Because of their unparalleled experience and skill in Sambo sports, six-time world medalist Sydney Sy-Tancontian and 2024 Asian Championships double silver medalist Aislinn Yap among other Sambo athletes won gold medals in the recently concluded 2024 Korea Open Sambo Championships that was organized by the Korean Sambo Federation and the International Sambo Federation (FIAS) last week.Sy-Tancontian defended her crown under the women's +80kgs category to follow up with the first medal of the Philippines and the Southeast Asian region, while Yap won two gold medals for two different categories - Women's -80kgs (Combat Sambo ) and Women's -80kgs (Sports Sambo).The participation of the Pilipinas Sambo national team is also part of the preparation  for the World Championships which will be held on November 8-10 that will be held in Astana, Kazakhstan.Aside from Sy-Tancontian and Yap, Jeniva Consigna, also got a gold medal in women's under-65kgs, Jomary Torres won a gold medal for Women's -50kgs, Mariah Albert Lua also got a gold medal for women's under-72kgs category, Robin Catalan won a silver medal under Men's -64kgs category, Grace Gangan became a silver medalist under Women's -80kgs category, Aumaegel Princess Cortez got a bronze medal for Women's -59kgs category, and Edemel Catalan won a bronze medal for the Men's -58kgs category. According to Pilipinas SAMBO Federation Inc. (PSFI) President Paolo Tancontian, they really prepared for this competition to win a medal and there has been a big improvement in the performance of their athletes now compared to last year.“I consider this a good performance from our athletes compared to last year because we improved a lot in terms of medals we obtained. Our national team prepared well for this tournament. They improve greatly on this tourney and we hope to see them perform well in the next competitions,” said Tancontian.Tancontian added that it is not enough for them to determine the  improvement they have now and they also keep up learning and studying the processes of this kind of sport because Asia is on a different level when it comes to this type of sport.“However, we still have a lot of room for improvement. Every day is a learning process because Asia is considered a world-class level at malakas talaga ang laban dito. Definitely, mapapalaban tayo ng husto sa Worlds,” Tancontian added.

Captain Shaina Nitura simply refused to lose. Dropping a massive 30-point bomb on Far Eastern University (FEU), along with 12 digs and 18 receptions, the Adamson Lady Falcons took flight toward history after a gutsy 25-18, 26-24, 23-25, 25-23 victory in Game 1 of the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge Finals on Monday at the FilOil Centre in San Juan.This wasn’t just another win—it was a statement. The Lady Falcons clawed back from a deep second-set hole, showing the kind of composure and fight that define champions in the making. One more victory, and Adamson will clinch its first-ever V-League crown, breaking a six-year title drought in a Sports Vision-backed tournament since their 2019 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Collegiate Conference triumph.When the fourth set got tense, Frances Mordi delivered in crunch time, dropping four huge points to keep FEU at bay. And when it mattered most, Nitura ended it with a thunderous kill that silenced the Lady Tamaraws’ late rally after two hours of high-octane volleyball.

James Buytrago and Ran Abadilla displayed great resilience after a first-set loss to overcome Japanese rivals Yoshi Hasegawa and Dylan Kurokawa, 22-24, 24-22, 15-9, in the ongoing Asian Senior Beach Volleyball Championship at the Nuvali Sand Courts in Santa Rosa City, Laguna on Thursday, November 8.The Filipino duo rallied from a slow start before sustaining their momentum to seal the game in the decisive third set. “We will not simply break down and give up,” said Buytrago. “The first set was extremely challenging and frustrating, but we kept pushing forward. This win was crucial for us.”

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.

Hurling every insult imaginable from fans and netizens following a series of setbacks in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals, Poy Erram responded with a performance that pushed the series to where it should be—the ‘winner takes all’ Game 7 on Friday, March 28, 2025.Erram had his own big moments, especially last night, curiously after his verbal spat with coach Chot Reyes in the previous game. He scored 10 of his 14 points in the fourth quarter, complementing his hustle plays with crucial contributions—none bigger than a ball tap that allowed TNT to retain possession following missed free throws by their import.Erram’s effort on both ends provided support for the standout performances of Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Rey Nambatac as TNT played spoiler, securing an 87-83 win that denied Barangay Ginebra an early championship celebration.The 35-year-old Cagayan de Oro native was also instrumental in building TNT’s lead, which began when Nambatac drained a four-point play at the end of the third quarter to put TNT ahead, 63-62. Erram then added 10 points in the fourth, including a crucial corner three-pointer that extended the Tropang Giga’s lead to 70-62.After the game, the former Ateneo Blue Eagle center was pulled aside for an on-court interview, where initial boos from the crowd were eventually drowned out by cheers from TNT fans."Now I’m seeking help. I can’t just say, ‘Oh, I’m a man, I don’t need help.’ I do need help," said Erram.He opened up about the off-court struggles he has been facing during the PBA Finals, admitting that they have affected his performance throughout the series."I’m not gonna sugarcoat it—I’ve been a distraction to the team. Some might say I’m just making excuses, but since my father passed away, I’ve been in a tough place. So I’m seeking help, not just for the team, but also for my family and my job," Erram added.Now, Erram acknowledges the need to address the personal struggles that have contributed to his emotional outbursts—outbursts that have drawn both concern and criticism, depending on the perspective of observers.In Game 5, much of the audience witnessed Erram engage in a heated argument with Reyes, who was frustrated with the big man’s reaction to a miscue during a timeout huddle.Meanwhile, in TNT’s Game 2 loss, Erram was seen kicking team equipment on his way back to the locker room, venting his frustration at MOA Arena.TNT head coach Chot Reyes has since advised Erram to block out distractions and keep his focus on the game."We just told him to focus and shut off the noise," said Reyes. 

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.

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 TNT Tropang Giga kept their title as the PBA Governors' Cup champion when they finally ended the series of the Season 49 edition, conquering Barangay Ginebra, 95-85, on Friday night, November 8, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.It was another sweet victory for TNT as they finished the series once again in six games just like what they did in 2023.Tropang Giga's hardworking reinforcement Rondae Hollis-Jefferson led the squad with 31 big points and defeated Ginebra's resident import Justin Brownlee for the second time around. In fact, Brownlee was 6-0 in the Finals until Hollis-Jefferson came into the picture last year.RHJ also grabbed 16 rebounds and dished off seven assists during the game.

Akari began their title hunt after defeating Galeries Tower in four sets, 28-30, 25-15, 25-16, 25-23, making a victorious start in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference on Saturday, November 9, at the Philsports Arena.Among the fueled Chargers, veteran hitter Eli Soyud tallied a game-high 21 points built on six blocks, including the game-winning hits in the fourth set that sealed the victory for the Akari team.Returning player Faith Nisperos, Reinforced Conference Best Outside Spiker Grethcel Soltones, and Ivy Lacsina all scored 16 markers apiece.

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.

Dr. Anya Saini, a 62-year-old pediatrician from Mysuru, has added another remarkable chapter to her life story by winning two gold medals at the ongoing World Masters Games 2025 in Taipei, Taiwan.Dr. Saini also earned a silver medal in the 200m breaststroke and a bronze in the 100m breaststroke, showcasing her endurance and skill on the international stage of this prestigious quadrennial competition.“It feels great to compete at the World Masters and connect with athletes from across the globe,” said Dr. Saini. “It’s truly an honor to be part of this championship.” Dr. Saini said.Her recent triumphs in Taipei follow her impressive performance at the 20th Masters National Swimming Championship in Bhopal in 2022, where she clinched four gold medals in the 50m and 100m breaststroke, and the 200m and 400m freestyle events.Dr. Saini began swimming at the age of eight and has maintained her love for the sport for over five decades. During her MBBS studies at Mysuru Medical College and Research Institute in 1984, she secured a bronze medal at the All India Inter-University Championship.Since the inception of Masters swimming competitions in 2022, Dr. Saini has won over 100 medals, a testament to her consistency and passion.“Returning to the pool is nostalgic,” she shared, reflecting on her journey.Despite her demanding career as a pediatrician, Dr. Saini remains committed to her training, practicing six days a week. Her discipline, resilience, and lifelong dedication to swimming continue to inspire both the medical and sporting communities.

Rhianne Hailie Jade Alix is already turning heads as a forward for the Philippine National Women’s Ice Hockey Team at the age of 16. She is known for her speed, agility, and smart puck control, Alix brings youthful energy and a fresh edge to the team’s offensive lineup.She is also a product of the Philippines’ growing grassroots ice hockey movement, Alix exemplifies the sport’s expanding reach among the youth. Her journey began in mall skating rinks, where curiosity quickly turned into passion—and then into national-level performance. Despite her age, she has earned the respect of her teammates and coaches with her relentless work ethic, sharp instincts, and playmaking ability.

Lou Marie Reyes Cauyao, is one of the players of the Philippine Women’s Ice Hockey Team which won as Silver Medalist during the 2024 International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Women’s Asia and Oceania Cup in In Bishkek, KYRGYZSTAN, from March 24 to 30 2024. This prestigious tournament brought together top women’s teams from across Asia and Oceania, showcasing talent, determination, and the growing strength of women’s ice hockey in the region. Cauyao played a vital role in fortifying the team's defense throughout the tournament, helping to secure the Philippines’ historic run to the podium.Known for her sharp defensive instincts, determination and dedication to the sport, Cauyao exemplifies the spirit of Filipino athletes who continue to break new ground in less traditional sports like ice hockey. Her contribution not only reflects individual excellence but also highlights the rising momentum of women’s ice hockey in the Philippines.

The highly anticipated six-stage Larga Pilipinas Cycling Marathon has been officially postponed due to persistent inclement weather in recent weeks.“It’s quite unfortunate because the teams prepared hard for this. But as we speak, there are areas in Northern Luzon, especially in the Cordilleras, that are currently isolated because of the heavy rains,” said Larga Pilipinas operations chief Snow Badua yesterday, July 30, during the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum.Originally set to start on August 2, the event will now kick off on November 29, as Badua confirmed. “Palipasin na muna natin ang typhoon season. Let’s give the LGUs all the time to focus on the situation and huwag na tayo madagdag sa isipin nila.”“Heavily battered ang Northern Luzon, that’s why, in close coordination with the different LGUs (local government units), we needed to reset, also upon the advice of PhilCycling president Abraham Tolentino,” he explained.“We cannot, in good conscience, move forward knowing these hazards put our participants and the teams at real risk. Their safety is, and always will be, our top priority,” he added.Despite the delay, excitement remains high for the marathon, which is expected to feature 10 competitive teams, including several international riders. The event is poised to be one of the country’s largest and most competitive cycling races this year.Organizers stressed that the postponement was made with participant safety as the top priority, ensuring optimal racing conditions for all teams.

Fresh faces Joshua Retamar and JM Ronquillo made a superb debut as they steered Cignal HD Spikers to victory in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference at the Santa Rosa Sports Complex in Laguna on Tuesday, October 22.The reigning Open Conference champions launched their campaign by cruising past Chichi DHTSI in straight sets, 25-16, 25-16, 25-14. The HD Spikers bagged a swift one-hour, 11 minute win over the Titans with former National University standout Retamar, who only played in the first two sets, set the tone by tossing 10 excellent sets, while ex-De La Salle University ace Ronquillo tallied nine points on five attacks, two blocks, and two aces.  

The third and final leg of the Go For Gold Criterium Race Series 3, which took place in General Santos City last month, was warmly welcomed and garnered positive comments. The successful one-day bikeathon event served as more than just a way to discover new cycling talents, but also intended to revive the vibrant local bike culture in the country. Go for Gold founder Jeremy Go believes that there is a surprising amount of talent among Filipino riders, they just need more time for practice and experience. “The goal of the race really is to provide an avenue for cyclists, for Filipino cyclists, and at the same time, to scout talent for our cycling team,” Go told Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

A hard-fought 2025 MPBL Season matchup at Batangas City Coliseum turned troubling after a violent incident on Monday night, August 11.Gensan’s Michole Sorela threw a punch at Mindoro’s Jonas Tibayan at the 7:34 mark, knocking him unconscious. Tibayan suffered a broken jaw, a busted lip, and a fractured shoulder after hitting the floor hard, and had to be stretchered out.According to Mindoro Tamaraws team owner Pola Mayor Ina Raymundo, Tibayan will be transferred to a Manila hospital for further evaluation.Meanwhile, the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) also handed Michole Solera of the Gensan Warriors a lifetime ban and a ₱200,000 fine following a disqualifying foul that left Jonas Tibayan of the Mindoro Tamaraws hospitalized.This strong sanction comes as the league reaffirms its stance on player safety and sportsmanship on the court."We condemn the incident, and the MPBL won't tolerate such actions. It compromises the player's safety and taints the league's image."I've seen the worst (in basketball) and this is one of them. The league has the full authority to impose sanctions on this deplorable behavior," said MPBL commissioner Kenneth Duremdes.Despite the incident, Bam Gamalinda paced Mindoro with 21 points and Wendell Comboy added 16, helping the Tamaraws secure the win.We wish Jonas Tibayan a full and speedy recovery.

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.

Fate definitely smiled on Samantha Catantan as she snapped the 32-year longing for a Filipino fencer in the Olympic Games after emerging triumphant in the women’s foil event of the Asia-Oceania Zonal Olympic Qualifiers 2024 in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates last April.The 22-year-old seized her Paris berth after defeating Kazakhstan’s Sofiya Aktayeva in a dramatic final match that saw the Filipina overcome a late deficit and a medical break to treat a knee injury.Tied at 13-all, Catantan took an injury timeout and was visibly limping when she returned to action. Aktaveya forced a final deadlock at 14, before Catantan seized the final point.

Akari clinched a spot in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour after defeating short-handed Petro Gazz, 32-30, 25-22, 25-19, on Tuesday, August 5, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.The Chargers regrouped from a chaotic first set, where they wasted six points, before finding their rhythm and pulling away behind a well-balanced attack and improved composure. The win not only sealed their place in the knockout round but also marked a turning point for the young team, who are steadily adapting to the system of their head coach, Tina Salak.