We are sorry, the requested page does not exist
Stable power supply vital to economic prosperity
If there’s anyone in the world who has circled the globe extensively, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken wins hands down......»»
Mikey Belmonte bags Water Warrior Award
Quezon City Councilor Belmonte was conferred the “Water Warrior Award for Advocacy Leadership” during the 2024 World Water Day Awards in recognition of his contributions as an active partner of Maynilad in championing access to safe water, reliable sanitation and environmental responsibility......»»
Sabalenka wins with heavy heart
World number two Aryna Sabalenka returned to the court for the first time since the death of her former boyfriend earlier this week and kept her emotions in check as she beat Spain’s Paula Badosa, 6-4 6-3 on Friday......»»
The Best-Dressed Support the Best Cause
The pink carpet was finally rolled out for the Philippine Cancer Society’s annual Best Dressed Women of the Philippines Awards Ball! We recently celebrated a milestone year for the event at 20 years. Or those are two decades of making a difference in the lives of so many of our kababayans! The impact of this event continues to grow every year, that’s why we continue to give it our full support. Take it from me — an Ambassador for Life for over a decade! So it’s no surprise the Grand Ballroom at Shangri-La The Fort was packed. Hundreds of exquisitely dressed ladies and gentlemen showed up to help the Philippine Cancer Society surpass its goals yet again. I could feel the good vibes in the air with everyone buzzing and happy to be there. It was the perfect atmosphere for the night. [caption id="attachment_193064" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Nene Leonor[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193043" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Shilpa Tolani and Judith Tan.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193042" align="aligncenter" width="531"] Sheila Romero, Frannie Jacinto and Linda Ley.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193063" align="aligncenter" width="401"] Consul Helen Ong accepted the Legacy Award.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193067" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Ramon Orlina, Richie Lerma and RJ Ledesma.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193045" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Nini Licaros, Toots Tolentino, Thelma Sioson San Juan, Randy Ortiz, Henri Calayag and Tonichi Nocom.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193054" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Dra. Elsie Pascua and Ruby Chua.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193044" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Tiffany Syson Cuña.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193062" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Lovelyn Segovia[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193065" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Nikki Tang[/caption] All eyes were on the pink carpet, with a full program of ladies and gentlemen who presented their most attractive selves on the ramp, highlighted by a special auction of a new Orlina sculpture worth P2.4 Million. Congratulations to Bobby Alvarez for acquiring this piece! We were also welcomed with a speech by the queen of the BDWP, Tita Helen Ong herself. I will always be in awe of her dedication and commitment! [caption id="attachment_193068" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Patrick Cue, Jojo Silvestre and Paolo Cue.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193056" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Harold Co and Flora Chua.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193058" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Jacqueline Michelle Lim, Mags Cue and Carol Mercado.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193066" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Ofelia Wadle and Bong Prada Lim.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193041" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Senator Dick Gordon and Mario Katigbak.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193057" align="aligncenter" width="525"] THE columnist, Helen Ong, Bobby Alvarez and wife Claire.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193053" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Dana Silverio[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193051" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Cocoy Cordoba[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193052" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Crystal Jacinto[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193047" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Aj Olpindo, Ces Rodriguez and Nini Licaros.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193048" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Atty. Salvador Panelo and Bo Muralla.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193049" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Caroline Galang Taojo[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193050" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Ching and Philip Cruz.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193059" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Jennifer Weigel and Anna Sia.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_193061" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Katrina Ponce Enrile and Malou Martinez.[/caption] The spotlight was without a doubt on the men and women who strutted their stuff: The Men of Influence, which includes my wonderful hubby, Wopsy Zamora; this year's Best Dressed Women; and even the Ambassadors for Life. Yup, I got the chance to walk down the pink carpet, too! A few more conversations and picture taking galore, and just like that, it was time to go home. Happily, because the event was a resounding success. Again, congratulations to the people committed to this cause, from Tita Helen Ong and the organizing team, to this year’s awardees. And of course, everyone who attended and gave their full support. Cheers, everyone! See you all again next year. The post The Best-Dressed Support the Best Cause appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
John Arcilla pinayagang gumawa ng teleserye sa GMA, posible ring magkaroon ng international project
UMAASA ang award-winning actor na si John Arcilla na muli niyang makakatrabaho ang GMA. Ito ang inihayag ng batikang aktor matapos siyang tanungin ng ilang entertainment press sa naganap na ABS-CBN Ball 2023 kung magiging parte nga ba siya ng gagawing sequel ng “Encantadia.” Kung maaalala, si John ang gumanap sa karakter bilang “Hagorn” sa.....»»
‘Hercules’ actor Kevin Sorbo thinks Timothée Chalamet is killing ‘real masculinity’
American actor and producer Kevin Sorbo, who starred as the Greek demigod Hercules in the 1990s show Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, is angry about allegedly being “canceled” by Hollywood for his conservative views and Christian beliefs. In a controversial essay titled “Make Hollywood Manly Again” published on Fox News, the actor griped about how Hollywood and the media are supposedly putting traditional male roles in a negative light. “Fathers, in particular, have become the butt of every woke Hollywood jab, the bumbling, useless idiots who contribute nothing to their families or communities, but sacrifice themselves as objects of ridicule,” Sorbo wrote. Lamenting the rise of female-centric “girl boss” films in recent years, Sorbo complained that men are now portrayed as the “impotent sitcom father” and the “brutish he-man who only abuses his strength and makes a mockery of masculinity.” [caption id="attachment_189784" align="aligncenter" width="318"] Timothée Chalamet[/caption] The right-wing actor reserved particular venom for actors Timothée Chalamet and Billy Porter for their androgynous fashion sense. “Society today seriously misunderstands masculinity. On the one hand, we love to normalize androgynous, Billy Porter-type men who sport skirts and poofy dresses,” Sorbo wrote. As for Chalamet: “Let’s just say your grandfather wouldn’t have been caught dead dressed like Chalamet.” Chalamet has been acclaimed for redefining modern men’s fashion and style. His eclectic and atypical roles in films have been reflected in his unique and bold personal style on the red carpet. [caption id="attachment_189785" align="aligncenter" width="316"] Billy Porter[/caption] The Call Me By Your Name superstar was a head-turner at the premiere of his 2018 film Beautiful Boy with a statement tuxedo by Alexander McQueen in a graphic floral motif that gave a fresher and more youthful look to the standard male formal get-up. In 2022, the Oscar-nominated actor once again dominated fashion headlines when he wore a sleeveless and backless Haider Ackermann custom red halter-neck top at his red-carpet appearance for the romantic horror film Bones and All. Porter, a Tony, Grammy and Emmy award-winning actor, is likewise regarded as a fashion icon for flaunting genderless clothing in his public appearances. Exhibit A was his appearance at the 91st Academy Awards, where he wore a velvet tuxedo jacket paired with a ball gown. The post ‘Hercules’ actor Kevin Sorbo thinks Timothée Chalamet is killing ‘real masculinity’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Taylor Swift turns out for Chiefs game stoking Kelce romance rumors
Pop star Taylor Swift added fuel to the rumors around her possible relationship with NFL star Travis Kelce when she was seen watching him in action alongside the Super Bowl winner's mother on Sunday. Swift attended the Kansas City Chiefs' home game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday and was seen in the Kelce family box with the tight end's mother, Donna. The 12-time Grammy award-winning singer was filmed wearing a red and white Chiefs jacket and cheering alongside Donna Kelce -- who gained nationwide attention when both her sons featured in last season's Super Bowl. Travis Kelce won his second Super Bowl ring with the Chiefs in February while older sibling Jason ended up on the losing side with the Philadelphia Eagles. Travis Kelce said this week on ESPN's Pat McAfee Show that he had invited Swift to attend a game. "I threw it out there. I threw the ball in her court. You know, I told her, 'I've seen you rock the stage in Arrowhead, you might have to come see me rock the stage in Arrowhead and see which one's a little more lit,'" he said. "We'll see what happens in the near future," added the 33-year-old Kelce, who is widely considered one of the best tight ends in NFL history. The post Taylor Swift turns out for Chiefs game stoking Kelce romance rumors appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Taylor Swift, Shakira shine at MTV Video Music Awards
Taylor Swift cleaned up at Tuesday's MTV Video Music Awards and won the evening's top trophy, as Shakira accepted the night's prestigious Video Vanguard honor with a hip-shaking, career-spanning performance. Swift continued her global reign by scooping awards including Best Song, Best Pop and Best Direction, as well as the top competitive award for Video of the Year, which she won for her hit "Anti-Hero." Turn-of-the-millennium teen heartthrobs NSYNC reunited onstage for the first time in a decade to present her with the Best Pop award, leaving Swift, who is poised to post the first billion-dollar tour, fanning her cheeks. "This is unbelievable," Swift said as she accepted the night's top prize, which she also took home in 2022. "I just want to say that the fact that this is a fan-voted award means so much to me." But she didn't perform on the night known far more for its spectacle than its awards, instead sipping her drink as artists including Olivia Rodrigo, Anitta and Doja Cat took the stage. The made-for-broadcast show, held this year in Newark's Prudential Center, frequently panned to Swift who was seated near the main stage next to Ice Spice, the viral Bronx rapper who has collaborated with the pop phenom and who won the evening's prize for Best New Artist. A camera operator was reportedly tasked with filming Swift for the show's entire duration. The nearly four-hour show that included some 20 performances ended without handing out awards in a number of categories, however, including for Artist of the Year, which for the first time was an all-women slate including Swift, Shakira and Beyonce. Lil Wayne opened the show in a nod to this year's 50th anniversary of hip hop, and Sean Combs -- known by his stage names Puff Daddy, Puffy, P. Diddy and Diddy -- delivered a career-spanning performance as he accepted the night's Global Icon lifetime achievement award. "This is so surreal," said the 53-year-old from Harlem. "I started out as a paper boy." [caption id="attachment_183305" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Colombian singer Shakira performs onstage during the MTV Video Music Awards at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, on 12 September 2023. (Photo by Timothy A. CLARY / AFP)[/caption] And it was Shakira who scored the night's most prestigious honor for lifetime achievement, the Video Vanguard award that celebrates music video innovations. The Colombian performer, 46, stole the show as she performed her signature hip swings and pops, singing a bilingual medley including "She Wolf," "Te Felicito," "Objection (Tango)," "Whenever, Wherever" and "Hips Don't Lie." Wearing a glittering, nude ensemble, the artist finished her set by crowd-surfing to a platform that then elevated her high above a screaming crowd of fans and peers. "Thank you MTV. Thank you for being such a big part of my career since I was only 18 years old," she said. Afrobeats and Bongos Rapper Nicki Minaj hosted the event for the second consecutive year, also debuting live her newest single, "Last Time I Saw You," which is slated for release on her album "Pink Friday 2" in November. She won the night's award for Best Hip Hop, for "Super Freaky Girl." [caption id="attachment_183306" align="aligncenter" width="1707"] US rapper and singer Nicki Minaj arrives for the MTV Video Music Awards at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, on 12 September 2023. (Photo by ANGELA WEISS / AFP)[/caption] Minaj also participated in the evening's tribute to five decades of hip hop, which also saw Lil Wayne return to the stage for a medley performance that included pioneers Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick, LL Cool J, DMC of Run-DMC, and Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five. Earlier Doja Cat ignited the crowd as she performed a medley of "Attention," "Paint The Town Red" and "Demons," donning a sexy skirtsuit situation she slowly loosened as she danced, meanwhile unfurling a long blonde mane. Best R&B went to SZA, who did not attend, while South Korea's Stray Kids won the award for Best K-pop and later performed. Nigeria's Rema won the prize for Best Afrobeats, a new category, for his remixed single "Calm Down" featuring Selena Gomez. The song surpassed a billion streams on Spotify over the weekend. "This means so much seeing Afrobeats grow this big," Rema said while accepting the trophy. Brazil's Anitta dropped a booty-shaking dance party of a show with hits including "Funk Rave," which earned the evening's prize for Best Latin. Colombian Karol G was also among the evening's top performers, and she scored a prize with Shakira for Best Collaboration. Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion debuted their live performance of "Bongos," their latest collaboration that follows the resounding success of "WAP." Cardi entered the stage from the ceiling on a disco ball, her hair in loose waves a la Donna Summer. Megan joined her from another stage, and after their respective verses the pair led the audience through a high-energy, twerkified dance breakdown. Pop-punk band Fallout Boy rounded out the millennial nostalgia tour that began the night with NSYNC. The emo rockers performed their updated version of Billy Joel's "We Didn't Start The Fire," hitting major moments of the past three decades in a revamp that includes the line: "YouTube killed MTV." The post Taylor Swift, Shakira shine at MTV Video Music Awards appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bataan gov’t welcomes transshipment port proposal
Bataan is bidding to host the first-ever transshipment port in the country after the successful negotiation of the provincial government with a private infrastructure firm to undertake the multi-billion-peso project. Governor Jose Enrique S. Garcia, Freeport Area of Bataan Director Atty. Joey Angeles and officials of Premium Megastructures Inc. signed on Tuesday the Certificate of Successful Negotiations signaling the local government's acceptance of the proposed Bataan Transshipment Hub. PMI also received a Notice of Award from the provincial capitol to begin consultations with stakeholders, gather valuable input and undertake comprehensive studies in order to obtain the Notice to Proceed with the development of the BTH. “As PMI embarks on this ambitious journey to create the first future-ready transshipment hub in the Philippines, PMI extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Provincial Government of Bataan, the local government of Mariveles, and the people of Bataan for its trust in this collaborative project,” PMI said in a statement. PMI is committed to excellence, sustainability, and ethical practices in undertaking this project, the company added. PMI still has one hurdle to overcome before it can start the ball rolling for the ambitious project. “The next step will be the Swiss challenge,” Angeles said in a text message to this writer. Under the Swiss challenge, another company may submit a better proposal to the Bataan government which the original project proponent has to beat or countermatch to formally clinch the negotiated contract. No details of the BTH were given, but the PMI's website says the transshipment port "promises to usher in a new era of innovation and efficiency in the logistics industry, bringing about a much-needed transformation that will benefit businesses and consumers alike.” PMI also described the BTH as "a game-changer for the Philippine economy by introducing cutting-edge technology in bringing in larger import-export volumes, streamlining supply chains, improving market access, reducing trade barriers, and enhancing logistics infrastructure efficiency." A teaser video of the proposed BTH can be seen on the PMI website. It shows a sprawling containter terminal with several berths and equipped with gantry cranes. The post Bataan gov’t welcomes transshipment port proposal appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Elton John testifies for defense at Spacey sex assault trial
British rock star Elton John on Monday gave evidence as a witness for the defense at the sexual assault trial of Hollywood actor Kevin Spacey. The two-time Oscar winner denies 12 charges concerning four men, including indecent assault, which are alleged to have occurred between 2001 and 2013. Giving evidence via video link from Monaco, the musician, and his husband David Furnish were questioned about Spacey attending an annual ball at their home in Windsor, west of London. One of the alleged victims has accused Spacey of sexually assaulting him while he was driving the actor to the fundraising event, claiming he grabbed "so hard" they nearly came off the road. Spacey, 63, had earlier told the Southwark Crown Court in London that the incident "never happened", adding that he was "not on a suicide mission". He said there had been a mutual flirtation between them and admitted to having touched the man but not in a "violent, aggressive, painful way". Responding to questions from the prosecution, John said he recalled Spacey, dressed in "white tie", attending the fundraising event in the early 2000s. "He was on a flight, he came on a private jet and he came straight to the ball," John told the court, adding that Spacey stayed overnight at their home after the event. "I can't remember him coming after that," John said. Asked if he came straight from the private jet, the singer said, "I assume so, yes". Furnish, who was first to give evidence, also said he remembered Spacey's presence at the social event. "He was an Oscar-winning actor, there was a lot of excitement he was at the ball," the filmmaker told the jury. "Other than attending the ball I have no memory of Kevin coming to the house ever again," he added. 'Like another son' John was among the several celebrities that Spacey mentioned in court when he entered the witness box earlier in the trial. He spoke of giving a ping pong table to actress Judi Dench after they worked on the 2001 film "The Shipping News" together, saying they developed a "lovely friendship". Spacey grew emotional on Monday, dabbing his eyes as the court heard character statements from friends and family. "House" and "Dead Poets Society" star Robert Sean Leonard described Spacey as "positive, supportive, and respectful", while Chris Lemmon, son of "Some Like It Hot" actor Jack Lemmon, said Spacey was "like another son" to his father. Spacey is an Academy Award winner for "The Usual Suspects" and "American Beauty", and was artistic director of London's Old Vic theatre between 2004 and 2015. At the opening of the trial late last month, the prosecution claimed Spacey was a "sexual bully" who reveled in making others feel uncomfortable, including by aggressively grabbing men's crotches. The court has heard from the four alleged victims, who cannot be named for legal reasons, one of whom, a former aspiring actor, said he woke up to Spacey performing a sex act on him, suggesting the actor "drugged" him. Last week Spacey in his testimony denied the sexual assault charges and described the prosecution's case against him as "weak". He has previously told the court his world "exploded" when he was first accused of sexual assault several years ago by US actor Anthony Rapp in the United States, adding that he "lost everything in a matter of days". Rapp's allegations were found not proven last year. The trial continues. The post Elton John testifies for defense at Spacey sex assault trial appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
United States women’s star Rapinoe to retire at end of season
United States women's team star Megan Rapinoe announced on social media on Saturday that she would be retiring from football at the end of this season. "It is with a deep sense of peace & gratitude that I have decided this will be my final season playing this beautiful game," the 38-year-old posted. "I never could have imagined the ways in which soccer would shape and change my life forever," she added. The two-time World Cup winner, well known for her activism, is part of the USA squad for the upcoming women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Rapinoe plays in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) for Seattle based OL Reign -- their season concludes in November. The winger currently has 199 caps over a span of 17 years playing for her country and also won an Olympic gold medal in London in 2012. She was awarded the Best FIFA Women's Player in 2019 but her fame came as much for her espousal of causes and her campaigning as for her skills on the field. Rapinoe publicly came out as gay in July 2012 and has been a high-profile campaigner on social issues including LGBTQ+ rights, racial inequality and gender and pay equality. She was a leading voice in the US women's team's successful fight for equal pay and conditions which resulted in a law suit and eventual new collective agreement being struck in 2021. Rapinoe made headlines in 2016 when she took a knee during the national anthem in solidarity with NFL player Colin Kaepernick. "I've been able to have such an incredible career, and this game has brought me all over the world and allowed me to meet so many amazing people," said Rapinoe. "I feel incredibly grateful to have played as long as I have, to be as successful as we've been, and to have been a part of a generation of players who undoubtedly left the game better than they found it." "To be able to play one last World Cup and one last NWSL season and go out on my own terms is incredibly special," she added. Last July she received the highest civilian honour in the United States when President Joe Biden awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Rapinoe was the first footballer to receive the award and one of just six female athletes or coaches. "Beyond the World Cup title to Olympic medals, Megan is a champion for essential American truth that everyone is entitled to be treated with dignity and respect," Biden said at the award ceremony. "She helped lead the change for perhaps the most important victory for anyone on our soccer team or any soccer team: equal pay for women." US women's team coach Vlatko Andonovski said Rapinoe remained an important part of the team for the World Cup which starts on July 20. "Megan Rapinoe is one of the most important players in women's soccer history and a personality like no other," he said. "She has produced so many memorable moments for her team and the fans on the field that will be remembered for a very long time, but her impact on people as a human being may be even more important. "It's been a wonderful experience to coach her in the NWSL and for the national team and I'm looking forward to her being an important part of our team at the World Cup." The Californian has spent most of her career playing in domestic leagues but had a brief spell in Australia with W-League team Sydney FC in 2011 and two years later played for French club Lyon, reaching the final of the Champions League. At the 2019 World Cup in France, she scored in the 2-0 win over the Netherlands in the final and was named Player of the Match. She won the Golden Boot as top scorer and Golden Ball for best player in the tournament. sev/jc © Agence France-Presse The post United States women’s star Rapinoe to retire at end of season appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Lady Gaga reveals her Chromatica Ball tour is getting a concert film
Award-winning artist Lady Gaga's 2022 "Chromatica Ball" world tour is going to have a film edit......»»
Rebel Wilson — actress, singer, comedian and now director
Pitch Perfect star Rebel Wilson will make her directorial debut with the Australian musical comedy The Deb. The project was announced on Wednesday at the Cannes Film Festival aboard the private yacht of billionaire investor Len Blavatnik, with cast members present. “Because I’ve been on set and have done so many musicals, you kind of pick up things like how to shoot a musical number and how to do the soundtrack, because you’re there and you’re part of it,” Wilson, who will also act in the film, told Variety. Wilson has also produced the films The Hustle and Senior Year for Netflix. The Deb theater production originally premiered at Sydney’s Australian Theater for Young People in 2022. It follows farm girl and high school outcast Taylah Simpkins who thinks the upcoming Debutante Ball, called “the Deb,” is a chance to redefine herself. The Deb will feature Charlotte MacInnes (ATYP’s The Deb), Natalie Abbott (Aftertaste, A Perfect Pairing, Global Creature’s Muriel’s Wedding the Musical) Stevie Jean (2022 winner of NT Music Award for Rock Song of the Year), Tara Morice (Strictly Ballroom, Moulin Rouge, Dance Academy), Jay Laga’aia (Nim’s Island, Star Wars, The Lion King, Wicked) and Shane Jacobson (Kenny, The Bourne Legacy, The Dressmaker, Hairspray). “We’re utilizing the best musical resources in the world and the most fantastic Australian talent to bring this project to the screen,” Wilson added. The Deb will be produced by Amanda Ghost, Len Blavatnik and Gregor Cameron of Unigram, the company behind Tetris and sister company AI Film (I, Tonya, Hacksaw Ridge) with Wilson’s Camp Sugar Productions. The post Rebel Wilson — actress, singer, comedian and now director appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ice Seguerra, Liza Diño organize first ever Manila Pride Ball for LGBTQ community
Former Film Development Council of the Philippines chairman Liza Diño, Ice Seguerra and award-winning director Perci Intalan organized the first ever Manila Pride Ball in the country happening on June 1 at Newport Worlds Resorts in Pasay City......»»
Sixers sweep Nets to advance, Suns on brink as Heat burn Bucks
The Philadelphia 76ers shrugged off the absence of Joel Embiid to complete a 4-0 sweep of the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA playoffs on Saturday as the Phoenix Suns edged closer to a second-round berth by beating the Los Angeles Clippers. The Sixers advanced to an Eastern Conference semi-final showdown against either Boston or Atlanta with a dominant second-half display to seal a 96-88 victory in Brooklyn. Elsewhere in the East, the Miami Heat thrashed the short-handed Milwaukee Bucks 121-99 to edge ahead of the top seeds 2-1 in their best-of-seven series. In Brooklyn, the Sixers trailed by 11 points early in the third quarter but transformed the contest with an 18-4 run to take the lead before closing out victory with a fourth-quarter rally. The Sixers' win was all the more impressive given the absence of star center Embiid, who suffered a right knee sprain in Thursday's 102-97 victory in game three. Embiid led the NBA with 33.1 points a game and is a finalist for the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Paul Reed stepped in to fill the void and finished with 10 points and 15 rebounds. Tobias Harris led the scoring for Philadelphia with 25 points and 12 rebounds, while De'Anthony Melton came off the bench to produce 15 points and lead the fourth-quarter surge. Harris said the Sixers were determined to use Embiid's absence as a motivator. "He's the MVP. And when we heard he wasn't playing, I think it was an opportunity for everybody else to really step up and understand that we've got to get a win without the big fellow," Harris told the TNT television network. "The whole group came together today. It's a great win for us and a great way to sweep the series." Asked what his message to the injured Embiid would be, Harris replied: "Hurry up and get your ass back out here." The 4-0 series victory was Philadelphia's first playoff sweep since 1991. Spencer Dinwiddie led Brooklyn's scoring with 20 points while Nic Claxton had 19 points with 12 rebounds. "Getting swept is trash," a dejected Claxton said. "It's not a good feeling." Suns on the brink In Los Angeles, Kevin Durant finished with 31 points, 11 rebounds and six assists to help Phoenix beat the Clippers 112-100 for a 3-1 series lead. Devin Booker plundered 30 points and veteran Chris Paul added 19 in a late burst of scoring as Phoenix bagged their second straight win in Los Angeles. "I'm in a good place and I'm enjoying playing ball," Durant said. "I've been out a few months this season, and I'm just happy I'm out here where the ball is." It means the Suns need just one more win to book their place in the Western Conference semi-finals, with game five set for Phoenix on Tuesday. The Clippers' hopes of squaring the series had been dealt a blow by the absence of Kawhi Leonard, who joined Paul George on the injured list. Russell Westbrook produced one of his best performances for the Clippers with a 37-point display. In Miami, the Heat took full advantage of the absence of Milwaukee's two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, leading by double digits much of the night. Jimmy Butler scored 30 points on 12-of-19 shooting before departing late in the third quarter after taking a hard fall. After visiting the locker room he returned to the bench but with the game in hand did not go back on the floor. Duncan Robinson scored 20 points and fellow reserve Kyle Lowry added 15 as the Heat bench delivered 59 points. "We just came out here and played with some intensity," Lowry said. The Heat will try to level the series on Monday, but Lowry said he knows they'll face a tough task. "Every game is a different game," he said. Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said the team would continue to "monitor" Antetokounmpo, who suffered a back contusion in game one, missed game two and was a late scratch on Saturday. In the late game the Memphis Grizzlies welcomed star guard Ja Morant back after a hand injury as they visited the Los Angeles Lakers with their series knotted 1-1. The post Sixers sweep Nets to advance, Suns on brink as Heat burn Bucks appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sixers advance after Nets sweep, Suns on brink as Clippers downed
The Philadelphia 76ers shrugged off the absence of Joel Embiid to complete a 4-0 sweep of the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA playoffs on Saturday as the Phoenix Suns edged closer to a second-round berth with a victory over the Los Angeles Clippers. The Sixers advanced to an Eastern Conference semi-final showdown against either Boston or Atlanta with a dominant second-half display to seal a 96-88 victory in Brooklyn. The Sixers trailed by 11 points early in the third quarter but transformed the contest with an 18-4 run to take the lead before closing out victory with a fourth-quarter rally. The Sixers' win was all the more impressive given the absence of star center Embiid, who suffered a right knee sprain in Thursday's 102-97 victory in game three. Embiid led the NBA with 33.1 points a game and is a finalist for the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. With Embiid out, Paul Reed stepped in to fill the void and finished with 10 points and 15 rebounds. Tobias Harris led the scoring for Philadelphia with 25 points and 12 rebounds, while De'Anthony Melton came off the bench to produce 15 points and lead the fourth-quarter rally. Harris said the Sixers had been determined to use Embiid's absence as a motivator. "He's the MVP. And when we heard he wasn't playing, I think it was an opportunity for everybody else to really step up and understand that we've got to get a win without the big fella," Harris told the TNT television network after the win. "For us to come out here and get this victory, it feels great for the whole group. "The whole group came together today. It's a great win for us and a great way to sweep the series." Asked what his message to the injured Embiid would be, Harris replied: "Hurry up and get your ass back out here." The 4-0 series victory was Philadelphia's first playoff sweep since 1991. Spencer Dinwiddie led Brooklyn's scoring with 20 points while Nic Claxton had 19 points with 12 rebounds. In Los Angeles, Kevin Durant finished with 31 points, 11 rebounds and six assists to help Phoenix take a 3-1 series lead over the Clippers with a 112-100 victory. Devin Booker plundered 30 points and veteran Chris Paul added 19 in a late burst of scoring as Phoenix bagged their second straight win in Los Angeles in the best-of-seven series. It means the Suns need just one more win to book their place in the Western Conference semi-finals, with game five set for Phoenix on Tuesday. The Clippers' hopes of squaring the series had been dealt a blow by the absence of Kawhi Leonard, who joined Paul George on the injured list. In their absence, Russell Westbrook produced one of his best performances for the Clippers with a 37-point display but ultimately it was not enough as the greater depth of the Suns' line-up proved too much. "I'm in a good place and I'm enjoying playing ball," Durant said after the win. "I've been out a few months this season, and I'm just happy I'm out here where the ball is." In later playoff games on Saturday, the Milwaukee Bucks travel to Miami looking for a win on the road over the Heat with the best-of-seven series finely balanced at 1-1. Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, who sat out game two after suffering a back injury in game one, was listed as questionable for Milwaukee. In the late game, the Memphis Grizzlies travel to Los Angeles to face the Lakers with their series knotted at one game apiece. The post Sixers advance after Nets sweep, Suns on brink as Clippers downed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Heat oust depleted Bucks to reach NBA East finals; Lakers down Rockets, up 2-1
Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat drives to the basket against the Milwaukee Bucks during Game Five of the Eastern Conference semifinals of the NBA Playoffs on September 8, 2020 at The Field House in Orlando, Florida. (Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images/AFP) MIAMI (AFP) — The Miami Heat punched their ticket to the NBA Eastern Conference finals Tuesday, beating top-seeded Milwaukee 103-94 as injured Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo watched from the bench. Jimmy Butler and Goran Dragic finished with 17 points apiece as six Heat players scored in double figures and Miami completed a 4-1 series victory in a bruising encounter against the league’s top defensive team. Khris Middleton led the Bucks with 23 points. Antetokounmpo — tipped to scoop a second straight NBA Most Valuable Player award this season — aggravated his sprained right ankle in the first half of the Bucks’ game-four overtime victory over the Heat. The Bucks declared him inactive less than an hour before tipoff on Tuesday. The loss of Antetokounmpo, who averaged career highs of 29.5 points and 13.6 rebounds per game this season, was a huge blow for the Bucks, as they tried to do what no NBA team has done before: come back from an 0-3 deficit to win a seven-game playoff series. It’s the second straight campaign that the Bucks built the best regular-season record only to come up short in the playoffs. In 2019 they fell to the eventual champion Toronto Raptors in six games in the Eastern Conference finals. The fifth-seeded Heat will face either the Boston Celtics or Toronto Raptors for a place in the NBA Finals. The Celtics lead their series against the defending NBA champion Raptors three games to two. Butler, who added 10 rebounds and six assists and was a perfect eight-for-eight from the foul line, said the Heat’s impressive 8-1 record so far in the playoffs means nothing now. “All of that is behind us now,” he said. “We’ll wait and see who we get out of Toronto and Boston and then we’ll lock in on that. “But it’s zero-zero now, we’ve got eight more to get.” The Heat trailed 28-19 after a chaotic first quarter in which they committed six turnovers leading to nine Bucks points. They trailed by as many as 13 in the first period, but settled down in the second, out-scoring the Bucks 33-18 to take a 52-46 lead into halftime. But Milwaukee, with Middleton leading the way, refused to go away. After going scoreless for more than six minutes in the third period the Bucks put together an 8-0 run to pull within five points. Trailing 73-65 going into the final period, the Bucks trimmed the deficit to four multiple times, but the Heat’s depth finally proved too much. “Obviously they missed their MVP,” Butler said. “But we knew we were going to have to get one out of the mud and I think this was the one.” Antetokounmpo said he felt “lost” as he was unable to contribute. “Mentally it was a battle, but at the end of the day you’ve got to trust your teammates and that’s what I decided to do,” he said after the Bucks medical staff persuaded him not to risk further injury by playing. LeBron leads Lakers LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers, left, drives the ball against Ben McLemore #16 of the Houston Rockets during the second quarter in Game Three of the Western Conference Second Round during the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on September 08, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. (AFP) In Western Conference action, LeBron James scored 36 points and Anthony Davis added 26 as the Los Angeles Lakers powered to the finish in a 112-102 victory over the Houston Rockets. The Lakers grabbed a 2-1 series lead and James notched an NBA record 162nd career playoff win. “It says that I’ve played with a lot of great teams,” said James, who won two NBA titles with the Miami Heat and one with the Cleveland Cavaliers. “It says that I’ve played with a lot of great teammates and some great coaches.” James Harden scored 33 points with nine rebounds and nine assists and Russell Westbrook added 30 points for Houston in a back and forth battle that saw 16 lead changes. The Lakers’ reserves scored 42 points, with Houston’s only points off the bench the 16 of Jeff Green. Rajon Rondo, who scored 21 off the bench for Los Angeles, hit back-to-back three-pointers and came up with a steal and layup as the Lakers surged ahead with a 17-5 scoring run to start the fourth quarter. After putting up 64 points in the first half Houston scored just 38 in the second and the Lakers posted their second straight win of the series. There was a frightening moment in the fourth quarter, as Robert Covington and Davis collided as Davis rose for a rebound. Davis’s elbow appeared to hit Covington in head and he left the court holding a bloodied towel to his face, while Davis was hurting from Covington’s elbow in his side......»»
ON THIS DAY: Dawn Macandili was named Asia’s 2nd Best Libero
Dawn Macandili has reached great heights in her storied volleyball career. Three UAAP titles with De La Salle University, success in the commercial league including a Most Valuable Player award, numerous individual honors and a regular stint in the national team since 2017 are some of the highlights on her stacked resume. However, Macandili’s greatest personal achievement is when the Tanauan, Batangas native stood tall alongside Asia’s biggest name in women’s volleyball. Three years ago on this day, the diminutive defense specialist of the national team earned the honor of being one of the continent’s finest during the 2017 AVC Asian Senior Women's Volleyball Championship. Although the Filipinas ended up in eighth place in the 14-country field, Macandili gave the local crowd a sense of pride when she stepped on the podium to receive her 2nd Best Libero award. A reward worth all the dives, tumbles and running all over the court to chase the ball to keep the play alive. “Bawing-bawi,” the 24-year old libero said then. What made that night extra special for Macandili was it was also on that same day the year before when she became the first libero in a local commercial league to win an MVP award. In 2016, Macandili spearheaded F2 Logistics to the Philippine Superliga All-Filipino Conference throne and on her way to bagging the highest individual award. During the competition, Macandili was the catalyst of the Nationals’ transition from defense to offense. Her court smarts, timing and athleticism in manning the floor proved to be a valuable asset for the then Francis Vicente-mentored squad. She made her biggest impact when the Filipinas defeated Southeast Asian powerhouse Vietnam. Macandili tallied 19 digs and 12 excellent receptions in a 27-25, 26-24, 17-25, 25-23, win over the Vietnamese in the quarterfinals classification round. Her impact during the course of the competition didn’t go unnoticed. The crowd inside the Alonte Sports Arena in Binan, Laguna exploded in jubilation when Macandili’s name was called during the awarding of individual honors. Macandili during that memorable night stood alongside Asian stars Risa Shinnabe of tournament champion Japan, who was named MVP, Korean star hitter Kim Yeon-Koung and Chatchu-on Moksri of Thailand, legendary Thai setter Nootsara Tomkom, middles Hattaya Bamrungsuk of Thailand and Japanese Nana Iwasaka and Chinese opposite hitter Jin Ye. Japanese Mako Kobata was the 1st Best Libero winner. “I think it shows that we Filipinos can achieve greater heights if we put our mind to it,” Macandili told ABS-CBN Sports in a separate interview. --- Follow this writer on Twitter, @fromtheriles.....»»
Rahm s wild day ends with Memorial win and No. 1 ranking
By DOUG FERGUSON AP Golf Writer DUBLIN, Ohio (AP) — The drama was more than Jon Rahm wanted. The result was what he always imagined. Rahm became the No. 1 player in the world Sunday with a victory in the Memorial in which he watched an eight-shot lead at the turn shrink to three shots with three holes to play, and then hit what he called the greatest shot of his life that turned into a bogey because of a penalty. All that mattered was that fist-bump — not a handshake — with Jack Nicklaus, and taking his place along his idol Seve Ballesteros as the only Spaniards to reach No. 1 in the world. With a two-shot penalty for his ball moving the length of a dimple on his chip-in behind the 16th green, Rahm closed with 3-over 75 for a three-shot victory over Ryan Palmer. Rahm got up-and-down on the final four greens, which made it feel even sweeter. “One of the best performances of my life,” Rahm said. “Yesterday was probably one of the best rounds of my life, and finished today with some clutch up-and-downs. As a Spaniard, I'm kind of glad it happened that way.” The fiery emotion is his hallmark. He showed it with a tee shot that sailed left into a creek on the 11th hole, Rahm slamming his club into the ground in a pique of anger. And it was evident with that ferocious fist-pump when his flop shot from deep rough behind the 16th green rolled into the cup. Birdie or bogey, it was a winner, a shot that would have made Ballesteros proud. “I still can't believe it, I'm not going to lie,” he told Nicklaus off the 18th green. With the penalty — Rahm had no idea it was an issue after his round, but accepted the penalty when he saw a video that zoomed in close on the ball — he finished at 9-under 279 for his 10th career victory, fourth on the PGA Tour. Muirfield Village played its toughest in 42 years, with only five players under par, the fewest for the final round since this tournament began in 1976. Rahm's 75 was the highest finish by a winner since Roger Maltbie shot 76 the inaugural year. The rough wasn't cut all week. The greens were allowed to go to the edge because they are being replaced. Crews already had stripped the entire fifth green as the leaders were on the back nine. Rahm looked to be playing a different course. He played bogey-free on the front nine with birdies on the two par 5s. That put him eight shots clear on his way to No. 1. And then he made bogey on the 10th. Not a problem. He yanked his tee shot into a creek on the par-5 11th, and that was a bigger problem based on how hard he slammed the club into the ground in a pique of anger. He made double bogey. Palmer made birdie on the 12th, and then Rahm made another bogey from the bunker on the 14th. Just like that, the lead was three shots. Only a week ago at Muirfield Village for the Workday Charity Open, Justin Thomas had a three-shot lead with three holes to play and wound up losing in a playoff to Collin Morikawa. Rahm was worried his tee shot might find the back bunker, though the rough was not a great option with how fast the greens were running. Rahm was thinking anything inside 10 feet would be good. This was perfect, the ball landing on the fringe and sliding down the slope into the cup. As for the penalty? “It doesn’t change the outcome of the tournament,” he said. “It just puts a little bit of an asterisk in it in the sense of I wish I could just keep that birdie because it was one of the greatest shots of my life, right?” The chip was similar — but from a different angle — to Tiger Woods chipping in from behind the 16th green when he won the Memorial for the fifth time in 2012. Woods, in his first competition since Feb. 16 because of the COVID-19 pandemic, shot 76 and tied for 40th. “Tough, tough conditions to start out my first week back, Thursday and Sunday,” Woods said. “But it was good to get the feel and the flow of competing again.” Matthew Fitzpatrick had a 68 for the low score of the final day to finish third. The consolation prize went to Palmer (74) and Mackenzie Hughes (72), who earned spots in the U.S. Open at Winged Foot in September as the leading two players from the top 10 who were not already eligible. Henrik Norlander could have taken the final spot with a par on the 18th, but he missed the fairway well to the right, couldn't reach the green and made bogey. Norlander and Hughes tied at 3-under 285, but the spot went to Hughes because he had the better world ranking. That ranking now starts with Rahm, who only four years ago was at the Memorial to receive the Jack Nicklaus Award as the nation's best college player. Now he's the best in the world, a ranking that McIlroy had since Feb. 9. “He deserves it,” McIlroy said after his tie for 32nd. “He's been playing great for a long time. Even the display this week, it's pretty impressive.”.....»»
Cole reveals spark that led to Ginebera s 1991 PBA Finals comeback
Ginebra did the 3-1 Finals comeback before Cleveland 25 years earlier, when the Gin Kings shocked Shell to win the 1991 PBA First Conference. The series is best remembered today for the iconic shot of enforcer Rudy Distrito. "The Destroyer" as he's called, Distrito connected the fadeaway to seal a 104-102 Game 7 victory for the title, completing a 3-1 comeback. [Related: Rudy Distrito’s miracle shot in Ginebra’s epic 1991 finals victory] However, Ginebra would have been finished as early as Game 5, if not for import Jervis Cole who willed the team to a deciding game. Aside from actually being down 1-3 in the Finals, Cole says a Best Import ceremony for Bobby Parks Sr. served as a spark for him that ultimately led to a historic comeback. "I think they started giving away like the MVP for the import in Game 5 before the game even started. It was spoken in Tagalog. I had no clue what was going on. So I’m asking my teammates what they’re doing right now?" Cole said on the ClutchPoint Podcast with veteran sportswriter Rey Joble. "Then they started giving Bobby the top American award or something and that irritated me. So I told them this is a total BS," he added. At the time, Parks Sr. won the 6th of his seven total Best Import awards. In the 1991 First Conference, Parks Sr. led Shell to the no. 1 seed while Cole and the Gin Kings were the 5th seed with a below .500 record. Still, that didn't sit well with Cole. Ginebra avoided elimination in Game 5 by unloading a 32-0 run after they were down 80-85. In Game 6, Cole finished with 51 points in another Ginebra win and in Game 7, he posted another 32 points to go along with 19 rebounds. "I thought it was totally a slap on the face and disrespect to give out awards like the series is over. So we just talked on the bench ‘let’s just go, men. Give me the ball and when I passed it back, shoot it! Let’s just go.’ We had nothing to lose," Cole said. "We managed to get that far and now that we’re there, they disrespected us again, we have to show that Never Say Die. This team just never gave up. Coach Jaworski would never let us give up. We just kept going all the way to the championship,” he added. — Follow this writer on Twitter, @paullintag8.....»»