because they have great potential to be another source for unity ng UP community. We welcome the entry of Doc Obet and his players 'di lang para palakasin ang WVT, but to also show that we're turning serious about competing in volleyball."

Joson ready to claim the moment at Manila Hustle

c/o FIBA

Same objective, different circumstances.

Jhazmin Joson seeks to secure a championship at the upcoming third edition of the Manila Hustle 3x3 tournament.

Having reached the championship game last year with Titans, the Ateneo alumna has been tapped to be a key figure for Gilas Women in this competition, which will take place on February 8-9 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

The national team lost all three of its matches in last year's edition to finish in 13th place, using the competition as a starting point that saw them participate in the FIBA 3x3 Women's Series this past season.

Armed with that experience, the Gilas Women quartet looks ready to make improvements in the upcoming invitational, which is co-presented by Uratex, Smart, and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas. Aside from Jhazmin, they also tapped Hazelle Yam from Discovery Perlas to join forces with holdovers Camille Clarin and Mikka Cacho.

Jozon shares, "I’m very motivated. I feel like being on a different team will give me so much fire because I’ve been playing with these girls for a while now."

She adds about their overseas work, "Experiencing that level of competition for sure will definitely help us out."

The Los Angeles native also notes, "Everyone came from a different background in college, but since we’ve known and played together for a year, we have a feel of how the system is. We are more familiar with our roles and how we can make each other better and how to play together."

In sharing what stands out for this Gilas Women quartet, Jozon says, "What makes us different is our grit, that we go beyond our reach because we have what it takes. We definitely go beyond what is asked."

And with regards to what the opposition will be seeing from this unit, she highlights, "So expect us to fight every second of the game and expect us that it won’t be easy to go against us."

Gilas Women will be one of seven local teams seeking to dethrone defending champions ZOOS in this tournament, hich has Titan as official partner, together with Wilson, Seiko, B’lue, Secret Fresh, BDO, Jollibee, TRYP by Wyndham, Jisulife, Rexona, and Laurin.