For San Beda University and its storied basketball history, the return of Yukien Andrada marks more than just another season, it’s a chance to recapture the crown before their veteran goes out on top. Andrada, who may have professional ambitions on his horizon, has made it clear that his immediate mission is guiding the Red Lions back to the throne in NCAA Season 101.The journey last year ended in heartbreak. San Beda’s title defense was cut short in the Final Four by a formidable Benilde squad, extinguishing hopes of consecutive banners. That loss has become fuel rather than setback, and this time around the Lions intend to roar louder.Andrada isn’t alone. Returning holdovers Jomel Puno, Bismarck Lina, and Penny Estacio, along with Nygel Gonzales, form the experienced core that will support him. The roster also brings back Bryan Sajonia, RC Calimag, Joe Celzo, JC Bonzalida, and Menard Songcuya, ensuring depth and continuity even as the team moves on from James Payosing, who transferred to the UAAP’s UP program.To supplement its veteran firepower, San Beda has added Agjanti Miller and MJ Vailoces to the fold. Rounding out the squad are Ismael Culdora, Zedljay Etulle, Kyle Jamora, Jimuel Reyes, and Ron Tolentino—young talent and role players primed to rise under pressure.

The stage is set for the return of import action in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) as the 2025 Reinforced Conference fires off on October 7, featuring 12 professional teams eager to battle for supremacy.At Thursday’s press launch in Pasig, PVL president Ricky Palou said fans can expect a heightened level of competition with foreign reinforcements joining the fray. “It’s going to be more competitive than usual because it’s Reinforced. We still have to see the caliber and skills of the imports, but whoever wins the championship, it’s anybody’s game.” Palou said. The tournament will conclude by the end of November to give way to the Philippines’ participation in the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.Imports Ready to ShineAll squads have retooled their lineups with international talents aiming to spark deep runs this conference:Creamline: American spiker Courtney Schwan seeks redemption after back-to-back bronze finishes.PLDT High Speed Hitters: Russian ace Anastasiia Bavykina leads their title defense.Galeries: Montenegrin standout Jelena Cvijovic returns.Nxled: Spanish hitter Paola Martinez Vela joins the lineup.Akari Chargers: American Annie Mitchem bolsters their attack.Capital1: Ukrainian Oleksandra Bytsenko leads the charge.Chery Tiggo: Cuban veteran Yunieska Robles Batista powers their campaign.Choco Mucho: American Anyse Marlee Smith joins the roster.Cignal: Greek attacker Eva Chantava boosts their offense.Farm Fresh: Belgian power hitter Helene Rousseaux strengthens the team.Zus Coffee: American Anna DeBeer joins the squad.Streamlined Tournament FormatTeams are divided into two pools and play a single round-robin within groups.Top three teams per pool advance to the second round, facing only the bottom three squads of the opposite pool.Rankings follow the FIVB system: total wins, match points, set ratio, and point ratio.After the second round, all teams are re-ranked (1–12). The bottom four are eliminated, while the top eight move to the knockout quarterfinals.Quarterfinals, semifinals, and medal matches will all be one-game, do-or-die battles.With powerhouse imports, revamped rosters, and a format designed for unpredictability, the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference is shaping up to be one of the league’s most competitive showdowns yet.

Talks now are underway for the country’s potential hosting of a WTA event, a move that could mark a major milestone for Philippine tennis.The proposed WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open is being targeted for January 26 to February 1 next year, following initial discussions between the Philippine Lawn Tennis Association (Philta), the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), and Navotas Mayor John Rey Tiangco.Also discussed was opening the historic Rizal Memorial Tennis Courts to the public, aiming to expand grassroots access to the sport.“Our partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission paves the way for a new chapter in Philippine tennis,” said Tiangco, who also serves as Philta secretary general. “From pursuing the hosting of the WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open and ITF J30 to opening Rizal Memorial courts to the public and building the Philippine Tennis Center in New Clark City, we are bringing world-class opportunities closer to home. Tennis transforms lives, and with PSC’s support, we are determined to help Filipinos rise and shine on the world stage.”If the plan materializes, fans may even witness Filipina star Alex Eala competing on home soil—a potential highlight as she continues her climb in the global rankings.For PSC Chairman John Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, the initiative goes beyond hosting a single tournament.“This is more than a tournament. This is about giving our athletes the chance to test themselves against the world’s best, inspiring the next generation, and placing the Philippines firmly on the global tennis map. The greatest champions began their journeys on public courts. By opening access and investing in world-class events, we are giving Filipinos the same chance to dream big and achieve greatness.” Gregorio stressed. Beyond the WTA discussions, the Philippines is also set to host the ITF J30 Tournament later this year, featuring promising players aged 13 to 18.With both grassroots development and elite competitions in play, Philippine tennis is gearing up for a future that blends accessibility, international exposure, and the dream of producing more homegrown champions.

PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial announced that the league and its 12 member ballclubs will extend assistance to victims of the recent calamities in Cebu and Masbate.The decision was reached during the PBA Board of Governors meeting, with Marcial confirming that aid will be given not just to Cebu, which suffered a magnitude 6.9 earthquake last September 30, but also to Masbate, placed under a state of calamity after Severe Tropical Storm Opong caused widespread damage.Marcial said the relief drive will mirror previous efforts, with contributions coming from both the PBA office and all 12 teams. “Hindi na nalalayo dun galing sa PBA mismo, galing sa iba’t ibang teams, sa 12 teams ‘yung itutulong natin sa kababayan natin na nasalanta,” he explained.The PBA has a long history of mobilizing aid in times of crisis. In October 2024, the league raised nearly ₱2 million in relief funds for victims of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine.

There was a time when Letran and winning were almost synonymous. The Knights made their mark in NCAA lore with dynastic brilliance, clinching championships in Seasons 95, 97, and 98, and becoming one of the most storied programs in the league.Yet recent seasons have been unkind. Across Seasons 99 and 100, Letran mustered only 10 wins from 36 elimination games, missing the Final Four in both. Now, under second-year head coach Allen Ricardo, the Knights are out to reclaim their mantle. With a blend of seasoned core players and fresh recruits, they believe they have the pieces to mount a serious title challenge.Leading the returnees are Jimboy Estrada, Kevin Santos, and Deo Cuajao, players who embody experience, grit, and institutional pride. Their leadership will be crucial in steadying the ship and setting tone in pivotal moments.The infusion of new blood is equally intriguing. Rookie guard Jonathan Manalili arrives with high expectations, while transfers Mark Denver Omega and Jun Roque bring additional depth and versatility to bolster the rotation. Also joining the fray are Peter Rosillo, Luiz Tapenio, and a group of role players including John Alejandro, Jovel Baliling, Aaro Buensalida, Lorge Gammad, Alex Gazzingan, Nat Montecillo, Edvil Mundas, Joss Poli, Syrex Silorio, and Elijah Yusi.If integration runs smoothly, the blend of maturity and fresh legs could give Letran a sharper, more adaptive roster than season’s past.

It’s a bold move, but one with vision: the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers are placing their chips on youth and promise as they aim to rewrite their narrative in NCAA Season 101. After a disappointing 4–14 finish in Season 100 (10th place), JRU is undergoing a rebuild, one that hinges not on veterans past their primes, but on raw talent, energy, and a new coaching direction.While most of the roster is fresh, the Bombers retain some anchors: Shawn Argente, Vince Sarmiento, Justin Lozano, and returning floor general Nani Epondulan, himself now installed as head coach. Epondulan is no stranger to JRU lore: a former MVP in NCAA history, he returns with the ambition of ending the program’s Final Four drought and reviving its identity. Joining them are new faces such as Sanlea Peñaverde, a standout from the San Sebastian Staglets who made waves in the juniors division, and Sean Salvador, a seasoned transfer from Mapúa. Also in the mix is Paul Enal, fresh off a Defensive Player of the Year distinction in the JRU juniors league. Rounding out their young core are John Canoza, Franzen Casinillo, Benedict Catapang, Gyllie Esguerra, Jay Garupil, Harry Herrera, Ivan Panapanaan, and Rasa Soleimani.The gamble is clear: let these young pieces grow under pressure, accelerate their development, and perhaps surprise a field that may be overlooking JRU’s potential. If the chemistry clicks, the Heavy Bombers could awaken as one of the season’s dark horses.

After a rollercoaster Season 100, the Emilio Aguinaldo Generals step into NCAA Season 101 with momentum, a refined identity, and perhaps their strongest claim yet to be a dark horse in the race. With a blend of seasoned returnees and a sensational incoming rookie, EAC is aiming to break new ground—finally punching into the Final Four and beyond.The foundation remains steady. Holdovers Kyle Ochavo, Brianne Angeles, and Nico Quinal return to carry continuity, leadership, and stability. They will help offset the departures of Harvey Pagsanjan, King Gurtiza, and Axel Doromal, whose exit left gaps in experience and production. The Generals also retain key contributors such as Jethro Bacud, Jude Bagay, Deo Lucero, Ruzzelle Dominguez, Wilmar Oftana, and Gelo Loristo, whose veteran presence gives balance and depth.But the real game-changer is EJ Castillo. A 6-foot-1 rookie guard who dominated his high school years with the EAC Brigadiers, Castillo arrives with an impressive pedigree: Mythical Five honors, a Most Improved Player award, and scoring consistency. He has publicly committed to staying with EAC as he transitions to collegiate play. While recognizing he must learn and adapt, Castillo brings a natural scoring touch and confidence that promises to shake up lineups.To round out the additions, EAC also welcomes Jacob Shanoda and Oman Omandac, both of whom are expected to contribute defensively and offer rotational flexibility. Completing the roster are Joshua Devara, Adam Doria, Chester Jacob, Rico Postanes, Joshua Tolentino, and Felix Villarente, each vying for meaningful minutes.

Creamline begins its title defense in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference without long-time playmaker Jia de Guzman, who has been ruled out just days before the opener. “Management has decided Jia is sitting this one out. So, she's not playing this conference," team captain Alyssa Valdez confirmed during Thursday’s press launch in Pasig.While no official reason was given, de Guzman is expected to focus on her leadership duties with Alas Pilipinas as they prepare for the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand this December. De Guzman will also dedicate the PVL Reinforced Conference to ball training and more intense strength and conditioning, aligning her "return to court" timeline with the Creamline Cool Smashers."Given her competition schedule the past few years, this is to help preserve the longevity of her playing career and avoid injury," the team said.The plan is for de Guzman to return to action for Creamline in the next conference, allowing her time to reintegrate after two seasons away. "With the goal of returning to action for Creamline in the next conference, everyone agreed that this period will also give her time to reintegrate herself back into the Creamline system after being gone for two seasons."Coach Sherwin Meneses noted the eight-time PVL Best Setter may wear the Creamline jersey again next year. "Si Jia talaga, talagang tested na sa mga games, so 'yung panghihinayang laging nandiyan 'yan. Big factor talaga kung makalaro si Jia, pero siguro 'di pa ngayon, siguro next year," Meneses said.The Cool Smashers, defending champions of the Reinforced Conference, are seeking redemption after missing the finals in the past two PVL tournaments and settling for bronze medals.The veteran setter last played for the Cool Smashers two years ago and is set to return in the 2026 All-Filipino Conference.

The Blazers know the sting of coming so close. Twice in the past three years, Benilde reached the NCAA finals only to see the title slip away. Now, entering Season 101, their aim is not just to shake off regrets but to end a 25-year championship drought.Central to that hope is MVP Allen Liwag, a force in the frontcourt whose leadership and production must anchor the team. This time, he brings reinforcement: Shawn Umali, SJ Moore, and Raffy Celis have committed themselves to the Blazers’ cause. Umali, a bruising presence from Lyceum, and Moore & Celis, both UAAP veterans, add depth, versatility, and fresh firepower.Alongside them, holdovers Justine Sanchez, Tony Ynot, and Gab Cometa return to lend experience and continuity. The roster is further bolstered by Jhomel Ancheta, Joshua Cajucom, Anton Eusebio, Matthew Oli, Jericho Jalalon, and Ian Torres, as well as contributors Bonn Daja, Irele Galas, Jake Gaspay, Jio Gonzaga and John Morales—all part of the Blazers’ Redemption Lineup.

After a 7–11 finish in Season 100 (5th place), the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA ALTAs head into Season 101 with renewed energy and ambition. Following Olsen Racela’s debut campaign as head coach, the ALTAs are beefing up their roster and aiming to bridge the gap between hopeful and contender.The ALTAs will be without Christian Pagaran, but retain returning contributors John Abis, JP Boral, and Mark Gojo Cruz, who bring experience and stability to the lineup.To complement them, Perpetual has brought in fresh blood: Patrick Sleat, one of Racela’s former standouts from FEU, arrives with both confidence and familiarity with the system. Promising junior standouts JD Pagulayan and Jan Roluna, both crowned champions in the High School ALTAs program, step up to the collegiate level and aim to carry forward their winning culture. Additional names, Josiah Alcantara, Aries Borja, Kenji Duremdes, Angelo Gelsano, Kevin Guibao, Kyle Magdangal, Ray Allen Maglupay, Jearico Nuñez, Shawn Orgo, Emmanuel Pizzaro, and JM Tulabut, round out the depth chart, each adding dimension or potential to the squad.With this mix, the ALTAs hope to become deeper, more versatile, and better equipped to navigate a more unforgiving competitive landscape.

As the reigning NCAA champions, the Mapúa Cardinals step into Season 101 with a target firmly on their backs. Every opponent will be eager to knock them off the throne, making each game a battle of pride and precision. Their opening assignment against the Lyceum Pirates is already being billed as a statement game, a chance for Mapúa to show that last season’s breakthrough was no fluke. With the new group-stage format limiting room for error, the Cardinals know they cannot afford early slipups if they want to stay in control of their title defense.One of Mapúa’s biggest strengths is the championship confidence they now carry. The team has already proven it can thrive under the brightest lights, and that winning culture should give them an edge in close contests. Clint Escamis, who delayed his professional dreams to lead the Cardinals one last time, provides the leadership and stability that every championship-caliber squad needs. Alongside him, veterans like JC Recto, Yam Concepcion, and Cyrus Cuenco give the team balance and continuity, while new additions like Cyril Gonzales, Cyrus Nitura, and Icee Callangan bring fresh talent into the rotation.

The Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates are once again setting sail for another NCAA campaign, ready to prove that their semifinal run last season was no fluke. With a mix of proven veterans, emerging talents, and an MVP-caliber leader, the Pirates enter Season 101 eager to reassert themselves among the league’s contenders.The Pirates won’t have the services of three familiar faces this year. JM Bravo has turned his attention to the professional ranks, Greg Cunanan has closed the book on his collegiate career, and Mclaude Guadaña is sidelined due to injury. These absences create notable gaps on both ends of the floor, particularly in experience and stability.Yet the Pirates are no strangers to transition. In fact, they see this as an opportunity for other names to step into the spotlight.The heart of Lyceum’s attack is still Ato Barba—and he enters the season with even more motivation. After going undrafted in the PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft, Barba has chosen to use the setback as fuel rather than frustration. At 25, the 6-foot-2 guard remains determined to pursue his basketball dream, and his final year with LPU is the perfect stage to remind everyone what he can do.Barba has already proven he belongs among the NCAA’s elite. He finished second in scoring last season with 17.6 points per game, powering the Pirates to their third straight Final Four appearance. His stellar play earned him a spot in the Mythical Five, where he shared the honor with MVP Allen Liwag, Tony Ynot of Benilde, Clint Escamis of Mapúa, and Tristan Felebrico of San Sebastian.His rise, however, didn’t just start in the seniors’ division. Back in Season 95, Barba was named NCAA Juniors MVP while leading the Junior Pirates, cementing his reputation as one of the league’s brightest prospects even before making the jump to college.

The San Sebastian College-Recoletos Golden Stags are once again entering a new NCAA season under a different mentor, continuing a cycle of transition that has defined the program in recent years.After Egay Macaraya’s stint in Seasons 97 and 98, followed by John Kallos in Season 99 and Arvin Bonleon in Season 100, the Stags now turn to former PBA guard Rob Labagala as their head coach. Labagala has emphasized patience and steady growth, saying that the Stags will focus on building their foundation step by step.Despite the coaching carousel, the Golden Stags still have reliable leaders in Paeng Are, their explosive guard, and TJ Felebrico, a Mythical Team member who has been instrumental in holding the squad together. Both veterans are expected to anchor the team’s attack and provide stability in the midst of change.Adding excitement are several promising newcomers. Jhuniel dela Rama and Ian Cuajao, standouts from the juniors division, bring youthful energy and untapped potential. Fans will also see a familiar surname return to the collegiate ranks in Jaime Gomez de Liaño, the younger brother of pros Javi and Juan, who is set to carve his own path in the NCAA. Supporting them are Matt Acosta, Jerover Cabilla, Clarence Cruz, Markus Dimaunahan, Ralph Gabbat, Axcel Kitane, Jose Andre Lumanag, Gabriel Nepacena, Thomas Pillado, Harold Ricio, Vincent Segovia, and Leonardo Velasco.

The Arellano University Chiefs are heading into NCAA Season 101 with a sense of renewal, putting their trust in team chemistry and the continuity of their core group.After finishing 7-11 (7th place) in Season 100, the Chiefs know they have a ground to cover, but with a more seasoned lineup and improved unity, they believe they can break deeper into the postseason picture. Third-year head coach Chico Manabat retains the bulk of his key players. Mainstays Basti Valencia, T-Mc Ongotan, Maverick Vinoya, and Ernjay Geronimo return with valuable experience, while CJ Libang is expected to fill the void left by the departure of defensive anchor Lorenz Capulong. Surrounding them is a deep pool of contributors, Renzo Abiera, Anthony Borromeo, Leyton Buenaventura, Yuan Camay, Anjord Cabotaje, Dominic Dayrit, Girbaud Demetria, Joseph Hernal, Matthew Langit, Dre Miller, Andrei Acop, Kyle Anama, and Joseph Espiritu, all hungry to make their mark.Season 101 introduces a fresh structure: teams are split into two groups, with the top three from each side advancing to the crossover quarterfinals. The top two squads earn the luxury of a twice-to-beat advantage.Arellano landed in Group A together with Lyceum, Mapúa, San Sebastian, and Perpetual. Every game in this grouping is expected to be tightly contested, meaning the Chiefs can’t afford slow starts or wasted opportunities.The Chiefs have shown flashes of promise before, stealing wins against heavyweights like San Beda, Lyceum, and College of Saint Benilde last season. Now, they must turn those isolated victories into consistent results. 

World No. 1 Poland bounced back from a semifinal heartbreak to end their campaign on a winning note, capturing the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship bronze medal on Sunday, September 28, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.The Poles clinched their first-ever bronze medal finish in a hard-fought four-set clash against dark-horse Czechia, 25-18, 23-25, 25-22, 25-21, in front of a 6,535 electrifying crowd. 

The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) and Volleyball icon legend Senator Leila Barros have officially announced that the Philippines has been awarded the hosting rights for the 2029 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship. “Hello everybody! The World Championship 2029 will be in the Philippines! Mahal ko kayo!” Barros declared.This will mark the very first time the prestigious tournament takes place in the country.Currently hosting the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025, the Philippines has impressed the international volleyball community with its organizational excellence, world-class venues, and the electric energy of Filipino fans.By 2027 Women’s World Championship – To be co-hosted by the United States and Canada, marking the first-ever women’s world championship in North America.And, by 2029 Men’s World Championship has been awarded to Qatar, bringing the men’s tournament to the Middle East for the very first time.Two groundbreaking milestones that reflect volleyball’s growing global reach and expanding legacy.The event, which concludes today, has showcased the nation’s passion for the sport and its ability to host competitions at the highest level.Looking ahead to 2029, the Women’s World Championship is seen as a historic opportunity to further strengthen volleyball’s legacy in the Philippines and across Asia. Beyond the competition itself, the event is expected to inspire future generations of athletes and cement the country’s status as one of the sport’s global hubs.

Iran proved once again that it thrives under pressure, outlasting world No. 9 Serbia in another five-set thriller to punch its ticket to the quarterfinals of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship on Tuesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.The Iranians, ranked 16th in the world, battled to a hard-fought 23-25, 25-19, 24-26, 25-22, 15-9 victory—just days after surviving hosts Philippines in a dramatic pool-play decider, 21-25, 25-21, 17-25, 25-23, 22-20.Far from being rattled by their string of five-setters, Iran head coach Roberto Piazza said he sees them as proof of his team’s resilience and growth.“Worried? No,” Piazza said after the win. “I remember one player telling me during the game against the Philippines, ‘Coach, don’t be worried.’ I’ve never been worried in my life. We prepared the team—and all the coaches—to reach this level, to be able to play three games in a row. This is the mindset we are using in the tournament.”Still, Piazza expressed some frustration, noting that his squad is capable of more. “These five-setters are the experiences we need to learn on the court. We have 11 completely new players, and until now, they are still not fully able to understand my volleyball language. That’s why I’m a little disappointed,” he admitted.With the win, Iran became the last Asian nation standing in the 32-team tournament. But Piazza quickly shifted his focus to the looming quarterfinal against Czechia, with a Final Four berth at stake.“Sorry, I’ve already stopped celebrating. My players need to stop immediately too because our next opponent played earlier at 3:30. Their game was not as long as ours, so we have less time to recover. We need to focus mentally on everything,” Piazza stressed.Czechia, meanwhile, clinched its first-ever quarterfinal appearance as an independent nation after sweeping Tunisia, 25-19, 25-18, 25-23, in its Round of 16 match. The Czechs are already assured of at least an eighth-place finish, surpassing their previous best of 10th in 2010.For Iran, the road only gets tougher. But if their back-to-back five-set victories are any indication, this team has no plans of backing down.

There’s no secret formula behind Czechia’s improbable march to the semifinals of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship. Just determination, untapped potential, and belief—qualities that came to life in their four-set triumph over Iran, 22-25, 27-25, 25-20, 25-21, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.Not widely considered contenders in a group that featured powerhouse Brazil, Czechia has defied expectations with steady play and resilience. Now, they find themselves just two wins away from a historic championship run.“I don’t really know [what makes this team unique],” admitted head coach Jiri Novak. “I knew that in this team, I had players with big, big potential. I saw a lot of positive things during practices.”The Czech squad is riding a three-match winning streak and will now face surging Bulgaria, which shocked world No. 4 USA in a thrilling five-set comeback, in the semifinals.“We will play against one of two big teams, Bulgaria or the USA. We will see, we will see,” Novak said before the Bulgaria-USA clash. “Bulgaria is a young team, and the USA also, because they are preparing for the 2028 Olympic Games. We will see.”The semifinals concluded last Saturday, September 27, at the MOA Arena, with Poland, the world’s top-ranked squad, taking on defending champion Italy in the other pairing. The gold and bronze medal matches are scheduled for Sunday, September 28, at the same venue.From underdogs to semifinalists, Czechia’s rise is shaping up to be one of the biggest stories of this year’s World Championship—a reminder that in volleyball, belief and teamwork can sometimes topple tradition and reputation.

Brazilian volleyball legend Leila Barros is set for a heartfelt homecoming in Manila as she arrives on Thursday, September 25, for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.Barros, a household name in Philippine volleyball since her first visit in 2000 for the FIVB World Grand Prix, will serve as guest of honor during the tournament’s semifinals and finals this weekend at the Mall of Asia Arena.Now 53 and a senator in Brazil, Barros remains a beloved figure among Filipino fans. At the turn of the millennium, her skill, charisma, and passion for the game helped ignite the rise of Philippine volleyball, inspiring a generation to embrace the sport.Last Saturday, September 27, Barros held a press conference and a special Meet and Greet session with local media and fans, offering an opportunity to reconnect with the community that still holds her in high regard.A decorated opposite spiker for Brazil’s national team, Barros’ international career includes two Olympic bronze medals (1996, 2000) and four golds at the FIVB World Grand Prix. Notably, she helped Brazil clinch bronze during the Manila leg of the Grand Prix in 2000—a moment that endeared her even more to Filipino supporters.Barros accepted the invitation of Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) President Ramon “Tats” Suzara to attend the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025, saying the country’s hosting is a clear sign of how far volleyball has grown in the Philippines since she first played here.“In fact, for years I’ve been receiving invitations to come to the Philippines,” said the 53-year-old volleyball player-turned-senator during a press conference at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday morning.“Then the longing really hit. I thought it was the right time to come to the Philippines, because I believe this is the moment when Filipino volleyball is growing,” she added.Barros first captured the hearts of Filipino fans with her skill and charisma during Brazil’s 2000 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix campaign, before making a brief return in the Manila leg of the same tournament in 2004.The two-time Olympic bronze medalist said it felt like she had never left, recalling the warmth she experienced on her first visit, when Filipino fans welcomed her with overwhelming support.“The memory that stands out the most for me is the natural empathy I felt as soon as I entered the stadium and with Filipino people,” she said.“It’s funny — when I was here, people were holding signs that said ‘Leila for President’ and ‘Leila, Marry Me.’ It seems like they could see the future, since I eventually became a senator in Brazil,” Barros added.Barros, who endured a five-day journey after her flight was delayed, said it was all worth it the moment she reconnected with the fans who had embraced her since the early 2000s. She will be attending the final two days of the FIVB World Championship before flying back home.She expressed her utmost gratitude to Suzara and the rest of the PNVF for bringing her back to the Philippines and allowing her to be part of a historic moment for volleyball in the country.“I’m also very surprised that it’s already been 21 years since I was last here, yet I still receive so much love from Asian and Filipino fans on social media,” said Barros.“I carry such good memories with me. I always tell people: we can leave sports, but sports never really leaves us.”With her return, Barros not only celebrates Brazil’s volleyball legacy but also rekindles her connection with the Philippines, a country where her influence remains timeless.

Bulgaria delivered the shock of the tournament, pulling off a stunning reverse sweep of world No. 4 USA, 21-25, 19-25, 25-17, 25-22, 15-13, to storm into the semifinals of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship before a roaring crowd of 10,474 at the Mall of Asia Arena.Ranked only No. 11 in the world, the Bulgarians looked doomed after dropping the first two sets but clawed back with grit and composure, capped by middle blocker Iliya Petkov’s clutch hit that sealed their first Final Four berth in nearly two decades.Rising star Aleksandar “Alex” Nikolov powered the comeback, erupting for 29 points on 26 attacks, two aces, and a block, including seven in the tense decider. He was ably supported by Asparuh Asparuhov (12 points) and Petkov (10 points), while 18-year-old playmaker Simeon “Moni” Nikolov orchestrated the offense with 48 sets.“First of all, we had a little bit of luck; nobody’s going to deny that. But I think the main thing was not giving up,” said Moni Nikolov. “This was looking like the absolute worst game of my career. Then, thanks to my incredible teammates, they pulled me out of the mud.”The Bulgarians forced a fifth set after Asparuhov capped a 3-0 rally to close the fourth, then leaned on balanced scoring to withstand a late American surge. Using Alex Nikolov as a decoy, Bulgaria set up Petkov for the match-winner that left the USA stunned.For the Americans, Ethan Champlin had 17 points, Jordan Ewert 15, and Merrick McHenry 12, while captain Micah Christenson tallied 55 excellent sets. But the Americans bowed out in the quarterfinals for the second straight World Championship after finishing sixth in 2022.Bulgaria, bronze medalists in 2006, will next face world No. 17 Czechia in the semifinals, while Poland and Italy contest the other Final Four pairing in what is now guaranteed to be an all-European finale.