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From ‘hosannas’ to ‘crucify him’
BY FR. BEL R. SAN LUIS, SVD In basketball, a player is hailed as a hero when he commits a few errors and makes points during crucial moments. He becomes a “darling of the crowd.” But the next time, he is treated as a bum or villain when he fumbles, misses some baskets and does […].....»»
Clippers shoot down Hawks
LOS ANGELES (AFP) — Luke Kennard conjured a perfect shooting display and Terrance Mann added 21 from the bench as the Los Angeles Clippers overturned a 22-point deficit to end the Atlanta Hawks eight-game winning streak in the National Basketball Association (NBA) on Monday. Kennard went eight-from-eight and made four three-pointers to take the Clippers, […] The post Clippers shoot down Hawks appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NBA& rsquo;s LeBron saddened, Lin heartbroken over shootings
Los Angeles—Basketball stars LeBron James and Jeremy Lin were among those Wednesday condemning acts of hatred directed at the Asian community after a series of shootings in the Atlanta area left six Asian women dead......»»
NETFLIX: On NBA All-Star Game Day, we recommend 5 BASKETBALL DOCUMENTS
it’s a Sunday, March 7 Will be implemented US NBA All-Star Game, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. In addition, the legendary Dunk competition Fans.....»»
Filipino-Icelander ballers catch WNBA attention
Based in St. Louis, Missouri, Ava and Mila — who are nine and seven years old, respectively — were featured on the elite women's basketball league's Instagram participating in #AtHomeRecess — an activity the WNBA launched specifically for NGWSD......»»
US-based Pinoy coach reaches pinnacle of craft after seeing student drafted in NBA
Gopez, who founded US-based Edge Basketball International, recently hit a milestone after one of his students, Onyeka Okongwu, got drafted sixth in the 2020 NBA Draft......»»
Protesting Trump supporters reject results, allege conspiracy
While the streets of many American cities erupted in joy Saturday at the news of Joe Biden’s victory in the presidential election, hardcore Donald Trump supporters refused to accept the result, alleging fraud and conspiracy. Trump supporters protested in Phoenix, Arizona and other American cities on November 7, 2020 after Joe Biden was elected US president (AFP/ MANILA BULLETIN) In cities including Phoenix, Philadelphia and Atlanta, the outgoing president’s loyalists gathered under the slogan of #StopTheSteal, repeating Trump’s unfounded allegations that Biden’s win was based on cheating. They wore red Trump hats, held signs reading “Stop The Steal” and waved American flags or Trump banners bearing the slogan: “Keep America Great.” The scenes were familiar to anyone who has attended or tuned in to a Trump rally. Hundreds gathered in front of the Arizona state capitol building in Phoenix, Arizona, some with their dogs dressed in Trump shirts. “I think they’re way too early,” said Donna McCollum, a retired 77-year-old who said she can trace her family history back to the American revolution. “The electoral college is the one to decide. And that has not been decided just yet. And there’s a lot of fraud here. It needs to be either redone totally or recounted.” She added: “Look at these people out here. There’s no way Biden won Arizona.” Two news organizations have projected Biden as the winner in Arizona, but others have been more cautious with the vote totals close and counting continuing. But either way, Biden has already obtained more than enough electoral votes to win, according to US media projections based on vote counts. – ‘Ground zero for cheating’ – Pennsylvania and its 20 electoral votes was the state that put him over the 270 needed for victory, and Trump supporters there also baselessly alleged fraud, following the lead of the outgoing president. In Philadelphia, the biggest city in Pennsylvania, around 40 Trump supporters were outside a convention center where counting had been underway, blasting hard rock and staples of Trump rallies like “YMCA” and “God Bless the USA.” Nearby Biden supporters were happily dancing to the same music. “This is ground zero for cheating in this election. I thought it was important to be here,” said Steve Padgett, a 57-year-old who works in sales. Sophia Rotunno, a 52-year-old administrative worker, said: “I have faith that our President Donald Trump did win a fair election.” “But the Democrats are not allowing a fair election to be had,” she said, falsely. “So I feel it has to go to the courts.” Despite his loss, Trump inspired a fervent, loyal following among many in the United States as he shattered norms with his bombastic populism. But there was also a darker side to some of his support that Trump could at times encourage by retweeting conspiracy theories and declining to forcefully condemn white supremacy. With the election occurring at a fevered time that has seen waves of protests over the police killing of minorities and Trump often inflaming tensions, there had been fears of election-related violence in some cities. But those fears have not been realized, and many supporters from both sides on Saturday appeared intent on keeping the peace. – ‘Too much smoke’ – On Saturday afternoon, a group of Biden supporters in Atlanta were armed — which is legal in Georgia — as they stood across from a pro-Trump protest, but there had been no violence. Trump supporters have regularly shown up at rallies armed, but guns could not be seen among Saturday’s pro-Trump crowd in Atlanta. “There’s too much smoke and some fire in a lot of places,” said Huff Croxton, a 51-year-old who wore an American flag as a cape, referring to groundless allegations of electoral fraud. “I want to see all this settled out and let’s see at the end who wins. And if Biden wins fair and square, then I’ll jump on board with the media.” In Phoenix, Shannon Morris, a 51-year-old trauma recovery life coach, said she would “fight” for Trump, but in a “peaceful way.” “I think that Trump fought for our country, and I’m going to fight for him,” she said. “Not in an inappropriate way, in a peaceful way, in a good way, in an honest way. I want my voice heard. It’s wrong to win elections by fraud.”.....»»
‘Barangay 143’ conquers Netflix, streams on PopTV this Nov. 18
First Filipino anime series “Barangay 143” continues to bring the country’s name to the global stage after it debuted on streaming giant Netflix last month and even landed among the top ten most watched titles in Netflix Asia. “We are very proud that again we have reached another first with ‘Barangay 143,’ and that is the first Filipino anime series to stream on Netflix. This has been enjoyed by millions of Filipinos nationwide during its free TV run and we believe other countries would enjoy it just as much as Filipinos did. We hope it continues to entertain young viewers and inspire young Filipino animators,” said August Media Holdings CEO Jyotirmoy Saha. “From the very start, we want to make Filipinos proud and to be able to share our story to the rest of the world so we are just overwhelmed with all the positive feedback we are getting. ‘Barangay 143’ represents all of us,” said Synergy88 Entertainment Media COO Jackeline Chua. Ever since it premiered on Netflix, the show has again received positive feedback from Filipinos who expressed how proud they of the Filipino anime. Some also shared how happy they are that they can finally stream it online. Aside from that, clamor for its second season grows even more as avid fans of the show demand producers to finally end its more than one year of hiatus off air. Prior to this, “Barangay 143” made the headlines as it emerged the best in Asia and won the Best 2D Animated Program and Best Theme Song (‘Alanganin’) categories at the recent Asian Television Awards. It was also proclaimed regional winner in the Best Animated Program, Best Drama Series, and Best Theme Song (‘Liga ng Buhay’) categories at the 2019 Asian Academy Creative Awards. Produced by Philippine-based Synergy88 Entertainment Media, Singapore’s August Media Holdings, Japan’s TV Asahi and ASI Animation, “Barangay 143” tells the story of Bren Park, a young and rising basketball superstar from Korea who in search of his biological father in Manila. Here, he finds a new family in a team of misfits and turns their basketball team from underdogs to being the team to beat in the tournament. Aside from its Filipino storyline, “Barangay 143” was dubbed by Filipino celebrities-turned-voice actors led by Migo Adecer, Julie Anne San Jose, Ruru Madrid, and Kelley Day and seasoned actors John Arcilla, Cherie Gil, Edu Manzano, and Lorna Tolentino among others. It’s original soundtrack also features top OPM artists that include Gloc 9, Nina, Top Suzara, Kris Lawrence, Harlem Ty, Kevin Yadao, Krizza Neri, and Willie Revillame. It premiered on free-to-air television via GMA 7 in October 2018 and consistently dominated its Sunday morning timeslot according to data from AGB Nielsen. “Barangay 143” is still available on Netflix and will be available on newest streaming platform POPTV this Nov 18. To download just search “POPTV Pinas” on Google Play or Apple AppStore. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/poptvph.....»»
Gilas prospect commits to US NCAA Division I Auburn University
Hall of Famer Charles Barkley, an Olympic gold medalist, 11-time NBA All-Star and a former NBA MVP, was an alumni of the Auburn University men's basketball program......»»
Players eager to resume PBA action
The Philippine Basketball Association received the go-signal from the IATF to resume its season on October 11. Alaska Aces Head Coach Jeff Cariaso said that based on experience with his own team, PBA players are more than ready and are actually eager to resume regular competition. .....»»
Aljun Melecio s never-ending quest to prove he belongs
Aljun Melecio has these hardware sitting pretty on his trophy case: UAAP 78 Jrs. MVP, UAAP 79 Rookie of the Year, UAAP 79 champion. Now heading into his fifth and final year in De La Salle University, he remains recognized as one of the best point guards in all of college. Well, recognized by just about everybody except himself. Asked if he feels worthy to stand alongside the likes of NCAA 95 Finals MVP Fran Yu or UAAP 82 Rookie of the Year Mark Nonoy, he answered, modest as always, "Nope. I don't. Wala pa akong napapatunayan." Yes, the 5-foot-8 super scorer who was then head coach Aldin Ayo's "most-wanted recruit" feels he is yet to prove himself. Yes, the primetime playmaker who was once comforted by Tab Baldwin after the Green Archers had lost the championship despite his 16 points in Game 3 of the Finals feels he is yet to prove himself. That in itself is not necessarily surprising, though. And that's because all throughout his young career, Melecio has felt, again and again, that he has to prove himself. He had to prove himself even to La Salle, his home of nine years now. "Actually, 'di naman ako ni-recruit ng Zobel dati," he shared. "To be honest, my mindset at that time ay mag-Team B lang sa Zobel para pag may games, mas magagamit ako. Kaysa naman mag-Team A ako and nakaupo lang sa bench." BREAK IN Aljun Melecio, now a graduating guard, is La Salle's most recent homegrown product. Of the Green Archers' probable UAAP 83 roster, the now-22-year-old is the lone player to have come from the Taft-based school's Jrs. programs - and mind you, they have two in La Salle Zobel and La Salle Green Hills. In DLSZ, Melecio was a scoring dynamo who once dropped 42 points on archrival Ateneo de Manila High School. Did you know, though, that he wasn't even supposed to wear the green and white? "I was supposed to transfer sa UST nung high school," he recalled. "Pero napag-usapan naming family na since si kuya, nasa Zobel na nung time na yun, mas okay sigurong Zobel na lang din ako para magkasama kami." Aljun was referring to older brother Aleck who was also his teammate for three years with the Jr. Archers. If not for Aleck, however, Aljun would have suited up for University of Sto. Tomas High School where good friend Renzo Subido had already committed to play for college. After all, it was Subido, and dad Henry, who had convinced the Melecios to move to Manila from Bukidnon. "The reason talaga why we took the risk to come here was because of Coach Henry," Aljun shared, looking back at the time when all of them were repping Lourdes School of Mandaluyong. "They invited us to play basketball in Manila kaya malaki ang utang na loob namin sa Subido family." While Coach Henry and Renzo have been always there to lend a helping hand, that did not necessarily make the transition any easier - especially for a 10-year-old kid who was born and bred in Valencia City. "Grabe yung sacrifice na ginawa namin just for me to have more opportunities in life. That was a big adjustment not just for me, but also for my parents," Melecio said. He then continued, "Dumating yung time na ayoko nang bumalik sa Manila kasi na-homesick ako. Looking back now, normal lang naman siguro yun, lalong-lalo na bata pa ako." BREAKTHROUGH Make no mistake about it, looking back now, Aljun Melecio has no regrets. As he put it, "It was all worth it." Of course, he also had lady luck smile on him somewhat as, yet again following the footsteps of Subido, he transferred from Lourdes to DLSZ. And there, he found yet another mentor willing to believe in him. "Sina Coach Boris [Aldeguer], pagdating ko sa Zobel, they invited me to join yung practice ng Team A. Nagulat ako na kaya ko naman pala so doon na nag-start yung confidence ko," he said. Indeed, Melecio did not let Coach Boris down as in his first year, he proved to be a building block in their rebuild. While the boys from Alabang eventually ended outside the playoff picture, he had made more than enough noise to get the attention of the Philippine national youth team. There, DLSZ's top gun got his first taste of wearing the flag as part of the Batang Gilas training pool. "Masayang-masaya ako nun na makasama sa practice team dahil dream ko talaga maging part nun," he narrated. "May jersey lang and makasali lang ako sa practice, masayang-masaya ako." There, Melecio showcased his skills alongside other promising prospects such as Nieto twins Mike and Matt as well as Jolo Mendoza of Ateneo, Renzo Navarro of San Sebastian College-Recoletos, and Jollo Go of Hope Christian High School. And there, yet again, he knew full well he had to prove himself. During training itself, the new kid on the block believed he was doing so. At the same time, however, he had to come face-to-face with another beast altogether - how to get to practice in the first place. As it turned out, the then-13-year-old had to commute from south to north each and every time he participated in Batang Gilas training. How did his trips go? "From Alabang, mag-tricycle ako to [Alabang] Town [Center] then jeep going to Starmall [Alabang]. After nun, bus to Magallanes, MRT, then LRT, tapos jeep ulit," he shared. He then continued, "So papunta pa lang to Moro, pagod na ako. Then after practice, mag-commute na naman pauwi." Fortunately for him, there were also kind hearts like the Nieto twins who took him to the LRT station in Katipunan or Evan Nelle whom he rode with going back south. Still, around 33km and about an hour separated DLSZ in the south and Ateneo's Moro Lorenzo Sports Center in the north - indeed, that was some sort of workout already. BREAKDOWN In the long run, that was, unfortunately, much too much for young Aljun Melecio. While wearing the flag would have meant much, he also felt circumstances, such as that hell of a commute that cost him PHP 200 for a one-way trip, held him back from giving his all. Instead, Melecio felt he could do much more if he just rechanneled his energy to DLSZ. "After ilang weeks na ginagawa ko yung routine na yun, I started asking myself kung paano maayos yung priorities ko. Pinakiramdaman ko kung saan ako mag-iimprove so I talked to Coach Boris," he said. He the continued, "And I decided na mag-all in sa Zobel." All in for the Jr. Archers, he did, and boy, did it prove to be the right call. He was just getting started in UAAP 76, slowly but surely getting a grasp of both his capabilities and confidence as he helped the green and white barge back into the Final Four. Then in Season 77, it all clicked as he shot the green and white to the second rung of the stepladder all while putting up per game counts of 16.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 2.3 steals. Without a doubt, he willed his way into the Mythical Team that included the Nieto twins, his batchmates in Batang Gilas. The following year, with averages of 22.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 2.3 steals, he carried DLSZ all the way to the Finals where they stole one game from eventual champion Nazareth School of National University. And oh, he was the unanimous MVP of Season 78, besting the likes of future Gilas Pilipinas pool members Justine Baltazar and Gomez de Liano brothers Javi and Juan. Even then, though, he wouldn't call himself the best of the best. "I didn't think na I belonged kasi never kong gustong isipin na ganun ako," he said. He then continued, "Ang alam ko lang, I worked extra hard, I had extra motivation to play. Thankfully, coach Boris supported my decision and dahil dun, na-boost yung confidence ko." BREAK FREE From there, Aljun Melecio did nothing but go onto greater and greater heights in La Salle's Srs. squad. Never tell him he has accomplished anything, though, as he would be the first to tell you that you're wrong. Up until now, he feels that he is yet to prove himself. He hopes to prove that he has what it takes to be behind the wheel for the Green Archers' new era. He hopes to prove that he could bounce back following the worst statistical season for him. And he hopes to prove that he has every right to be mentioned in the same breath as his one-time teammates in the Batang Gilas pool and his batchmates who are now part of the Gilas Pilipinas pool. "Lahat naman, ginagawa kong motivation," he said. "May it be positive or negative, we all have our timing so I'm just being patient para sa kung anuman ang ibibigay na chance sa akin." If and when that next shot at wearing the flag comes along, Melecio only vows to do what he has never stopped doing. Asked about getting a golden opportunity at the Gilas pool, he answered, "That's still a dream for me. I know I still have a lot to prove." He then continued, "But I will give my all if given the chance to represent. I always do." If and when that time comes, there would be no more 33km distance, one-hour travel time, or PHP 200 cost. Still, Aljun Melecio would work just as hard - if not more - as he did when he once had to commute south to north just to get to practice. Don't forget, proving himself is already second nature to him. --- Follow this writer on Twitter, @riegogogo......»»
Eduard Folayang: When an underdog finally became a world champion
In the five years that I was with the ABS-CBN Sports website, I was fortunate enough to have covered quite a number of memorable sports moments, so when I was asked to write about which was the most memorable for me, it was tough to narrow it down to just one single coverage. I could have written about Letran’s momentous upset of a dynasty-seeking San Beda in the NCAA Season 91 Finals, or I could have written about the Philippine Azkals making history by clinching a spot in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup. Being an MMA fan, I could have written about getting to be Octagon-side for the UFC’s first and only trip to Manila, which was indeed a dream come true for me. When I think about it however, the coverage that sticks with me to this day, even four years later, was being cage-side, just inches away from Eduard “Landslide” Folayang as he pummeled Shinya Aoki to become the ONE Lightweight World Champion in Singapore back in 2016. I tell people about that night all the time, and I believe I’ll continue to do so for the rest of my life. A Fan First As I mentioned earlier, I’m an MMA fan. In fact, being a fan was actually how I eventually got into sports writing. During my first year or so with ABS-CBN, I got wind of a show on Balls Channel entitled “The Takedown” which was, you guessed it, about the UFC. Immediately, I knew that I wanted to be a part of that show, in any capacity. I even offered to research or write for free, LOL. While I never did get to work on the show (because unfortunately, it lasted only a few episodes), I did get to make some connections (shoutout to Sir Lori, Ms. Jo, and Ms. Anna!) which eventually landed me a gig as a UFC writer for the Balls Channel Website. During that time, I got to meet and interview stars like BJ Penn, Alexander Gustafsson, Urijah Faber, Cung Le, and even Arianny Celeste. For an MMA fan like me, it was like working a dream job. It was a pretty sweet gig. Eventually, that job with the Balls Channel Website would lead me to a spot on the ABS-CBN Sports Website which was launched in 2015. By 2016, I had started covering Asia-based MMA promotion ONE Championship quite a bit because ABS-CBN had signed a broadcast deal with them, and because ONE had a ton of homegrown Pinoy fighters on their roster, most notably Folayang and the Team Lakay guys. Folayang, whose contract with ONE expired in March of 2016, re-signed with the promotion and returned to action in August, defeating Adrian Pang by Unanimous Decision in Macau. That win over Pang earned Folayang the biggest bout of his career at that point: a title shot against reigning champion Aoki. When I learned of that title fight, I was very excited for Folayang, but had little expectations for his chances, being that Aoki was a legend in the sport. Best Seat in the House Eduard Folayang finally getting to fight for a world championship was a huge deal for Filipino MMA fans, especially those that had followed the Baguio-based star’s career since his days in the URCC. The Pinoy star was on ONE’s first ever event, but could never seem to gain enough momentum to compete for a world title, until that point. That November night in Singapore, all the years of work sacrifice that Folayang had put in during his nine-year MMA career would finally pay off. This was only my second time to cover a ONE event overseas, so apart from having to write stories, I also had to take pictures. Learning from my past mistakes, I asked if I could have a spot cage-side so that I could take some at least decent photos. Thankfully, the ONE people agreed and gave me a spot just beside one of the judges’ tables. I had the best seat in the house. Now, as I said, I had tapered my expectations for the fight. I had seen what Aoki could do in the cage. I’ve seen the guy break peoples’ bones before, so honestly, I was just hoping that he wouldn’t injure Folayang. Our guy was the underdog heading into this fight, no doubt about it. Of course, as a Filipino and as a fan I was hoping for a massive upset. The beautiful thing about MMA is anything can happen. Shock The World This was legitimately the first time that I felt nervous covering a fight. It’s like that feeling you have when your favorite basketball team is in a close game with just seconds left. That first round was a frigging whirlwind of emotions if you’re a Pinoy MMA fan. It looked like Aoki was within moments of being able to submit Folayang on multiple occasions. The second round was a little bit more relaxed for Folayang, especially since he had been able to survive Aoki’s opening round grappling blitz. It looked like he was a bit more confident and he started to throw some of his trademark spinning kicks and elbows. A miscalculated flying knee attempt led to another Aoki takedown, but this time around, Folayang appeared a little more calm and relaxed under the pressure. Late in the round, Folayang began to attack Aoki’s torso with punches and kicks, and it looked like it had the Japanese legend a bit winded. The tide had shifted. Heading into the third round, there was a different feeling in the air. It felt like Aoki was done, and it felt like Folayang knew it. In the opening seconds of that fateful third frame, Folayang knew exactly what Aoki was going to do and had an answer for it. Aoki shot in for a takedown, and Folayang countered it with a jumping knee to the jaw. For a brief second, Folayang was on his behind, but managed to outmuscle Aoki and deliver another vicious knee. “Oh sh*t!” I yelled internally while scrambling to take photos of the ensuing beatdown. Folayang turned Aoki over and began to connect with punch after unanswered punch. Without taking my eye away from my camera’s viewfinder, I started yelling for Folayang to finish it. Folayang continued to punish Aoki with piston-like punches as the Singapore Indoor Stadium began to erupt. For what felt like an eternity, referee Yuji Shimada watched as Folayang unloaded nine years worth of heartbreak and frustration into a ground-and-pound sequence. And then, it was over. There was a new lightweight king. AND NEW! EDUARD FOLAYANG STOPS SHINYA AOKI IN ROUND 3! — Santino Honasan???? (@honasantino) November 11, 2016 The Landslide Reigns As much as I would have wanted to keep it cool, I started to freak out. I looked to my right and saw my fellow Pinoy journalists doing the same, one was even standing on the table, cheering the new world champion on. At that point, I had watched UAAP championships, NCAA championships, even some boxing world championships, but this one was different. I knew what Folayang had gone through. I knew that the odds were stacked against him. As the confetti began to rain down and the celebration inside the ring continued, I recomposed myself and started to take pictures again. I wanted to be able to capture this moment. After the official decision and the post-fight interview, I remember calling out to Folayang so that I could take a photo of him with his shiny new toy. I’ve gotten to witness other members of Team Lakay become champions since then. I’ve been blessed enough to see Geje Eustaquio, Kevin Belingon and Joshua Pacio all become titleholders within a single year. While getting to see Team Lakay draped in gold to end 2018 was definitely a sight to behold, being there cage side as ‘Manong Ed’ realized a life-long dream was definitely an experience that I won’t soon forget. Folayang's title win wasn't Team Lakay's first world champmionship, and it isn't the last. For me however, I think it's the most important, because it showed that no matter how many times you fall, you can still find your way to the top. Everyone loves a good underdog story. -- Santino Honasan has served as a sub-section editor for ABS-CBN Sports' website since 2015. He is among thousands of ABS-CBN employees who will be retrenched on August 31, 2020. .....»»
WNBA games postponed following shooting of Jacob Blake
By DOUG FEINBERG AP Basketball Writer The WNBA will not play its three games Wednesday night (Thursday in the Philippines) following the shooting of Jacob Blake over the weekend. The move came hours after the NBA decided to postpone its three playoff games with iats players choosing to boycott in their strongest statement yet against racial injustice. In Bradenton, Florida, on Wednesday, Washington was set to play Atlanta, Minnesota was going to face Los Angeles, and Connecticut was going to meet Phoenix. Players from the Mystics, Dream, Sparks and Lynx were talking on the court for about an hour deciding whether to play or not. The decision was announced shortly before the expected 7 pm. EDT tip for the Mystics and Dream. All four teams took a knee at center court right before leaving the court. Atlanta Dream player Elizabeth Williams read a statement on ESPN saying that the “consensus is not to play in tonight’s games. We stand in solidarity with our brothers in the NBA.” Williams is the secretary of the players' union. The Mystics came into the arena wearing shirts that spelled out Blake’s name on the front and had holes in the back to signify the seven bullets that he was hit with by police in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The league had just passed its halfway mark of the 22-game season. With teams playing pretty much every other day in the bubble the postponed games will most likely have to be made up after the regular season ends on Sept. 12. The WNBA and its players have dedicated this season to social justice. Players have been wearing the name of Breonna Taylor on the back of the uniforms all season long. Taylor, a 26-year-old Black emergency medical technician, was shot eight times by plainclothes Louisville police officers serving a narcotics search warrant at her apartment on March 13. No drugs were found. Her family and protesters around the country have called for swift action against the officers who shot Taylor. Over the course of the season players have worn warmup shirts that read “Black Lives Matter” on the front and “Say Her Name” on the back. The phrase “Black Lives Matter” is featured prominently on the courts where the teams play......»»
UST: We do not tolerate violation of gov t regulation
University of Sto. Tomas has broken its silence about issues involving its Growling Tigers. The Espana-based has school confirmed that it is, indeed, already looking into its men's basketball team's so-called "Bicol Bubble" overseen by head coach Aldin Ayo. "We heard the news about the alleged breach of quarantine protocols by the UST Basketball Team in Sorsogon," its statement on Sunday said. "Accordingly, we created a committee to investigate and to inquire in this matter." pic.twitter.com/blFaLXqLnL — University of Santo Tomas (@UST1611official) August 22, 2020 Yesterday, the UAAP met with the Games and Amusement Board (GAB) and there, Executive Director Atty. Rebo Saguisag assured Chairman Abraham Mitra that actions have already been taken. The meeting was in response to recent reports that the Growling Tigers have been in Sorsogon since June, or in the midst of the continuing COVID-19 crisis. According to ABS-CBN News' Camille Naredo, as of late, CJ Cansino, doing his duty as team captain, told coaches and management about "their desire to go home." The report went on to say that what he did "was not taken well by Ayo." Not long after, Cansino was kicked off the team and is now set to transfer to the University of the Philippines. That sudden exit and the reasons surrounding it has apparently opened a can of worms that now involved government agencies. Finally reacting to all the developments, UST said that anything and everything done right now should be in accordance to safety and security measures enforced by the government. "While we adhere to the belief that physical activity can have a profoundly positive impact on physical and mental health, we believe that it should be done in compliance with guidelines issued by the government," the statement said. It then continued, "We wish to assure you that the University does not tolerate any form of violation of government regulation and it responds promptly by taking appropriate action." --- Follow this writer on Twitter, @riegogogo......»»
UST did not stand in way of CJ Cansino s transfer to UP
University of Sto. Tomas has let go of CJ Cansino. And apparently, it did not have a tough time moving on from its homegrown product. In a chat with fellow Tomasino Mela Tunay, Cansino shared that the Espana-based school did not have second thoughts about his sudden exit. "Yung tanong na pumapasok sa isip ko, ba't ganun? Bakit ang bilis naman nila mag-desisyon?" the latter said in the former's online show, Anong Tunay?, on Saturday. He then continued, "Hindi man lang ako nila nabigyan ng second chance para makabawi man lang para makabawi at 'di tuluyang umalis. UST yung nagbigay ng chance na maabot ko yung pangarap ko, UST din pala yung mag-aalis nun." Last Thursday, the 6-foot-2 swingman decided to move on from UST, his alma mater of the last five years, due to personal reasons. And with that, he said that he actually worried about what was next for him. "The moment na sinabi sa aking, 'CJ, you're off the team,' naisip ko, may kukuha pa kaya sa akin? Heartbreak talaga lalo sa akin kasi 'di ko alam kung matutuloy pa yung pangarap kong maging basketball player," he shared. As it always is, though, there was a silver lining in that sudden exit. Because the Growling Tigers let him go without a hitch, Cansino was free to discuss with other schools and then free to decide which squad was the best fit for him. There was Ateneo de Manila University, there was Colegio de San Juan de Letran, there was San Beda University, there was National University. Ultimately, though, the 20-year-old swingman went for the University of the Philippines. And just a day after news broke of his sudden exit from the Growling Tigers, he was bound for Diliman. Why did it all happen so fast? Because it had to. "Para sa career ko rin ito e. Kung maghihintay pa ako kung may darating pa, dalawang taon ako magre-residency," he shared. "Isang taon yung masasayang so kinailangan kong mag-decide agad para sa career ko at sa family ko." State U's Varsity Athletic Admission System (VAAS), the school's alternate avenue for student-athletes, is running its third deliberation on Saturday. That meant that the maroon and green had to have Cansino's yes right then and there in their first meeting last Friday. "Kaya sobrang bilis ng pangyayari kasi kailangan kong magdesisyon para sa sarili ko," he said. "Nag-uumpisa na yung klase so kailangan nang mag-start yung residency ko, kailangan nang maka-enroll ako." Now, the once-King Tiger is well on his way to being enrolled in UP. Now, CJ Cansino is a Fighting Maroon. --- Follow this writer on Twitter, @riegogogo......»»
East Asia Super League partners with FIBA to launch champions-league style joust
East Asia Super League's worst-kept secret is finally out. In an official announcement this week, EASL has partnered with FIBA to launch a champions-league style tournament featuring the top club teams in the East Asian region. The 10-year agreement will kick off with the first tournament in October 2021, one month after the scheduled FIBA Asia Champions Cup. Next year, EASL will gather eight top teams from China (CBA), Japan (B.League), South Korea (KBL), and the Philippines (PBA) to play in a tournament under a home-and-away format. Following preliminary play, the competition will conclude in February 2022 with a Final Four to determine one regional champion. The same format will be used for the 2022-2023 edition and EASL has plans to expand the tournament to 16 teams by 2023. "The recognition of the East Asia Super League is based on a shown commitment to developing basketball in the region, and is in line with FIBA’s club competition strategy that is to shape international club competitions,” said FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis. "EASL has demonstrated a great operational capability to organize a high-level competition for top clubs, and a strong commitment to elevate the sport of basketball in East Asia within the FIBA regulatory framework for leagues,” said FIBA Executive Director Asia Hagop Khajirian. EASL has staged tournaments featuring East Asian Club teams in the past. The Super 8 tournament, which require all-local lineups, was played in Macau in 2017 and 2018 with Japan's Chiba Jets and China's Guangzhou Long Lions named as champions. EASL's premier tournament, The Terrific 12, allows teams to play with up to two imports. It was also played in Macau starting in 2018. Japan's Ryukyu Golden Kings won the first Terrific 12 title in 2018. Last year, China's Lioaning Flying Leopards, with Lance Stephenson at the lead, captured the championship, beating PBA flagships TNT KaTropa and the San Miguel Beermen along the way. "EASL is thrilled to receive FIBA’s support for the launch of our league. With top teams from the Greater China region, Japan, Korea, and the Philippines, we are confident it will become one of the top professional basketball competitions in the world by 2025," CEO Matt Beyer said. "We also look forward to aligning with FIBA’s vision to strengthen domestic clubs and league competition in East Asia with a potential fan base of over 2 billion people, which will contribute to FIBA’s global club championship ambitions," Beyer added. — Follow this writer on Twitter, @paullintag8.....»»
WHAT IF... La Salle didn t lose to Ateneo to sweep UAAP 79
History lesson: De La Salle University's Ben Mbala and Jeron Teng-led team was one of the most dominant in the history of UAAP Men's Basketball. The Green Archers lost just one game en route to the championship. More impressive, though, was how they did it. La Salle posted a 17.2 average margin of victory throughout the tournament. They had the Season MVP leading their lineup as Mbala averaged a double-double of 20.6 points on 54 percent shooting from the field and 16.2 rebounds on top of 2.4 blocks, 1.4 steals, and 1.2 assists. Right there with him was Teng who put up per game counts of 16.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.1 assists for a spot on the Mythical Team. Flanking them were then Rookie of the Year Aljun Melecio, "Man of Steal" Kib Montalbo, Andrei Caracut, Jason Perkins, Thomas Torres, and Abu Tratter. And oh, future stars Justine Baltazar and Ricci Rivero were, more or less, benchwarmers for this team. At at the controls of this juggernaut? Youthful mentor Aldin Ayo who had just taken the collegiate ranks by storm as he guided Colegio de San Juan de Letran to a Cinderella championship at the expense of archrival San Beda University the year before. When all is said and done, could those Green Archers have been more impressive? Well, they could have swept the season. Only, their fiercest foes denied them that. Near the end of the elimination round, Ateneo de Manila University upended the Taft-based team, 83-71. That was the green and white's first loss of the season. And it would end up as their only loss of the season as they dispatched Adamson University in the Final Four and then ran roughshod over the very same Blue Eagles in the Finals. Yes, there was one and only one blemish on the face of La Salle in Season 79 - a blemish coming from an Ateneo side they had gotten the better of three times out of four. If those Green Archers didn't have that blemish, would that change anything? Wethinks, yes. If so, Mbala, Teng, and company would have been the first-ever team to sweep both the elimination and championship rounds. If so, they would be the ones to make history - and not the Blue Eagles of Isaac Go, Thirdy Ravena, and Nieto twins Mike and Matt. And if so, La Salle would have done something that would be next to impossible to replicate - a squad to sweep the season that has the Season MVP and the Rookie of the Year. Now tell us, would that turn the tides of the argument for the best team ever in their favor? History. 16-0. Championship. Season MVP. Rookie of the Year. Around 17 points of an average margin of victory. It would be tough to think about another team competing with that. --- Follow this writer on Twitter, @riegogogo......»»
Calvin Abueva wants to regain old spot at Gilas Pilipinas
Phoenix's brand-new kit is not the only uniform that Calvin Abueva is looking to wear once he returns to basketball. The Beast also longs for the Gilas Pilipinas jersey. "Iniisip ko sa pagbalik ko na makalaro po ako ng maayos at mapasama po ako ulit sa Gilas kahit anong mangyari," Abueva told former PBA Commissioner Noli Eala on Power & Play. "Nandoon pa rin ang puso ko na makasama sa national team," Calvin added. It's been over a year since Abueva was indefinitely suspended from the PBA but based on the most recent developments regarding his status, he's very close to being reinstated once again. When the PBA comes back from the COVID-19 pandemic, it could be safely assumed that Calvin will follow soon. While he's been out for over a year, Abueva is keeping himself in shape. The Beast is just waiting to be unleashed. "Meron kami Zoom meeting tuwing Monday, Wednesday, and Friday ng Phoenix," Calvin said as the Fuel Masters continue to prepare for the PBA while on quarantine, just like every other team out there. "May Zoom workout kami ng 10:30 to 12. Kundisyon naman kahit papaano," Abueva added. — Follow this writer on Twitter, @paullintag8.....»»
ADB commits support for infrastructure, finance sectors
Manila-based Asian Development Bank has committed to continue providing support for crucial infrastructure and financial sector development among its member countries through its private sector operations......»»
NCAA 95 champion Letran gives thanks to ABS-CBN Sports
Colegio de San Juan de Letran has won two titles in the last five years in NCAA Men's Basketball. And for the Knights, ABS-CBN Sports has been a big boost to their climb back to the mountaintop. "Thank you, ABS-CBN S+A for bringing out the best in us," the Intramuros-based school said in its online post. "You have been with us through hardship and triumph. Without you, the world would not have seen what the Colegio has to offer on and off camera." Letran, with then-rookie head coach Aldin Ayo at the helm, had a Cinderella run for the ages in the Grand Old League's first season back with ABS-CBN Sports in 2015. In the league's most recent season, the Knights had yet another run to remember as they dashed archrival San Beda University's dreams of going undefeated throughout the tournament. And even though ABS-CBN did not have its franchise renewed by Congress and was, therefore, forced to shut down its sports division, Letran is saying no goodbyes. As it said in its statement, "Until the next time we meet again. Arriba!".....»»