Canada continues to prove that it belongs among the world’s elite, and this time, it did so at the expense of a regional powerhouse.Two years after their basketball counterparts stunned Team USA in the 2023 FIBA World Cup on Philippine soil, Canada’s men’s volleyball team authored its own giant-slaying moment—sweeping world No. 5 Japan, 25-20, 25-23, 25-22, in Pool G of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship on Monday at the Mall of Asia Arena.The victory not only secured world No. 11 Canada a direct ticket to the Round of 16, but also eliminated one of the tournament’s biggest crowd favorites, leaving Filipino fans shocked at the sight of Japan bowing out early.For Canadian skipper Nicholas Hoag, the triumph was about more than just advancing—it was a statement to the rest of the volleyball world.“We always try to beat them and to beat the best teams in the world. We have the potential to do it, we just need the consistency,” Hoag said. “You saw it today against one of the best teams in the world that we can beat them 3-0 despite Japan playing well. We can do something.”The Canadians were also faced with an atmosphere unlike any other. With Ran Takahashi leading the charge, the majority of the MOA Arena crowd lent their energy to Japan, making every point a battle not just on the court but also in the stands.Yet Hoag said the raucous environment only reinforced their composure.“On the court, it felt very calm. Despite all the noise and obviously everyone cheering for Japan, it’s fun. It’s fun to play in an environment like that but I didn’t feel like we’re stressed or anything,” he said.“We were very calm and collected and we applied the game plan the whole time, so it was great. Despite the young age of all the guys on the team, it proves a lot of maturity.”While Japan heads home disappointed, Canada leaves Pool G emboldened. Their sweep over a top-five team echoes the same underdog spirit their basketball squad displayed two years ago—a reminder that Canadian sports, across disciplines, is fast rising on the world stage.As the tournament continues, Canada’s fearless, composed squad is determined to prove it belongs among the world’s elite.

Amanda Anisimova delivered a stunning upset by defeating world number one Aryna Sabalenka, propelling herself into the Wimbledon final with a hard-fought victory of 6-4, 4-6, 6-4. This milestone marks Anisimova's first appearance in a Wimbledon final and highlights her exceptional prowess as a power-hitter, particularly under the blazing sun on Centre Court.After two intense hours and 36 minutes of fierce competition, Anisimova expressed her disbelief and excitement regarding her remarkable achievement. “This doesn’t feel real right now. Aryna is such a tough competitor... to emerge victorious and secure a spot in the final of Wimbledon is nothing short of incredible,” she declared.Anisimova's journey to this final is historic; she became only the second player in the Open era to reach a Grand Slam final after experiencing a setback in the previous year's qualifying rounds. "If you had told me I would be in the final of Wimbledon, I wouldn’t have believed you," she admitted. This moment signifies a powerful redemption for Anisimova, once hailed as a teenage prodigy after her remarkable run to the 2019 French Open semi-finals at just 17. However, the weight of expectations proved overwhelming, prompting her to take an eight-month hiatus from tennis in 2023 to address her mental well-being. “I struggled with the lifestyle… it was impacting my performance on the court,” she shared. Upon her return, Anisimova's resurgence has been nothing short of inspiring, highlighted by her victory at the Qatar Open and a strong performance at Queen's Club. Now, following her journey to the Wimbledon semi-finals, she is poised to break into the top 10 of the WTA rankings for the first time—an achievement that underscores her incredible potential.Conversely, Sabalenka faced yet another painful disappointment in her relentless pursuit of a Grand Slam title. Despite being a formidable competitor, she has struggled to overcome Anisimova, having lost six of their nine encounters.In a match defined by tenacity and resilience, Anisimova saved crucial break points and seized critical moments, demonstrating remarkable composure under pressure. Even when she couldn't convert a match point while serving, she maintained her poise, ultimately sealing what she described as the “biggest win of her life.” This victory not only propels her into the final but also signifies the realization of her immense potential on the world stage.

Alas Pilipinas’s impressive performance at the FIVB Men’s World Championship has been seen as a key moment for Philippine volleyball, securing the nation’s spot on the global stage. “It was a dream come true,” said Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, after the Philippines defeated world No. 21 Egypt, 29-27, 23-25, 25-21, 25-21, in front of an enthusiastic home crowd at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Tolentino stressed that this victory was more than just a win—it was a moment in history. “These men have made their mark in volleyball history, and their success will inspire the next generation to follow in their footsteps as role models,” he said. The POC chief acknowledged that Alas Pilipinas exceeded all expectations. “It was a long shot. We never aimed that high for Alas Pilipinas in this world championship, but they did better than we hoped. I commend the PNVF and the entire sports community for this success.” 

Mario Barrios narrowly retained his WBC welterweight title after a dramatic battle with People's Champ and former eight division titlist Manny Pacquiao which ended in a majority draw at the MGM Grand. Throughout the fight, Pacquiao’s trademark grit and ring savvy kept Barrios guessing, fueling hopes of yet another fairy-tale chapter in the Filipino legend’s storied career.But Barrios surged in the final three rounds—sweeping them on all three judges’ scorecards—to do just enough to hold on to his belt. One judge scored the bout 115-113 for Barrios, while the other two saw it even at 114-114.“I thought I won the fight. It was close. My opponent was very tough, but it was a wonderful fight.” said Pacquiao.For Barrios, sharing the ring with Pacquiao was an honor: “I thought I pulled it out, but I tip my hat to Manny. His stamina, power, and rhythm are still incredible. He’s a tough puzzle to solve.” Barrios said. The result elicited a muted response from the MGM Grand crowd, who had cheered Pacquiao’s attempt at a storybook comeback. Ultimately, Barrios keeps his crown, while Pacquiao once again proves he can compete with the best—even at 46.

The East Asia Super League (EASL) has officially confirmed its 12th team for the 2025–26 season—Japan’s 2025 Emperor’s Cup champion. This move marks a historic moment for Japanese basketball, as it will be the first time three B.LEAGUE clubs participate in a single EASL campaign.This special inclusion also honors the 100th anniversary of the Emperor’s Cup, adding both prestige and competitive depth to the EASL lineup.Since the league's inaugural 2023–24 season, B.LEAGUE teams have proven dominant, boasting a combined 23–7 record and clinching back-to-back championships. This expansion not only highlights Japan’s growing influence in Asian basketball but also strengthens the EASL’s commitment to showcasing the region’s top talent.Henry Kerins, CEO of East Asia Super League, said the growth of Japanese basketball is truly remarkable, and the EASL will continue to elevate its standing in order to deliver even more competitive and thrilling action for fans.

The Philippines’ title defense in the ASEAN MSIG Serenity Cup suffered a setback on Sunday night, August 10, with a 1-0 defeat to Australia U23 at Viet Tri Stadium in Phu Tho, Vietnam.Australia’s Alana Jancevski scored the lone goal in first-half stoppage time, taking advantage of a defensive lapse by Azumi Oka to slot a left-footed shot past Filipinas goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel.Both teams now have three points in Group B. The Filipinas previously overwhelmed Timor-Leste, 7-0, in their opener, while Australia kept their semifinal hopes alive with their first win of the tournament.The Philippines will next face unbeaten Myanmar on Wednesday, August 13, at Lach Tray Stadium in Haiphong, needing a positive result to secure a semifinal berth. Australia U23 will play winless Timor-Leste on the same night.The Filipinas’ best opportunity came in the 53rd minute, when Hali Long’s header from a Chandler McDaniel corner was denied by Australian keeper Chloe Bell Lincoln.The result also provided a measure of revenge for Australia, who lost 1-0 to the Philippines in the 2022 edition of the tournament, previously known as the AFF Women’s Championship.

South Korean Olympic champion coach Ryu Su Jeng, renowned for steering Korea to multiple Olympic gold medals, is being hailed as “a gift to Philippine archery” as she begins her second week working with the national team.Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick Gregorio endorsed Ryu during her early days training Filipino archers, calling her arrival a major turning point for the country’s archery program.Ryu’s résumé includes leading South Korea to two gold medals at the 2016 Rio Olympics and three more at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Now, she is helping Team Philippines prepare for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games, with long-term plans for the 2026 Asian Games, 2027 World Youth Archery Championships, and potentially the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.Despite offers from China and Mexico, Ryu chose the Philippines, believing the country has world-class talent. “In the SEA Games, we can win medals. Also in the Asian Games, even the gold. And in the Olympics, we can get to the quarterfinals and then, in the future, a medal,” Ryu said.Her arrival stems from close coordination between the PSC and World Archery Philippines (WAP) president Bing Reaport, who praised Ryu for building a firm foundation for long-term development.“We are very upbeat. The vision is to uplift archery in the country—new learnings, coaching skills, technical skills. What coach Ryu is doing right now is building the framework,” Reaport said. “The morale is really high. She already has a game plan for the SEA Games. Very strategic ang plans and she is happy with the progress.”Discussions are underway for a 24-month contract that may also bring in another Korean coach. Gregorio stressed that investing in excellence is necessary: “If we want to be the best, get the best. Coach Ryu is a gift to archery in the Philippines.”Filipino archers have been training seven days a week under Ryu’s demanding regimen. “In the first week of training, pinahirapan niya ang mga archers natin,” Reaport joked. “But they’re learning. Even the simple things help—the logic, discipline, focus, desire.”Gregorio described this as the start of a new era: “This is the start of rebuilding archery in the Philippines—from grassroots to the elite level. A new beginning has begun, and exciting times are ahead.”

Every team, every sport, and every coaching staff shares one objective: to attain victory and claim the championship. For the Petro Gazz Angels, this dream became a reality.After a thrilling 2024–25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference Finals, the Angels proved to themselves that the win was theirs. They dethroned the Creamline Cool Smashers with a commanding 25-21, 25-16, 23-25, 25-19 victory in Game 3 on Saturday, April 12.For Petro Gazz Coach Koji Tsuzurabara, the championship was the culmination of a long-held dream.Tsuzurabara never doubted his team. He believed in the players he had—players capable of going all the way.Tsuzurabara was fortunate and thrilled to have a talented team, including standout players like Brooke Van Sickle and MJ Philips, who not only secured the championship but also earned the Conference MVP and Finals MVP awards, respectively.“I trust the player we could win. I’m lucky to have a great team with great players,”  Tsuzurabara said.For now, the Angels are preparing for the upcoming AVC Women's Champions League to be held on April 20 to 27, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig wherein they will face the teams of Chinese Taipei and Hong Kong. For Brooke Van Sickle, the PVL Conference MVP, the upcoming international tournament is especially exciting, as it marks her debut in international competition. She is eager to see how other countries play volleyball and learn from the experience.“This is my first time with international play. So I'm just excited to see good volleyball and just be able to see how other countries play the sport and to learn from them and grow and just to see the intensity. So I'm super stoked,” said Van Sickle.The Petro Gazz Angels, alongside PLDT High Speed Hitters and Creamline Cool Smashers, will represent the Philippines at the AVC Women’s Champions League, fighting not just for victory, but for national pride and honor.

It’s only fitting that on Wednesday, April 16, two of the most storied franchises in Philippine basketball will collide in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup, as the league continues to celebrate its golden anniversary.The Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots and the San Miguel Beermen will square off at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in a battle for early supremacy. Both unbeaten, both hungry, both aiming to seize their third win—and with it, the solo lead in the standings.These two titans began their campaigns with convincing victories last April 5 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. San Miguel dispatched the NLEX Road Warriors, 98–89, while Magnolia cruised past the Blackwater Bossing, 106–84.On April 9, during the league’s anniversary celebration, both squads stayed perfect. The Hotshots used their signature defense to defeat the Converge FiberXers, 83–71, while the Beermen triumphed over the Meralco Bolts in a retro-themed showdown at the historic Rizal Memorial Coliseum, 110–98.

The PLDT High Speed Hitters etched their name in Premier Volleyball League (PVL) history after outlasting Chery Tiggo in a thrilling five-set, 25-17, 25-17, 19-25, 24-26, 15-8, to capture the 2025 PVL On Tour title on Sunday, August 17, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.Guided by head coach Rald Ricafort, PLDT completed a flawless run throughout the tournament—sweeping the group stage with a 5-0 slate before dispatching ZUS Coffee and Creamline in the knockout rounds. The breakthrough marked the High Speed Hitters’ first-ever appearance and victory in a PVL championship stage.

The winningest coach in the history of the Philippine Basketball Association has entered the Finals once again and will try to win his 26th title while leading Ginebra to the Promised Land.In an exclusive interview with Scoreline.ph, Coach Tim Cone shared how he established a winning culture to every team that he handled.

The College of Saint Benilde Lady Blazers capped their V-League campaign with a statement win, pulling off a dramatic reverse sweep over the Arellano University Lady Chiefs, 21-25, 16-25, 25-22, 25-15, 15-4, to secure the bronze medal in the 2025 V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge on Monday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.After a semifinal loss to the FEU Lady Tamaraws ended their title hopes, the Lady Blazers showed remarkable grit and composure, clawing back from a two-set deficit to reclaim a spot on the podium—improving from their fourth-place finish last year.Leading the comeback was Zam Nolasco, who dominated at the net with 18 points built on 12 attacks and six blocks, while Fiona Inocentes powered through with 15 markers (11 attacks, three blocks, and one ace).

A 14-strong Philippine delegation is set to compete at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Canfranc, Spain, from September 23 to 28.Led by veteran captain Arnie Macarenas, the team will see action in long trail, short trail, U23, and U20 events. The squad departs for Spain on September 10 for training and acclimatization.Philippine Trail Running Association (Philtra) Vice President and Secretary-General Tin Ferrera said expectations are measured, as nearly half the team will make their international debut. “Based on training, we expect Top 20 to Top 30 finishes,” Ferrera said. Macarenas, a silver medalist at the Asia Pacific Trail Running Championships, will lead the long trail team with Larry Apolinario, Joebert Elmaguin, Elizabeth Dangadang, and Angelie Cabalo. The short trail team features Randolf Gonzales, Romnick Tongkaling, John Ray Onifa, Joy Beltran, and Noime Fernandez.In the youth divisions, Ken Olver Libo-on and Evan Dian Sitoy will compete in the mountain classic-junior (U20), while Samuel Manuel and Charlotte Muyco represent the Philippines in the mountain classic-senior (U23).Joy Beltran and Charlotte Muyco, both set for their first international competition, shared their excitement and determination ahead of the event.“I’m excited to go there because after four months of training, we know we are ready to compete,” said Beltran.“I feel nervous, but I know I can do it,” added Muyco.Muyco also hopes to inspire young athletes to try trail running, a sport she believes offers a unique experience compared to others.“I will really do my best to reach the podium and become an inspiration, especially for our youth (U23). We should encourage kids to start young and explore the outdoors, especially the mountains. Trail running is amazing and truly different from other sports—that’s why we love it.”The delegation also includes officials and support staff, with the team set to test themselves against powerhouse squads from 75 countries— including the US, France, Italy, Germany, and host Spain. Top Asian rivals include China, Japan, South Korea, and Nepal.Following a 12th-place finish last year in Austria, the Philippine team is eager to build on that performance at this year’s global showcase.

Laoag City threw its full support behind the country’s historic hosting of the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Volleyball Championship by staging the “Set Na Natin ‘To Trophy and Mascot Tour” at Laoag City over the weekend.Cignal stars Josh Umandal, JM Ronquillo, and Vince Malinao attended the festivities, which included a mini-tournament at Dap-Ayan Park. The Block Builders, led by MVP John Paul Lorenzo, claimed victory over North Western University, the Laoag men’s team, and Pasuquin.PNVF and AVC president Tats Suzara expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and acknowledged the efforts of local officials and partners in making the event possible.“We are very thankful to the City of Laoag and the Province of Ilocos Norte for the warm welcome and enthusiastic support for the world championships,” said PNVF and AVC president Ramon “Tats” Suzara.The tour, which launched at SM Seaside Cebu, will culminate at SM Downtown Cagayan de Oro.Fans enjoyed appearances by official mascots KidLat and Hataw, as well as participation from Department of Tourism officials and SM City Laoag representatives.The 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship kicks off September 12 at Mall of Asia Arena, with Alas Pilipinas debuting against Tunisia at 6 p.m. The opening ceremony will feature a performance by K-pop group BOYNEXTDOOR.The tournament runs through September 28, bringing together 32 nations for one of volleyball’s biggest events.

National University (NU) asserted its dominance in the UAAP Season 87 volleyball tournament, securing victories in both the men’s and women’s division against the University of the Philippines (UP) at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday, March 9.After dominating the first two sets, the Bulldogs struggled in the third, allowing UP to build a commanding 12-5 lead and eventually force a fourth set. However, NU regained control in the final frame, breaking an 18-18 tie with a decisive 4-0 run to defeat the Fighting Maroons,  25-12, 25-15, 15-25, 25-22, improving to a 4-1 record in the men’s tournament.NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin admitted that unforced errors cost them the third set, saying, “We lost our momentum whenever we gained it.” He emphasized also the importance of confidence in the fourth set, ensuring the team played with certainty and avoided self-doubt.  Buds Buddin led the charge with 22 points, while Leo Aringo and Leo Ordiales added 16 and 14 markers, respectively. 

The Fighting Maroons snapped defending champion National University’s perfect run, clawing their way back from the brink to pull off a 26-24, 23-25, 17-25, 25-23, 15-12 victory on Wednesday afternoon, March 26, at FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.UP’s fiery start in the opening set proved crucial as they erased NU’s 24-23 advantage with three straight points, including two clutch attacks from Niña Ytang and an error from Alyssa Solomon. 

The two best words in sports—Game 7—will happen in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup Finals on Friday, March 28, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.It was made possible when the TNT Tropang Giga forced it after defeating Barangay Ginebra in Game 6, 87-83, on Wednesday night, March 26, in front of 17,654 fans.In Game 5, the rare minutes given to Gin Kings veteran LA Tenorio inspired Ginebra to take a 3-2 series lead. But last night, it was TNT’s injured leader, Jayson Castro, who motivated his team.Read: https://scoreline.ph/news/tenorio-inspires-ginebra-tnt-misses-castro-pba-finals

The NLEX Road Warriors and Blackwater Bossing opened their campaigns in the 2025 Kadayawan Invitational Tournament with victories on Thursday, August 21, at the USEP Gym in Davao City.In the first game, Sedrick Barefield powered Blackwater to a 94-81 triumph over the Phoenix Fuel Masters.The 2024 second overall draft pick finished with 28 points built on six three-pointers, including three straight that stretched their 72-66 lead to a commanding 81-68 advantage.Aside from Barefield, Jed Mendoza made an impressive debut with the Bossing, scoring 16 markers, while Troy Mallillin added 17 points and six rebounds.On the other side, Jason Perkins and Kai Ballungay led Phoenix with 12 points apiece in the Fuel Masters’ first game under new head coach Willie Wilson, who took over from Jamike Jarin after he was elevated to team consultant.

Many were surprised when Manny Pacquiao officially announced his return from retirement to challenge World Boxing Council (WBC) welterweight champion Mario Barrios.This bout will be Pacquiao's first in four years, and at 46 years old, he faces a significant challenge: Barrios, who is 16 years younger and stands six inches taller than the 5-foot-6 Filipino legend.However, "Sugar" Shane Mosley—a fellow boxing great and former opponent who recently joined Pacquiao's training camp in Los Angeles—believes Pacquiao can emerge victorious at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday, July 19. Mosley, who lost to Pacquiao by unanimous decision in 2011 while defending his WBO welterweight title, noted that Pacquiao is in great shape both physically and mentally.

The dream of achieving a rare Grand Slam lives on for the TNT Tropang 5G as they defeated the San Miguel Beermen in Game 5 of the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup Finals, 86-78, on Wednesday night, July 23, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.TNT came out strong from the get-go, building a 27-20 lead in the opening quarter, led by Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser, who exploded for 14 points in the first period. He finished with 18 points, five rebounds, one assist, three steals, and a game-high five blocks.