Manifest It: New York Knicks Filipino therapist s dreams are bigger than basketball
Six years since reaching the Filipino’s ultimate American Sports dream, Erwin Benedict Valencia is still waiting for a fellow homegrown Filipino to crack the NBA. .....»»
Basketball dreams take center stage with new barangay grassroots program
Eleven-year-old “Jared” finds inspiration in basketball......»»
Bigger, better CYBL 2024 edition to unfold in March
CEBU CITY, Philippines — One of Cebu’s premier grassroots basketball tilts, the Cebu Youth Basketball League (CYBL) promises to be bigger and grander in season 2024 that will unfold on March 16 at the old Sacred Heart School campus gymnasium. Popoy Navarro, the main organizer of the CYBL, announced that they have partnered with the.....»»
FTW Athletics Basketball Club looks forward to grander season 4
CEBU CITY, Philippines—Following the success of its third year, the FTW Athletics Basketball Club eyes a bigger and grander Season 4 when it kicks off on January 28, 2024. This was revealed by its founding organizer Bertoni Salazar after their third season capped off last November 19, 2023. The Stallions clinched the Season 3 title.....»»
Skating out of stress, to feel free
Since the first patent for a roller skate was awarded in 1819 to a certain M. Petibled of Paris, roller skating has gone through a lot of development before evolving into what we know it now as a recreational and competitive sport. While sports such as speed skating, hockey and figure skating have been institutionalized, recreational roller skating has had its time in the spotlight over the years. Then Covid-19 happened in early 2020, and roller skating became popular again as a solo activity. Its resurgence continues post-pandemic for fitness and just for fun. [caption id="attachment_175690" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Skating is good for fitness. | Photographs Courtesy of Chai Timbungco[/caption] Skating to destress Sesilya Rosario Timbungco, nicknamed Chai, started skating using inline skates (meaning the wheels are in a straight line) with her older cousins when she was around seven years old. Then she studied figure skating for two years, starting at age nine, before moving on to other things. In 2020, she picked up inlines again because “ironically, it was safer to be out on the streets because there were almost zero cars” at the height of community lockdowns and social restrictions. “What I like about skating is that it makes me feel good about myself,” she tells DAILY TRIBUNE in an online interview. “It’s also an outlet for me because it allows me to physically destress. From a technical standpoint, I like skating because of the diverse disciplines under its umbrella -- ice skating, dance skating, derby, quad hockey, speed, park, vert, etc.” The 31-year-old skater, who works as an insights community manager at a software company adds, “Skating is good for fitness because it involves the coordination of your entire body, even if it doesn’t seem like it. It’s all about balance, especially when learning your edges! Once you nail the basics, you pretty much won’t forget how to do it — just like riding a bike.” “It’s a good fitness option, but like with all other sports, make sure it is safe for you,” she points out. “Generally, skating is for everyone. But if you have balance issues, are pregnant or have bad hip mobility, it’s best to consult your doctor.” Chai makes it clear that skating is a sport, even if you do it recreationally or as a hobby. “So there will be maintenance expenses,” she says. “If you don’t get any upgrades and sticks with a decent pair, maintenance won’t be that expensive. A good entry-level pair costs around P5,000 to P8,000. There are many other factors to consider, but that’s the base price for entry-level skates.” These days, she usually skates at the basketball court at their home, though she really misses skating outdoors. She considers Bonifacio Global City as one of the friendlier spaces for skating. If she has to go to the rink, she says she only goes to Rolyo Sk8house at the Circuit Makati. Chai is also a co-founder of the Everywhere We Skate PH community on Facebook, whose goal is to “help raise awareness about local roller skating and make skating accessible in all ways, little ways, that we can,” while “bringing in roller skating brands into the local scene.” Chai’s tips in buying your first pair of skates: Measure your feet. Measure in inches and in centimeters. Never ever correlate shoe size with skate size. Skates have to be snug, but not tight. If you’re in between sizes, always choose the bigger size. There will be workarounds to a slightly loose boot, but it’s impossible for you to use skates that are too small Buy good brands, even if it means buying them second hand. That doesn’t mean branded is always good, nope. Make sure you research before buying anything! There are reputable brands that make nice skates that are good enough as second-hands. If that isn’t an option, make sure you buy skates that are within your current skill level. For example, buying an advanced boot is not the best for a beginner who doesn’t have proper foundation yet. Try them out at the rink first (if you can) before deciding on a big purchase like our own skates. Make sure you learn how to read wheel hardness (it’s not hard), as well as the other components of your skates. Other than looking up what to buy, also learn about maintenance and how to make normal adjustments to your skate. When skating for the first time, Chai recommends doing these steps: Bend your knees. “I can’t stress this enough, but bend your knees,” she says emphatically. “It’ll save you from potential nasty falls!” Wear gear. Avoid slopes. “It’s a common misconception that slopes are good for beginners because they’ll help you roll faster. That’s true, but that’s why it’s dangerous for someone who doesn’t know how to stop yet.” Feeling of freedom Roller skating was likewise a childhood hobby for Raqs Regalado, a 39-year-old event manager and costume designer. “But it was during the pandemic that I fell back into it,” she says in another online interview, “Because I found my old pair of skates (that I got at a Japanese thrift shop back in college) while we were trying to Marie Kondo our place during the first few weeks of the lockdown.” Post-pandemic, Raqs can usually be found skating at the Bike Playground or at other indoor rinks around the Metro, and for outdoor skating, at BGC. “What I like about it most is the feeling of freedom it gives me and the friends I’ve made in this hobby,” she points out. “It’s good for fitness because it activates muscles you never even knew existed. Like it’s a whole different muscle group working when you skate.” “There are cheap, generic ones but cheap skates also mean cheaper materials were used,” she adds. “Skates manufactured by bigger, skate-focused brands will always be more expensive than the generic ones, but I think of it as investing on the quality of skates you’re getting. Your safety depends on it.” Raqs truly believes that everybody can skate. “But I wouldn’t force it on someone who does not want to. You have to at least be interested to try it and eventually find happiness in it. Once you find joy in skating, that’s when you start wanting to learn more.” She has found her kindred spirits on Everywhere We Skate PH when it was founded in 2020: “Chai reached out to me and told me about the online skating community they’ve build. Of course, I instantly joined. There were only about 50 members that time. A few months in, and they asked me to be one of the group admins. Now, we have over 10,000 members. We welcome skaters of all levels and skate enthusiasts. Our main goal is to have a safe space for healthy exchanges of skate-related information.” Raqs’ tips in buying your first pair of skates: Assuming that you’ve already tried rental skates at the public rink, and you really liked it and want to get into skating, then start doing your research on the particular skates that have aesthetically caught your attention. Check for materials used, reviews and after-sales services. If you can also determine what type of skating you want to immerse yourself in (such as outdoor cruising, aggressive skating, artistic skating, etc.), that would also be very helpful in choosing your first pair of skates. If you’re skating for the first time, Raqs has these suggestions for you to do: Get safety gear. Watch video tutorials on how to fall safely because knowing how to do so can save you from serious injuries. Remember: You may fall a lot specially as a beginner, but don’t worry, it happens to all of us. The post Skating out of stress, to feel free appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go visits Navotas City to aid vulnerable sectors
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, together with Mayor John Rey Tiangco and Vice Mayor Kap Tito Sanchez, led a relief operation on Tuesday, August 22, for 800 Navotas City residents, consisting of persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and indigents at San Roque Elementary School. All beneficiaries received support personally from Go through grocery packs, vitamins, masks, and meals while select recipients were given bicycles, mobile phones, shirts, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) then extended financial assistance to the qualified beneficiaries. “Tuwing may kalamidad, tuwing may sunog, tuwing may problema po tayo, hindi niya tayo nakakalimutan…Talagang inaalala tayo, iniinisip niya tayo, at patuloy na nagmamalasakit sa inyo,” Tiangco said, referring to Go’s efforts. In addition to the 800 beneficiaries from vulnerable sectors, Go’s team is set to return today, August 23, to provide additional assistance to 200 more residents. Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, stressed the importance of prioritizing one's health and said “Mga kababayan ko, palagi tayong mag-iingat at alagaan natin ang mga sarili. Napaka importante po talaga unahin muna natin ang kalusugan natin.” Go principally authored and sponsored Republic Act No. 11463, also known as the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. This law mandates the establishment of Malasakit Centers in all hospitals under the Department of Health (DOH), including the Philippine General Hospital in Manila City. He encouraged individuals with health concerns to visit any of the 31 hospitals in Metro Manila, including the Navotas City Hospital, that house Malasakit Centers. These centers offer a one-stop shop for assistance from four government agencies – DSWD, DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. Currently, there are 158 Malasakit Centers nationwide and, according to DOH, these centers have helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide. “Huwag kayong matakot pumunta sa ospital kung wala kayong pera. Nasa loob na ng isang opisina ang mga ahensya na tutulungan kayo sa inyong babayaran,” Go said. Moreover, Go said Congress has allocated the necessary funds for DOH to construct Super Health Centers (SHCs) across Metro Manila, including the one in the city. “Mayroong 307 na itatayo na Super Health Center sa year 2022 sa buong Pilipinas at 322 na Super Health Center sa year 2023 sa buong Pilipinas. Bilang chairman sa Committee on Health sa Senado, sisikapin ko na maimprove ang ating healthcare system at ilapit natin ang serbisyo medikal sa ating mga kababayan,” Go said. SHCs are medium versions of polyclinics and are bigger than rural health units. The centers offer basic services such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory, x-ray, and ultrasound), pharmacy and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center and telemedicine. In line with his vision for a more progressive urban community, Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported various projects, including the construction of multipurpose buildings in various barangays; construction of floodwall structure along Chungkang River, floodgates along Navoyas Coastal Dike; improvement of drainage canals. He also helped secure funding for the acquisition of ambulance units, trucks, and multicabs. Aside from the said projects, the senator also supported several projects to bolster the city’s education sector, such as the rehabilitation of some facilities in Navotas Polytechnic College and additional buildings in Kaunlaran High School, Daanghari Elementary School, North Bay Boulevard Elementary School, Navotas National High School, Tangos Elementary School, San Roque Elementary School, San Rafael Village Elementary School, Tanza Elementary School, and Dagat-dagatan Elementary School. “Hinding-hindi ko po sasayangin ‘yung pagkakataong ibinigay n’yo po sa akin. Magtatrabaho po ako para sa Pilipino sa abot ng aking makakaya. Iyan po ang pwede kong ialay sa inyo, ang aking kasipagan. Kung trabaho po ang pag-uusapan sanay po ako sa trabaho,” said Go. “Alam n’yo parati kong naririnig na pinapasalamatan kami ni dating pangulong (Rodrigo) Duterte sa mga tulong (at) sa mga programa. Huwag ho kayong magpasalamat sa amin. Sa totoo lang po kami po ang dapat magpasalamat sa inyo dahil kami po’y mga probinsyano na binigyan n’yo po ng pagkakataon na makapagseribsyo po sa inyong lahat. Maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat,” he concluded. After the said activity, Go proceeded to lead another distribution effort in the city for recovering fire victims on the same day in coordination with the National Housing Authority which provided emergency housing assistance to qualified beneficiaries. The post Bong Go visits Navotas City to aid vulnerable sectors appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The World Cup and our national pride
Barely a few weeks after our women’s football team, the Filipinas, electrified the Philippine sporting world with a first-ever appearance in the FIFA Women’s World Cup, a first-ever goal and even more unbelievable, a first-ever win stunningly scored no less than against the host country, New Zealand, for the next two weeks, a much bigger world audience will have their eyes focused on the Philippines. Never mind that 90 percent of the Filipinas were composed of recruits from all over the world with some traces of Filipino blood flowing in their veins. Never mind that the biggest stars of the Filipinas, golden girl Sarina Bolden and goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel, and in the case of our Men’s Basketball team, NBA Utah Jazz shooting guard sensation Jordan Clarkson of Gilas, are as American as McDonald’s. Our hearts ever so slightly would start to beat a lot faster whenever these heaven-sent athletes would do what they do best on the pitch or the hardcourt. Surely just watching the replay of Sarina heading in the goal against the Kiwis and sprinting across the field with arms spread-eagled like the Philippine Eagle, you can’t help but scream out loud “Yes!,” get goosebumps, be misty-eyed, and jump with joy all at the same time recalling that single moment of a wondrous feat that boosted Filipino pride in an instant. Why is this so? How can a single goal cause so much adulation for the Filipinas and breast-beating pride in a nation forgetting for a moment all our gargantuan problems, and social and political differences? Apparently, this phenomenon is nothing new. A quick look in Google reveals various articles that conclusively demonstrate that sporting success and national pride are clearly intertwined. For instance, in various surveys of the International Social Survey Program conducted by Social Weather Stations in 1995, 2003 and 2013, from number 2 in 1995, sports moved up to number 1 in 2013 as the main source of national pride, edging out our national history from the top spot. From an 80 percent mark in 1995 representing the number of Filipinos proud of our sports achievement, this moved up to 87 percent in 2013. Not surprisingly, these were the years that Manny Pacquiao became an international sensation putting the Philippines in the world limelight for his achievements as a boxing great. What’s happening in the next two weeks? Well, unless you have been completely zonked out of your senses, the FIBA World Cup, the world’s biggest basketball spectacular, will be happening right here in our backyard. Millions of Filipinos, including yours truly, will have their eyes glued to television, streamed games on their smart gadgets, or for some lucky thousands who can shell out some hard-earned pesos, watch the games live at Araneta, MOA, and Philippine Arena. To be realistic though, the odds of Gilas sweeping our Group A games against Angola, Dominican Republic, and Italy to move on to the knockout stage are next to impossible. I think that at best what we could hope for is a close win against Angola and if NBA Minnesota Timberwolves star center Karl Anthony Towns can somehow be neutralized by wide-bodied but undersized Junemar Fajardo and our guards like Scottie Thompson or Kiefer Ravena can match up against their bulkier but fleet-footed guards, then a miracle for our country might be in the offing. Unfortunately, our game against Italy will be more of a question of limiting the certain Italian win to single digits to keep our national pride from getting trampled on too badly. But in all these games, the fans will be feverishly anticipating the explosions of Jordan Clarkson, our one and only Filipino NBA pride, and perhaps maybe Kai Sotto, and why not AJ Edu and Dwight Ramos, finally getting their much-needed exposure in the international limelight to showcase their talents and demonstrate that they are good enough to make the NBA. Nevertheless, win or lose, I believe what is important is that as a host nation, we put our best foot forward, take a momentary pause and suspend the endless carping on social media and the news, to present to the world just what basketball crazy but hospitable people we are. Go Gilas! Until next week… OBF! *** For comments, email bing_matoto@yahoo.com. The post The World Cup and our national pride appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go continues efforts to improve public service delivery
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go remains committed to supporting economic recovery and bolstering the healthcare system in various communities. Being an adopted son of Zambales, he continues to help improve public service delivery in the province. In a speech during his visit to Olongapo City, Zambales, on Saturday, 19 August, Go reiterated his dedication to providing immediate aid to communities in need especially the poor. “Huwag po kayong magpasalamat sa akin. Parati naming naririnig ‘salamat Senator Bong Go, salamat (dating) pangulong (Rodrigo) Duterte sa mga tulong.' Sa totoo lang po, kami po ang dapat magpasalamat sa inyo dahil kami po’y mga probinsyano na binigyan n’yo po ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo po sa inyo. Maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat,” Go said. “Hinding-hindi ko po sasayangin ‘yung pagkakataong ibinigay ninyo sa akin, magtatrabaho po ako para sa Pilipino. Wala po akong piling oras, Lunes hanggang Linggo, umaga hanggang gabi magtatrabaho po ako para sa Pilipino sa abot ng aking makakaya,” he added. Go and his team distributed grocery packs, vitamins, masks, and snacks to 2,000 struggling residents, composed of persons with disabilities, solo parents, and transport workers, at the Rizal Triangle Multipurpose Center. The senator likewise gave away bicycles, shoes, mobile phones, watches, shirts, and basketball and volleyball balls. Meanwhile, financial support was also extended by the DSWD to assessed beneficiaries. The relief operation was in partnership with the Olongapo City local government, in coordination with Congressman Jay Khonghun and Mayor Rolen Paulino, Jr. “Ang tawag po sa kanya ay Mr. Malasakit. Alam niyo kung bakit? Kasi po yung puso niya (ay may malasakit), malapit sa tao si Senator Bong Go. At maliban po diyan, siya ang nagsulong ng mga Malasakit Centers… At gusto ko lang din ipaalam sa inyo na si Senator Bong Go po ay matagal na niya akong tinutulungan upang magkaroon tayo ng Malasakit Center dito sa hospital natin,” Paulino said in his speech, referring to ongoing efforts to establish a Malasakit Center in Olongapo in coordination with DOH. “Thank you very much po. Napakalaking tulong po ng ginagawa niyo sa amin… Siya po yung nagiging susi para marami pa tayong matulungan. Ang totoo po diyan, ang tinutulungan niya po ay hindi lang Olongapo, buong Zambales ang natutulungan ninyo,” Mayor Paulino continued. To further help alleviate the burden of poor and indigent patients, Go maintained his support for the continued operations of Malasakit Centers nationwide, including the one at President Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Hospital in Iba town. Initiated in 2018 and institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, which was principally authored and sponsored by Go in 2019, these centers serve as a vital bridge between the government and the people, offering streamlined access to medical assistance programs from concerned agencies, including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). Currently, there are 158 Malasakit Centers nationwide and, according to DOH, these centers have helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide. “Ang Malasakit Center po is a one stop shop. Nasa loob na po ng ospital ang apat na ahensya ng gobyerno – PhilHealth, PCSO, DOH, DSWD na handang tumulong sa ating mga kababayan. ‘Yan po ang Malasakit Center, batas ‘yan na isinulong ko noon, pinirmahan ni dating Pangulong Duterte. One stop shop po ‘yan, lapitan n’yo lang po, para po ‘yan sa poor and indigent patients,” said Go in an interview after the event. Go's vision for a stronger healthcare sector continues through his advocacy for the establishment of more Super Health Centers (SHCs). Recognizing the importance of accessible healthcare services, especially after experiencing a global health crisis, Go has championed the cause of establishing these centers to provide primary care, early detection of diseases, and needed medical consultations to a broader range of citizens. Go cited that necessary funds have been allocated last year for DOH to construct SHCs in Iba, Botolan, and Castillejos, while another center will be established in Castillejos under the 2023 budget. The SHCs are medium versions of polyclinics and are bigger than rural health units, which offer basic services, such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center, and telemedicine where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. “Ang ikinaganda po nito, (pwede na) diyan na po magpapakonsulta. It will help decongest the hospital. Importante ang early detection ng sakit para hindi na lumala at hindi na kailangan dalahin sa ospital. Magpakonsulta po kayo sa Super Health Center para mabigyan kayo agad ng primary care,” Go encouraged. Through Resolution No. 205 dated 8 August 2022, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Zambales pronounced Go as its adopted son, noting that the senator has "embodied the spirit of good governance and public service" by exerting great efforts to help the whole province. To ensure the progress of the city, Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported the road rehabilitation along Elicano Street East Bajac-Bajac and the improvement of drainage canals in Barangay Barretto. On the same day, Go was in Subic where he was the guest speaker during the commencement exercise of Kolehiyo ng Subic, Class Matalaghay 2023. The post Bong Go continues efforts to improve public service delivery appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go helps struggling Bulakeños in Plaridel town
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, head of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, continues to promote better access to public health services through the Malasakit Centers program to ensure that more Filipinos, particularly the poor and indigent, get access to medical assistance they need. In a video message during his team’s relief activity in Plaridel, Bulacan, in coordination with Mayor Jocell Aimee Vistan, on Thursday, 6 July, Go encouraged those with health issues to visit Bulacan Medical Center in Malolos City or in Rogaciano M. Mercado Memorial Hospital in Sta. Maria or in Ospital ng Lungsod ng San Jose del Monte where there are Malasakit Centers that will assist them with their medical-related expenses. A brainchild of Go, the Malasakit Center first opened in Cebu in 2018 and was later institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, which the senator principally authored and sponsored. The Act mandates all Department of Health-run hospitals, and Philippine General Hospital in Manila City, to establish their own centers to provide convenient access to medical assistance programs offered by the government. Other public hospitals may also establish their own centers provided they meet a standard set of criteria and they can guarantee the sustainability of their operations. The program has so far assisted over seven million Filipinos since its inception in 2018, according to DOH. “Ang target po ng Malasakit Center ay bawasan ang inyong hospital billing to the lowest amount possible. Kaya huwag po kayong mahihiyang lumapit sa Malasakit Center dahil para po yan sa inyo, mga kababayan kong Pilipino. At ngayon po, meron na po tayong 158 na Malasakit Centers sa buong Pilipinas na handang tumulong po sa inyo,” explained Go. “Pera naman ng taumbayan yan. Binabalik lang sa kanila sa pamamagitan ng mabilis at maayos na serbisyo. Kaya basta Pilipino ka, poor and indigent patient ka, qualified ka sa Malasakit Center. Lapitan niyo lang po ang Malasakit Center diyan po sa inyong lugar at tutulungan po kayo sa inyong billing,” he added. Go also highlighted that there will be 15 Super Health Centers in the province which will provide basic health services to Bulakeños. Super Health Centers are medium versions of polyclinics and are bigger than rural health units. The centers offer basic services such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory, x-ray, and ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center, and telemedicine, which makes possible remote diagnosis and treatment of patients. Held at the municipal hall, Go’s team provided assistance to 49 struggling residents, such as masks, snacks, vitamins, and shirts. They likewise gave away balls for basketball and volleyball to select individuals. A selected beneficiary likewise received a new pair of shoes. More so, the Department of Social Welfare and Development then provided financial assistance to each beneficiary. To further improve the delivery of public service in the province, Go, who serves as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported several initiatives, such as the rehabilitation of the Bulacan State University Activity Center and the construction of a multipurpose building in Malolos City, construction of drainages, provision of medical equipment for local hospitals, improvement of the Pandi District Hospital, concreting of a farm-to-market road in San Ildefonso and many more. On 3 July, Go personally visited the town of Bulakan, where he assisted 1,000 more indigents and inspected the town’s Super Health Center. Simultaneously, Go’s team extended the same relief to more disadvantaged residents in Bocaue City. The post Bong Go helps struggling Bulakeños in Plaridel town appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NBA Draft prodigy Wembanyama set for commercial bonanza
Victor Wembanyama is only 19 and has not played a minute in an NBA jersey but the French teenager is poised to land an array of lucrative deals likely to make him one of the most commercially successful athletes in history. Wembanyama will take center stage at the NBA Draft in Brooklyn on Thursday when the gifted 7ft 4in (2.24m) center widely viewed as a once-in-a-generation basketball talent is set to be chosen with the number one pick by the San Antonio Spurs. Already, Wembanyama is being tipped to potentially land an improved $100 million contract with US sporting goods behemoth Nike, eclipsing the $90 million offered to LeBron James when he entered the league in 2003. If the $100 million figure comes to fruition, it would be the biggest contract ever handed to a player who has not yet played in the NBA. Sonny Vaccaro, the legendary 83-year-old marketing executive who signed Michael Jordan to Nike and Kobe Bryant to Adidas, believes Wembanyama's unique talent could command "historic" riches. "This is unique. But a deserved unique," Vaccaro told AFP. "In my lifetime of evaluating and making financial prices for athletes, I've never seen anything like it. This kid will make history." Nike, which already has a deal with Wembanyama, has hinted at its strategy to make the Frenchman a global superstar. "Think (Victor Wembanyama) will change basketball? Think bigger," Nike wrote in a social media post after this year's draft order was revealed last month. Wembanyama's mammoth Nike deal will likely be the first of many, according to Steve Rosner of 16W Marketing, who predicts multi-million dollar deals in areas such as trading cards and other derivative products. Unique endorser "Victor is going to be one of those guys that are going to be able to have a nice endorsement portfolio before he ever plays a second in the NBA," Rosner said. "Because of all the promotion and the hype coming up leading up to this, he'll be a unique endorser as well, as far as being able to have these deals in place before he steps on an NBA court." In decades gone by, such a commercial bonanza for a foreign NBA player would have been unthinkable. Overseas stars such as Hakeem Olajuwon, Dirk Nowitzki, and Pau Gasol aroused little interest among sponsors. "Madison Avenue prefers an American guy," consultant Marty Blackman remarked in 1995 when commenting on how Olajuwon had failed to earn the sort of endorsement deals enjoyed by American players despite leading Houston to a second straight NBA championship. Victor Matheson, a professor at Holy Cross University, says that began to change in 2002 when China's Yao Ming entered the league. "Yao Ming was important, because not only was he a big name within the US, but he really opened up the Chinese market to the NBA as well," Matheson said. Today, the NBA's overseas fan base is larger than the entire population of the United States. According to Forbes magazine, Giannis Antetokounmpo, two-time NBA Most Valuable Player and an NBA champion in 2021, earns more in off-court deals -- $45 million – than the salary paid to him by the Milwaukee Bucks of $42 million. "Victor can open up new markets," Matheson said. Rosner said Wembanyama's international profile is also likely to make him an attractive pitchman for multinationals such as Coca-Cola, McDonald's or Visa, who all signed deals with Yao. A world game now Twenty years ago, playing for a small-market NBA team such as San Antonio could have potentially diminished Wembanyama's commercial appeal. However, Vaccaro believes the global reach of the NBA and the rise of streaming and social networks have changed the dynamic. "It's a world game now, so it doesn't matter really," said Vaccaro. It may take time for Wembanyama to fully maximize his earning potential, though. The French prodigy and his entourage are in no hurry to cash in immediately. Wembanyama's agent, Bouna Ndiaye, who has represented numerous French NBA stars such as Rudy Gobert, Nicolas Batum and Evan Fournier, says the priority is basketball. "What we're trying to do, first of all, is make Victor rare," Ndiaye told ESPN. "We don't want him all over the place. We don't want to have 20 partners," Ndiaye said. "Victor is rejecting some rich, million-dollar deals right now because he wants to focus on basketball." Commercial partners, meanwhile, may also be reluctant to "give away the entire company to a player who actually hasn't played a single minute in the NBA", Matheson said. "I suspect they're going to be looking for a little bit more." Rosner, however, believes that if Wembanyama delivers on the court, commercial deals will be a formality. "Once he does everything on the court, then everything off the court will follow," Rosner said. Matheson echoed that position, stating that ultimately Wembanyama's fortune will be maximized through his achievements on the hardwood. "The reason that Jordan has become a billionaire is not that he signed one good deal but because his play over almost two decades meant that he could re-sign that deal and re-sign that deal and re-sign that deal," Matheson said. "In order to make LeBron James or Michael Jordan sort of money, it's not about signing that first deal. It's about showing what you can do actually on the court." The post NBA Draft prodigy Wembanyama set for commercial bonanza appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
How disaster-resilient are we?
News stories with accompanying photographs again flood the usual outlets of radio, television, print, and now, even social media, showing school children busy with their lessons while gathered under the shade of towering trees, tents, gymnasiums or basketball courts, crowded corridors of government buildings, even chapels. In previous seasons, the students were displaced from their schools by earthquakes or typhoons. Today, they are refugees fleeing from the lava flow and deadly fumes from a volcano, acting up with signs of worsening disaster ahead. Their schoolrooms have been taken over by entire communities whose residents have left their homes along the fringes of Mayon, the country’s most active volcano, because there is nowhere else to park their hastily-packed belongings and no space to sleep, eat and get on with their lives. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who visited the evacuation sites in Albay province, agreed with local officials that the situation could last longer than expected or at least three months before they could return to their homes. A news report said more than 17,000 students in five Albay towns were affected by the transfer, and more evacuees were distributed to about 20 emergency shelters. “We have to find ways to ensure the learning continuity,” a teacher told a news reporter, adding that learning modules used at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic were again being used. Still, one problem was tracking down the dispersed students. Because of its geography, the Philippines is one of the world’s most vulnerable countries, hosting natural hazards like typhoons (20 to 21 hitting the country a year), floods, earthquakes, storm surges, landslides and volcanic eruptions. There are 24 active volcanoes in the Philippines and more than 1,500 on Earth, which are in Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, Ethiopia, Guatemala, Ecuador, Italy, El Salvador and Kenya, are at higher risk of volcanic eruptions. As of 15 June 2023, 24 active volcanos have been recorded as erupting worldwide. Considering the statistics in the Philippines, how disaster-resilient are we? Local government units or LGUs on the frontline of building resilient communities want financial aid and technical skills in dealing with disaster risk reduction and resilience-building measures. Several Internet apps on early warning systems can enable local officials to develop real-time analyses and adopt swift solutions as part of disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts. The LGUs’ crucial role in this effort should cascade to their respective communities through early warning systems. Also, due recognition should be given to their powers, authority, and corresponding responsibilities to lessen the adverse effects of calamities descending on their shoes, especially in places with no previous history of disasters. But then again, the question of financial capability comes into play because no local governments are equal in the budget, with bigger LGUs getting a bigger slice of the pie from local revenues than the smaller ones. Observers have cited areas of concern: insufficient data and contingency funds of LGUs, lack of adequate disaster risk reduction skills among political leaders, and not enough planning and contingency measures on the part of school authorities on how to deal with problems arising from the use of their grounds and facilities as evacuation sites. The Philippines, however, is not alone in this regard. In the highly-developed United States, for example, it has been observed that not all state officials “have a game plan for local emergency management that encompasses pre-disaster resilience and long-term rebuilding and recovery. Most solely have a short-term emergency response strategy.” Still, it is never too late to catch up, even if this will require spending more on preventive measures like investing in equipment warning residents of impending disasters, anticipating the problems of evacuees by building safer and more permanent shelters instead of displacing school children from their classrooms, extending safety zones and relocating homes away from risk areas, and planning recovery steps once the disaster blows over. We can no longer afford to sit back and wait for the point of no return, acting only when calamity strikes. Being prepared can save thousands of lives, homes and livelihoods. The post How disaster-resilient are we? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go assists indigents in Indigents in Zambales
Amid the World Health Organization’s lifting of the global health emergency status of COVID-19, Senator Bong Go reminded the public to make health their top priority while the government continues to exert great efforts to recover from the pandemic. In a video message during the relief efforts in Botolan and Iba, Zambales on Monday, 8 May, Go, head of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, encouraged the public to remain vigilant and still follow health protocols. He underscored that while the threat of COVID-19 continues, the Filipinos’ ‘bayanihan’ spirit must continue as well. He urged the eligible public to remain supportive of the government’s pandemic efforts by participating in the national vaccination drive. “Mga kababayan ko, ilang taon na po tayong nasa pandemya. Kaya nakikiusap po ako sa inyo na huwag po maging kumpiyansa. Kahit ni-lift na ng WHO ang global health emergency, andiyan pa rin po ang banta ng COVID-19. Magpabakuna at magpabooster shots na po kayo dahil ang bakuna po ang tanging susi sa ngayon para makabalik tayo sa normal na pamumuhay,” said Go. He then offered to help those with medical issues. The senator advised them to visit President Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Hospital in Iba where there is a Malasakit Center to assist them with their medical expenses. The Malasakit Centers program was institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463 which Go principally authored and sponsored in the Senate. The Act aims to provide convenient access to various government assistance to particularly poor and indigent patients and help them with their hospital bills. Go’s team distributed snacks to a total of 390 struggling residents at Barangay Panan Hall in Botolan and the Sports Complex gymnasium in Iba. The senator also gave away cellular phones, shoes, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. Continuing his message, Go maintained that necessary funds have been allocated by last year for the Department of Health to construct Super Health Centers in Iba, Botolan, and Castillejos. Advocated by Go, Super Health Centers are medium versions of polyclinics and are bigger than rural health units, which offer basic services, such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy and ambulatory surgical unit. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. DOH, the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. In its Resolution No. 205 dated 8 August 2022 the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Zambales pronounced Go as its adopted son, noting that the senator has "embodied the spirit of good governance and public service" by exerting great efforts to help the whole province. Meanwhile, in a resolution adopted by the Sangguniang Bayan on June 23, 2022, Go was also proclaimed as an adopted son of Iba, citing that Go has shown a big heart for the country, especially to local government units where he poured government resources to empower LGUs. In line with his commitment to helping build back the city and the rest of the province, Go supported the rehabilitation of roads in Botolan, Masinloc, San Felipe, San Marcelino, and Olongapo City; rehabilitation of the public market in San Antonio; construction of a seawall in Masinloc; and construction of two multipurpose buildings and installation of solar powered street lights in Botolan. “Mga kababayan ko, mag-ingat po tayo. Magdasal po tayo, magtulungan po tayo, magbayanihan po tayo, magmalasakit po tayo sa ating kapwa Pilipino. Magtiwala lang po kayo sa gobyerno at makakaahon din po tayo bilang nagkakaisang mamamayang Pilipino,” encouraged Go. The post Bong Go assists indigents in Indigents in Zambales appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Thousands in Iba, Zambales receive aid from Sen. Go
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go gave back to the province that took him as its “adopted son.” He helped organize relief operations for the struggling residents of Iba, Zambales on 19-20 April. The initiative was part of Go’s continuous efforts to help address the needs of Filipinos and make sure no one is left behind in the pandemic recovery efforts. Go’s outreach team conducted a distribution activity at the Iba Sports Complex gymnasium where they provided masks to a total of 1,427 residents. Select beneficiaries also received additional items, such as cellular phones, shoes, and balls for basketball and volleyball. Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended separate financial assistance. As the Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go advised individuals with health concerns to visit the Malasakit Center at President Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Hospital in Iba. Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from the DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. These one-stop shops aim to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount. The program, initiated by Go in 2018, has been institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463. Go is the principal author and sponsor of the Act. It mandates all DOH-run hospitals and the Philippine General Hospital in Manila City to establish their own centers to provide access to medical assistance programs offered by the government. Currently, there are 157 Malasakit Centers established nationwide which have assisted over seven million Filipinos, according to the DOH. Meanwhile, Go reiterated his commitment to support the establishment of more Super Health Centers across the country, considering how they can significantly help reduce hospital occupancy rates while bringing government medical services closer to the grassroots. In Zambales, necessary funds have been allocated by Congress last year for the DOH to construct Super Health Centers in Iba, Botolan, and Castillejos. Advocated by Go, Super Health Centers are medium versions of polyclinics and are bigger than rural health units, which offer basic services, such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated under the Health Facilities Enhancement Program of the DOH for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. DOH, the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. In its Resolution No. 205 dated 8 August 2022 the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Zambales declared Go as its adopted son, noting that the senator has “embodied the spirit of good governance and public service” by exerting great efforts to help the whole province. “The province of Zambales is truly grateful and honored for having an unwavering partner in the person of Senator Christopher Lawrence ‘Bong’ Tesoro Go, whose efforts deserve commendation and recognition for the love, concern and noble intention to the province,” the resolution read. In a resolution adopted by the Sangguniang Bayan on June 23, 2022, Go was also proclaimed as an adopted son of Iba, citing that Go has shown a big heart for the country, especially to local government units where he poured government resources to empower LGUs. Go, as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, has likewise supported several initiatives in the province, such as the rehabilitation of roads in Botolan, Masinloc, San Felipe, San Marcelino and Olongapo City; rehabilitation of the public market in San Antonio; construction of a seawall in Masinloc; and construction of two multipurpose buildings and installation of solar powered street lights in Botolan. The post Thousands in Iba, Zambales receive aid from Sen. Go 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......»»
Architects, engineers start hoop wars on March 17
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Sixth Architects + Engineers Basketball Club Corporate Cup promises exciting hardcourt action starting tomorrow, March 17, 2023, at the Aznar Coliseum in the Southwestern University-Phinma (SWU-Phinma) in Cebu City. The annual hoop wars featuring Cebu’s architects and engineers have grown bigger, this time, fielding in 12 teams, with two more […] The post Architects, engineers start hoop wars on March 17 appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
How the NU Lady Bulldogs 100-game win streak uplifts women s basketball
Rather than just seeing the feat as a testament to NU's program for women's hoops, which was architectured by decorated tactician Patrick Aquino, the mighty Lady Bulldogs looked at the bigger picture......»»
Asian basketball exodus: Why it’s actually a good thing
While there may be a spate of top Filipino players signing with leagues overseas, the Philippines has actually been late in the ball game in exporting talents to bigger markets.....»»
Manifest It: New York Knicks Filipino therapist s dreams are bigger than basketball
Six years since reaching the Filipino’s ultimate American Sports dream, Erwin Benedict Valencia is still waiting for a fellow homegrown Filipino to crack the NBA. .....»»
James and Lakers advance with 131-122 win over Trail Blazers
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (AP) — While the ultimate objective is to win a title, LeBron James said the Los Angeles Lakers achieved a key goal against the Portland Trail Blazers — and it wasn't simply to win the first-round playoff series. It was improvement. “We got better throughout the course of the series,” James said. “We knew we were coming into a series versus a hot Portland team that was playing the best basketball inside the bubble along with Phoenix. So we wanted to just come in and try to work our game, get better and better as the games went on, as the series went on. And I believe we did that.” James had 36 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists and the Lakers advanced to the Western Conference semifinals, beating the short-handed Blazers 131-122 in Game 5 on Saturday night (Sunday morning in the Philippines). Anthony Davis had a playoff-best 43 points for the top-seeded Lakers in their first playoff appearance since 2013. The Lakers hadn't won a playoff series since 2012. James has never lost a first-round playoff series, going 14-0. The Lakers will play the winner of the series between Houston and Oklahoma City. The Rockets took a 3-2 lead with a 114-80 victory earlier Saturday. CJ McCollum had 36 points for the surprisingly scrappy Trail Blazers, who played without injured All-Star guard Damian Lillard. Carmelo Anthony added 27 points. Down 14 in the third quarter, Portland got to 100-97 on McCollum's layup and tied it on Anfernee Simon's 3-pointer to cap an 8-point run with 9:46 left. James answered with a 3. Gary Trent Jr.'s 3-pointer tied it at 109 with just under seven minutes to go. Again the Lakers held off Portland with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope's 3. After Trent's 3-pointer closed it to 114-112 with 4:53 left, Davis had a personal 11-0 run to put Los Angeles up 123-112 and all but seal it. The game was originally set for Wednesday night, but players collectively decided not to play in the three playoff games scheduled for that day to protest racial injustice following the shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Games on Friday were also postponed. James said he hopes the past few days made a difference. “Obviously, the bubble season will never be forgotten. In sports this is the first time we’ve been able to do something like this, but this moment is so much bigger than us playing basketball,” James said. “Hopefully, years on down the line, when America is in a better place, you can look back to this moment and be like, that was one of the catapults that kind of got it going.” Lillard injured his right knee in Game 4 that prompted him to leave the bubble in Florida and return to Portland to see team doctors. Lillard was named MVP of the seeding games heading into the playoffs, averaging 37.6 points and 9.6 assists in eight games. Trent Jr. took his Lillard's spot in the opening lineup. But because of injuries the eighth-seeded Blazers had just nine players available for the game. “All you can do is hope to hang around and make it a fourth quarter game and win in the end, and we didnt quite win it in the end," Blazers coach Terry Stotts said. Portland's lone win in the first-round series came in Game 1. TIP INS Trail Blazers: In addition to Lillard, Portland was without Zach Collins because of left ankle inflammation, Nassir Little with dehydration and Wenyen Gabriel with right quad tendonitis. Lakers: Rajon Rondo practiced on Friday but remained inactive for Game 5 as he recovers from a fractured right thumb and back spasms. ... Dion Waiters was game-time decision with a migraine but was available. MOURNING UNCLE CLIFFY: There was a moment of silence before the game for former Trail Blazer Cliff Robinson. He died Saturday at 53. Robinson played 18 seasons in the NBA, his first eight in Portland, and later made the city his home. Portland players also wore headbands during the game in his honor. “His personality and energy were unmatched, and his contributions on the court were unmistakable, helping the Trail Blazers into the playoffs each of his eight seasons with the team,” the Blazers said in a statement. The moment of silence also recognized former Arizona coach Lute Olson and actor Chadwick Boseman. CIVIC DUTY: The Lakers announced before the game than that Staples Center will serve as a voting center for the upcoming general election. Voters can cast ballots at the arena from Oct. 30 through Nov. 3. The arena will also serve as a drop-off site for ballots......»»
WHAT IF… Dave Ildefonso stayed in Ateneo
History lesson: As a rookie and then as a sophomore, Dave Ildefonso was the main man of National University. The 6-foot-3 swingman made an immediate impact by putting up per game counts of 15.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists as a rookie. He only built on those with averages of 17.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.1 steals in his sophomore season. Safe to say, Ildefonso made the most out of his moment as the most prized prospect in recent history for the blue and gold. And, to this day, he does not regret moving from Katipunan to Sampaloc. This, even though Ateneo de Manila University head coach Tab Baldwin memorably made it a point to make the scoring wing "rethink his decision" in their first meeting. In response, Ildefonso said then that he stands by his decision. Right decision as it may have been, his individual brilliance in National U, unfortunately, did not translate into team glory. In his first year, the son of Philippine basketball legend and school great Danny Ildefonso saw his squad stand at 4-10 at the end of eliminations. The next year was not that much better as the Bulldogs struggled to a 2-12 standing. Not long after, with a coaching change in the offing, Ildefonso announced that he was transferring to Ateneo - or, more accurately, coming home to the Blue Eagles' nest. Now 20-years-old, he will have to sit out UAAP 83 before being eligible for the blue and white in Season 84. Did you ever think, though, what would have happened if he never left, and would have never had to come home in the first place? What if Ildefonso just moved on up from Ateneo Jrs. to Srs.? If he did, he would be joining a team already loaded at the wings with Thirdy Ravena, Mike Nieto, Gian Mamuyac, Adrian Wong, Aaron Black, and BJ Andrade. As a rookie for the Blue Eagles, he would not even come close to the 27.6 minutes he actually got in National U. If so, his impact would have been still much-welcome for the blue and white, but more or less negligible to just about everybody else. Still, he would have been part of a terrific team that won it all for the second straight season. Then with Anton Asistio graduating, Black moving on, and Raffy Verano and Jolo Mendoza being sidelined, he would then be given a bigger burden in accordance with Ateneo's "next man up" philosophy. And, without a doubt, with Ildefonso, the Blue Eagles have yet another weapon in its arsenal for its triumphant march towards a historic season sweep. In this light, he would have been a champion for all of his last three seasons - one in the Jrs. and two in the Srs. And then he would enter Season 83 as one of Coach Tab's main men alongside SJ Belangel, Ange Kouame, and Dwight Ramos. For sure, Ildefonso would still shine like a star if he would have stayed in Ateneo. It would just have taken more time for him to do so. That, after all, is one of his reasons for committing to the Bulldogs in the first place. "Isipin mo, si SJ, limited minutes. Kung nag-stay ako dun, mas lalo na ako, mas limited," he said then, when the two of them were prized rookies. Indeed, the heavy minutes and the heavy workload would not have been there for Ildefonso if he would have decided to move on up from the Blue Eaglets to the Blue Eagles. At the same time, though, two championships would have been there for him. And that would have been the exact opposite of what had actually happened. The story is far from over, however, as Ildefonso has a golden opportunity to have the best of both worlds. He already is a shining star after two years standing out for National U. And now, he will still be doing so, just for an Ateneo championship juggernaut that is not going away anytime soon. --- Follow this writer on Twitter, @riegogogo......»»
Bigger challenges loom for E-Gilas as FIBA eyes esports expansion
Southeast Asian champion E-Gilas Pilipinas will have another chance to shine as the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) announced plans in holding the next esports tournament worldwide are already in the works......»»