The road back to NCAA relevance has become even more difficult for the San Sebastian Stags.Just months before NCAA Season 102, newly appointed head coach Tony Tan has stepped away from the program, leaving the Golden Stags facing another major adjustment at a crucial time.Taking over on an interim basis is San Sebastian legend Rodney Santos, who was originally expected to be part of Tan’s coaching staff. Santos now inherits a team still searching for answers after a winless campaign in the 19th Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup.For a proud basketball program with a rich history, another coaching change raises serious questions about stability, direction, and long-term planning.San Sebastian once stood among the NCAA’s elite, but the Stags have struggled to regain their championship form in recent years. The program has gone through multiple coaching changes, making it difficult to establish continuity and build a sustainable system.Tan’s arrival came with optimism, especially after the team announced a partnership with United Prep Canada. But with his sudden departure, the Stags are once again forced to rebuild—both on the court and behind the scenes.Santos now faces a difficult challenge: revive the confidence of a struggling team, install a system in a short period, and restore the identity of a program that once produced champions and legendary players.The Stags’ last NCAA title came in 2009 behind the famed “Pinatubo Trio” of Calvin Abueva, Ian Sangalang, and Ronald Pascual, under coach Ato Agustin.The question now is simple: Can San Sebastian finally find the stability needed to return to the top, or will another chapter of uncertainty continue?For a program with such a proud legacy, the comeback cannot be built on quick fixes. It needs commitment, consistency, and a clear vision for the future.

The Philippines' top artistic gymnasts are set to take another major step in their international campaign as the national men's and women's teams embark on separate overseas training camps in preparation for two of the biggest events on the 2026 gymnastics calendar.Leading the men's contingent are Olympic champion Carlos Yulo and his younger brother Eldrew Yulo, who will travel to Japan for an intensive training camp aimed at fine-tuning their routines ahead of the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya and the 54th FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Rotterdam.Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) President Cynthia Carrion confirmed that the Yulo brothers will be joined by Justine Ace De Leon, Miguel Beasana, and Filipino-American gymnast Zachary Nunez, forming the core of the country's men's national team.Meanwhile, the Philippine women's artistic gymnastics team will undergo its own high-level training camp in the United States, giving both squads access to world-class facilities, elite coaching, and valuable international training environments.The overseas preparations are being undertaken with the support of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) as part of a long-term program designed to keep Philippine gymnastics competitive on the continental and global stages.Building Momentum for Two Major ChampionshipsThe training camps come at a crucial stage of the season, with the 20th Asian Games scheduled from September 19 to October 4 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. The regional showpiece will gather Asia's strongest gymnastics programs, providing the Philippines with another opportunity to challenge traditional powerhouses.Shortly after the Asian Games, the national team will compete in the 54th FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships from October 17 to 25 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Beyond world medals and rankings, the championships serve as an important qualification pathway toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, making every routine and every point critical.For the Filipino gymnasts, the back-to-back competitions represent one of the most demanding stretches of the international season.Yulo Brothers Continue to Lead Philippine GymnasticsCarlos and Eldrew Yulo enter the overseas training camp carrying significant momentum following their impressive performances at the recent Asian Artistic Gymnastics Championships in China.Carlos captured the gold medal, while Eldrew earned the bronze medal, results that automatically secured their qualification for the World Championships in Rotterdam. Their achievements also confirmed their places on the Philippine team bound for the Asian Games.Carlos, already one of the country's most decorated athletes, continues to set the standard for Philippine gymnastics through his consistency on the international stage. His younger brother Eldrew has steadily emerged as one of the sport's brightest young stars, demonstrating that the Philippines possesses not only an established champion but also a promising next-generation contender.Their presence provides leadership and inspiration for a men's squadTraining overseas has become an essential component of the Philippines' high-performance program, allowing national athletes to sharpen routines under elite coaching, gain exposure to international training standards, and simulate the level of competition they will encounter looking to achieve new milestones against Asia's and the world's best.Investing in International PreparationTraining overseas has become an essential component of the Philippines' high-performance program, allowing national athletes to sharpen routines under elite coaching, gain exposure to international training standards, and simulate the level of competition they will encounter at major championships.Japan has long been recognized as one of the world's leading nations in artistic gymnastics, making it an ideal destination for the men's team. Likewise, the United States offers the women's squad an opportunity to train in one of the sport's most advanced development systems.The GAP believes that these international camps will enhance both technical execution and competitive readiness while strengthening team cohesion before the country's biggest assignments of the year.Eyes on the Road to Los Angeles 2028While medals remain an immediate objective, the broader mission extends beyond 2026. Every international competition now forms part of the Philippines' campaign toward qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.With Carlos and Eldrew Yulo leading a talented national squad, and with the continued support of the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines and the Philippine Sports Commission, Team Philippines aims to build on recent international success and further establish itself among Asia's rising gymnastics powers.As the national team departs for its overseas training camps, the journey ahead represents more than preparation—it marks another important chapter in Philippine gymnastics' pursuit of excellence on the continental, world, and Olympic stages.

Great sporting events are not built by athletes alone—they are made possible by dedicated leaders working behind the scenes.The 2026 Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships is more than a gathering of the continent's top gymnasts. It also stands as a testament to the leadership and commitment of three remarkable women whose vision and hard work have helped make the Philippines a proud host of this prestigious international competition.Their contributions extend far beyond organizing a championship. By bringing a major sporting event to the country, they are creating opportunities for Filipino athletes, strengthening the nation's standing in the international sports community, and inspiring the next generation of gymnasts and sports leaders.Their leadership highlights the growing role of women in Philippine sports—not only as elite athletes but also as administrators, decision-makers, mentors, and advocates who continue to shape the future of the industry.Every successful international event hosted by the Philippines enhances the country's reputation as a capable sporting destination while encouraging more young athletes to pursue excellence. It also sends a powerful message to aspiring girls that leadership knows no gender and that determination, vision, and service can leave a lasting impact on Philippine sports.As the 2026 Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships unfolds, the spotlight belongs not only to the competitors striving for medals but also to the women whose leadership has helped make this milestone possible.Their dedication serves as an inspiration that the future of Philippine sports grows even stronger when more women are empowered to lead.

Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao shared a heartfelt reaction following the trade that sent Gian Mamuyac to the Phoenix Fuel Masters, acknowledging both his disappointment and the realities of professional basketball."Sometimes, you cannot control your destiny," Guiao said, reflecting on the move.The veteran coach admitted he had hoped Mamuyac would remain with the Elasto Painters, where the young guard spent the first four seasons of his PBA career. During that time, Mamuyac developed into a dependable contributor under Guiao's guidance, earning respect for his work ethic and steady improvement.Despite his disappointment, Guiao expressed gratitude for everything Mamuyac brought to the team and voiced confidence that the hardworking guard will continue to succeed with Phoenix.Guiao also emphasized a truth that every professional athlete eventually faces: trades are part of the business. While players and coaches may not always have control over where their careers lead, they can control how they respond to change.Rain or Shine played a significant role in Mamuyac's development, and Phoenix now acquires a player whose ceiling remains high. A new environment could provide the opportunity for another step forward in his career.Guiao's message served as a reminder that while teams and jerseys may change, professionalism, gratitude, and mutual respect remain enduring values in sports.

The Alas Pilipinas Boys made quick work of Hong Kong-China, 25-18, 28-26, 25-13, in the 9th-12th classification round of the 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Boys’ U18 Volleyball Championship on Friday night at the Wuyuan River Gymnasium in Haikou, China.The Philippines will face Indonesia today in the battle for ninth place. A victory would give Alas Pilipinas its highest finish in the tournament since making its debut in 1997.After taking the opening set, 25-18, the Filipinos faced a tougher challenge in the second frame as Hong Kong-China battled back and forced a 26-all deadlock.Elijah Guzman stepped up in crunch time, hammering down back-to-back kills to give the Philippines a commanding two-set advantage.Alas then dominated the third set, with Al-Raquib Dais and Terrence Marticion attacking from all angles to power the team to a convincing 25-13 victory.Dais, who erupted for a tournament-high 25 points in the team’s win over Australia, once again led the scoring with 15 points built on 12 attacks and three blocks. Marticion chipped in 14 points, while Guzman added six markers, including the two crucial points that sealed the second set.Lik Chun Lau paced Hong Kong-China with 16 points.Meanwhile, Japan and Iran will clash for the championship on Saturday, while Chinese Taipei and host China will battle for the bronze medal.

The Alas Pilipinas Boys defeated Australia, 25-20, 30-28, 25-20, in the classification round of the 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Boys' U18 Volleyball Championship on Thursday night at the Wuyuan River Gymnasium in Haikou, China.The Philippines boosted its chances of securing a best-ever ninth-place finish in the tournament—an improvement from its 11th-place finish in the 2024 edition held in Bahrain.The national team had to work hard throughout the match, especially in the second set, which was tied six times as Al-Raquib Dais traded kills with Australia's Eddie Kerwin.After Alex Liang committed a costly service error, Dais pounded a strong crosscourt kill to secure the set for Alas, 30-28.Australia was plagued by errors in the third frame as Dais continued his hot streak, allowing Alas to close out the match with a 25-20 victory.They gave away 25 points through unforced errors, while the Philippines committed only 14.The 16-year-old Dais finished with 25 points built on 21 attacks, three blocks, and one ace, while Terrence Marticion added 11 points.Australia was led by King's 12-point output and Liang's 11-point performance, but it was not enough to earn a victory.The Philippines will face either Kazakhstan or Hong Kong in the 9th-12th place classification semifinals.

Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala took time to connect with her supporters during a special meet-and-greet event held in a mall in Makati City.Fresh from another milestone in her young career, Eala delighted fans as she shared stories, joined fun activities, and created memorable moments with the people who have continued to support her journey.The event came shortly after Eala received a Presidential Citation from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in recognition of her remarkable achievements in Philippine sports following her impressive Wimbledon campaign.For Eala, success goes beyond victories on the court—it is also about appreciating and giving back to the fans who continue to inspire and stand behind her.

Former Premier Volleyball League (PVL) rivals Farm Fresh and ZUS Coffee will join forces as Strong Group Pilipinas for the 2026 Formosa Women's Volleyball Invitational Tournament in Taiwan from July 30 to August 2.The Philippine squad will be bannered by reigning PVL Season MVP Trisha Tubu as it takes on clubs and national selection teams from Chinese Taipei, Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, and Hong Kong.The tournament offers Filipino volleyball players a valuable opportunity to gain international experience and measure themselves against some of Asia's top teams while representing the country on the international stage.Strong Group Athletics aims to showcase the growing strength of Philippine volleyball and bring home both pride and invaluable experience from the prestigious regional competition.

The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) has granted Ateneo de Manila University an extension to submit the findings of its internal investigation into the tragic drowning deaths of student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili in Dipaculao, Aurora on June 8.Originally due on July 15, the report will now be submitted on July 24 after Ateneo requested additional time before the initial deadline.Despite the extension, the UAAP said the preventive sanctions it previously imposed will remain in effect while the investigation is ongoing. These include the suspension of Ateneo's coaching staff from participating in all UAAP-related activities.During the ongoing probe, Louie Alas will continue to serve as the Blue Eagles' interim head coach, while former Ateneo standout Nico Salva remains the team's manager until the investigation is completed and the UAAP acts on its findings.

In an unstoppable performance, the UST Junior Golden Tigresses claimed the top spot in the 2026 Shakey’s Super League Junior National Invitationals after sweeping fellow unbeaten St. John’s Institute in straight sets, 25-17, 25-23, to complete the elimination round with a perfect record.The Golden Tigresses advanced to the semifinals as the tournament's No.1 seed following their latest triumph.Anneli Manzanillo was named the MVP of the Match award after playing a key role in their victory. She finished with 8 points, highlighted by 4 attacks and 4 blocks in a dominant performance at the net. The unbeaten campaign marked UST's first-ever perfect elimination round since 2023, when the Junior Golden Tigresses went on to capture the bronze medal in the tournament.Meanwhile, Angeline Poyos was named Best Outside Hitter, while Bernadett Pepito earned the Best Libero award.UST will await its semifinal opponent, while St. John’s dropped to a 4-1 record. The squad is scheduled to face Pacific Volleyball Academy (PVA) in its final preliminary-round match.

Gilas Pilipinas Boys beats Japan, 19-14, in the 2026 FIBA 3x3 Nations League Asia 2 finals in the Stop 3 final on Wednesday at Hextar World Empire City in Malaysia.The Philippines secured their title triumph through strong teamwork, efficient offensive scoring, and control of the game's tempo. Gilas built an 18-10 cushion behind timely baskets and maintained its composure to close out the championship match, showcasing the depth that fueled its unbeaten Stop 3 run.Cabs Cabonilas emerged as the Player of the Game after he contributed seven points in the final. The Gilas standout also played a crucial role throughout Stop 3, which he tallied 11 points against New Zealand and 10 more against Singapore to spearhead the Philippines' title-winning campaign.Japan tried to keep the team within striking distance throughout the final and helped the squad stay competitive despite facing a double-digit deficit.Despite their resilience, the team struggled to match the Philippines' scoring pace in the closing stages. Unable to contain Gilas Pilipinas' balanced attack, they found it difficult to generate consistent offense.With the victory, Gilas moved into a tie with Belarus atop the conference standings with 240 points apiece, and will return to action in Stop 4 on Friday against New Zealand and Malaysia. 

Cambodia stunned Alas Pilipinas in five sets, 25-23, 28-30, 25-20, 22-25, 15-8, to open its SEA V Cup campaign on a high note Wednesday at the Candon City Arena and deal the host nation an early setback in the tournament.Despite the loss, newcomer Joshua Magalaman delivered an impressive performance for the Philippines, finishing with 21 points built on 15 attacks, four blocks, and two aces.Jude Garcia also shone for Alas Pilipinas with 20 points on 18 attacks, one block, and one ace, providing a steady offensive presence throughout the match.The Philippines struggled to maintain its momentum in crucial stretches, particularly in the deciding fifth set where Cambodia pulled away. Alas also committed untimely errors and failed to contain Cambodia’s attack, allowing the visitors to dictate the pace when it mattered most.Cambodia, meanwhile, capitalized on its opportunities through efficient attacking and resilient defense. The Cambodians remained composed during extended rallies and key moments, showcasing the confidence that helped them secure one of the biggest wins in their recent history.Veasna Voeum emerged as the Player of the Game after erupting for 33 points on 28 attacks, three blocks, and two aces to lead Cambodia’s breakthrough victory.Cambodia is set to face reigning AVC Men's Cup champ Indonesia today, July 16, before taking on the home team on Friday. Alas is also on the verge of a must-win situation on the tournament against Indonesia. 

The Alas Pilipinas Boys bounced back from their opening-day defeat with a 25-22, 13-25, 25-23, 25-14 victory over Bahrain in the 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Boys’ U18 Championship on Monday at the Wuyuan River Gymnasium in Haikou, China.The win improved the Philippines to a 1-1 record in Pool B and kept its quarterfinal hopes alive. The Filipinos will face India on Tuesday at 1 p.m. in a crucial match, with the winner joining unbeaten Iran (2-0) in the next round.Only the top two teams from each of the tournament’s four pools will advance to the quarterfinals.Despite having just six weeks to prepare for the championship, head coach Oliver Balse was pleased with the team’s poise and response after Saturday’s straight-set loss to Iran.“What was different today was their confidence,” Balse said. “I’m happy with how they performed. The team was more focused, and you could see how badly they wanted to win, especially in the third set.”The Philippines regained control of the match in the pivotal third frame. After a 16-all deadlock, Alas launched a 6-4 run behind Terrence Marticion and Raphael Galapin to build a 22-20 advantage.Bahrain threatened late as Mohamed Haram sparked a 3-0 run to trim the deficit to 24-23, but a net violation handed the Philippines the set and a 2-1 lead.Alas then dominated the fourth set from start to finish, cruising to a 25-14 win to avoid a deciding fifth frame.Marticion led the Philippines with 16 points on 15 attacks and one block, while Galapin and Guerra chipped in 11 and 10 points, respectively.Mohamed Haram paced Bahrain with 18 points, while Nasralla Haram added 16.Bahrain will also take on Iran on Tuesday.Elsewhere in the tournament, South Korea (2-0) and Japan (1-0) lead their pool, while Saudi Arabia (0-2) and Australia (0-1) remain in pursuit. In Pool A, host China and Chinese Taipei are among the early contenders, while Pakistan strengthened its position atop Pool C with a perfect 2-0 record.

NLEX Road Warriors survived a hard-fought battle against Terrafirma Dyip, 101-100, in the PBA Governor's Cup last night, at the Ynares Center.NLEX controlled the game in the first three quarters, not until Terrafirma attempted a comeback in the final frame. Terrafirma managed to trim their deficit by outscoring the Road Warriors 33-11, including Justin Strings' mid-range jumper to cut the lead in just one point in the 4th quarter.NLEX held their composure on defense in the final seconds, and Geo Chiu's successful offensive rebound already ran out of time to put a quality bucket, which secured the Road Warriors' victory. DeQuan Jones led his team with 30 points, while Schonny Winston and Robert Bolick added 13 and 12 points, respectively. Under new head coach Jimmy Alapag, the Road Warriors improved to 2-0 in the conference. They are scheduled to face Titan Ultra Giant Risers on July 14. 

The Alas Pilipinas Boys found Iran a tough nut to crack, falling 17-25, 20-25, 13-25 on the opening day of the 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Boys’ U18 Volleyball Championship at the Wuyuan River Gymnasium in Haikou, China.Iran asserted its dominance early in the opening set with 21 attack points, while the Alas Boys managed only eight.The nationals came alive in the second set, tying the score at 19-19 behind the efforts of Djomari Gamotea, Raphael Galapin, and Elijah Marticion.However, Iran responded with a 6-1 run sparked by middle blockers Heydari Sefat Pedram and Chodorarkhoei Aydin and never looked back, securing the straight-set victory in one hour and five minutes.“We just fell short despite tying the score at 19-19 in the second set,” head coach Oliver Balse said. “We need to work on our defense.”Marticion led Alas Pilipinas with eight points on seven attacks and one block, while Galapin and Ar-Raquib Dais added five points each.Nima Piri and Abolfazl Pashaamiri chipped in 16 and 15 points, respectively, for Iran.“We’ll keep working and fighting to get better,” Balse said. “The skills are there; it’s a matter of bringing them out.,” he added.The Philippine team—organized under the supervision of the Philippine Olympic Committee and supported by the Philippine Sports Commission—faces Bahrain at 1 p.m. on Monday, while Iran aims to improve to 2-0 against India at 10 a.m.

The Philippine youth volleyball team begins its campaign in the AVC Boys’ U18 Volleyball Championship this Sunday in Haikou, China, aiming to secure a spot in the 2027 FIVB Boys’ U19 World Championship.The top four teams in the 16-nation tournament will qualify for the world meet.The Philippines, which has wing spikers Al-Raquib Dais, Gary Ivan Dayrit, Terrence Marticion, Raphael Galapin, Elijah Yeuzef Guzman, John Daniel Dela Cruz, and Luigi Molina in its roster, battles Iran in its Pool B opener on Sunday.Led by head coach Oliver Balse, the Filipinos open Pool B play against Iran on Sunday, face Bahrain on Monday, and take on India on Tuesday.Pool A features China, Indonesia, Chinese Taipei, and Hong Kong, while Thailand headlines Pool C alongside Pakistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. Pool D consists of Japan, Korea, Australia, and Saudi Arabia.

In John Amores' return to the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), he posted on his Facebook account following his comeback game against the Terrafirma Dyip.“Psalms 62:1-8,” he wrote.Amores scored five points in nine minutes of action, but his team fell short, 113-100.Amores was involved in a shooting incident in 2024, which led to the league banning him for two years and revoking his professional basketball license.He later regained his license and is now cleared to play in the country's premier professional basketball league.

Gilas Pilipinas Women's 3x3 player Beth Pettinggil shared her thoughts on Instagram after representing the country at the FIBA 3x3 Women's Series Xiantao Stop in China.The Gilas Women's team (Manila Gilas) made history by finishing fourth, the highest placement ever by the Philippine national team in the tournament.They defeated Paraguay, 20-17, to advance to the semifinals before falling to China, 21-11, in the semifinals.Pettinggil also made history as the first naturalized player in the Gilas Pilipinas Women's basketball program."Craziest side quest ever but I officially have Filipino citizenship and get to represent the Philippines in 3x3!!! Feeling so blessed to get to play the sport I love and compete within such a supportive and passionate community. Just the beginning with the Gilas family ," she wrote.To more side quests, Beth! 

Alex Eala will return in the Philippines for a brief visit and hold a meet-and-greet for her fans following her latest achievements in tennis, and in Philippine sports history.The event will take place at the Glorietta Activity Center on July 15, and will be open to the public. Eala will share her experience from her Wimbledon campaign, and deliberate her preparations for the next Grand Slam Tournament, the US Open, which will be held from August 30 to September 13 in NY.This will be her second visit to the country this year, with her first being during the WTA 125 Philippine Women's Open this previous January, where she reached the quarterfinals, before falling short to Camila Osorio, 4-6, 4-6. Osorio eventually won the singles champion of that tournament. The Filipina tennis ace made history by becoming the first Filipina player to advance to the Round of 16 in a Grand Slam Tournament as a seeded player. 

The schedule for the FIBA Women's Asia Cup 2027 was announced today by FIBA through its official Instagram account.Cebu will serve as the host city for the tournament, with the games set to be held at SM Seaside Arena. It will mark the second time the Philippines has hosted the FIBA Women's Asia Cup since 2013 FIBA Asia Cup in Manila.The Philippine national team was drawn into Group B alongside powerhouse countries China, Japan, and Lebanon.Gilas are set to face China today, Japan on July 13, and Lebanon on July 14.