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Terrafirma Dyip has confirmed its participation in the Philippine Basketball Association’s (PBA) 50th season, but the franchise remains officially up for sale. 

PBA chairman Ricky Vargas said management is committed to competing this season while keeping the door open for potential buyers. 

“We talked to Terrafirma management. They’re committed to perform their best and they’re committed to stay, but they also said that they are for sale,” Vargas said

Commissioner Willie Marcial noted that although there is interest from several groups, none have made concrete moves yet.

“Hindi lang natin alam kung gaano ka-interesado ang mga ito. Kaya parang hanging ang Terrafirma,” Marcial said. 

The franchise has previously come close to being sold, with talks involving Starhorse Shipping Lines and Zamboanga Valientes eventually falling through. 

League legal counsel Ogie Narvasa stressed stricter vetting for future applicants.

“Remember we have two interested applicants, but we had problems with submission of requirements. So we have to be a little more careful in vetting the companies that are interested to join the PBA,” Narvasa said.

“So they’re committed to stay until there’s really a buyer,” Narvasa added.

For now, Terrafirma is gearing up for the new season, having drafted Geo Chiu as the No. 1 overall pick and appointing Ronald Tubid as head coach. 

The team remains focused on preparations while awaiting any developments regarding a possible sale.

“Let’s see what happens,” Vargas concluded.

Pureblends Corp., a food manufacturing and solutions company, is close to acquiring the NorthPort franchise before the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) opens its 50th season on October 4. 

PBA chairman Ricky Vargas confirmed that most documents are finalized and due diligence is complete, with the sale expected to be completed soon.

Vargas welcomed the development and thanked San Miguel Corp. for allowing a competitor into the league. 

“It’s a welcome situation,” said Vargas. 

He also announced that competition advertising will be permitted during games, except when a team with a competing brand is playing. 

PBA commissioner Willie Marcial said NorthPort player movements are on hold until the sale is finalized.

“Talks are serious and it’s close to getting done. It could happen anytime. I’d like to thank San Miguel Corp. for allowing a competitor to come in. The Board has also decided to allow competition to advertise on TV during games but only when a team of a competitive brand is not playing, it was decided not to permit any further movements of NorthPort players until the sale is confirmed.”  Marcial said. 

Pureblends, owned by Bryann Calantoc, is reportedly considering a coaching overhaul for Batang Pier, possibly tapping a former PBA head coach to lead the team.

The reigning UAAP champions University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons got a timely boost from two of their former stars during their recent training camp in South Korea as they gear up for their title defense in the upcoming Season 88 men’s basketball tournament.

The Fighting Maroons faced several Korean Basketball League (KBL) squads from August 24 to September 2, including the current teams of ex-UP standouts JD Cagulangan and Carl Tamayo.

According to UP assistant coach Christian Luanzon, the presence of Cagulangan and Tamayo during the final stretch of camp was invaluable, as the two shared insights that went beyond the basketball court.

“We miss them for sure… Those are two players very special to us, not only on the court but even off the court,” said Luanzon during a contract signing on Monday, September 8, at UP Diliman.

“The advice they gave — about mindset, how to approach a game, how to deal with losses, and other important things — are lessons that will really help our players moving forward,” he added.

Tamayo was the first to take his talents abroad in 2023, suiting up for the Ryukyu Golden Kings in Japan’s B. League, where he won a championship before transferring to the KBL’s Changwon LG Sakers. He became the first Filipino import to capture titles in both Japan and Korea.

Cagulangan followed in 2024, signing with Suwon KT Sonicboom just two days after capping his collegiate career with a Finals MVP award and another UAAP crown for UP.

The reunion was particularly meaningful for team captain Gerry Abadiano, who was inspired by his former teammates’ success overseas.

Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao is optimistic about his newest rookie class after selecting eight players in the 2025 PBA Rookie Draft. 

“You might get surprised by any of these guys,” Guiao said, emphasizing the group’s upside.

The Elasto Painters picked UST’s Christian Manaytay (10th overall) and Letran’s Arthur Roque (12th) in the first round, then added Mark Omega, Vince Cuajao, Joshua David, Cole Micek, Kyle Tolentino, and MJ Dela Virgen in later rounds.

Guiao believes the group is high on potential, even without a ready-made superstar, and is hopeful some could become Rain or Shine’s next breakout performers. 

“I think we do not have a ready-made superstar that will make an immediate impact, but I feel the potential of these guys is on the high side. We’re always looking for those finds and there’s an opportunity to draft these guys, see them in practice and make a decision.” Guiao explained. 
“Who knows, somebody there could be the next Jhonard Clarito or Adrian Nocum,” he added.

The team also added veteran guard Stanley Pringle in free agency to provide leadership as they aim for a finals berth after four straight semifinal appearances.

SBP Executive Director Erika Dy and new Gilas Men head coach Norman Black outlined preparations for the Southeast Asian Games at the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum. 

New Gilas coach Norman Black is not leaving any stone unturned in forming the best team possible as the country seeks to retain the throne in men’s basketball in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand in December.

Black, who coached the Philippine team led by collegiate stars Greg Slaughter, Kiefer Ravena, Chris Tiu and Ray Parks to the gold in the 2011 SEA Games in Jakarta, has encountered difficulty forming the squad due to conflict of schedule for PBA players, collegiate players and those playing as imports in Japan and Korea.

“Our preparations are going to be short, that's why we need to get guys who can play together very quickly and who can play together very well,” said Black. 

Meanwhile, Erika Dy the SBP executive director also detailed the federation’s plan to build a competitive roster, while Black expressed eagerness to lead the squad, bringing decades of experience to the role. 

Once the initial pool of players is formed, coach Norman Black will call for practices on Mondays and prior to departure for Thailand, the team will do eight to nine straight days of practice.

“But the goal will definitely be to win the gold. There’s a lot of work to be done,” coach Black added.

Dy also assured everybody that once the team is formed, “we will be ready.”

Dy spoke mainly of the SBP programs for the remainder of the year, and it includes further promoting the sport in public schools in collaboration with the Department of Education through Secretary Sonny Angara and the Philippine Sports Commission through chairman Patrick Gregorio.

“Hopefully, we will be signing a memorandum of agreement soon,” said Dy.

With the Philippines determined to reclaim SEA Games basketball gold, both Dy and Black are confident that strong preparation and roster depth will be crucial to success.

“It’s a lot different now. Things have changed at how teams are recruiting players now. Things are different in the sense that everybody has improved in Southeast Asia,” coach Norman Black concluded. 

Terrafirma Dyip prioritized size in the PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft, selecting 6-foot-9 center Geo Chiu as the No. 1 overall pick. 

Chiu joins a list of former top picks for Dyip, though many before him have moved on from the team. Whether he can break the trend and become the franchise anchor remains to be seen.

The 24-year-old rookie said this after he unsurprisingly emerged the first overall pick of the PBA Rookie Draft held on Sunday. 

“In going pro, you’re up against veterans, seasoned veterans. There is a lot to learn with my new team right now,” said Chiu.

Chiu’s college and pro track record shows he has something to prove, having never averaged double-digit points. 

But he still could not suit up immediately for Terrafirma as he is yet to finish his stint with the Abra Weavers in another league—and it will last until December, depending on their campaign.

Chiu also said that he'd still be with his MPBL team.

"Opo, yes. Mga December po siguro. I think... if ever we reach the finals, then baka mga December po siya," he added. 

Still, head coach Ronald Tubid is expected to give him every opportunity to develop as the Dyip rebuilds with a roster that includes nine more rookies.

Veteran departures have forced a reset, with only a handful of holdovers left. NorthPort Batang Pier also loaded up in the draft, selecting 11 players and making key offseason trades. 

Of 122 applicants, 78 were drafted, but only about 20 rookies are expected to stick with final lineups.

All eyes are now on Chiu as he aims to carve out a lasting role and help turn Terrafirma’s fortunes around.

The PBA’s historic 50th season kicked off with major changes, as four teams debuted new head coaches during the 2025 Rookie Draft at the Mall of Asia Music Hall. 

LA Tenorio (Magnolia), Willy Wilson (Phoenix), Ronald Tubid (Terrafirma), and Dennis “Delta” Pineda (Converge) wasted no time putting their stamp on their squads, selecting from a deep pool of 122 applicants.

Tubid and Terrafirma picked Geo Chiu first overall, while Pineda and Converge took Juan Gomez de Liano at No. 2. 

On the other hand, Tenorio drafted Yukien Andrada (No. 6), and Wilson chose Will Gozum (No. 8) for Phoenix. 

Terrafirma and Converge each drafted ten players, with Magnolia and Phoenix also bolstering their lineups.

“Thankful sa opportunity. Ang daming puwedeng coaches na possible dito, pero tayo ang binigyan ng pagkakataon. So I think there’s a reason why,” Tenorio said. 

With new leadership and a strong rookie class, the PBA’s golden season promises exciting games and intrigue.

The PBA welcomed its historic 50th season by ushering in a fresh generation of talent, with 122 hopefuls vying for their professional dreams in the 2025 Rookie Draft held Sunday, September 7, at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

Terrafirma Dyip set the tone by selecting Ateneo’s 6-foot-9 center Geo Chiu as the No. 1 overall pick—an unsurprising choice, given his status as one of the most highly touted prospects in this year’s record pool of applicants.

Converge FiberXers stayed on script at No. 2, picking Gilas Pilipinas guard Juan Gomez de Liano, who boasts international stints in Japan, Lithuania, and South Korea.

At third, Blackwater Bossing chose 6-foot-1 guard Dalph Panopio, a former Batang Gilas standout who also gained overseas experience in South Korea and India. NorthPort followed at fourth by nabbing Ateneo guard Chris Koon.

NLEX reinforced its backcourt with the selection of speedy guard LJay Gonzales at No. 5. Magnolia secured San Beda forward Yukien Andrada at sixth, while Meralco bolstered its rotation with veteran playmaker Jason Brickman at seventh.

The UAAP is ramping up health and safety protocols ahead of Season 88, which opens September 19, following the recent tragic deaths of two young basketball players during training.

UAAP Executive Director Atty. Rebo Saguisag stressed at Wednesday’s preseason press conference that while emergency medical services and health protocols have long been in place, the league is now doubling down on caution—especially during training sessions. 

“We already have emergency medical services in place for competitions. But we’re making sure that athletes undergo proper pre-participation medical screening and reminding schools to be even more vigilant at their training venues,” Saguisag said. 

The renewed push for athlete safety follows the deaths of National University’s Ashlyn Abong, 18, who collapsed during training on June 28, and University of the Philippines recruit Israel Friday, 19, who died after collapsing at practice on August 20.

In response, member schools have also implemented stricter protocols. At UP, the Office of Athletics and Sports Development now requires all students, including athletes, to undergo medical evaluations before enrollment. 

Student-athletes must also pass a Pre-Participation Medical Sports Evaluation (PMSE) and additional cardiovascular screenings before joining their teams.

“They have to undergo tests. Even if they’ve completed the PMSE, further clearance is needed to detect any existing medical conditions,” explained UP’s Bo Perasol.

As Season 88 approaches, the UAAP is sending a clear message: while competition is central to collegiate sports, athlete safety remains the top priority.

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) will welcome the collegiate community as it hosts the UAAP Season 88 opening ceremony on September 19 at the UST Grandstand and Open Field, with a massive crowd of 25,000 to 30,000 expected to fill España for what promises to be a festive launch rivaling the school’s annual Paskuhan celebration.

“Now the gates of España are wide open. The stage has been set,” declared UAAP Season 88 president Rev. Fr. Rodel Cansancio, O.P., during the league’s pre-season press conference at the Dr. Robert Sy Grand Ballroom inside the UST campus. “To the UAAP community, we are more than ready to give it our all and release the loudest roar this season.”

UST continues its tradition of holding the season’s grand opening at home, unlike other schools that often opt for large arenas or coliseums. The following day, the spotlight shifts to the hardwood as the men’s basketball tournament takes center stage at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion with a jam-packed weekend of action.

PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial confirmed that the UAAP has denied the league’s request to allow graduating and one-and-done players to join the upcoming September 7 PBA Draft while still completing their collegiate eligibility.

Marcial said he received a letter from UAAP Executive Director Atty. Rebo Saguisag, who explained that the issue was thoroughly discussed by the UAAP Board of Managing Directors. 

“This matter involves a policy issue across all our sports programs. We are unable to favorably act on the request at this time. We must also ensure consistency in our regulations concerning student-athletes entering professional leagues,” Saguisag wrote.

As a result, graduating UAAP players will have to wait another nine months before they can apply for the next PBA Draft, potentially stalling their transition to the professional ranks and affecting their career momentum.

Saguisag also added that the matter would be referred to the UAAP’s sports and eligibility committees for further review and possible amendments in future seasons.

In contrast, the NCAA allows its graduating players to enter the PBA Draft as long as they finish their final collegiate season before turning pro—a policy seen as more supportive of athletes’ career development.

Among the UAAP standouts who could have entered this year’s draft are La Salle’s Michael Phillips, UP’s Gerry Abadiano, Terrence Fortea, Reyland Torres, and several others. With the UAAP’s decision, these prospects must now wait until next year’s draft to begin their professional journey.

The UAAP has upheld its ruling barring players from joining the PBA Draft while retaining their collegiate eligibility, despite an appeal from PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial. 

UAAP Executive Director Atty. Rebo Saguisag emphasized that the decision affects not only basketball but the entire UAAP sporting program.

“We can’t grant the request, at least for this season, because it has implications for our other sporting events,” Saguisag said.

He added that the UAAP Board must conduct a thorough review before allowing players to enter the PBA Draft mid-season.

“We’re committed to referring this matter to a committee for a deep study of its impact across all our 20 sporting events,” Saguisag explained. 

However, he noted that the UAAP isn’t closing its doors to the idea and may implement changes as early as Season 89.

Saguisag said Marcial and the PBA understood the UAAP’s need for consistency with its regulations. In the UAAP’s view, any player who enters the draft—even if undrafted and a free agent—is considered a professional and thus ineligible to continue playing at the collegiate level.

The ruling means top prospects like La Salle’s Mike Phillips and other graduating UAAP players will have to wait about a year before they can enter the PBA Draft if they wish to retain their eligibility this season.

Filipino-American guard Wilfrid Nado is officially joining the pool of hopefuls in the upcoming PBA Rookie Draft, bringing with him a mix of experience, leadership, and a high basketball IQ.

Born on June 26, 2002, in Vallejo, California, the 6-foot guard made his mark in the U.S. collegiate ranks. He first starred for Santa Barbara City College (JUCO), where he led the team in minutes and assists, earning First Team All-Conference honors. 

His ability to run an offense and make his teammates better stood out, establishing him as a reliable floor general.

Half Court Group earned a coveted slot in the FIBA 3x3 Manila Challenger this September after an impressive showing in the Pilipinas United 3x3 League (PUL) men’s division over the weekend.

Despite falling to Kuala Lumpur, 21-15, in the title game, the Filipino squad emerged as the top local finisher out of 12 teams, booking their place in the Manila Challenger.

Playing shorthanded in the finals after key import Adeshokan Odou went down with a knee injury in the semis, veteran Chester Saldua led the charge with nine points.

However, Kuala Lumpur’s Ting Chun Hong sealed the championship with a clutch putback, earning the Malaysian a slot in the FIBA 3x3 Kaohsiung Challenger in October.

Half Court Group’s resilience was on display as they ousted Taho Story A, 21-14, in the quarters and survived Solaris, 20-17, in the semis. On the other hand, Kuala Lumpur stunned Taho Story B, 21-18, in the semis after dispatching SBB, 21-16, in the quarters.

With their Manila Challenger berth secured, the Half Court Group now looks to regroup and recover, ready to take on international 3x3 competition on home soil.

After years of steady growth and clutch performances, LJay Gonzales has officially declared for the PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft, marking the next step in a career built on leadership, consistency, and grit.

A product of Far Eastern University, Gonzales rose to prominence as the Tamaraws’ reliable floor general, guiding the team through pressure-packed UAAP battles with his composure and playmaking. His collegiate career peaked with a Mythical Five selection in UAAP Season 86, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top guards.

Standing out for more than just his passing, Gonzales displayed a well-rounded game in his final year with FEU, averaging 14.8 points, 7.9 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 2.0 steals per contest—numbers that highlight his ability to impact both ends of the floor. 

Known for his quickness, defensive instincts, and timely shot-making, he built a reputation as a closer capable of delivering in crunch time.

Standing at 6-foot-7, Mario Barasi Jr. is among the intriguing frontcourt prospects eyeing a breakthrough in the 50th season of the PBA Rookie Draft.

With his size, versatility, and steady rise through the country’s competitive basketball ranks, Barasi is primed to make his mark as a power forward and center.

The 24-year-old native of Lal-Lo, Cagayan carved his basketball path through notable programs at the collegiate and semi-professional levels. He first suited up for the University of Perpetual Help Altas in the NCAA, showcasing his potential as an inside presence.

His journey later took him to Adamson University, where he competed in multiple tournaments, including the FilOil EcoOil Preseason Cup, the UAAP with the Adamson Soaring Falcons, and the Pinoyliga Cup, further sharpening his skills against elite talent.

The NLEX Road Warriors capped their preseason with a championship run, capturing the 40th Kadayawan Invitational crown after defeating the Blackwater Bossing, 101-84, on Sunday night, August 26, at the University of Southern Philippines in Davao City.

After trailing by as much as 11 early in the game, NLEX turned things around with a blistering 34-12 surge in the second quarter, sparked by Robert Bolick, Dominic Fajardo, Tony Semerad, and Xyrus Torres, to grab a 52-36 lead at halftime.

Just weeks after being appointed as head coach of the Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots, LA Tenorio is already making bold moves — the latest being the blockbuster Javi Gomez de Liano–Jerrick Ahanmisi trade.

In the deal approved by the PBA, Gomez de Liano will now don the Magnolia jersey after previous stints with Terrafirma, the Korean Basketball League, and the Strong Group Athletics in the Jones Cup. Meanwhile, the sweet-shooting Ahanmisi will suit up for the Dyip. The trade also includes Magnolia’s second-round pick, which now belongs to Terrafirma.

With the transaction complete, one question lingers: Who really won the trade?

On paper and in the eyes of many analysts and fans, Magnolia appears to have the edge. Gomez de Liano offers a more complete package: size, versatility, and a well-rounded skill set.

That said, Ahanmisi’s scoring potential should not be underestimated. He has the ability to heat up and take over a game when given the opportunity, a weapon that was not fully maximized under his former coach. With Terrafirma, he could rediscover that spark and become a major offensive threat.

Joshua Yerro, the 6’1” versatile forward and former Adamson University captain, has officially declared for the 2025 PBA Rookie Draft, bringing a wealth of experience and proven clutch ability to the professional ranks.

Yerro’s basketball journey began in grassroots competitions with the UV Baby Lancers (CESAFI Juniors) before he made his mark with Team Cebu (NBTC).

Transitioning to the UAAP, he became a key contributor for the Adamson Soaring Falcons, earning the captaincy and showcasing leadership on and off the floor. One of his most memorable collegiate moments came last year when he executed a buzzer-eating alley-oop against the National University, a play that highlighted his timing, composure, and ability to perform under pressure.

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has formally asked the UAAP to allow college players to enter the upcoming PBA Rookie Draft without losing their eligibility for the UAAP basketball season.

PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial confirmed the request, which comes with the Rookie Draft scheduled for September 7—just 12 days before UAAP Season 88 tips off at UST on September 19.

Marcial assured that drafted players would still be able to complete their UAAP commitments before reporting to their PBA teams.

“We believe this is a win-win for both leagues. Players will be motivated to give their best in the UAAP, knowing their college exposure will help launch their pro careers,” Marcial said.

The PBA’s 50th season opens on October 5 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, with the Philippine Cup as the season-opener.

Marcial added that the league and its teams are prepared to assist student-athletes as they transition to the pros while fulfilling their collegiate duties.

“We’re open to extending support to UAAP draftees so they can compete at the highest level in the UAAP,” he added.

If approved, the proposal would allow top collegiate stars to explore professional opportunities without sacrificing their final UAAP campaigns—creating a smoother bridge between the country’s premier collegiate and professional basketball leagues.