University of the East opened its bid in the 2024 V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge in a stunning way, crushing reigning NCAA Season 99 champion De La Salle-College of St. Benilde in straight sets at the Paco Arena on Wednesday night, July 31.The Lady Warriors staged multiple comebacks to complete their domination of the Lady Blazers in a battle between Jerry Yee-coached squads.“The Lady Blazers have had the advantage over us the past couple of weeks, so I’m very happy that the girls pulled through even coming from behind,” said UE assistant coach Obet Vital.Down by as many as five points midway through the final set, UE rattled off a pivotal 9-1 run to gain momentum and sweep CSB to a 25-22, 25-23, 25-21 victory.Khy Cepada led the Lady Warriors by delivering 20 points, all from attacks, while Kayce Balingit and Jenalyn Umayam contributed 12 and 10 markers, respectively.Jelai Gajero also returned to the court for the first time since tearing her ACL in the same tournament seven months ago. The California Academy standout focused on regaining her floor defense for the game.Meanwhile, Corrine Apostol paced CSB with 14 points, while Rhea Densing chipped in 12 markers.UE will face UAAP Season 86 silver medalist University of Santo Tomas on Sunday, August 4, while St. Benilde will aim to bounce back against Far Eastern University on the same date.

Philippine Sports Commission president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino is still optimistic that the Philippine delegation in the Paris Olympics can still bring home a medal.Tolentino said, “Full speed ahead. The campaign for medals, especially gold, is hot on track.”Even though the Philippine team suffered defeats after defeats, Tolentino is still hoping that they can still end the Paris Games campaign on a high note.Tolentino also said that even though the losses hurt, this is not yet the end of the journey.The PSC chief says he is also saddened by the boxing loss that Eumir Marcial suffered. Marcial is the one being eyed to bring home a medal but failed to do so. Despite that, Tolentino said that it’s not the end for him.“I know how painful it is for Eumir to bear the loss. We feel his disappointment and frustration, but it’s not the end for him.”Tolentino added that the light heavyweight division is not for Marcial as it is far from his original weight class in the middleweight division where he won bronze in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Aira Villegas gifts herself with the best possible present on her 29th birthday as she advances to the women’s 50kg quarterfinals in the Paris Olympics early Friday, August 2 (Manila time).The Filipina boxer stunned the No. 2 seeded Roumaysa Boualam of Algeria when she showcased her quick movement and counterpunching.Villegas repeatedly backed off her Algerian foe with her stinging left jabs and quick combinations, enabling her to get all of the five judges’ nod in the first round. While the next two frames were closer, it was Villegas’ clean blows that spelled the difference.It was the second straight unanimous decision win for Villegas, who has been impressive so far in her Olympic debut. She gave the Philippine boxing team a winning start in the Paris Olympics on Monday, July 29, with a victory over Yasmine Mouttaki of Morocco.The 29-year-old’s win set up a date with home bet and seventh seed Wassila Lkhadiri of France as they duel for a spot in the semifinals on Sunday, August 4 (Manila time).Villegas joins Tokyo silver medalists Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam among the Filipino boxers who remain in the medal contention. 

Paris Olympics organizers are now in hot water after accusations of boxers being members of the LGBTQIA+ community competing in women’s competitions have surfaced online.Algerian boxer Imane Khalif, who is biologically female, won against her Italian opponent Angela Carini in the women’s 66kg category Thursday night, Manila time. Carini abandoned her match 46 seconds into the bout, giving Khalif the win.Khelif has found herself in the middle of the storm, not just for a swift victory over Carini, but for a controversy that questioned her eligibility to compete in the women’s division as she failed a “sex test” last year.In the match, Carini was seen getting emotional after she threw in the towel just 46 seconds into the fight. The Italian with her tears flowing claimed that she could not continue anymore after being hit with powerful blows that she has never experienced before.The Algerian was previously ousted from the world championships after failing a testosterone test. She has now faced a bunch of backlash. Even the social media world has erupted because of the issue though they have been divided with their opinions. Some supported Khelif like former Arsenal star Ismael Bennacer and said that she was receiving “unjustified hatred” while others vocally criticized the Algerian like notable figures J.K. Rowling and UK’s ex-Prime Minister Liz Truss.  

Cebuano weightlifters Elreen Ando and John Ceniza will begin their quest for Olympic gold next week, but this early, the acting mayor of Cebu City has promised to give them a huge bonus if they win medals in Paris.Acting Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia is committed to award Ando and Ceniza 1 million each from his personal funds if they can clinch gold medals in weightlifting.

Carlos Edriel “Caloy” Yulo’s memorable win at the 2024 Paris Olympics comes with its perks that will mark his place in Philippine history.From millions of pesos in cash prizes, to perks at selected establishments, the Philippines’ “Golden Boy” comes home from Paris to a myriad of rewards that are waiting for him across the Philippines.We take a look at the rewards that the 24-year-old Olympian will come home to after what has been a historic run at the biggest sporting stage of them all.

Filipina tennis player Alex Eala missed out on a semifinals berth of the W100 Cary tournament in North Carolina after failing to outplay second seed Renata Zarazua of Mexico early Friday morning (Philippine time).After taking the first set with ease, 6-3, Eala had a strong start in the second set, going up 4-2. However, Zarazua stormed back and won the next four games to take the match into a third set.Despite inching closer, pulling at 3-4, the 26-year-old Mexican bet kept her composure and won to punch a ticket to the semifinals.This is the second straight quarterfinal exit for the 19-year-old Asian Games bronze medalist after falling in the final eight of the W100 Landisville a few days ago. 

Aaron Fuller scored 24 points and grabbed 19 rebounds with +22 efficiency in his return to the PBA to lead the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters dominant win against the Blackwater Bossing, 110-97 at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum on Tuesday, August 19.Fuller made his presence felt early in the game by muscling his way inside the paint and consistently did it until the final minutes of the game.The “balik-import” received enough help from the local crew especially by the debuting rookies that ROS picked in the first round of the recent draft.Caelan Tiongson chipped in 15 markers (11 from the 2nd quarter), grabbed five rebounds and two assists in his very first PBA game while fellow rookie Felix Lemetti added 11 markers on 3-of-5 shooting from the three-point arc including three boards and two assists.Leonard Santillan also helped in the Elasto Painters by scoring 12 points while Andrei Caracut dished off the game-high seven assists.On the other hand, the No. 2 pick overall Sedrick Barefield made an impact right away and paced the Blackwater Bossing by putting up 18 points. He even made his first three attempts when he was inserted in the game in the first period.Sophomore James Kwekuteye added 17 markers (5-of-6 from the rainbow country) to help the Bossing climb up from the 21-point lead erected by ROS and brought it down to 10. He also tallied four boards and two dish-offs.Bradwyn Guinto, who made the first six points of the Bossing managed to finish the game with 15 points while the struggling Troy Rosario scored 10.Another one who struggled from the game was Blackwater’s import Ricky Ledo who only scored 12 points off 4-of-23 shooting from the field. His first field goal only arrived in the early part of the third quarter.The two teams will battle again on September 23 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Filipino sporting official Ramon "Tats" Suzara has been named the new president of the Asian Volleyball Confederation.This, as he is the newest official tasked with putting the name of the Philippines’ volleyball teams on the map.The countdown begins for the upcoming 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship that will take place in the Philippines. In order for the national volleyball teams to thrive on the world stage, Suzara has to implement the visions he has for the AVC. First on his agenda is to put volleyball as the Top 5 of popular sports in Asia especially that Philippines is one of the spectators in Volleyball National League (VNL) around the world followed by Thailand, according to Suzara.Purchasing land in Bangkok to convert it into AVC’s headquarters is also part of his mission.

Alas Pilipinas Men braces for tough challenges as they face strong adversaries in Pool A of the 2025 Fédération Internationale de Volleyball, or FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship.Host Philippines was grouped with Iran, Egypt, and Tunisia in the first round of the world championship following the culmination of the drawing lots on Saturday, September 14, at Solaire Grand Ballroom in Parañaque City.Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni recognized the big responsibility and big challenge for the No. 64 Alas Pilipinas in the international championship scheduled for next year.

The Philippines’ stunning momentum came to an abrupt stop as it fell to former world champion Armenia, 2.5-1.5, crashing out of the Top 10 after six rounds of the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad at the BOK Sports Hall in Budapest, Hungary.Grandmaster Julio Catalino Sadorra essayed yet another victory when he sent his second super Grandmaster in Haik Martirosyan to his knees, defeating his Armenian rival with a 63-move win of a Nimzo-Indian on top board. The Philippines’ quest to add another crown in their growing collections was barred when newly minted GM Daniel Quizon, International Master Paulo Bersamina, and GM John Paul Gomez succumbed to their rivals, concluding their games in draws.The stinging result relegated their ranking out of the Top 10. From a share of No. 7, the national men’s team stumbled to a share of No. 21 with eight match points. On the other hand, the Filipinas bounced back after knocking Bolivia, 3-1, with Shania Mae Mendoza, Janelle Mae Frayna, and Jan Jodilyn Fronda posting victories on the top board to take the No. 34 spot with eight points in the team standings. The win pushed the women’s team to a share of 22nd spot with a big group of eight pointers.The Filipino woodpushers will battle 27th-seeded Croatia, while the Filipina team will clash with 26th-seeded Argentina eyeing a win that would keep their hopes contending alive.

San Miguel averted disaster after dispatching the Converge FiberXers in the toe-to-toe Game 5 of their quarterfinals match-up, 109-105, on Sunday night at the Ynares Center, Antipolo.June Mar Fajardo showed why he's an eight-time MVP by producing a monster double-double of 40 points and 24 rebounds to lead the Beermen in entering the semis of the PBA Season 49 Governors' Cup.Fajardo went 15-of-27 from the field and shot 10-of-12 from the free throw line to carry much of the load in SMB's triumph.Though having a lot of contributions, JMF said that they all step-up in their do-or-die victory.

Rain or Shine might be in a 1-3 hole right now in their PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup semifinals series against the defending champion TNT Tropang Giga but they will not go down without a fight.The Elasto Painters coach Yeng Guao said that they still feel good about their chances in their match-up and their perspective is still positive.

Social media icon Jake Paul etched another milestone in his professional boxing career when he defeated Boxing Hall of Famer “Iron” Mike Tyson in a unanimous victory at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Texas.The youthfulness of the 27-year-old Paul overcame the iconic boxer to get his 11th win in 12 fights, while the 58-year-old Tyson record went to 50 wins and 7 losses.It was also the first time that “Iron Mike” returned to the ring since 2005.Tyson tried to bring back his old form but Paul always had an answer to continuously dominate the match.Using his speed, Paul surprised the boxing legend and rocked him in the 3rd round, and he continued his pace until the 8th and final round.In the final 10 seconds of the game, Paul gave a vow to Tyson to give honor to the Hall of Famer.Paul landed 78 punches of the 278 he had thrown, while Tyson only landed 18 of 98. After the match, Paul said that it’s an honor that he fought his idol in the ring.

It will be an epic rematch when the De La Salle University Green Archers defend their title against rival University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons in the UAAP Season 87 Men's Basketball Finals.In Season 86, the DLSU wards won the title in three games against the UP squad.The Green Archers want to do it back-to-back as they will once again be led by the soon-to-be crowned two-time MVP Kevin Quiambao, while the Fighting Maroons aim to get revenge.It will only be the third post-elimination match-up of the two universities in the Final Four era.The two teams first faced each other in Season 84 when the leadership of coach Goldwin Monterverde led the Carl Tamayo-Malick Diouf combo of UP defeated the Justine Baltazar-led La Salle in their semi-final battle, and got their first championship since 1986.After two years, the Green Archers relied on the mentorship of new head coach Topex Robinson to help them win the Season 86 title in three games.In the coaches’ head-to-head match-up, Robinson had a 5-2 edge against Monteverde.

After the Green Archers failed to clinch the coveted championship in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Basketball, Kevin Quiambao is about to leave his team for good.The De La Salle power forward confirmed this after signing a contract with the Goyang Sono Sky Gunners to play in the Korean Basketball League (KBL).In his post on social media, he said that he will continue his plan to play in the NBA someday.

The UAAP’s 88th season officially came alive on September 19 with a vibrant opening ceremony at the University of Santo Tomas Grandstand and Open Field, ushering in a new chapter of collegiate sports tradition and pride.Athletes, students, alumni, and supporters from all eight member schools gathered in a spirited show of unity, painting the venue in school colors and cheers that reflected the league’s enduring passion and energy.As this year’s host, UST rolled out its world-class facilities to welcome the league, emphasizing the university’s deep sporting legacy and commitment to excellence.Carrying the theme “Strength in Motion, Hope in Action,” UAAP Season 88 aims to highlight not only athletic brilliance but also the values of camaraderie, perseverance, and resilience that continue to define the country’s premier collegiate league.With the stage now set, fans can look forward to another season of unforgettable rivalries, inspiring performances, and stories of triumph that transcend the playing field.

Harold Alarcon came alive when it mattered most, leading the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons to a heart-stopping 89-88 win over the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena!The veteran guard rose to the occasion, scoring 10 of his 22 points in the crucial fourth quarter to lift UP to its 7th win in 10 games, securing solo second place in the standings as the race to the Final Four intensifies.“Marami kaming struggling nung first half, so nung fourth, whatever na hinarap sa akin ng defense, talagang kinuha ko lang,” said Alarcon, who provided the spark just when the Fighting Maroons needed it most.With Alarcon’s late-game heroics, UP continues to strengthen its Final Four push — showing the poise, depth, and championship mentality that have defined the team all season long.Also starring for State U was Noy Remogat, who chipped in 19 points, three rebounds, three assists, and two steals, while Migs Yniguez provided instant offense with 11 points on a perfect 3-of-3 shooting from deep.Down 87-88 with under 30 seconds left, Alarcon coolly sank one of his signature mid-range jumpers to put UP ahead. UST had multiple chances to steal the game, but Amiel Acido missed two potential go-ahead baskets, and despite Collins Akowe grabbing another offensive rebound, he turned the ball over at the buzzer.Akowe finished with a monstrous 26 points and 16 rebounds, while Nic Cabañero added 18 points for UST, which suffered its fourth straight loss and dropped to 5-10 overall. Forth Padrigao was limited to just two points and six assists before exiting early due to an ankle injury.UP continues to surge at the right time — showing grit, composure, and championship poise as the postseason draws near.

Gilas Pilipinas Youth clinched a berth in the FIBA U18 Asia Cup after Indonesia defeated Malaysia 77-64 last Saturday in the SEABA Qualifiers held at the MABA Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.Earlier, the Gilas U18 squad defeated Thailand 87-53 to have a clean slate during the tournament and assured them one of the top two spots when Indonesia won their own battle.The Philippines and Indonesia became the top two teams with 2-0 records after the Saturday games. Having been on top of the standings, they already qualified for SEABA in the FIBA U18 tournament to be held from September 2 to 7 in Amman, Jordan.The two teams will join reigning champion South Korea, host Jordan, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China, Mongolia, Chinese Taipei, Lebanon, Kazakhstan, India, and Iran.Already assured of the slot, Gilas Youth still swept the tournament by dealing Indonesia their first loss. Guard Andy Gemao led the team with 29 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists in their 87-64 win while Wilham Cabonilas added 17 points and grabbed nine boards.

An archer from Siliman University competing for the first time ever grabbed three gold medals during the Palarong Pambansa 2024 Archery Competition.Naina Dominique Tagle earlier won two gold medals in the Girls Recurve 60 meters and 70 meters events, and one more for the Girls 1140 FITA event held at the South Road Properties (SRP) Grounds in Cebu City on Saturday, July 13.She ended up getting 3 golds in 4 events she participated in, grabbing the silver medal in the Girls Recurve 50 meters event - a great showing for a team debuting in the highly-competitive regional sports meet.“I think everybody has their skill set and not everyone can be the best at everything,” she told CDN Digital in an interview.Tagle’s coach, Darlene Banglos, had nothing but good words for her debuting team as they ended up victorious in their Palaro debut.“There is a bright future when it comes to archery because these are very young athletes, they still have a lot to learn,” Banglos told CDN Digital.Tagle will be competing for the Olympic Round of the archery event.