Philippines kicks off Asian Cup bid with win vs. Saudi Arabia
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WMPBL tips off historic season, marks new era in women’s hoops
The Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) officially launched its inaugural professional season on Sunday, June 29, at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum, marking a major milestone for Filipina athletes in the sport of basketball.
Six pioneering teams—Batangas New Zealand Bluefire, Pangasinan Solar Home Suns, RK Hoops Quezon City, Discovery Perlas Rizal, San Juan Lady Knights, and Tagaytay Tol Patriots—are taking part in the league’s first-ever pro season.
The opening ceremony featured a powerful message from SBP Executive Director Erika Dy, who highlighted the significance of the moment for women in sports.
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"I am very happy that there is now a league where our competitive juices can continue to flow,” said Dy.
“More than just the opening of another basketball league, it marks a celebration of strength, resilience, and the competitive spirit of the Filipina athlete,” she added.
She noted the long wait for such a platform and acknowledged the persistent gender disparity in sports, despite the Philippines ranking high in global gender equity—No. 25.
“To the athletes,” Dy added, “compete not just to win but to honor those who fought for this space and to show gratitude for the chance to play the game you love.”
WMPBL Commissioner Haydee Ong then officially opened the season, declaring:
“It is with great pride and purpose that I officially declare the first professional season of the WMPBL open. So, let the games begin."
In the league’s first match, the Batangas New Zealand Bluefire made history by dominating the Tagaytay Tol Patriots, 86–56, earning their first win of the season. In the second game, RK Hoops Quezon City edged out the Pangasinan Solar Home Suns in a thrilling finish, 71–68.
The launch of the WMPBL signals a new era for women’s basketball in the Philippines—one built on passion, purpose, and a long-overdue place in the national sports spotlight.
