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Tennis: Agassi anoints Djokovic as greatest ever
Eight-time Grand Slam champion Andre Agassi has anointed Novak Djokovic as the greatest men’s player of all time, saying you cannot argue with the weight of his achievements. The popular American former world number one, himself widely considered among the best the sport has seen, also had lavish praise for Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal......»»
Museum to fix Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson waxwork after skin tone complaints
A French museum said Monday it is working urgently to fix a much-derided waxwork of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson after the US actor complained about its pale skin tone. Johnson, who is of Samoan and Black origin, took to Instagram this weekend to joke about the Grevin Museum's botched wax figure, which appeared to depict him with white skin, and bears only a vague likeness to his features. "For the record, I'm going to have my team reach out to our friends at Grevin Museum, in Paris, France, so we can work at 'updating' my wax figure here with some important details and improvements -- starting with my skin color," wrote Johnson, best known by his stage name The Rock. On Monday, the museum told AFP that staff were "reworking" the wax figure, and that an updated version would be reinstalled Tuesday morning. "They're going to work all night on it so that it's more in line with fans' expectations," Yves Delhommeau, the museum's director, said in a statement. "Crews will work through the night to ensure the likeness is more in keeping with the expectations of his fans. "We're also going to reconfigure the lighting because there was a lighting issue that was having the effect of lightening his skin." Johnson "will come see us later on to see if there are other modifications that need to be made." The figure of Johnson was unveiled on social media last week by the Grevin Museum, which draws nearly 800,000 visitors a year. But a photo intended to promote the new statue drew an outcry from Johnson's fans, ranging from bemusement to anger. One commenter said the figure looked like an "Eastern European plumber." "Why would you white wax (wash) him?" wrote another. Comedian James Andre Jefferson Jr. released an online video mocking the statue, prompting Johnson to respond. Jefferson said in the video that The Rock was being made to look like former England soccer star David Beckham or "part of the Royal family." "I'm low-key offended," said Jefferson. In 2018, the museum drew similar mockery for an unflattering figure of French President Emmanuel Macron. Producing a Grevin sculpture takes six months and costs 50,000 to 60,000 euros ($60-70,000). The post Museum to fix Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson waxwork after skin tone complaints appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Brownlee formula
The issue surrounding Justin Brownlee is a major blackeye to Philippine basketball. It is yet another heartbreaker for Filipinos, who were hoping and praying to see the national team reassert its dominance in the international arena. For the longest time, the Filipinos had struggled internationally. In the Asian Games, for instance, the Philippines emerged victorious in its first four editions — 1951 in New Delhi, 1954 in Manila, 1958 in Tokyo, and 1962 in Jakarta before suffering a string of frustrating finishes. The closest we got to the gold medal was in 1990 when the Basketball Association of the Philippines tasked the Philippine Basketball Association with assembling a team that would reclaim our Asian glory. It was a tall order at the time as the Philippines was coming off a bitter setback at the hands of Malaysia in the 1989 Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur. The BAP knew that only an Asian crown would soothe the pain of a nation craving revenge. But it didn’t happen. Coached by Robert “Sonny” Jaworski, the team bannered by Allan Caidic, Benjie Paras, Ramon Fernandez, Samboy Lim, and Chito Loyzaga surrendered to powerhouse China featuring Shan Tao and Ma Jian in the gold medal match. Eight years later, Tim Cone was given the marching orders to assemble another star-studded squad to represent the country in the Bangkok Asian Games in 1998. But like Jaworski, his bitter coaching nemesis at the time, Cone was also unsuccessful as his Centennial Team had to settle for bronze behind China and South Korea. In the next edition in Busan in 2002, hopes were high. Despite a sudden coaching change after American mentor Ron Jacobs suffered a stroke in the final stretch of preparations, Jong Uichico was still able to form a solid team that had a mix of Filipino-foreign stars like Asi Taulava, Eric Menk, and Rudy Hatfield, as well as homegrown stars like Olsen Racela, Kenneth Duremdes, and Danny Ildefonso. But fate wrote a cruel script. The Philippines was ahead, 68-66, in the final 23.9 seconds of the semifinal clash against South Korea. A victory would have sent the Filipinos to the gold medal match against China, while a setback would relegate them to a battle for bronze against Kazakhstan. Racela was at the charity stripe for a chance to ice the game and seal the victory. But he missed both free shots. In a shocking — and heartbreaking — turn of events, Korean gunner Lee Sang Min buried a long three-pointer off a broken play at the buzzer that sent the host country to the finals. The players were crushed while a river of tears flowed through the streets of Manila as the entire country couldn’t believe how merciless the basketball gods could be. Since then, Philippine basketball has been reduced to a mere footnote in Asian basketball. We bombed out of the medal podium in Doha in 2006 and Guangzhou in 2010. We even suffered international embarrassment when head coach Chot Reyes instructed naturalized player Marcus Douthit to shoot at our own basket in Incheon in 2014. In 2018, a legitimate National Basketball Association campaigner, Jordan Clarkson, came along and was billed as the hero who would save Philippine basketball. But he was unsuccessful. The Filipinos’ string of misfortunes continued as Gilas Pilipinas settled for fifth place. Then here came Brownlee, tapped to see action as a naturalized player in the Hangzhou Asian Games. The 35-year-old American was tasked to power a team already familiar to him — guys he had been playing with for more than five years. The coach — Cone — had been his mentor since he arrived in Manila in 2016 and led Barangay Ginebra San Miguel to six PBA titles while winning three Best Import honors. There was no honeymoon period to speak of. He hit the ground running. The result was impressive as Brownlee dropped 36 points to lead Gilas Pilipinas to a razor-thin 84-83 win over Iran in the quarterfinals, before dropping back-to-back three-point bombs in their miraculous 77-76 victory over host China in the semifinals. The Filipinos won their first gold medal in 61 years following a 70-60 victory over Jordan in the final, but an asterisk was attached to the victory after Brownlee tested positive for Carboxy-THC, a banned substance linked to the use of cannabis. At this point, it is unknown whether Brownlee will contest the findings or how long his possible suspension will be. What is clear is that Brownlee made a tremendous impact on Philippine basketball as he proved that the best way to win an international title is to field a naturalized player who is very familiar with the Filipinos’ style of play. Brownlee may not be as exciting and flashy as Clarkson or as tall as Douthit and Blatche, but he knows Philippine basketball like the back of his hand. It’s time for the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas to create more Justin Brownlees by recruiting young foreign players who are willing to stay in the country for a longer period — not just to earn and play as imports in the PBA — but to win the hearts and minds of these basketball-crazy Filipinos. Brownlee’s professional career is in great peril, and we may not see him don the Gilas or Ginebra jerseys again. But we should always remember his most significant contribution to Philippine basketball. Nope, it wasn’t the incredible play he delivered against China or how he stood his ground against Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and the powerful Jordanians that led to the country’s first Asian Games title in 61 years. His most important contribution was the idea that to gain international success, the federation must recruit a naturalized player not based on skills, height, or popularity but on his love, respect, and dedication to the country he wishes to represent. The post Brownlee formula appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
McKeown becomes first woman to hold every backstroke world record
Australian Kaylee McKeown said she was "super stoked" after becoming the first woman to hold world records in all three backstroke disciplines by smashing the 50m mark. The 22-year-old clocked 26.86 seconds at the World Cup in Budapest on Friday to better the previous best of 26.98 set by China's Liu Xiang in 2018. "I am super stoked with that," said McKeown, who is a red-hot favorite to dominate in the pool at next year's Paris Olympics. "The only thing I can keep doing is training hard and keep believing in myself and believing in my coach. "I never saw myself as a sprinter so it's really nice to have that under my belt. "Next year is going to be a really tough year so the more confidence I can build, the better," she added. McKeown has held the 100m world record since June 2021 and bagged the 200m in March. She swept the 50m, 100m and 200m backstroke titles at the world championships in July and also owns the Olympic 100m and 200m golds. The 50m back is not contested at the Olympics. mp/smw © Agence France-Presse The post McKeown becomes first woman to hold every backstroke world record appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NBA: James Harden skips 76ers practice again, ‘unlikely’ to play in preseason finale
CAMDEN, N.J.— Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden skipped NBA practice Thursday for the second straight day, with the team officially saying the disgruntled player is away because of a personal matter. “I think the organization has made it clear what’s going on,” coach Nick Nurse said at the 76ers’ New Jersey complex. “They’re working on stuff, as we say, day by day. We had a really good practice today. Very energetic. The guys that were here, that’s what we’re focused on.” Harden has yet to play in the preseason. He did attend training camp and continued to practice with the 76ers in the wake of his offseason trade demand. Harden said last week his fractured relationship with team president Daryl Morey could not be repaired — comparing it to a broken marriage — and said over the summer that he could not play for the 76ers. Part of Harden’s complaint stems from his belief he should have earned a long-term contract with the Sixers after last season. It never came, thus the trade demand. Harden, who was evasive last week about the status of his trade demand, said he could try to play in the Sixers’ preseason finale on Friday against Atlanta. Nurse, in his first season, said Harden playing in the finale now seems “unlikely.” “It’s been ongoing for a long time now,” Nurse said. “I’ve got a job to do with the guys that are here, and we just go to work. If that changes, we’ll adjust. That’s what we do.” Harden has been one of the league’s top players for the past decade, winning three scoring titles and the 2018 league MVP award. He led the league in assists last season. RELATED STORIES NBA: James Harden fined $100,000 for public comments about status with 76ers No time to relax, says Harden after leading Houston over New Orleans.....»»
‘We must not forget’: Thailand marks cave rescue anniversary
Hundreds of people gathered on Monday to mark the five-year anniversary of the dramatic rescue against impossible odds of 12 young footballers from a flooded cave in northern Thailand. Now in their late teens, the boys and their coach, Ekkapol Chantawong, descended into the spotlit chambers of the Tham Luang cave complex to pay tribute to the thousands of people who worked for 18 days and nights to get them out. The "Wild Boars" team had entered the caves in June 2018 and were trapped when rains flooded the complex, emerging after a daring international rescue operation to global acclaim. "If it weren't for these people we wouldn't have survived, and wouldn't have been alive this day," Ekkapol said. "I'd like to say thank you to all of you from the bottom of my heart." But the joyful anniversary was tinged with sadness following the death of 17-year-old captain Duangpetch Promthep, who passed away while on a football scholarship in Britain earlier this year. His former teammates each laid white flowers at a memorial image of him outside the caves, surrounded by crowds in the bright sunlight and vivid jungle flora. A video tribute was also played inside the cave for ex-Chiang Rai governor Narongsak Osatanakorn, who won plaudits for his handling of the incident, and who died last month. "We must not forget the efforts of everyone involved in the rescue mission, especially of those who are no longer here with us," said Varawut Silpa-archa, minister of natural resources and environment. Offerings were also made to Jao Mae Nang Nong -- a legendary princess said to be the spirit of the caves in which she supposedly died, and who was frequently invoked for strength during the rescue. Miraculous rescue The boys were on a day trip to the cave complex on June 23, 2018, when heavy rains flooded the complex via underground waterways. They were feared dead until two British cave divers negotiated a series of narrow waterways and corridors and found them on July 2, trapped in a deep chamber, four kilometers (2.5 miles) from the entrance. The next hurdle was safely moving the boys and their coach out of the caves. In a highly risky operation, they were sedated, dressed in wetsuits and breathing apparatus, and hauled through the complex by foreign cave hobbyists, expert divers, and a team of Thai navy SEALs including Saman Kunan, who died during the rescue. Despite the odds, the boys and their coach all made it out alive. Adul Sam-on, one of the footballers who shot to fame after he thanked the divers who found them in English, was granted Thai nationality following the rescue, as were his coach and two teammates. Speaking on Monday, the now-19-year-old said he had just graduated high school in the United States, and would shortly be attending university. While there has been a steady stream of books, TV series, and film adaptations of the rescue, the boys themselves have mostly kept out of the limelight. Mongkol Booneiam, known as Mark, said he still lives -- and plays football -- in a nearby village. "If I have free time then I'd try to go play," he said. The post ‘We must not forget’: Thailand marks cave rescue anniversary appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Yes, anybody can fly with aerial arts
photograph courtesy of Lariza Jane E. Cabaltierra AERIAL silks. photograph courtesy of Kate Cometa AERIAL hammock. Zendaya as circus aerialist Anne Wheeler in the 2017 musical drama film The Greatest Showman is truly captivating. But do you know that you can also do her aerial tricks? Well, yes, if you take lessons in aerial arts, which are offered in local studios. Aerial arts is a type of performance in which one or more artists perform aerial dance and acrobatics with the use of an apparatus, such as hoop, silks and hammock as the most common ones. Aerial hoop Aerial hoop (also known as lyra) looks a lot like hula hoop, though made of steel and suspended from an overhead point upon which a performer can do tricks while spinning. Nesh Zamora teaches aerial hoop at Elite Aerial Arts, which she co-owns. She began her aerial arts journey in 2012. She was then engaged to be married and weighed about 138 pounds, so she wanted to slim down to fit nicely into her wedding gown. She “chanced upon” a dance and fitness studio around the Ortigas area, where she discovered pole fitness, dance and eventually, aerial arts. She fell in love with aerial hoop and silks that she continued taking lessons in different studios in Metro Manila and in the United States even after she achieved her ideal weight. “It was a slow start for me,” she recalls. “I needed to psych myself to believe that I can be at par with the other girls in class. Would you believe it took me six sessions to just be able to climb the aerial fabric? There are no shortcuts in learning aerial arts. It is truly for everyone as long as they are willing to put in the work.” Zamora says she started teaching aerial hoop and silks in 2014, after taking “intensive classes from known aerialists in countries like Thailand, Hong Kong and the US.” Today, she also teaches and performs (during parties or corporate events) aerial silks and hammock, as well as less common types like aerial straps, cube, moon and lyrapole. She recommends aerial arts not only for only for its health and health and confidence-boosting benefits but also the friendships formed among students and teachers. “Whatever lifestyle, gender, age and even weight you may have when you enter our studio, you will end your first session knowing that aerial arts is for you.” Tips for new students: 1. Make sure you choose a studio with qualified instructors and which puts premium to student safety in terms of the quality of equipment used and instruction pacing. 2. Come to class with an open mind. 3. Try out all types of aerial equipment to see what excites you the most. 4. Listen and watch intently. Don’t be shy to ask your instructors to repeat or demonstrate what is being taught. 5. Enjoy and document your progression by taking photos and videos. 6. Never compromise your safety. Elite Aerial Arts Address: 143-3 Maginhawa St., Sikatuna Village, Quezon City. Website: eliteaerialarts.com. FB: Elite Aerial Arts, IG: @eliteaerialartsph. Aerial silks Aerial silks (also referred to as tissu, fabric and ribbon) are two long pieces of fabric made of not silks but a blend of polyster-lycra or nylon tricot that measure at least 16 meters each. These fabrics are draped down from a single point, which is then connected on a ceiling or outdoor rig using steel or aluminum hardware. The performer will climb the silks and do different kinds of sequences on them. Lariza Jane E. Cabaltierra is an aerial instructor at Idanceph dance studio and a junior member of the Whiplash Dance Company. In 2014, or merely a year after she learned aerial silks, this former teacher of ballet for kids made the cut in the Hall of Fame of TV5’s Talentadong Pinoy with her stunning performance. Over the years, she’s learned many other apparatuses, such as hoop, hammock, chandelier, moon and helix. She says not to believe in misconceptions that aerial arts is only for women who are young, strong and have a dance background. “It’s a step-by-step process. Little by little, your body will become strong and you will have confidence that you can do the tricks. As long as you’re happy with what you are doing, just keep going. What matters is what your heart wants.” Tips for new students: 1. Wear comfortable clothing that is suitable for the class you will be attending. 2. Do some proper warm-ups before class starts. 3. Expect more laughter and be ready to surprise yourself. 4. If you have a health concern, don’t be shy or don’t hesitate to tell the teacher or coach about it. 5. Be friendly, so you can make new friends and have a support system. 6. Most of all, just enjoy the class. Idanceph Address: #96 Maginhawa St., M Place Building, Diliman, Quezon City. FB: Idanceph. Aerial hammock Aerial hammock (also called slings) is similar to the one used in aerial yoga or aerial fitness, but with a much longer fabric, so the performer can do more tricks while spinning. Kate Cometa teaches aerial hammock at Beast House Pole and Aerial Dance Studio. She discovered aerial arts in 2016, when, as she tells it, “life had me all kinds of confused,” especially in her relationships and career choices, while suffering from insomnia and anxiety. “When I started in aerial silks, I looked more like a flailing sausage than a graceful aerialist. For two whole months, I couldn’t even manage a simple invert.” But she didn’t give up and even became “obsessed” with aerial arts, not minding “spending all my money on class cards and super cool aerial outfits.” She then joined her first recital and realized that it wasn’t just a hobby but already her “heart and soul.” She also ventured into hoop and silks, and even outside her comfort zone with pole dance. In 2018, she started teaching aerial hammock and joined her first competition, the Philippine Aerial Cup, in the amateur women pole division. “The most important thing is to allow yourself to be a beginner and fully enjoy the class,” Cometa points out. “There’s no need to worry about your fitness background or any preconceived notion. Everyone is welcome. It’s an inclusive community that embraces diversity and celebrates the uniqueness of each individual.” Tips to new students: 1. Listen to your teacher and truly know your body parts, both left and right. It may sound simple, but you’d be surprised how often we forget those essential details when we’re hanging in the air. 2. Approach your aerial journey with an open heart that is ready to accept new things, embrace challenges and love every step of the process. It’s through this openness that you’ll find the true magic of aerial arts. 3. Let the guidance and expertise of your instructor sink in and trust that they are there to support you on your incredible journey. (Cometa leads the aerial flow workshop in Cebu on 8 to 10 July.) Beast House Pole and Aerial Dance Studio Address: 2nd Floor, Pioneer Centre, United Street corner Pioneer St., Kapitolyo, Pasig City. FB: Beast Home Pole and Aerial Dance Studio. IG: @beasthomeph. The post Yes, anybody can fly with aerial arts appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Who will be this year’s Miss Manila?
Miss Manila is a project of the City of Manila to look for a Manileña that embodies the values of empowerment and leadership to deliver meaningful contributions to her life and to her fellow Manilans. Twenty “#WomanofWorth” candidates for Miss Manila 2023 were recently introduced at a presscon in Rizal Park Hotel. Displaying elegance and confidence, the ladies showcased their cocktail attire and swimsuits and impressed the audience with their intelligence and quick-wittedness. More than 50 beautiful women were screened to be part of this year’s edition, but only 20 candidates made it to the final cut. They are Jean Maxene Asay (Intramuros); Sheryl Ann Azucena (Ugbo Tondo); Bea Cecilio (Otis Pandacan); Shane Clamor (Zamora Pandacan); Hannah Therese Cruz (Sampaloc); Anna Carres de Mesa (Sta. Mesa); Leah Lei Gerosanib (Don Bosco Tondo); Charlynn Anne Icban (Blumentritt); Princess Keith Venus Lagata (Balut Tondo); Gabrielle Lantzer (Malate); Allaine Nuez (Punta Sta. Ana); Angela Okol (Paco); Karen Nicole Piccio (Pureza Sta. Mesa); Rethy Rosa (Maceda Sampaloc); Charmaine Salazar (Padre Faura); Juvyel Anne Saluta (Pandacan); Francine Tajanlangit (Roxas Boulevard); Julie Tarrayo (Sta. Cruz); Rycca Timog (Tayuman); at Ma. Theresa Villamor (Baseco Port Area). The candidates attended a pasarela masterclass with pageant coach and founder of Kagandahang Flores Rodgil Flores, assisted by pasarela trainer Enan Cruz; a makeup session with celebrity make-up artist Lala Flores; and a masterclass in handling the Q&A portion of pageants. The grand coronation night will be on Friday evening, 23 June, at the Metropolitan Theater, to be hosted by Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray. Performing during the coronation are rapper Kritiko, violinist Jo Bry Cimafranca and Angeline Quinto, who sang the pageant theme song. The Miss Manila beauty pageant is presented by the City of Manila, Department of Tourism, Culture, and the Arts of Manila, Kreativden Entertainment, and co-presented by the Philippine Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry and San Miguel Corporation. The post Who will be this year’s Miss Manila? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Estafa convict nabbed
Manila Police District operatives arrested a 65-year-old man over the weekend in Malate, Manila. The suspect was identified as Nicanor Laserang, a resident of Legaspi Street corner Gomez Street, Roxas City. Laserang was arrested on a warrant issued in 2018 by Judge Bonifacia Ramos of Branch 3 of the Roxas City Municipal Trial Court for the service of a sentence of 11 years for estafa. Laserang was arrested in front of the Manila Residence Tower II along Taft Avenue, Malate, Manila. He peacefully surrendered to the apprehending officers during the implementation of the court order. He was detained at the custodial facility of the Manila Police District pending the issuance of a commitment order. The arrest of Laserang was part of the continuous efforts of the Manila Police District under P/Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon to apprehend wanted persons and bring them to justice. The post Estafa convict nabbed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Laput makes heads turn
Rookie Shevana Laput did not disappoint on her first start for De La Salle University in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament. Fresh from a long Holy Week break, the semifinals-bound Lady Spikers turned to the Filipino-Australian recruit for points at the opposite position during their clinical 25-15, 25-16, 25-16 win over University of the Philippines on Sunday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City. The 6-foot-1 Laput, who saw limited minutes in La Salle’s first 10 games, produced nine points to help her squad get back on the winning track after seeing its nine-game winning streak snapped before the long lull. Long-time Lady Spikers assistant coach Noel Orcullo was not surprised at all with Laput’s output. La Salle did not waste time in developing Laput during the break as an added weapon on the wing to give head coach Ramil de Jesus another opposite spiker option besides veteran Baby Jyne Soreno with Leila Cruz sidelined for the rest of the season due to a right knee injury she sustained at the start of the second round. “Actually, we expected that performance from her since we focused on preparing her for the role during the Holy Week. So, we really expected her to deliver,” Orcullo said. Laput expressed gratitude for the trust given to her despite being one of the new members of the Lady Spikers, who are eyeing to reclaim the crown it last held back in 2018. “It feels great. It just shows that I developed and improved as a player and the coaches trust my abilities to have me play in the first six. It's great and it's an honor,” Laput said. The towering spiker played an inspired game with her family including brother James, who plays for Magnolia Hotshots in the Philippine Basketball Association, watching live. “It's a great feeling that my family is supporting me. My mom and my little sister, actually, surprised me this week. They came on Thursday. It's their first time watching a live game,” the head-turner said. “I'm definitely nervous having them there supporting me, it feels like I need to perform (well). It's a great feeling to know that your family is there supporting you.” With its 13th straight Final Four appearance secured, La Salle now shifts its sights on clinching a twice-to-beat advantage in the semis. The Lady Spikers battle Adamson University on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena to assure themselves of at least a playoff for a Final Four bonus. After that La Salle will face Ateneo de Manila University on 23 April before wrapping up the elimination round against winless University of the East on 29 April. Orcullo bared La Salle’s coaching staff has been preparing Laput to play a much bigger role in the coming games. “We need to build her confidence with the second round drawing to a close,” he said. “So that heading into the semifinals and hopefully in the finals, she will have that confidence in her and that anytime her number is called she’ll be able to deliver.” The post Laput makes heads turn appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Acaylar repays Perpetual trust
University of Perpetual Help System Dalta coach Sammy Acaylar is repaying the trust given to him by leading the Altas to its third straight title in the men’s volleyball tournament of the National Collegiate Athletic Association. Acaylar said the trust given to him by the school has never changed, inspiring him to work hard to lead the Altas to the NCAA title year in and year out. Since getting hired in 1984, Acaylar led Perpetual to a 13 NCAA crowns to tie with Letran College for the most number of championships in the country’s oldest collegiate league. “My goal every year is for Perpetual to win. This is for the Perpetual community and for the Tamayo family,” said Acaylar, expressing gratitude to the family of Perpetual owner Dr. Antonio Tamayo. “I’m not thinking about getting the best coach or any individual awards. The only thing that is on my mind is winning.” With Acaylar, who was part of the coaching staff of the team that won the country’s last gold medal in the women’s volleyball event of the Southeast Asian Games in 1993, at the helm, the Altas were unstoppable. They swept the eliminations to gain an outright spot in the best-of-three finals against San Beda University, who survived the grueling step-ladder phase. The Altas won Game 1, 25-20, 25-16, 25-22 but the Red Spikers froze the series at 1-1 after registering a 17-25, 25-27, 25-22, 25-13, 15-11 win, snapping the Altas’ 32-game winning streak dating back to 19 February 2018. But in Game 3 last Sunday, Perpetual pulled off a 25-21, 25-20, 22-25, 25-22 win to finally complete the coveted three-peat behind Season 98 league and Finals Most Valuable Player Louie Ramirez, Jeff Marapoc, Michael Medalla and KC Andrade, JC Eneraciso and libero Philip Pepito. Acaylar said it’s discipline and dedication that fuels Perpetual to win aside from the school pride that is synonymous to winning. “We have three D’s: discipline, determination and dedication. I even added hard work and commitment to our values and that’s why we’re intact,” Acaylar, who also emerged as Coach of the Year, said. “We would easily get recruits because whenever people mention Perpetual, it’s associated with men’s volleyball.” The post Acaylar repays Perpetual trust appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
San Sebastian recruits ‘reliable ball handler’
San Sebastian College landed a gem of a recruit as it secured the commitment of former Batang Gilas team captain Migs Pascual in the National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball tournament. Newly-appointed Stags coach John Kallos confirmed the development to Daily Tribune, saying that the move is part of their rebuilding program in a bid to reclaim the title they last tasted in 2009. Kallos, who also handles Sarangani in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League, took over as head coach of the Stags, replacing Egay Macaraya following a fruitless stint in Season 98 last year. Although Pascual, a deadshot guard who last saw action playing for University of the East in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, will sit out for a year in compliance with the league’s residency rule, Kallos believes that having the former NCAA juniors champion will ensure the Stags of a dependable ball handler in Season 100. “My point guard is graduating so it’s perfect timing for us to get a reliable ball handler as back up for next season and Migs Pascual will fill that spot,” Kallos said in a telephone conversation. Pascual played for Batang Gilas in the Southeast Asian Basketball Association 2017 Under-16 Championship where the Philippines won the gold medal and the FIBA 2018 Under-17 Championship in Argentina alongside Kai Sotto, now a member of the Gilas Pilipinas men’s team, who is now playing in Japan B. League for the Hiroshima Dragonflies. Kallos said he is impressed with what he saw with Pascual during the workouts. “The kid has talent. He is a good point guard and has a good range,” Kallos said. “But I want him to be more aggressive. I understand that he wants to get his teammates involved and that’s a mark of a good point guard, but I also want to see how he shoots the basketball because he can hit those outside shots.” “Overall, I like what I’m seeing from Migs and that’s the reason why I included him in the lineup in some of the preseason leagues we’re joining in.” Aside from playing for Batang Gilas, Pascual was also a key figure in San Beda’s NCAA junior champion squad in 2019 that made him one of the promising high school players in the country. The post San Sebastian recruits ‘reliable ball handler’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ex-Batang Gilas skipper Pascual joins San Sebastian
Former Batang Gilas team captain Migs Pascual is headed to San Sebastian in the National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball. Newly installed Stags coach John Kallos confirmed this development to Daily Tribune, saying the move is part of the team’s rebuilding program. Kallos, who also handles Sarangani in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League, took over as head coach of the Stags, replacing Egay Macaraya at the end of the NCAA season. Pascual, however, will sit out for one year to comply with the league’s residency rule. The dependable ball carrier and sharpshooter played for the NCAA juniors champion team San Beda before transferring to the University of the East in the Unversity Athletics Association of the Philippines. “My point guard is graduating, so it’s perfect timing for us to get a reliable point guard as backup for next season and Migs Pascual will fill that spot,” said Kallos in a telephone conversation. Pascual played for Batang Gilas in the SEABA 2017 Under-16 Championship where the Philippines won the gold medal, and the FIBA 2018 Under-17 Championship in Argentina alongside Kai Sotto. Sotto, who was also a member of the Gilas Pilipinas men’s team, is now playing in Japan B. League for the Hiroshima Dragonflies. According to Kallos, he is impressed with what he saw in Pascual during the workouts. “The kid has talent, he’s a good point guard and he’s got good range,” said Kallos. “But I want him to be more aggressive. I understand that he wants to get his teammates involved and that’s a mark of a good point guard, but I also want to see how he shoots the basketball because he can hit those outside shots.” “Overall, I like what I’m seeing from Migs and that’s the reason why I included him in the line up in some of the preseason leagues we’re joining in,” the mentor added. Aside from playing for Batang Gilas, Pascual was also a key figure in San Beda’s NCAA junior champion squad in 2019, which made him one of the most promising high school players in the country. The post Ex-Batang Gilas skipper Pascual joins San Sebastian appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mavericks fined $750,000 after benching stars in Bulls loss
The Dallas Mavericks have been fined $750,000 fine after controversially fielding a weakened team in their loss to the Chicago Bulls earlier this month, the NBA said Friday. The NBA said the Mavericks' abrupt decision to hold out five key players in a game they had to win in order to have a chance of reaching the postseason represented "conduct detrimental to the league." "The Dallas Mavericks' decision to restrict key players from fully participating in an elimination game last Friday against Chicago undermined the integrity of our sport," said Joe Dumars, NBA executive vice president and head of basketball operations. "The Mavericks' actions failed our fans and our league." The NBA said the Mavericks' decision was made to improve the franchise's chances of retaining a first-round pick in the 2023 draft. The Mavericks still owe a first-round pick to the New York Knicks as part of the trade for Kristaps Porzingis in 2019. But if the NBA's draft lottery determines they have a top-10 selection, they don't have to give it up. A lower finish in the overall standings increases the odds of drawing a top-10 pick in the lottery. "The Mavericks violated the league's player resting policy and demonstrated through actions and public statements the organization's desire to lose the game in order to improve the chances of keeping its first-round pick in the 2023 NBA Draft," the NBA said in a statement. However, the league said there was no evidence that the players who took to the court for the game were not playing to win. Mavs coach Jason Kidd told reporters before the game that he had intended to field a full-strength side before being informed by billionaire owner Mark Cuban and the front office to rest Kyrie Irving, Tim Hardaway Jr., and key reserves Josh Green, Maxi Kleber, and Christian Wood. "We were going to play until told otherwise," Kidd said. "And today is the day that we've been told that we're going to do something different." It is not the first time Dallas and Cuban have fallen afoul of the NBA over the issue of "tanking." Cuban was fined $600,000 in 2018 after saying in a podcast that he had told players and coaches that "losing is our best option." The post Mavericks fined $750,000 after benching stars in Bulls loss appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Benilde seals perfect season
College of Saint Benilde crushed Lyceum University of the Philippines, 25-19, 25-11, 25-20, to retain the Season 98 National Collegiate Athletic Association women’s volleyball crown via sweep yesterday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan. The Game 2 victory in the best-of-three series was the Lady Blazers’ 29th stretching back to January 2020 and was made possible by the precious contributions of Gayle Pascual, who hit 15 points, and Finals Most Valuable Player Jade Gentapa, who had 13. Also making her presence felt was Cloanne Mondonedo, who had 23 excellent sets. The win, which culminated its perfect season, allowed Saint Benilde to hold a double celebration as it was also head coach Jerry Yee’s 49th birthday. “Honestly, this championship was harder. We had a few five-set games along the way and we had to adjust,” said Yee, who gave the school its third league title. “I’m happy that in the end, we were able to get the championship,” he added. Johna Dolorito was the only Lady Pirate to score in double digits with 11 points. Meanwhile, San Beda University clawed out of a 0-2 hole for a 17-25, 25-27, 25-22, 25-23, 15-11 win over University of Perpetual Help System Dalta in Game 2 of the men’s volleyball tournament. Kenrod Umali and rookie Ralph Cabalsa both scored 19 points each as the Red Spikers snapped the Altas’ 32-game winning streak that started back in Game 2 of the Season 93 Finals against Arellano University on 19 February 2018. Both San Beda and Perpetual will play for all the marbles on Sunday in the same San Juan venue. Red Spikers head coach Ariel de la Cruz said the team’s positive mindset despite the odds proved vital. “It has to start with me. I have to motivate them and elevate them so that whatever mistake that happens, we work together and fix it,” De la Cruz said. “It starts when you enter the court with a smile and enjoy the game.” San Beda started the fifth set with a 6-2 lead and never looked back as Cabalsa fired an off-the-block kill for the win. Season 98 MVP Louie Ramirez led the way for the losers with 32. An awarding ceremony took place before the matches kicked off with individual awards being given to the tournament’s other top performers. John Benedict San Andres of Mapua University was hailed as the 1st Best Outside Spiker while Emilio Aguinaldo College’s Joshua Ramilo took home the 2nd Best Outside Spiker award. Letran College’s Vinze Himzon won both Rookie of the Year and 1st Best Middle Blocker awards while Jethro Cabillan of Arellano University took the 2nd Best Middle Blocker award. Adrian Villados of the Chiefs was hailed as the Season 98 Best Setter with Perpetual’s Joshua Zareno taking the Best Opposite Spiker plum and Lawrence Briones of EAC getting the Best Libero honors. In the women’s tournament, Mary Rhose Dapol was hailed as both the MVP and the 1st Best Outside Spiker of Season 98 with teammates Shaila Omipon and Marian Anday picked the Rookie of the Year and Best Libero, respectively. Gentapa likewise took home the 2nd Best Outside Spiker while teammate Pascual got the tournament’s Best Opposite Spiker title. Lyceum team captain Venice Puzon picked up her second Best Setter diadem with fellow Lady Pirate Jaja Tulang voted as the 2nd Best Middle Blocker. Arellano’s Trina Abay took home the 1st Best Middle Blocker award. The post Benilde seals perfect season appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ex-FEU guard Denok Miranda named Tamaraws men s basketball coach
Miranda, who has served as an assistant for Racela since 2018, was announced as the head tactician of the Tamaraws on Wednesday morning......»»
Akari coach raves over Rivera after PVL scoring feat
A good three markers clear of the old record set by then-BanKo Perlas import Kia Bright back in 2018, the three-time Olympian towed her team to a much-needed victory as the debuting squad chases a slot in the next round......»»
Ex-Philippine coach named ice hockey program director for Fil-Am talents
De Castro, who led the Philippines to a bronze medal finish in the Challenge Cup of Asia held in Manila in 2018, will oversee and cultivate Fil-Am ice hockey prospects......»»
Home Base: Michael Martinez chronicles road to 2022 Winter Olympics
On hiatus since the 2018 Winter Games, Martinez shares about his struggles in reaching another Olympic berth, as well as his experience with his new coach Nikolai Mozorov......»»
Former UST star earns raves from Ginebra coach for his versatility
By JEREMIAH SEVILLA SMART CLARK GIGA CITY– Aljon Mariano drew NBA-like comparisons from no less than coach Tim Cone. Cone said Mariano’s playstyle for Barangay Ginebra can be compared to Miami’s Andre Iguodala and Golden State’s Draymond Green, who are both undersized role players. “He’s a guy we really […].....»»