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Defending PBA Governors' Cup champion TNT Tropang 5G faces a critical stretch in its title defense with star import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson still months away from returning to game action.

Team manager Jojo Lastimosa confirmed that the three-time PBA Best Import is expected to arrive in the Philippines on August 2 after completing part of his rehabilitation in the United States. However, despite encouraging progress in his recovery from a ruptured Achilles tendon, Hollis-Jefferson is not expected to suit up until around October.

According to Lastimosa, the former NBA forward will first participate in full-court team activities upon his arrival before any timetable for his competitive return can be established.

The extended absence places even greater pressure on TNT as it attempts to defend its championship without the player who has become the centerpiece of the franchise's recent success. Hollis-Jefferson has been instrumental in the Tropang 5G's title-winning campaigns, providing elite scoring, rebounding, defense, and leadership on both ends of the floor.

In the meantime, the responsibility falls on current import Darius Days—and the rest of the roster—to keep TNT competitive until Hollis-Jefferson is fully healthy.

That challenge became even more apparent following TNT's 111-106 overtime loss to Terrafirma, a result that dropped the Tropang 5G to a 1-2 record in Group A of the Governors' Cup. Days struggled to make an impact, finishing with just 10 points and five rebounds while battling foul trouble throughout the contest.

The defeat highlighted the team's current concerns. Without its proven import leading the charge, TNT has struggled to establish consistency on both offense and defense, while its supporting cast has yet to consistently fill the production gap left by Hollis-Jefferson.

The road ahead offers little relief.

TNT's upcoming schedule features consecutive matchups against some of the tournament's strongest teams, including Converge, San Miguel Beer, and NLEX. Those games could significantly shape the team's playoff position long before Hollis-Jefferson becomes available.

Waiting for the former Best Import to return is understandable given his value to the franchise, but relying solely on that timeline carries considerable risk. Achilles injuries are among the most challenging recoveries in professional sports, and even after medical clearance, regaining game rhythm and peak conditioning often requires additional time.

For TNT, the focus must shift toward maximizing the players currently available. Veterans will need to provide leadership, the local core must elevate its production, and Days—or any potential replacement import—must deliver more consistent performances if the defending champions hope to remain in contention.

Championship teams are ultimately measured by their ability to overcome adversity. While Hollis-Jefferson's eventual return could provide a major boost, the Tropang 5G cannot afford to simply wait for their superstar to rescue their campaign.

The coming weeks may ultimately determine whether TNT remains a legitimate championship contender or enters October merely fighting to secure a favorable playoff position. Until Hollis-Jefferson returns, every game carries added importance, and every victory becomes essential in keeping the team's title defense on course.

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 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.

Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) on Thursday maintained before the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) that no employer-employee relationship existed between the university and former Blue Eagles head coach Tab Baldwin during the continuation of the clarificatory hearing.

Baldwin and ADMU President Fr. Roberto C. Yap, SJ did not attend the proceedings, but were represented by the university's legal counsels, Atty. Philippe Quimbo and Atty. Krishna Santos.

During the hearing, Ateneo presented Baldwin's consultancy agreement, arguing that he served as a consultant rather than a regular employee. It was also disclosed that Baldwin initially entered the Philippines on a tourist visa before the university assisted him in obtaining the appropriate work visa to legally work in the country.

However, DOLE Undersecretary Gerard Mosquera questioned Ateneo's position after noting that Baldwin's contract contained specific duties and restrictions, which could indicate that the university exercised substantial control over his work—a key factor in determining the existence of an employer-employee relationship.

After nearly six years of learning and growing in the NBA, Jimmy Alapag believes the time is finally right to come home.

The former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) superstar officially faced the media on Tuesday following his appointment as the new head coach of the NLEX Road Warriors, describing his return to the Philippines as a "big move" for both his career and his family.

Alapag recently concluded his stint as a player development coach with the NBA's Sacramento Kings in April, bringing with him valuable experience gained at basketball's highest level.

"I think it just felt like it was the right time," Alapag said during his introductory press conference at Dave & Buster's in Opus Mall, Pasig. "Almost six years in the NBA, I've had an opportunity to see a lot, to learn a lot, and I know how much it's allowed me to grow—not just as a husband, as a father, but also as a coach."

The 47-year-old returns to Manila alongside his wife, actress LJ Moreno-Alapag, and their four children. Alapag also shared that their fourth child was born during the family's stay in the United States.

Before ultimately accepting the NLEX coaching job, Alapag revealed that Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) Executive Director Erika Dy initially reached out to gauge his interest in joining the Gilas Pilipinas coaching staff.

Instead, the six-time PBA champion embraced the opportunity to take charge of an NLEX squad eager to become a contender.

"To be able to come back home and pour all of that knowledge and all that wisdom that I've gained in the NBA back into Philippine basketball, it felt like now was the right time," said Alapag, who starred with Talk 'N Text from 2003 to 2015.

Alapag succeeds veteran mentor Jong Uichico and inherits a talented roster led by Robert Bolick, Kevin Alas, Schonny Winston, LJ Gonzales, and Xyrus Torres.

His coaching debut will come immediately on the opening day of the PBA Season 50 Governors' Cup on July 10, when the Road Warriors face guest team Macau Giant Pandas in the second game of a doubleheader at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

For Alapag, the return home is more than just another coaching assignment—it marks the beginning of a new chapter, one where he hopes to translate years of NBA experience into success for NLEX and help shape the future of Philippine basketball.

The Philippines experienced contrasting fortunes in the qualifying rounds of the FIBA 3x3 Women's Series Ulaanbaatar Stop 2026 as Team Manila advanced to the main draw while Team Philippines bowed out of contention.

Team Philippines struggled in Pool A, dropping both of its assignments against tough international opposition. The Filipinas first suffered a 21-13 defeat to New Zealand before falling in a closely contested match against Paraguay, 20-18. The two losses ended their campaign and denied them a place in the tournament's main draw.

Despite the setback, the team gained valuable experience competing against seasoned squads in one of the premier stops of the FIBA 3x3 Women's Series.

On the other hand, Team Manila delivered an impressive performance in Pool B to keep Philippine hopes alive in the tournament.

The squad opened its campaign with a dominant 15-5 victory over Lion City of Singapore before following it up with a convincing 21-13 win against host team Sukhbaatar of Mongolia.

With back-to-back victories, Team Manila finished atop its qualifying group and secured a coveted berth in the main draw, where tougher competition awaits against some of the world's best 3x3 teams.

The strong showing highlighted the team's chemistry and offensive firepower, giving Philippine fans reason to be optimistic as the tournament progresses.

As Team Manila moves forward in the competition, the focus now shifts to sustaining its momentum and carrying the Philippine flag deeper into the prestigious international event.

The Ateneo community and local residents gathered in deep mourning as student-athlete Rene Baterbonia was laid to rest in his hometown of Talacogon, Agusan del Sur.

Baterbonia was buried yesterday, June 24, with emotions running high as his mother, Rovelyn, was seen overcome with grief while saying her final goodbye to her son.

Family members, friends, teammates, and supporters of the young athlete came together to honor his life and celebrate his contributions both to his community and to the Ateneo de Manila University basketball program.

As a final tribute, supporters lined the streets as the funeral convoy passed through, offering prayers and messages of farewell to the late athlete.

His parents, siblings, relatives, and teammates attended the burial, joining the community in a solemn moment of remembrance and respect for his life and legacy.

Baterbonia was interred at the newly opened Talacogon Municipal Memorial Park, becoming the first individual to be laid to rest in the cemetery.

His passing leaves a deep void in the Ateneo sports community, where he is remembered not only as an athlete but also as a valued teammate and friend.

The remains of late student-athlete Divine Adili have arrived in Nigeria on June 25, according to the Ateneo de Manila University.

The university confirmed that Adili’s remains were transported from Manila on Monday, following a candlelight service, daily Masses, and a public wake held in honor of the Ateneo Blue Eagles big man.

Ateneo also sent two representatives to accompany the return of Adili’s remains as part of its support for the grieving family.

Meanwhile, the university continues its 40-day mourning period for Adili and Rene Baterbonia. During this period, the Ateneo flag will remain at half-mast, and daily Masses will be held in their memory.

The university said it continues to coordinate with authorities regarding separate investigations into the deaths of the two student-athletes. The Philippine National Police, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, and the National Bureau of Investigation are expected to release findings that may help clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The return of Adili’s remains to his family marks a significant step in the mourning process, as the Ateneo community continues to grieve and honor his life and contributions to the team.

Another Filipino standout is set to compete against Gilas Pilipinas, this time wearing the colors of Guam. 

Filipino-American guard Isaiah Africano, who went undrafted in the recent PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft, has earned a spot on Guam’s men’s national basketball team for the upcoming FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

Africano’s inclusion was confirmed through a social media announcement from his agent, Rey Punongbayan of Punongbayan Ponceja Sports Management, who praised his player’s perseverance and drive. 

“My player Isaiah Africano, who went undrafted in the last PBA Draft, threw his anger by making it into the Guam National Basketball Team that will battle Gilas Pilipinas. Proved them all wrong, Isaiah! ” Punongbayan wrote.

The 6-foot-2 guard joins San Miguel Beermen veteran Jericho Cruz, forming a duo of Filipino-blooded players on Guam’s roster. 

Africano appears on the official lineup alongside Mark Johnson, Tomas Calvo, Jon Galloway, Daren Hechanova, and Tai Wesley as the 81st-ranked nation prepares to challenge Gilas Pilipinas later this month.

Africano’s journey has been anything but easy. The Hawaii-born Fil-Am guard, whose mother hails from Sto. Domingo, from Ilocos Norte and whose father is Colombian, was in Manila two months ago in pursuit of his PBA dream. After going undrafted and missing out on roster spots as a rookie free agent, he faced uncertainty about his path.

That changed when Guam head coach EJ Calvo saw value in the high-energy guard, particularly his defense, hustle, and competitiveness. Calvo moved quickly to secure Africano for the national squad, giving the 28-year-old his first major international opportunity.

Africano said that being at this level was already a blessing, reflecting on his basketball journey that began in Pearl City, Hawaii, and continued through Division III basketball at Pacific University in Oregon, adding that he wants to look back knowing he did everything he could and to maximize the talent God has given him.

Africano describes himself as a defensive-minded, high-energy player, qualities that Guam hopes will strengthen its backcourt rotation alongside Cruz.

Guam will face Gilas Pilipinas on November 28 at the University of Guam Calvo Field House, creating an intriguing subplot as two players with Filipino roots suit up for the opposing side.

For Africano, it may be the closest he gets to facing PBA-level talent after narrowly missing his chance to join the league earlier this year.

Yet despite the turns in his career, Africano remains motivated by the support of his family. 

“My parents always told me I could do anything as long as I put my heart into it,” he shared with Scoreline.ph during the PBA Draft Combine. “I have always gravitated toward team basketball. This is another opportunity to prove what I can do.”

With talent, energy, and a renewed opportunity, Isaiah Africano enters the Asian Qualifiers ready to make his mark, representing Guam on the international stage against the very nation of his heritage.

The University of Santo Tomas punched its ticket to the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball Final Four after outlasting National University, 80–71, on Sunday, November 23, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Needing a win to avoid complications in the standings, the Growling Tigers delivered when it mattered most. UST drained four timely three-pointers in the fourth quarter to break away from the Bulldogs and secure the No. 3 seed heading into the playoffs. The victory improved UST’s record to 8–5, marking the program’s return to postseason contention.

Gelo Crisostomo led the España squad with 13 points and five rebounds, while Mark Llemit and Amiel Acido chipped in 11 markers each. Collins Akowe added a steady double-double performance of 11 points and 11 rebounds to anchor the Tigers on both ends.

UST is set to wrap up the elimination round against Far Eastern University on Wednesday, though the result will no longer affect their Final Four placement.

For NU, Omar John posted 12 points and 11 boards, but the Bulldogs closed the eliminations with an 11–3 record and will regroup as they enter the next phase of the tournament.

With momentum on their side, the Growling Tigers move into the semifinals eager to continue their postseason resurgence.

The Meralco Bolts are on a roll in the EASL Home and Away Season 3, notching their second straight win with a 92-74 victory over the debuting Macau Black Bears at the newly refurbished Cebu Coliseum last Saturday night.

Imports Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Ismael Romero spearheaded the second-quarter breakaway for the Bolts before the rest of the team joined in to secure the 18-point winning margin. Romero delivered a massive double-double with 25 points and 28 rebounds, while Hollis-Jefferson finished with a game-high 34 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists, thrilling the Cebuano crowd with three thunderous dunks.

It was Meralco’s second straight home win in a week, evening their Group B record at 2-2 behind the Taoyuan Pilots (2-1) and the Ryukyu Golden Kings (1-1). The Bolts had earlier defeated the Pilots, 82-72, at the Capital Arena in Ilagan, Isabela.

Chris Banchero led the locals with 12 points, three rebounds, and three assists, while Asian import Sina Vahedi added 10 points, three rebounds, and four assists.

For Macau, Damian Chongqui had 25 points, with Omari Peek-Green and Jalon Demarco Miller adding 14 apiece in the Black Bears’ season debut.

Proceeds from the EASL game will be donated to Typhoon Tino victims in Cebu, with Meralco also raising P500,000 for the cause.

EASL senior vice president Dominic Tang announced the league’s relief commitment, underscoring basketball’s power to unite and uplift communities in times of need.

The scores

Meralco (92)—Hollis-Jefferson 34, Romero 25, Banchero 12, Vahedi 10, Newsome 7, Quinto 2, Hodge 2, Caram 0, Kouame 0.

Macau (74)—Chongqui 25, Peek-Green 14, Miller 14, Ye 13, Shackelford 8, Guo 0, Liu 0, Cao 0, Lao 0.

Quarter scores: 25-24, 48-38, 65-52, and 92-74.

Nine-time PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo is auctioning off his first MVP trophy to help raise funds for typhoon relief efforts, after his home province of Cebu was severely affected by Typhoon “Tino.”

According to the Office of Civil Defense, 232 people have died, 112 are missing, and 512 were injured due to the storm’s devastation.

“Masakit makita na ang daming nawalan—bahay, hanapbuhay, at pamilya,” said Fajardo. “Alam kong mahirap bumangon, pero tiwala lang tayo, pray lang tayo kay God. Magpo-provide naman si God para sa atin.”

Fajardo said he chose to auction his first MVP trophy—a symbol of his early sacrifices and hard work—because it holds special meaning both to him and to his fellow Cebuanos.

‘Yung trophy na ’yon, espesyal sa akin kasi years of hard work ’yon. Pero mas espesyal sa akin ang mga Cebuano,” he shared.

Fajardo won the MVP award in just his second season in the PBA—the first of his record-breaking nine MVP titles.

The East Asia Super League (EASL) has upheld Meralco’s 85-76 victory over the Taoyuan Pilots in their match held last Saturday in Ilagan, Isabela, even as the Bolts offered to replay the game in the spirit of sportsmanship.

Under EASL rules, each team may enlist two world imports, one naturalized player, and one Asian heritage recruit—but only three of them can be on the court at the same time. A misunderstanding of this rule led to Meralco fielding four imports simultaneously for a total of over 9 minutes. EASL records show Meralco outscored Taoyuan 22-15 during that stretch.

EASL CEO Henry Kerins stated the incident was unintentional and did not significantly impact the outcome. Both teams acknowledged the oversight, and Taoyuan accepted the result. EASL requested FIBA not to assign the same game commissioner to future matches to ensure stricter enforcement of the rule.

In addition, Meralco received penalties for other violations: Rondae Hollis-Jefferson was fined $2,000 for skipping pre- and post-game interviews, while coach Nenad Vucinic was fined $5,000 for unsportsmanlike gestures, with a warning of future suspension.

With the ruling, Meralco’s EASL record stands at 1-2. The Bolts next face the Macau Black Bears on Saturday at the Cebu Coliseum, with all ticket proceeds going to disaster relief for Cebu and nearby provinces.

The Black Bears, making their season debut, will be led by Damian Chong Qui, supported by Omar Peek Green, Torrance Watson, and Phoenix Shackelford.

Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone is hoping to have naturalized player Justin Brownlee back in action in time for the start of the team’s training camp next week as preparations ramp up for the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

The national team will begin camp on November 17 at the Inspire Sports Academy, aiming to build chemistry and conditioning ahead of the first window of the qualifiers, which begins on November 28.

Cone expressed optimism that the team will be complete by then, including Brownlee, who has been “missing in action” recently amid reports of pneumonia, causing him to miss Meralco’s recent East Asia Super League games.

Neither Brownlee nor the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has issued an official statement regarding his condition.

Despite this, Cone remains focused on ensuring Gilas is fully prepared before facing Guam on November 28 at the Calvo Field House in Guam, followed by a rematch on December 1 at the Blue Eagle Gym in Ateneo.

Meanwhile, Kai Sotto will remain sidelined as he continues rehabilitation from an ACL injury earlier this year. His spot in the lineup will be filled by Quentin Milora-Brown, who has been cleared by FIBA to play as a local.

“We just want to get going and make sure everyone’s ready,” Cone said, emphasizing the importance of starting camp strong to maintain Gilas’ momentum heading into the qualifiers.

The Meralco Bolts aim to sustain their early momentum and secure a second consecutive win as they take on the visiting Macau Black Bears in the continuation of the 2025 East Asia Super League (EASL) this Sunday at the Cebu Coliseum.

Fresh off their 85-76 triumph over the Taoyuan Pilots in Ilagan, Isabela, the Bolts are brimming with confidence as they return to action—this time in front of Cebuano fans eager to witness top-tier regional basketball.

The matchup will also serve as the season debut for the Macau Black Bears, who are looking to make a strong first impression against a Meralco squad that has shown early signs of cohesion under coach Nenad Vucinic and deputy Luigi Trillo.

Adding depth to Meralco’s roster are their reliable imports Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Ismael Romero, alongside naturalized player Ange Kouame and Asian import Sina Vahedi of Iran. Their chemistry will be key as they look to impose their pace and defensive discipline against the dynamic, fast-paced style of the Black Bears.

Beyond the competition, the Cebu showdown will also carry a deeper purpose, as the EASL announced that all ticket proceeds will be donated to victims of Typhoon Tino, which recently struck parts of Cebu and nearby provinces.

With pride, purpose, and playoff positioning at stake, Meralco will try to electrify once more—this time, in the Queen City of the South.

Meralco Bolt’s 85-76 victory over the Taoyuan Pilots in the East Asia Super League (EASL) might be overturned after the Taiwanese squad formally filed a protest, claiming the Bolts fielded four imports simultaneously—a violation of FIBA’s two-import rule for the regional league.

The Bolts had Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Ismael Romero, Ange Kouame, and Sina Vahedi on the floor together during one stretch of the second quarter, according to Pilots coach Lurgi Caminos.

Despite the issue, Meralco coach Luigi Trillo said they’ll respect whatever decision the EASL hands down, emphasizing that the team played “with pride and honor.”

“We played with honor. We’re good soldiers. Reputation-wise, we’re one of the most honorable teams in the PBA,” Trillo said.

The EASL has yet to release an official ruling on the protest.

San Miguel forward Don Trollano made a triumphant comeback, earning the PBA Press Corps Player of the Week honors for the period of November 5–8 following his stellar performance in the Beermen’s thrilling 94–92 victory over Magnolia in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup.

Back from a brief absence due to a back injury, Trollano wasted no time making his presence felt. He delivered a game-high 29 points, including a cold-blooded four-point shot in the final minute that sealed San Miguel’s fourth straight win.

Beyond the late-game heroics, Trollano showed his consistency throughout the match, pouring in 14 points in the second quarter to help the Beermen build momentum. He also hit three of his five three-point attempts and added six rebounds in an all-around effort that highlighted his value on both ends of the floor.

Trollano’s impressive showing earned him the weekly recognition over strong contenders such as Kelly Williams (TNT), Robert Bolick (NLEX), and Jio Jalalon (TNT). His performance not only proved his resilience but also reaffirmed his role as one of the Beermen’s most reliable offensive weapons.

With his health back and his rhythm restored, Trollano’s Player of the Week honor serves as a testament to his determination and clutch mindset, qualities that continue to power San Miguel’s championship drive.

Harold Alarcon came alive when it mattered most, leading the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons to a heart-stopping 89-88 win over the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena!

The veteran guard rose to the occasion, scoring 10 of his 22 points in the crucial fourth quarter to lift UP to its 7th win in 10 games, securing solo second place in the standings as the race to the Final Four intensifies.

“Marami kaming struggling nung first half, so nung fourth, whatever na hinarap sa akin ng defense, talagang kinuha ko lang,” said Alarcon, who provided the spark just when the Fighting Maroons needed it most.

With Alarcon’s late-game heroics, UP continues to strengthen its Final Four push — showing the poise, depth, and championship mentality that have defined the team all season long.

Also starring for State U was Noy Remogat, who chipped in 19 points, three rebounds, three assists, and two steals, while Migs Yniguez provided instant offense with 11 points on a perfect 3-of-3 shooting from deep.

Down 87-88 with under 30 seconds left, Alarcon coolly sank one of his signature mid-range jumpers to put UP ahead. UST had multiple chances to steal the game, but Amiel Acido missed two potential go-ahead baskets, and despite Collins Akowe grabbing another offensive rebound, he turned the ball over at the buzzer.

Akowe finished with a monstrous 26 points and 16 rebounds, while Nic Cabañero added 18 points for UST, which suffered its fourth straight loss and dropped to 5-10 overall. Forth Padrigao was limited to just two points and six assists before exiting early due to an ankle injury.

UP continues to surge at the right time — showing grit, composure, and championship poise as the postseason draws near.

Meralco’s bid to make the East Asia Super League (EASL) playoffs is hanging in the balance after two consecutive road losses — but there’s renewed hope as the Bolts return home for their final four elimination games, starting with Saturday’s rematch against Chinese-Taipei’s Taoyuan Pauian Pilots at the Capital Arena in Ilagan, Isabela.

Head coach Luigi Trillo admitted it’s been a challenging stretch for Meralco, which is also juggling its campaign in the PBA Philippine Cup. Since bowing to Ryukyu on Oct. 22, the Bolts have dropped back-to-back PBA games to NLEX and TNT, followed by a setback against Taoyuan last Sunday, where active coaching consultant Nenad Vucinic was ejected after two technical fouls.

“We’re representing not just Meralco but also the PBA and our country, and we’re doing our best under the circumstances,” said Trillo. “CJ (Cansino) couldn’t play in our second EASL game because of a bad sprain and we’re still waiting for JB (Justin Brownlee).”

Under EASL rules, teams may enlist two world imports, a naturalized player, and an Asian heritage import. If Brownlee remains unavailable, Ange Kouame will take his place on Saturday. 

Kouame, however, is coming off a six-week layoff and only returned to practice this week. The good news: Asian heritage import Sina Vahedi is now in town and set to play in the Bolts’ next four EASL outings.

Trillo confirmed that Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Ismael Romero will continue to anchor Meralco’s import lineup. For the Taoyuan Pilots, key players to watch include 7’1” former Phoenix Suns draftee Alec Brown, 6’11” naturalized player Will Artino, 6’7” forward Setric Millner, and national standout Lu Chun Hsiang, who’s averaging 19 points per game.

Following Saturday’s clash, Meralco will host Macau on Nov. 15, the Black Bears rematch on Dec. 6, and Ryukyu on Feb. 11—all at the Capital Arena. 

The top two teams in Meralco’s group of four will advance to the Round of Six playoffs in March.

The Bolts will return to PBA action against Terrafirma on Dec. 10.

The University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigresses remained unstoppable in the UAAP Season 88 women’s basketball tournament after a resounding 104–54 victory over the University of the Philippines on Wednesday, November 5, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

With the win, UST improved to 10-0, solidifying its hold atop the eight-team standings while maintaining a remarkable 32.8-point average winning margin.

“Our mentality remains the same — take it one game at a time, stay consistent, and improve every game,” said head coach Haydee Ong. “Of course, our last two games are tough ones against Ateneo and NU, but on Sunday we’ll prepare for FEU.”

The Tigresses dominated from start to finish, opening with a 31-9 first quarter before taking a 55-27 halftime lead. Their advantage ballooned to as much as 53 points, 98-45, midway through the fourth quarter after a Breanna Pineda basket.

Kent Pastrana led the charge with 25 points, five rebounds, three assists, three steals, and a block, finishing with a game-high plus-48 efficiency rating in just 20 minutes and 19 seconds on the court.

“I think this is Kent’s best game. A 48 efficiency rating in 20 minutes with 25 points — I hope she can keep up those magical numbers,” Ong added.

Rachelle Ambos chipped in 19 markers and nine boards, while Oma Onianwa tallied 11 points and 10 rebounds, recording a team-best plus-51 in just over 20 minutes of play.

The loss was UP’s eighth straight, dropping them to 2-8 after a 2-0 start. Despite their slump, the Fighting Maroons still have a slim shot at the Final Four with Adamson, De La Salle, and FEU all tied at 4-6.

Camille Nolasco paced UP with 17 markers and four boards, while Achrissa Maw added 10 points, five rebounds, three steals, and two blocks.

Last season’s Mythical Team member Louna Ozar struggled once again, shooting 2-of-13 for six points, alongside five rebounds, four assists, and two steals, but also committing five turnovers.

UST will look to extend its perfect run when it faces Far Eastern University on Sunday, November 9, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, while UP aims to snap its skid against University of the East on Saturday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.