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In the volatile world of professional basketball where coaching carousels turn overnight, the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters just sent a seismic shockwave of stability across the PBA landscape.The mastermind isn't going anywhere. Rain or Shine management has officially signed firebrand head coach Yeng Guiao to a monumental contract extension that will keep him at the helm of the franchise until 2030.

In a massive display of corporate faith, the new deal—which adds an extra two years to his horizon—was signed despite Guiao still having two years left on his current five-year pact.The statement from team co-owners Raymund Yu and Terry Que is loud, clear, and absolute: 

Trust the process. 

Trust the coach. Trust the culture.The Culture Is the CatalystWhen Coach Yeng returned to the Elasto Painters baseline in 2022 after a six-year stint with NLEX, he inherited a franchise searching for its lost identity. What followed wasn't a quick-fix patch, but a complete structural overhaul.Since his return, Rain or Shine has transformed from a lottery-bound, rebuilding squad into a legitimate, feared title contender. Under his watchful eye, the Elasto Painters have stormed their way into the semifinals in five of the last six conferences.That kind of consistent deep playoff execution isn't a fluke. 

That is the byproduct of an unyielding system.Instead of chasing high-priced superstars, Guiao went to work in the laboratory, developing a lethal, high-octane young core led by Adrian Nocum, Jhonard Clarito, Andrei Caracut, and Santi Santillan. By locking Guiao down until 2030, management is guaranteeing that this young core will reach its absolute prime under the exact architect who drafted them.From Stability to SilverwareThe timing of the announcement provides a massive psychological boost right before the season-ending Governors’ Cup resumes this October. 

Rain or Shine currently sits comfortably at the top tier of Group B with a strong 4-2 win-loss slate.To make things even scarier for the rest of the league, the Elasto Painters recently paraded powerhouse veteran Stanley Pringle and speedy sophomore sensation Felix Lemetti in a competitive tune-up game against the Korean Basketball League's (KBL) LG Sakers.Guiao already steered the franchise to its only two PBA championships during his first legendary stint from 2011 to 2016, including their last taste of glory in the 2016 Commissioner’s Cup.

The question was never whether Rain or Shine believed in Yeng Guiao's blueprint. The front office just gave the entire basketball community a definitive, long-term answer.Now, with his future cemented and the pieces firmly on the board, the clock begins to tick: Can the Elasto Painters translate ultimate organizational stability into championship silverware?

The Elizabeth Means era for Philippine women's basketball has officially arrived, and it comes with a lethal dose of defensive havoc and offensive brilliance.

Gilas Pilipinas Women opened their 20th Asian Games campaign with a resounding statement, dismantling Kazakhstan, 86-58, on Thursday, September 17, at the Aichi International Arena.

The lopsided victory immediately propelled the Filipinas to a 1-0 start in Group B, signaling their serious intent to contend for a podium finish in this year's tournament.

The Elizabeth Means Show

All eyes were on the newly minted naturalized reinforcement Elizabeth Means, and she did not disappoint. Making her highly anticipated 5-on-5 debut for the national team, Means spearheaded a relentless Filipino attack.

After Kazakhstan opened the game with a brief 2-0 lead, Means and the Filipinas locked down defensively, orchestrating a massive breakaway that saw the lead swell to as many as 39 points. Means finished the evening with a spectacular game-high 23 points, 4 rebounds, and an elite 8 steals, completely disrupting Kazakhstan’s backcourt rhythm.

Complete Team Effort

While Means provided the frontline firepower, the Gilas local crew showcased the depth and chemistry built under the national program.

Stef Berberabe pulling the strings flawlessly, flirting with a double-double by putting up 11 points, 8 assists, and 4 rebounds.

The trio of Jhaz Joson, Kent Pastrana, and veteran sniper Janine Pontejos providing steady ammunition off the wings, chipping in 8 points apiece to keep the Kazakh defense guessing.

Kazakhs Stifled

Kazakhstan struggled heavily against the Filipinas' full-court pressure and active hands. Tamara Noiok paced the losing squad with 11 points and two assists, while Anna Bezgovada fought hard in the paint to salvage a 10-point, 15-rebound double-double, but their efforts were ultimately drowned out by Gilas' transition game.

What's Next?

With momentum firmly on their side, Gilas Pilipinas Women will look to make it two in a row when they return to action on Sunday, September 20, facing off against Hong Kong.

Tip-off is scheduled for 9:00 AM, Manila time.

Gilas Pilipinas begins its campaign to defend the men’s basketball gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games with a significantly different lineup from the team that ended the country’s 61-year title drought in Hangzhou.

The Philippines opens its title defense against Bahrain on September 11 in Nagoya, Japan, beginning a challenging tournament that will test whether the new-look national team can once again rise to the occasion on the Asian stage.

The men’s basketball competition will be held from September 10 to 20, ahead of the official Asian Games opening ceremony, with the 5-on-5 tournament taking place at the Aichi International Arena in Nagoya.

Coach Tim Cone is building the 2026 squad primarily around players from the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) after several regular Gilas players based in Japan and South Korea became unavailable because the Asian Games falls outside the regular FIBA competition calendar.

That has left the Philippines with a roster that looks markedly different from the squad that won gold in Hangzhou in 2023.

A very different Gilas team

The Philippines will enter the tournament without several key players who have been part of its recent international campaigns.

Among those unavailable are Kai Sotto, Dwight Ramos, AJ Edu, Kevin Quiambao and Carl Tamayo, while veteran center June Mar Fajardo has already retired from international basketball.

Cone has confirmed that RJ Abarrientos, Justin Arana and Justin Baltazar will be part of the Asian Games team, while players such as Robert Bolick and Adrian Nocum are among the prominent candidates for the final 12-man lineup.

The final roster, however, remained subject to confirmation as of September 1.

The changes mean Cone will have to build a team around a different mix of size, athleticism and offensive firepower.

With a smaller lineup compared with previous Gilas squads, the coach is expected to emphasize speed, quickness and an up-tempo style of basketball.

The approach could allow the Philippines to maximize its athleticism, but it also presents challenges against teams capable of exploiting Gilas’ lack of size in the frontcourt.

Brownlee remains the biggest question

Perhaps the most important unresolved issue surrounding the team is the availability of Justin Brownlee.

The veteran naturalized player played a pivotal role in Gilas’ historic 2023 Asian Games campaign, but his participation in Nagoya has yet to be confirmed.

Cone said the Philippines has reserved a roster spot for Brownlee, leaving the door open for his return if he is healthy enough to compete.

Brownlee had been dealing with leg, hamstring and knee problems and missed Gilas’ recent FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers games against Jordan and Iran.

His importance to the team is difficult to overstate.

In the 2023 Asian Games semifinals, Brownlee erupted for 33 points, including 17 in the fourth quarter, as the Philippines overcame a 20-point deficit to stun host China, 77-76.

He followed that performance with 20 points, 10 rebounds, five assists and two steals in the championship game against Jordan as Gilas won 70-60 and captured the gold medal.

If Brownlee is healthy and commits to the team, his experience and scoring ability could provide a major boost to an otherwise revamped lineup.

No Kai Sotto, no June Mar Fajardo

The absence of Kai Sotto is another significant change.

Cone confirmed that Sotto would participate in the August FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers but would not be part of the Asian Games squad.

No specific reason was given for Sotto’s absence.

The 7-foot-3 center had recently returned from a lengthy injury layoff and helped Gilas defeat Jordan and Iran in the World Cup qualifiers, averaging 15.5 points, 15 rebounds, three assists and one block across the two victories.

Sotto is currently unsigned after his contract in Japan expired, while his basketball future remained uncertain as he awaited developments regarding his eligibility to play in the US NCAA.

Meanwhile, Fajardo has officially ended his Gilas career.

The 36-year-old center retired from international basketball after more than a decade representing the Philippines, including three FIBA World Cup appearances and the historic Asian Games championship in 2023.

Overseas commitments reshape the roster

The absence of several other Gilas regulars is largely tied to the timing of the Asian Games.

Dwight Ramos and AJ Edu play in Japan, while Kevin Quiambao and Carl Tamayo are based in South Korea. Because the Asian Games is outside the regular FIBA competition calendar, securing the release of overseas players becomes more difficult.

That prompted Cone and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas to construct a separate team largely composed of PBA players.

It is a situation that creates both uncertainty and opportunity.

The new lineup may lack the familiarity and international experience of the 2023 champions, but it also gives a new generation of PBA standouts an opportunity to establish themselves on the Asian stage.

Boatwright unavailable

Another potential option has also been removed from consideration.

Bennie Boatwright will not play for Gilas in Nagoya because his naturalization and Philippine passport requirements were not completed in time.

Cone had identified Boatwright as a possible naturalized-player option, but with the passport unavailable before the tournament, Brownlee remains the preferred choice if he is healthy and willing to return.

A familiar opponent awaits

Gilas has been drawn into Group C alongside China, Bahrain and Kazakhstan.

The Philippines opens against Bahrain on September 11 before facing Kazakhstan the following day.

The group-stage schedule then culminates in a highly anticipated meeting with China on September 14.

The matchup carries plenty of history.

Three years ago in Hangzhou, Gilas stunned the host nation with one of the most memorable comebacks in Philippine basketball history.

The Philippines trailed China by 20 points before Brownlee and the Nationals completed the comeback for a dramatic 77-76 victory.

Now, the two teams meet again—this time in the group stage.

The circumstances, however, are very different.

The Philippines is defending the title with a largely new squad, while China will be eager to erase the memory of its painful semifinal defeat on home soil.

The road to another gold medal

After the group stage, the quarterfinals are scheduled for September 16, followed by the semifinals on September 18.

The medal games are set for September 20, with the bronze-medal game scheduled at 3:40 p.m. Philippine time and the gold-medal game at 6:40 p.m.

Gilas’ exact quarterfinal and semifinal schedules will depend on its group-stage finish and subsequent tournament results.

Gilas Pilipinas Asian Games schedule

September 11 — vs. Bahrain, 12 noon Philippine time

September 12 — vs. Kazakhstan, 6 p.m.

September 14 — vs. China, 12 noon

September 16 — Quarterfinals

September 18 — Semifinals

September 20 — Bronze-medal game or gold-medal game

Japan is one hour ahead of the Philippines, with the schedule above converted to Philippine time.

Can Gilas defend the crown?

The Philippines enters Nagoya as the reigning Asian Games champion, but repeating that achievement will be far from straightforward.

The team that conquered Hangzhou three years ago featured Brownlee, Fajardo and several established national-team stars. The 2026 squad, meanwhile, will be asked to succeed without many of those familiar faces.

The final roster and Brownlee’s availability could significantly affect Gilas’ chances.

Still, the mission remains unchanged.

Win gold.

The Philippines ended a 61-year wait for the Asian Games basketball championship in 2023. Now, a new-look Gilas team must prove that the victory in Hangzhou was not simply a one-time breakthrough.

For Cone and his players, the challenge is clear: adapt quickly, embrace the pressure and keep the gold in Philippine hands.

The title defense begins September 11.

Different players. Different circumstances. Same dream.

Scottie Thompson made the mistake that everyone saw.

But apparently, some fans also missed everything else he did.

The Gilas Pilipinas veteran became an easy target after committing a crucial five-second inbound violation with seven seconds left in the Philippines’ thrilling 82-81 win over Jordan. The error gave Jordan one final chance to steal the game—only for Kai Sotto to come up with the game-saving block.

The mistake was real. The criticism is understandable.

But reducing Thompson’s entire performance to one turnover? That’s where the criticism misses the bigger picture.

Head coach Tim Cone knows exactly what Thompson brings, and it goes far beyond scoring.

He rebounded. He chased loose balls. He defended Jordan’s best guards, including Jalen Harris and Freddy Ybrahim. More importantly, his presence helped settle Gilas after the team fell behind by a staggering 18 points, 26-8, in the first quarter.

Thompson finished with a +13 efficiency, another indication of the impact that doesn't always appear in the traditional box score.

As Cone put it, people tend to dismiss the “Scottie things”—the dirty work, the defense, the rebounds and the little plays that help a team win.

And that may be the biggest misunderstanding about Thompson.

He doesn't have to be the star to be important.

Basketball isn't always about who scores the most. Sometimes, it's about who does the jobs nobody else wants to do.

So yes, criticize the five-second violation.

But don't let one mistake erase everything Scottie Thompson contributed to the comeback.

Gilas didn't need another scorer that night. It needed a worker. And Scottie did what Scottie does.

Gilas Pilipinas is proving that this team is not one that folds when the pressure rises.

The Nationals overcame another double-digit deficit and stormed back to beat Iran, 68-56, on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena, securing their second straight victory in the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

It was far from a perfect performance, but that may be exactly what makes the win more impressive.

After escaping Jordan in an overtime thriller, 82-81, last Friday, Gilas once again found itself in trouble early. Instead of panicking, however, the Filipinos responded with the kind of defensive intensity and composure that ultimately turned the game around.

The victory gives Gilas its fourth win in eight games in Group E and, more importantly, another confidence boost heading deeper into the qualifying campaign.

Two games, two comebacks, two statement wins.

Gilas may still have plenty to fix, but one thing is becoming increasingly clear: this team has learned how to fight back.

And when the Philippines plays with that kind of heart and hustle, no lead feels completely safe against Gilas.

The comeback kings are making noise again. 🇵🇭🏀🔥

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.