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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?

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.

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 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.

When the game was on the line, Anton Asistio stepped up and delivered.

The sharpshooting guard calmly sank four crucial free throws in the dying seconds to power Rain or Shine Elasto Painters past Titan Ultra, 112-111, in a heart-stopping PBA Philippine Cup clash on Sunday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

Down 108-111 with just over two seconds left, Asistio drew a foul from beyond the arc and coolly converted all his free throws to complete Rain or Shine’s dramatic comeback and secure their second straight win, improving to 3-1 in the standings.

Head coach Yeng Guiao lauded Asistio’s composure and quick thinking in executing the play perfectly under pressure.

“We designed that last play for Anton, but we did not really anticipate that it was going to be a four-point shot,” said Guiao. “We knew they were going to foul, so we told him—when you feel the foul coming, put up the shot. That’s exactly what he did.”

The clutch moment capped off a strong all-around team performance. Adrian Nocum led the E-Painters with 24 points before fouling out, while Santi Santillan poured in 21 points—including 13 in the fourth quarter—to spearhead the rally. Jhonard Clarito added 19 markers, eight of which came in the final frame.

Despite a big night from Calvin Abueva, who finished with 31 points and 18 rebounds, Titan Ultra fell short and dropped to 1-4. Aljun Melecio chipped in 21, while Joshua Munzon came close to a triple-double with 15 points, 13 rebounds, and eight assists.

Titan looked in full control after building an 85-66 lead in the third quarter behind a barrage of three-pointers, but Rain or Shine’s relentless fightback flipped the script.

“I’m really happy with the endgame, but for the first three quarters, I wasn’t that happy,” Guiao admitted. “The important thing is, we found ways to win.”

With momentum on their side and confidence growing, Rain or Shine continues to show the grit and chemistry that define a true contender in this year’s Philippine Cup.

Former PBA star Ronald “The Saint” Tubid notched his first win as head coach of the Terrafirma Dyip in the ongoing PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup, marking a promising debut for his coaching career.

Tubid, celebrated for his energy and leadership on the court, guided the Dyip to a hard-fought victory—their first with him at the helm. The team displayed renewed confidence and chemistry, reflecting Tubid’s emphasis on discipline, teamwork, and player development.

“This win means a lot—not just for me, but for the whole team,” Tubid shared after the game. “It’s all about building trust, working hard, and believing that we can compete with anyone.”

'Yung team na ito fast-tracked, eh. 'Yung preparation namin, like, almost a month lang. So tinitiyaga namin. Kung saan kami strong doon lang kami. Saka ipinapaalala lang namin sa mga bata na as long as we compete may chance na manalo talaga."

"Yung mga bata are so excited. They know na kaya nila. Sabi naming mga coaches... although we are undersized, as long as we compete may tsansa tayong manalo," said Tubid, adding the team continuous to be a work in progress.

"Siguro balik kami sa video, correct naming lahat. We all know this is a very young team, us coaches also," admitted the former nine-time champion player.

The victory gives Terrafirma a morale boost and sets a positive tone as they aim for a playoff push this season. Tubid, a two-time PBA champion and former Gilas Pilipinas standout, took over earlier this year and is determined to lead the Dyip to greater heights.

With their first win secured, Terrafirma looks to keep the momentum rolling as their PBA Season 50 journey continues.

When the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters tip off their 2025 PBA Philippine Cup campaign at the Ynares Center in Montalban, it will mark the beginning of the end for one of Philippine basketball’s most admired careers. 

Gabe Norwood, the heart and soul of Rain or Shine for 17 years, announced this conference will be his final run in the league—a farewell to an era defined by loyalty, leadership, and longevity.

Here are five moments that shaped Norwood’s storied career:

1. 2012 Governors’ Cup Championship

Norwood helped deliver Rain or Shine’s breakthrough PBA title, stepping up in a tense Game 7 win over B-Meg. With Paul Lee sidelined by injury, Norwood’s leadership and grit were crucial in etching the Elasto Painters’ names in league history.

2. The Dunk Heard Around the World – 2014 FIBA World Cup

In Seville, Spain, Norwood soared for a thunderous poster dunk over NBA veteran Luis Scola—an iconic highlight that went viral and was nominated as one of FIBA’s “Dunks of the Decade.” It captured the world’s respect for Philippine basketball.

3. 2016 Commissioner’s Cup Championship

Rain or Shine’s resilience under Norwood’s steady presence culminated in their second franchise title, overcoming adversity and four different imports to outlast Alaska in the finals.

4. The 29-Point Outburst

In a do-or-die game for a semifinal slot, Norwood delivered a career-high 29 points, showcasing his ability to rise to the challenge when it mattered most—even in defeat.

5. A Career of Unwavering Loyalty

Seventeen years with Rain or Shine puts Norwood among the league’s most loyal players, joining the likes of Mark Caguioa and Alvin Patrimonio. Across 674 games, his stats—7.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.5 blocks—tell only part of the story. His defensive prowess, quiet leadership, and professionalism define his true legacy.

As Gabe Norwood enters his farewell season, he leaves behind more than numbers and highlights—he leaves a blueprint of class, character, and what it truly means to be “All Heart.” For his team and the fans, Norwood’s final chapter is a celebration of a career built on commitment and integrity.

“The journey has been nothing short of incredi­ble, I poured everything I have everything into this game and in return, it has given me more than I could ever ask for. That’s why today, I wan­na share with you all, that this upcoming Philippine Cup will be my last. One last conference, one last run, one last flight,” Norwood said. 

As a child, June Mar Fajardo stood out not for his talent but for his towering height — something he once despised. Teased and bullied for being “too tall,” the young Fajardo wished he could blend in. Little did he know the very trait he once hated would transform his life and propel him to the summit of Philippine basketball history.

Fast forward to today, Fajardo stands alone as the greatest of all time, owning an unprecedented nine PBA Most Valuable Player awards, cementing his status as the league’s most dominant force.

“Sinong magaakala na isang bata na hindi man lang mahilig mag-basketball, pero nandito at mananalo ng nine MVPs. Kahit ako mismo, hindi ko in-expect na aabot ako sa ganito,” Fajardo said at the PBA Season 49 Leo Awards at Novotel Manila, as fellow players and legends applauded his feat.

He reflected on how his once-hated height turned out to be his greatest blessing.

“Dati sobrang hate ko yung height ko kasi ako yung pinakamatangkad, lagi akong binu-bully. Pero na-realize ko yun pala yung ultimate gift na binigay ni God sa akin. Yun pala yung magbabago ng buhay ko, buhay ng family ko, at buhay ng mga tao sa paligid ko.”

From an indifferent kid who only picked up basketball for a scholarship, Fajardo became the most decorated and dominant player the league has ever seen. His journey includes six straight MVPs, a career-threatening shin injury, and a triumphant return to bag three more MVPs — capped by his best statistical season in years: 19.2 points, 15.1 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game.

He admitted that when he broke his tibia, doubts crept in.

“Kahit ako, nagcross din sa isip ko na baka nga hindi na makakabalik. Pero ginawa ko yung therapy ko religiously. Kasi kung mag give up ako, by default talo na ako. So binigyan ko ng chance yung sarili ko, baka makabalik ako — at yun nga ang nangyari,” the 6-foot-10 gentle giant said.

“Credit din talaga sa sarili ko. Kasi di ako nag give up. Kung nag give up ako sana wala na ako ngayon. Thankful ako kay God.”

From a bullied boy who once resented his height to a nine-time MVP redefining greatness, June Mar Fajardo has not only changed his own life but has also inspired a generation to see challenges as gifts — and to never give up on themselves.

Barangay Ginebra coach Tim Cone had mixed emotions following the Gin Kings’ 80-73 defeat to Magnolia in the opening game of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

“I’m happy for LA, sad for myself,” Cone admitted after his team fell to his former floor general and now Magnolia head coach LA Tenorio, who earned his first coaching victory in his debut.

The much-anticipated matchup between mentor and student saw Tenorio’s Hotshots control the game from start to finish, using a strong start and steady composure to secure the win.

Cone, however, downplayed the “duel” narrative between him and Tenorio. “You guys are making a big deal out of it,” Cone said.  “We’re friends. It’s the same thing when I coached against Chot Reyes, Jeff Cariaso, Johnedel Cardel, or Luigi Trillo—they’re all my ex-players and coaches. It’s just part of the game.”

Despite the loss, Cone expressed pride in Tenorio’s successful coaching debut, showing that the lessons once learned under his mentorship can now be used to craft victories of their own.

Magnolia’s new era under rookie coach LA Tenorio began in golden fashion as the Hotshots opened their 2025 PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup campaign with an 80-73 victory over Barangay Ginebra at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, spoiling Tenorio’s reunion with his former team and long-time mentor, Tim Cone.

Tenorio, who won seven titles with Ginebra as a player and playing-assistant, credited his players for stepping up in the emotionally charged Manila Clasico opener. 

"A good start for a new journey," said Tenorio, deflecting all the credit, though, to his players.

"It was really hard. Emotionally, I had to battle, and I really had to challenge my players that it's not about me and coach Tim; it's about the players of Magnolia and the players of Ginebra," Tenorio pointed out.

“I just want to thank the players and my staff. They were really ready for this game and wanted to give me this first win.”

"And I want to thank the players and the coaching staff, they wanted to guide me, knowing mahirap in this kind of atmosphere. The players were ready going to this game. I appreciated their effort and their focus," Tenorio added.

Zav Lucero led Magnolia with 17 points, seven rebounds, four assists, four steals, and a block, while Jerom Lastimosa and Javi Gomez de Liano chipped in 14 points each. Rome dela Rosa added nine as the Hotshots unleashed a fiery 10-0 start and never looked back, maintaining control all game.

The Hotshots’ wire-to-wire win marked a promising start to Tenorio’s coaching journey—one that began by defeating the very team that helped shape his legacy.

The scores:

Magnolia 80 - Lucero 17, Lastimosa 14, Gomez de Liano 14, dela Rosa 12, Sangalang 9, Barroca 7, Laput 5, Dionisio 2, Lee 0, Verano 0, Alfaro 0, Escoto 0.

Ginebra 73 - Holt 16, Gray 13, Rosario 12, Abarrientos 11, Estil 9, J.Aguilar 5, Cu 3, Torres 2, David 2, Thompson 0.

Quarterscores: 23-14, 36-30, 61-48, 80-73

PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial announced that the league and its 12 member ballclubs will extend assistance to victims of the recent calamities in Cebu and Masbate.

The decision was reached during the PBA Board of Governors meeting, with Marcial confirming that aid will be given not just to Cebu, which suffered a magnitude 6.9 earthquake last September 30, but also to Masbate, placed under a state of calamity after Severe Tropical Storm Opong caused widespread damage.

Marcial said the relief drive will mirror previous efforts, with contributions coming from both the PBA office and all 12 teams. “Hindi na nalalayo dun galing sa PBA mismo, galing sa iba’t ibang teams, sa 12 teams ‘yung itutulong natin sa kababayan natin na nasalanta,” he explained.

The PBA has a long history of mobilizing aid in times of crisis. In October 2024, the league raised nearly ₱2 million in relief funds for victims of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine.

Veteran forward Sean Anthony has officially announced his retirement from basketball, closing the book on a memorable 14-year career in the PBA.

A former Mythical Team member and Defensive Player of the Year, Anthony shared the news through a heartfelt LinkedIn post on Sunday, September 14. The 39-year-old revealed that although he received an extension offer from NLEX, he chose to step away from the game to prioritize his family, especially his son’s recovery from cancer.

“Saying goodbye to something you love is one of the hardest things to do, which is probably why it has taken me so long to share this. But here it goes: I am officially retiring from basketball,” Anthony wrote.

“Earlier this year, when we found out my son had cancer, I turned down my extension with the NLEX Road Warriors and moved to Singapore to focus on getting him healthy. Seven months later, and after six rounds of immunotherapy and chemotherapy, I’m beyond grateful to say that my son is now cancer-free! Our family has since relocated to Vancouver, Canada, where he will continue post-treatment monitoring and care.”

Known for his relentless work ethic, Anthony was drafted sixth overall by Powerade in 2010 and went on to play for eight different teams. He was part of the Tigers’ unforgettable Cinderella run to the 2012 Finals and made his mark at GlobalPort, capturing Defensive Player of the Year honors and earning a Mythical First Team selection.

Off the court, Anthony prepared for life after basketball, earning a master’s degree in business administration and working as a senior consultant for an advisory services firm.

Still, basketball remains close to his heart.

“Basketball has been a cornerstone of my life since I was a kid, and being able to live out my childhood dream for 15 years has been the greatest gift,” he said. “Thank you to the management, coaches, teammates, and especially the fans for your support throughout my journey. I will always love the game and the PBA, and I hope that one day, when life settles, I can give back to the sport and the community that has given me so much."

Rain or Shine has issued tender offers to rookies Christian Manaytay, Jun Roque, Mark Denver Omega, Deo Cuajao, and Joshua David, head coach Yeng Guiao confirmed. 

By extending the offers, the Elasto Painters have retained the signing rights of their five draft picks from the first two rounds of the recent PBA Draft.

Rain or Shine, which reached the semifinals in all three conferences of the 49th season, had the most selections in the first two rounds this year, including two first-rounders.

Left out of the team’s plans are third-rounder Cole Micek (No. 34 pick), fourth-rounder Kyle Tolentino (No. 45), and fifth-rounder MJ Dela Virgen (No. 55), who all become free agents after not receiving tender offers.

Contracts with the five rookies are not yet finalized, as each is still committed to ongoing stints in other leagues. 

Manaytay, the 10th overall pick, is currently playing with the Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards in the MPBL, while Roque, selected 12th, is set to finish his NCAA campaign with Letran. Omega (No. 20) and Cuajao (No. 22) are also suiting up for Letran in the NCAA, while David (No. 24) is with the Abra Weavers in the MPBL. Both leagues are scheduled to conclude their seasons in December.

Despite these commitments, all five draftees attended Rain or Shine practices shortly after the draft to integrate with the team.

“Hindi naman kami nagmamadali with regards to the rookies,” Guiao said, emphasizing that the Elasto Painters are willing to wait for their full availability.

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.

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.