Ateneo sweeps UAAP Season 77 HS Basketball first round

Standings

Ateneo 7-0
NU 6-1
La Salle-Zobel 5-2
FEU 4-3
Adamson 3-4
UST 2-5
UPIS 1-6
UE 0-7

Games Jan. 7 at the Blue Eagle Gym

9 a.m. – FEU vs UE
11 a.m. – NU vs UST
1 p.m. – DLSZ vs UPIS
3 p.m. – ADMU vs AdU

The Ateneo de Manila Blue Eaglets relied on their youth team standouts to end the 22-game winning streak of the defending champion National University Bullpups, 66-64, this past Saturday at the Blue Eagle Gym.

Mike Nieto received the pass from twin brother Matthew, then scored the game-winning lay-up with 2.5 seconds remaining to break the final deadlock. The twins combined to score 23 points.

Via @katelynneys_, the @bigmikenieto game-winner. @mattnieto5 dished it -> https://t.co/T26zBPNR89
— PHSports LiveScores (@LiveScoresPH) December 20, 2014

Matthew scored eight of his fifteen markers in the fourth quarter, all of which came in a span of 50 seconds, to give Ateneo the lead for good.

The defending champions did manage to crawl their way back in the game, capped off by a Philip Manalang triple with seventeen seconds remaining to set up Mike's heroics.

NU did have a chance to win the game, but Alfred Calma's corner triple missed.

Jolo Mendoza led all scorers with twenty points, while Mark Dyke had nineteen points and sixteen rebounds.

In a battle to see who finishes in third place after the first round, La Salle-Zobel escaped past FEU-Diliman, 55-50.

After Marvin Lee tied the game at 50-all with 82 seconds left, the Junior Archers managed to survive with free throws from Aljun Melencio, Joaquin Banzon, and Brent Paraiso, while the Baby Tamaraws squandered their chance to come closer with a couple of turnovers.

Melencio and Banzon each led Zobel with eighteen points, while Lee finished with twelve to guide FEU-D.

The other match-ups on Saturday ended with Adamson over UPIS, 56-50, and UST over UE, 77-65.

Second round action will kick off on January 7 after the holiday break.

PBA All-Filipino Cup semifinals set

Alin kina Jeff, Calvin, Chris, at Jayson ang magwawagi sa All-Filipino Cup?

With the demise of the Purefoods-STAR Hotshots in Phase I of the All-Filipino Cup quarterfinals, the PBA will have a new champion at the end of the first conference.

Four teams are still left standing, and have the right to be the first champion of the 40th season of the first professional basketball league in Asia.

Kicking off the best-of-seven semifinals is the match-up of 2nd seed Rain or Shine and 3rd seed Alaska.

Lone eliminations meeting ended 98-95 for Rain or Shine.

Schedule:

Game 1: December 18, 7pm
Game 2: December 20, 5pm
Game 3: December 22, 7pm
Game 4: December 25, 415pm

The Elastopainters are seeking their first All-Filipino title and have done so in spite of injuries affecting their rotation depth, from Chris Tiu and Ty Tang to rookie Jericho Cruz. However, Yeng Guiao has relied on the Elasto-Gilas quartet of Gabe Norwood, Jeff Chan, Beau Belga, and Paul Lee to become the first team to snag a semifinal berth (although tiebreakers pushed them down to second).

The Aces, on the other hand, have ridden on the shoulders of Calvin Abueva, who is second in the league in the Best Player of the Conference race. Calvin is the "face" of the Aces' seeming grit-grind mentality, with Chris Ross being the only significant PBA player of note with a better defensive rating than the Beast.

Rain or Shine takes pride on their league-best pace, while Alaska puts its lunch bucket on their capable rebounding percentage and their defense (tied with San Miguel in best defensive rating).

Set to take place tomorrow is the other semifinal pairing between the top-seed San Miguel Beer and 4th seed Talk 'N Text.

Lone eliminations meeting ended 107-101 for Talk 'N Text.

Schedule:

Game 1: December 19, 7pm
Game 2: December 21, 5pm
Game 3: December 23, 7pm
Game 4: December 26, 7pm

Head coach Leo Austria's didn't stray away from what worked for him in Adamson and with the ABL version of San Miguel Beer. The Beermen play with the slowest pace among the four teams left in the running, opting to use his biggest weapon, reigning MVP JuneMar Fajardo, to his advantage. Along with the Aces, the Beermen have the best defensive rating in the league as well as the best eFG% defense. Of course, they decided to add a new wrinkle with the late addition of ertswhile Beerman Alex Cabagnot from Globalport.

Meanwhile, the Tropang Texters decided to rebuild on the fly, keeping the core intact, while going out and netting themselves two members of the cadet pool in Kevin Alas and Matt Ganuelas-Rosser. They have an average defensive rating, but what gets them going is their offense, with a 104.6 rating. Keying this version of the DDrM is Jayson Castro, while gunners like Larry Fonacier and Jimmy Alapag lie waiting in the wings to lead the sniping brigade from the perimeter.

TV5 will televise the games, while NewsFM (92.3 in Manila, 101.9 in Cebu and Davao, 102.3 in Bacolod, and 97.5 in General Santos) will have radio broadcast. Sports5.ph offers legitimate online streaming (albeit geo-locked to the Philippines) of the games, as well as certain exclusives that neither TV or radio will have coverage on.

Six-man Philippine delegation sent to Geneva for FIBA workshop

In its quest to secure hosting rights for the upcoming FIBA World Cup in 2019, the Philippines will send a six-man delegation to Geneva to attend a workshop on December 15 and 16.

Comprising the delegation are Department of Tourism Undersecretary and Chief Operation Officer Domingo Ramon Enerio III (as the proxy for DOT Secretary Ramon Jimenez), current Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Executive Director Sonny Barrios, SBP Deputy Executive Director for International Affairs Buth Antonio, SBP logistics consultant Andrew Teh, PBA chairman Pato Gregorio, and Octagon Asia-Pacific (a Sydney, Australia-based sports marketing and advertising firm) President Sean Nicholls.

DOT Secretary Ramon Jimenez, who saw the potential benefits of the hosting the World Cup for Philippine tourism, sent Enerio to be part of the delegation after meeting with the SBP officials.

According to Barrios, the delegation aims to put its "best foot forward" in the workshop, noting that the presence of Enerio and Nicholls is a context towards the "seriousness of our bid."

SBP Vice Chairman Ricky Vargas echoed said sentiments, adding that "we will be there to win it."

The FIBA Basketball World Cup Bid Workshop is the second step for those intending to bid for hosting rights, after initially expressing interest. Aside from the Philippines, recent FIFA World Cup and incoming Summer Olympic hosts Brazil has made its interest to host the 2019 edition public.

On-site inspection will then follow suit this January, with the final submission of candidacy to be done in April. By May, candidates will make their final bid presentations, to which the FIBA Central Board would then announce the winner.

Three possible venues are already available for FIBA inspection, the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, the MOA Arena in Pasay City, and the Philippine Arena in Bocaue. A couple more possible sites currently being looked into are the facilities in Cebu by the SM Group and Paranaque City by the Solaire Group.

Partnership established with the NBA and the Royal Foundation

#460170704 / gettyimages.com

The NBA and the Royal Foundation announced on Monday that both sides will engage a partnership involving the league's NBA Cares program with the Foundation's United for Wildlife and Coach Core programs.

The partnership aims to raise awareness on the importance of international wildlife conservation, develop the next generation of conservation leaders, and grow the game of basketball. To highlight that partnership, Prince William and Dutchess Catherine (better known to everyone as Kate Middleton) attended the game between the Brooklyn Nets and the Cleveland Cavaliers at the Barclays Center on Tuesday.

For wildlife conservation, the league has previously teamed up with WildAid, producing ads like this one below.



With United for Wildlife, the league has named Serge Ibaka, Al Horford, and NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo as its ambassadors, joining the likes of David Beckham, Andy Murray, Lewis Hamilton, and NBA legend Yao Ming. Mutombo accompanied the Royal Couple at the Barclays Center during the game. As ambassadors, they will join Prince William to rally towards "a global movement for change and to preserve nature."

With Coach Core, the league will support the program in its initiative of helping the youth to develop the skills, experience, and confidence to become the next generation of inspirational coaches. In line with that, the NBA will provide logistical support and coaching experience. In addition, with the New York Knicks playing in London for the NBA Global Games against the Milwaukee Bucks next year at the O2 Arena, Carmelo Anthony will grace a Coach Core graduation event on January 14.

The NBA Store in the Philippines finally opens on December 6

NBA Store in Glorietta 3. (photo from the NBA)

After a long wait, the largest NBA Store outside the United States and the first in Southeast Asia will open this Saturday, December 6.

Located at Glorietta 3 inside the Ayala Center in Makati, the store will take up over a thousand square meters of space covering two floors. Three-time NBA All-Star and current NBA TV analyst Rip Hamilton will be present to grace the opening and meet with fans.

The NBA Store will have merchandise from all 30 teams, as well as a comprehensive assortment of NBA products that includes Adidas apparel and footwear (Adidas is the NBA's official outfitter) and personalized jersey services. It will also have an interactive zone, where fans can hone their NBA 2K skills, or measure themselves against their favorite players. There are also items in the store that cannot be bought anywhere else in the country.

NBA Asia Senior VP and Managing Director Scott Levy found it fitting that the Philippines will be hosting the largest NBA Store outside of the United States, highlighting the Filipinos' passion and excitement for the NBA, whether it is through TV, social and digital media, events, and at the NBA Cafe. He adds that this is an opportunity for fans to proudly express their loyalty to their favorite NBA teams / players.

International Athletic Trading Company, Inc. (IATC) will manage the Philippines' NBA Store, and its President and CEO, Melvin Lloyd Lim, is excited to be working with the league in opening this one-of-a-kind store. Lim sees this store not only as the place to get the widest range of NBA merchandise, but also as a destination point for future NBA activities in the basketball-mad country.

To commemorate the opening, the first 300 visitors to the NBA Store will be getting special perks, including the chance to meet with Hamilton, as well as have opportunity to snag limited edition footwear, NBA Store GCs, and other NBA merchandise

Basketball Without Borders All-Star Global Camp set to launch in 2015

Basketball Without Borders

To coincide with the NBA All-Star Weekend in New York City, the NBA and FIBA announced on Thursday the establishment of a Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Global Camp at the vicinty of the All-Star venue.

With the Big Apple set to host the 2015 All-Star Game, the inaugural camp will be held at Manhattan's Baruch College on February 13-15.

The camp will bring together the top FORTY (40) players born in 1997 from Africa, the Americas, the Asia-Pacific region, and Europe alongside NBA, WNBA, and FIBA players and coaches. During the camp, the participants will be working on positional skill drills, as well as engaging in 5-on-5 scrimmages and shooting and skills competitions. They will also have a life skills seminar for essential health-based matters, and attend the BBVA Compass Rising Stars Challenge at the Barclays Center.

In addition, the campers will also pitch-in and assist NBA Cares with their planned activities (i.e. NBA FIT) within the five boroughs during All-Star Weekend.

BWB is a collaborative effort between the NBA and FIBA, with 39 camps worldwide already under their belt since being established in 2001. It already has reached 2,200 participants, with 33 alums already drafted by the NBA.

Nike,who will provide the apparel for the campers and coaches, is a BWB global partner, having been working with them since 2002.

Smash it Up to complement IPTL Manila leg

Smash It Up

Complementing the Coca-Cola International Premier Tennis League's Manila leg is a FREE outdoor festival called #SmashItUpMnl.

Set to take place at the Pacific lot beside the Mall of Asia Arena on all three days of the leg, tennis patrons and fans alike will be enthralled with games and entertaining performances, and even the chance to mingle and see their favorite tennis star.

Among the musical performers during #SmashItUpMnl are DJs Gandhi and Ron Poe, Razorback, Paolo Valenciano, She's Only Sixteen, Taken by Cars, Quest, Blue Jean Junkies, Kat Agarrado, the Zombettes, Reese and Vica, Julianne, Malay, and ANTM's Sophie Sumner.

For more details, you can check their Twitter account, @smashitupmnl.

UAAP Season 77 Women's Football Rosters

Freshmen noted in italics. Players in their final year of eligibility are noted with an * 

Ateneo

Abraham, Alessandra Francesca S. *
Amoncio, Antonette A.
Antonio, Noelle Yoshiko S.
Bunyi, Katherine Sofia C.
Cadayona, Marie Angelie I. *
Caparros, Marie Rianne M.
Catedrilla, Mia Angela B.
Cruz, Ma Leah Patricia N.
Dayrit, Cecilia M D. *
Jimenez, Kimberlee A.
Martin, Anne Therese Marie B.
Montelibano, Eva Katherine A.
Naguiat, Paulina Marie L.
Ong, Annika Gabrielle R.
Punsalan, Patricia Zita S.
Rodriguez, Kathleen Camille M.
Sabio, Athina C.
Sabio, Isabella C.
Sucgang, Ramona Julia D.
Villaflor, Pauline Isabel Aurora Trinidad M.

La Salle

Andaya, Nicole Arielle B.
Arrieta, Alexi Nina B.
Barcemo, Janna Raizel T.
Concepcion, Thea Claire J.
Diaz, Megan D.
Duran, Mary Cristine A.
Ferrer, Dea Midriel T.
Guancia, Chermaine Lou D. *
Hain, Samantha Louise N. *
Hodges, Chelo Marie ..
Inquig, Kyla Jan A.
Maligad, Noreen Kim A.
Metillo, Regine ..
Navaja, Irish O.
Nolasco, Toni Zoemima M.
Palacios, Inna Kristianne B.
Salen, Sophia Bethinna B.
Siggaoat, Paula Celesse P.
Silava, Ludessa D.
Tejada, Mariell T.
Turtur, Erika Lorraine T.

FEU

Acibar, Portia Daidaluz D.
Amita, Analou A. *
Amita, Jenelyn A. *
Araneta, Alina Rose B.
Banagodos, Sarah Jane M.
Belluga, Zhyrelle Lou A.
Chavez, Joy Roses C.
Chinedo, Quennie Faye U.
Cupal, Kimberly Eureka N.
Demetillo, Hannamae R.
Dolino, Alesa N.
Fagaragan, Charmaine Joy M. *
Kadil, Jean Brigette Dc.
Lecera, Roselle Marie A.
Pachejo, Hannah Faith R.
Ramos, Sheramae B. *
Sales, Jinky Rose J.
Siaotong, Sharmine B.
Sobredo, Barbie Ann S.
Soriano, Javee B.

UP

Abadilla, Paulina Marie T.
Adlawan , Nicole Anne Marie C.
Agustin, Aira Audrey Alexis G.
Ardiente, Christille Mae D.
Choa Peck, Jermaine Lois C.
Dagdag, Martha Ruth T.
Delos Reyes, Cristina M.
Javier, Arriane Joy E.
Malonzo, Patricia C.
Manalansan, Monica Louise Y.
Mendoza, Claudia Marie B.
Mendoza, Christiana Michele B. *
Navea-huff, Kali Alexandra ..
Navea-huff, Marie E.
Nierras, Sabrina Lauren D.
Nisce, Natalie B.
Obra, Mary Rose O.
Orsolino, Katherine Louise B.
Perez, Blessie Bianca S.
Sebastian, Maxine Selina C.
Sta. Clara, Ma. Angeliza B.
Vergara, Christina Marie C.

UST

Abuan, Jena Ralyn L.
Abuan, Jae Marie L.
Aguilar, Pearl Anjanette P. *
Aguilar, Princess Kate P.
Argel, Hi'maya C.
Castroverde, Nikki A.
Eusebio, Marielle Dominique T.
Ilan, Aira M.
Lopez, Ivy D.
Luna, Zipporah D. *
Lustan, Hazel B.
Magdolot, Marie N. *
Mendoza, Daryl Ann M.
Ramores, Sheen Nicole B.
Reyes, Nicole Julliane L.
Salip Jamuh, Sharifamae H.
Sanchez, Rachelle Hope L.
Sutacio, Marielle D.
Toledo, Cheska Jane M.

UAAP Season 77 Men's Football Rosters

Freshmen are noted in italics. Players in their final year are noted with an *

Adamson University

Almacen, Kurt Christian A.
Alonzo, Tristan Miguel S.
De Guzman, Marc Linen L.
Dela Cruz, Ephraim Noah B.
Dimaano, Romeo A.
Espina, Goldwyn U.
Etis, Gerard Paul M.
Jumo, Bless Brian I H.
Jumo, Bless Brian Ii H.
Melliza, Khristian Paul G.
Orcine, Cyril Lee B.
Ortinez, Ricardo Jr J.
Pilarca, Jusuel J.
Ramos, Jackson Lee H.
Saculinggan, Christian Rae A.
Sayuman, Jaye Marc T.
Viray, Carl Jupiter D.
Yap, Nickie John Van B.

Ateneo

Acosta, Emilio R.
Alabanza, Jose Andres Martin P.
Alcuaz, Xavier Carlos Alvaro C.
Alilam, Paolo Gabriel R.
Baña, Rupert Ed D.
Castillo, Christian Michael S.
Colet, Kendall J.
Gaudiel, Renko Feliz R.
Liay, Leo Carlo R.
Lipardo, Jose Rafael G.
Mabanag, Michael Jeremy ..
Maniquis, Andreas Santiago ..
Marcelino, Wilson Keith B. *
Montemayor, Jin Daniel A.
Oracion, Jose Paolo C.
Ortiz, Enrique Thaddeus G.
Paredes, Emmanuel Josemaria D. *
Perdigon, Timothy Caleb L.
Plaza, Francisco Alberto M.
Rocha, Jeremiah Raphael P.
Roxas, Julian Vincent A.
Soriano, Jose Ignatius Mikael C.

La Salle

Alquiros, Nathanael Andrew G. *
Bonoan, Ramon Antonio S.
Borromeo, Hector Ian Jorge B.
Brago, Noel Timothy L.
Bustamante, Sabin Antonio S.
De Guzman, Raphael Clifford S.
Diamante, David Angelo R.
Diamante, Derrico Gabriel R. *
Gonzales, Inigo Rafael A.
Joseph, Rigoberto Carlos Dl.
Koizumi, Yoshiharu L.
Layumas, Gerald Mark P.
Montelibano, Jose Luis Ricardo L.
Montelibano, Rafael Luis Alfonso L.
Nierras, Matthew Erwin Thomas D. *
Uy, Charleston Franklin C.
Villacin, Nicholas Christian D.
Villamor, Karlo Miguel H.
Yang, Gregory Norman M.
Ybanez, Jhoguev P.
Zubiri, Cristian G.

FEU

Amita, Arnel A.
Balanueco, Janryl J.
Bugas, Paolo A.
Calamba, Justin Marc S.
Chavez, Noli John N.
Cubon, Reymart A.
Ferrer, Nicolas Jr. B.
Giganto, Eric Ben G.
Joyel, Ray Joseph E.
Jurao, Angelou Val S.
Laguerta, Earl Real M.
Lofranco, Jason S.
Melliza, Jesus Joaquin G. *
Menzi, Michael B.
Menzi, Audie B.
Mulero, Joshua O.
Rallos, Patrick Bonn F.
Salilig, John Martin T.
Villanueva, Justin Viance T.

NU

Abalunan, Francis Jay G.
Aban, Elijah J.
Alangilan, Rudgeson D.
Alivio, Eddie No.
Antipolo, Elgen R.
Araojo, Eric John S. *
Bungay, Marole M.
Casil, Arnel A.
Colina, Lawrence C.
Dagsa, Jerico A.
Frias, John Albert D.
Gomez, Jacob Shaun E.
Jalandoni, Jezer R.
Macapal, John Nico S.
Marcaida, Mark Jojo T.
Oren, Jonas S.
Pepito, Hayeson H.
Perocho, Chris Maverick C.
Regala, Darwin V.
Salenga, Paolo E.
Sullano, Jekar Francis D.
Valenzuela, Patrick B.

UE

Clores, Lendon L.
Dagaraga, Stephane B.
Echin, Alberto Jr A.
Feliciano, Ramil C`.
Galaura, Regil Kent B.
Lacsamana, Jeffrey Allen P.
Malayo, Jrv M.
Mallen, Jo NiÑo Ariel B.
Manzo, Khyndale Britz M.
Mayor, John Richard D. *
Medina, Kim Dustin M.
Musico, Mark Anthony T.
Paderagao, Jayvee B.
Polinag, Louie Joshua C.
Saldivar, Rino John P.
Santiago, Raymart Joshua F.
Sarona, Eric Jacinto Jr. V.
Sola, Rhoyet L.
Tulio, Michael G. *
Vergara, Mason Trent T.

UP

Aguilar, Vincent Karl P.
Alampay, Micah Jibril P.
Ancheta, Alfonso Ignacio S.
Baya, Fe B.
Bidar, Soheil E.
Bonoan, Juan Javier R.
Clarino, Julian Mariano N.
Condat, James Paul A.
Fermin, Joseph Ryan G.
Fernandez, Erik Lisandro F.
Gadia, Daniel Bernan R.
Maglinas, Rogie A.
Monfort, Carlos Alberto Gerardo J.
Muros, Nino F.
Ochoa, Jacob P. *
Rafanan, Lou Adrian E.
Santos, Francisco Jose Primo L.
Simms, Michael Nehemiah T. *
Valmayor, Gerardo W. *
Villanueva, Nathanael Ace P.
Yared, Jose Anton C.
Yatco, Albert Eli L. *

UST

Alcantara, Alexander Joaquin V.
Alcantara, Gabriel Daniel V.
Anotado, Steven Z.
Benecio, Dexter John L.
Bricenio, Marvin Jake D.
Busmion, Darwin Joshua B.
Busmion, Dionisio Jr. B.
Caballero, Ernest Duane G.
Catalino, John Rey S.
Celiz, Jogi B.
Clarino, Jean Mari N.
Feril, Jolem Q.
Jimena, Lord Irvin L.
Menares, Efren Jr B.
Molino, Jopridale M.
Ortañez, Norwyn Roi M.
Rivera, Marc Gyman B.
Salazar, Axl Lord C.
Tuzon, Kenneth B B.
Villarico, Josephus Y.

PLDT-HOME Fibr powers IPTL

Your Manila Mavericks of the IPTL

PLDT HOME Fibr is no stranger to attaching its name to major sporting events. The country's most powerful broadband provider's latest sporting endeavor is now a presenter in the Coca-Cola International Premier Tennis League.

PLDT VP and HOME Marketing Head Gary Dujali expressed "pride and joy" to be part of this "prestigious and world-class sporting event," adding that this is "an opportunity for us to reaffirm our dedication to provide top-notch sports entertainment experiences for our consumers."

The IPTL brings together some of the best tennis stars together in a new kind of team competition. Representing Manila, UAE, India and Singapore, the IPTL promises to honor its motto of  "Breaking the Code."

For more details on PLDT's involvement with the tournament, check this link -> http://pldthome.com/fibr/iptl.

KD7 Lightning 534: Capturing NYC's Electricity

KD7 Lightning 534

Nike will be releasing the latest colorway to its KD7 collection globally later this month. (In the Philippines, SRP is PhP 8,195.)

Called the Lightning 534, it is a homage to a facet of New York City, tailored to Kevin Durant's interests in meteorological phenomenon.

Kevin Durant likes the Big Apple's overall electric feel, as well as the buzz it imbibes. One just cannot easily dismiss his Rucker Park debut.

The colorway's name is derived from a couple of things:

534 depicts 5th Avenue (5) and 34th Street (34), which is where the Empire State Building is located. (Due to copyright issues, Nike cannot use "Empire State Building" as part of the name)

The iconic landmark gets struck by lightning at an average of 25 times a year (like the photo you see here).

The purple nature of the KD7 plays to the purple hue of the New York City sky whenever said lightning strike takes place. Visual representations of weather patterns are reflected on the graphics of the swoosh logo as well as on the outsole.
 
For more details on the KD7 Lightning 534, you may check out your neighborhood shoe outlet, or watch the YouTube clip below.

Ramon Fernandez auctions prized jerseys and portrait

Two jerseys and a portrait. Coming from "Don" Ramon Fernandez

The well-known classified ads paper Buy and Sell has collaborated with the Alagang Kapatid / Tulong Kapatid Foundation (a.k.a. the MVP Group of Companies' corporate social responsibility consortium) to undertake a charity sale on its website, BuyandSellPH.com

Entitled "Sari-Sari Stars," it features celebrities who have donated pre-owned items for the auction, which will benefit the AK / TK Foundation's disaster response and preparedness programs.

Among the celebrities participating in this endeavor is PBA legend Ramon Fernandez, who will donate a couple of jerseys from his illustrious playing career.

The first one dates back to 1982, a Toyota Super Corollas jersey, when he won the first of his four MVPs. The other one is from 1989, a San Miguel Beer jersey.

"El Presidente" is also donating a portrait of him that had been taken by Don Jaime Zobel de Ayala when Fernandez was a part of Purefoods franchise (the Ayalas back then owned the franchise that is now part of the SMC Group) in 1988.

The successful bidders for all of the items in the "Sari-Sari Sale" will have the chance to receive the items directly from the celebrity sellers on December 5 at the Meralco grounds in Pasig.

Phase 3 for Coca-Cola IPTL New Delhi leg tickets available on November 15

The Coca-Cola International Premier Tennis League announced on Friday that Phase 3 of its tickets sales for those interested in watching the IPTL leg at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi will begin at noontime on November 15, Saturday.

Fans just need to go to www.bookmyshow.com to purchase tickets for the third leg of the tournament, which will take place on December 6-8.

Prices range from INR 3,240 (US $52.41) to INR 49,680 (US $803.56), for the chance to watch two matches. Much like the Manila leg, it begins at 430pm and 730 pm local time.

Representing New Delhi are the Micromax Indian Aces, led by the iconic Roger Federer and tennis legend Pete Sampras. Complementing the duo are French tennisters Gael Monfils and Fabrice Santoro, Ana Ivanovic, and India's very own Sania Mirza and Rohan Bopanna.

You can check out more details on the Coca-Cola IPTL on these links -> http://www.iptlworld.com / http://www.youtube.com/premiertennisleague / http://twitter.com/iptl / https://www.facebook.com/iptl

Coca-Cola International Premier Tennis League reveals global broadcasting reach

The Coca-Cola International Premier Tennis League will have a global reach when it opens at the end of the month.

The IPTL revealed that it will be telecast in more than 125 countries, to over 300 million households worldwide in HD quality, ensuring a global footprint in its inaugural year of existence.

“We are thrilled to take the inaugural Coca-Cola International Premier Tennis League to global audiences through many of the world’s leading broadcasters. In an era in which the media is at the forefront of all live action, we are pleased to offer an unmatched viewing experience to audiences across the world and believe the event will change the way the world looks at the sport of tennis in the seasons to come,” according to founder Mahesh Bhupathi.

For the Philippines, ABS-CBN has secured the rights to the competition.

The competition puts together 21 Grand Slam champions and 14 current and former World #1's into four franchises (Manila Mavericks, UAE Royals, Singapore Slammers, and MicroMax Indian Aces) with some spice added to the original rules of the sport (time outs, power points, shootouts, a running shot clock, HAWK eye, etc.), highlighting its mantra of "Break the Code."

IPTL to hold Twitter contest for tennis fans

Staying true to its "Break The Code" mantra, the Coca-Cola International Premier Tennis League (IPTL) launched a contest set to thrill tennis fans in the region.

Titled "The Great Big IPTL Contest," it allows for tennis fans to have a chance to be with their favorite stars within the four legs of the competition.

To be run via Twitter, fans (with a companion) will have the chance to be flown to a particular venue (Manila, Singapore, New Delhi, Dubai), stay in a 5-star accommodation, and enjoy three days of high-quality tennis, with a chance to sit with a team in the dugout for a match.

The contest will run for two weeks, with four winners to have their moment of a lifetime and have something they can brag about with their friends.

Details on this contest are on www.iptlworld.com/contest. So check it.

Hopkins-Kovalev on Bigtime Bakbakan this Sunday

TV5 will be not be airing the unification bout between light-heavyweight champions Bernard Hopkins and Sergey Kovalev this weekend.

Telecast is to air starting 1pm via satellite.UPDATE: a subsequent release from TV5 reveals that they are no longer going to telecast this fight.

Set to take place at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, Hopkins will be putting his WBA and IBF belts on the line, while Kovalev will have his WBO title at stake.

The man dubbed as the Executioner still continues to defy Father Time, as he will be two months short of turning 50 when he faces Kovalev and attempting to secure his 56th win of his soon-to-be Hall of Fame career.

Meanwhile, the Krusher has continued to impress in the pro ranks after his extensive amateur career. Although he has had a layoff of more than a year, compared to just seven months for Hopkins.

Acting as a co-feature for Hopkins-Kovalev is a welterweight bout involving Sadam "World Kid" Ali against Luis Carlo Abregu.

Also on the card is Nadjib Mohammedi, as the French light-heavyweight could possibly make a play for a future matchup against either Hopkins or Kovalev if he can get past Demetrius Walker.

NBA and Globe Telecom form a multi-year partnership

Globe Telecom and the NBA have entered into a comprehensive, multi-year partnership that sees the telecommunications firm provide NBA-related offerings to over 45 million of its mobile and broadband customers.

Among the special promotions and premiums for Globe subscribers are access to NBA League Pass, as well as NBA content on the PisoMall video platform.

NBA League Pass, of course, is how fans can watch the league's games LIVE and on-demand via multiple devices. Among its features are multi-game viewing, play markers, stats, as well the chance to pick your broadcaster of choice.

Globe Telecom's Chief Operating Advisor Peter Bithos believes that the new partnership will bring the NBA closer to its subscribers by enabling them to watch the games that they want, when and how they want it, as well as provide access to stats, highlights, and the like.

To add, Globe Consumer Business Senior Advisor Dan Horan acknowledges the love Filipinos have for basketball, and as such Globe is eager to provide its subscribers with a new way of enjoying the games.

NBA Asia Managing Director Scott Levy is excited to welcome Globe into the NBA family, noting that they share the same commitment to enriching Filipino lives. He sees this new partnership as a way for the game to be even more accessible to millions across the country, in which Globe will have a presence in.

The partnership with Globe is the latest milestone for the NBA in its relationship with the Philippines, which has already seen the development of its first Jr. WNBA Program, the establishment of the NBA Cafe, the soon-to-be launched NBA Store, and its newly-minted broadcast deal with Solar Entertainment and ABS-CBN.

As for Globe, this is their latest partnership in their continued growth as one of the major telecommunications players in the country. They have already have had similar deals with Facebook, Google, Viber, and Spotify.

Hard Work... Together... feat. LeBron James via Nike

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Hard Work... Together...

By now you are familiar with that Nike commercial involving LeBron James. If you are not, let me refresh your memory a little bit.



The title of the video is "Together," highlighting and celebrating the pride and emotion that came with James' return to Cleveland this past offseason.

Directed by the Malloy Brothers, Nike Basketball collaborated with advertising firm Wieden + Kennedy to conceptualize the short.

It depicts a huddle by James with the Cavaliers, with Cleveland citizens inside and outside of the Quicken Loans Arena joining in as a show of unity. One team. One city. One goal.

Among those participating are Cavs teammates Kyrie Irving, Dion Waiters, Anderson Varejao, Shawn Marion, Tristan Thompson, Matthew Dellavedova and Joe Harris, LeBron's mother Gloria, his high school coach at St. Vincent St. Mary's Dru Joyce, as well as the children from the LeBron James Family Foundation.

To complement the short, a 10-story 25,000 banner was unveiled on Ontario street. Nike recorded the reveal through time-lapse on its YouTube page:



On the day LeBron officially makes his season debut, Nike will also debut the LEBRON 12 HRT OF A LION on its stores. For those who relish creativity, it is also ready for custom design at www.nikeid.com wherever NIKEiD is available.

NBA in a global scheme of things

How international is the NBA? This might be of fun to peruse, you think?

Coca-Cola emerges as International Premier Tennis League Title Sponsor

The International Premier Tennis League on Monday officially welcomed the world's largest beverage company into its fold.

Coca-Cola is now a title sponsor of the tournament, which will now be called the Coca-Cola International Premier Tennis League.

Being a part of the IPTL is in line with the company's commitment to promote sports and create a future generation of sports enthusiasts worldwide, something they have been consistent with over the years with their support during the Olympics, the FIFA World Cup, NASCAR, the NBA, and the NCAA.

Founder Mahesh Bhupathi welcomed the company's participation in the tournament, noting that the tournament is looking forward to providing Coca-Cola with "superior recognition" and "visibility among its fans."

Coca-Cola India VP for Marketing and Commercial Mr. Debabrata Mukherjee expressed excitement with the company's association with IPTL. He feels that the partnership allows them to "further catalyze their efforts to promote healthy, active lifestyles."

To add, he sees this not only as a chance for fans to watch and enjoy their favorite tennis stars, but also views this as a "perfect platform" to launch a "Culture of Tennis" in India, allowing youngsters to be inspired by some of the world's best players and take up the sport and follow the footsteps of great Indian tennisters like Bhupathi, Leander Paes, and Sania Mirza. 


Among the benefits they receive as a title sponsor:

Coca-Cola will be handling a special promotion to determine three lucky kids for the Coin Toss in three matches.

They will also handle one of the IPTL's new innovations: the PowerPoint. To be called the "Happiness PowerPoint," each team has a chance to use it once per set. Once called, the team can gain an additional point if they win it, or else they lose a point if they are unsuccessful.

Ball Up streetballers ready to impress Manila

Members of the Ball Up All-Stars have expressed their excitement about the chance to showcase their talents to Filipino basketball fans later this week.

Air Up There

Taurian "Air Up There" Fontenette, Larry "The Bone Collector" Williams, and Ryan "Special FX" Williams are three members of the seven-man squad that form the core of Team Gawad Kalinga in the "All In" basketball charity event that will take place on 7pm Wednesday night, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Taurian is familiar with Filipino basketball, in part because he is a former college roommate of Joe DeVance. The Purefoods-STAR forward would share to him how much Filipinos love the sport, and as such, he can't wait to see it for himself in the next couple of days.

Bone Collector

Larry says that Filipinos make up a large percentage of his followers on social media, and that they make him aware about how much we love the sport. The Rucker Park legend "can't wait to come here" and perform for those who have not seen him before.

Ryan, on the other hand, has faced the Filipino brand of basketball in person, playing in a Filipino league in New York City. He is also familiar with how passionate we are with the sport, and that how we play hard allows him to get hyped for this event.

Special FX

The other members of the Ball Up squad who will form the core of Team Gawad Kalinga are Grayson “The Professor” Boucher, Gary “G-Smith” Smith, Aaron “AO” Owens, and Anthony “Mr. Afrika” Pimble. The team will be reinforced by former PBA stalwarts Jerry Codinera, Willie Miller, and Renren Ritualo.

Coaching Team Gawad Kalinga is "The Answer" himself, Allen Iverson.
  
They will be going up against collegiate basketball stars representing Team PCWorx, reinforced by former NBA lottery selections DerMarr Johnson and Eddy Curry and coached by multi-titled mentor Tim Cone.

The event is also backed by NBA Café Manila, Solaire Resort and Casino, Samsung, Intel, Microsoft, PhilCare, Canon, Rapoo, Accel, and the Mall of Asia Arena.

Tickets to “All In” basketball are still available, at 50% off, online at www.smtickets.com, all SM Tickets outlets, and at selected PCWorx branches in Metro Manila.

Ravena, Teng join forces for "All In" charity basketball event

College standouts will highlight Team PCWorx for the "All In" basketball challenge this November 5 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Kiefer Ravena and Jeron Teng will be joining forces for the first time to lead the squad, which will be complemented by Troy Rosario from the UAAP champions, National University Bulldogs, and Javee Mocon and Ola Adeogun of the five-time NCAA champions San Beda Red Lions.

The other members of Team PCWorx are Mac Belo from Far Eastern University, Kiefer's younger brother Thirdy, Jaymar Perez of San Sebastian College, and Jeron's fellow Green Archer Almond Vosotros. They will be reinforced by former NBA lottery picks DerMarr Johnson and Eddy Curry and will be mentored by multi-titled head coach Tim Cone.

Ravena looks forward to his fun team-up with his rival, noting that "this is for a good cause."

The UAAP MVP also shares that it "is an honor to play for one of the winningest PBA coaches in PBA history," noting that they will learn a lot from the Purefoods-STAR Hotshots head coach.

Team PCWorx will face off against Team Gawad Kalinga, bolstered by the Ball Up streetball All-Stars: Grayson “The Professor” Boucher, Larry “Bone Collector” Williams, Taurian “Air Up There” Fontanette, Gary “G-Smith” Smith, Aaron “AO” Owens, Anthony “Mr. Afrika” Pimble and Ryan “Special FX” Williams. The team will be reinforced by former PBA stalwarts Jerry Codinera, Willie Miller, and Renren Ritualo.

Team Gawad Kalinga will be handled by Allen Iverson, whom Kiefer is looking forward to meeting. He says that Allen is one of those players "who revolutionized the game of basketball."

Proceeds from the basketball event, which is backed by Philippine Airlines, NBA Café Manila, Solaire Resort and Casino, Samsung, Intel, Microsoft, PhilCare, Canon, Rapoo, Accel, and the Mall of Asia Arena, will go to Gawad Kalinga.

Tickets are still available at SM Tickets and at selected PCWorx branches.

Former PBA import looks forward to his "All In" return to the Philippines

A former PBA import will be returning to the country to touch base again with Filipino basketball fans.

DerMarr Johnson will be coming to Manila to be involved in the "All In" charity basketball fundraiser this November 5, 7pm, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The former NBA lottery selection has some very fond memories of his stay in the Philippines, although his stint with Barako Bull as their reinforcement back in 2012 was cut short due to an injury.

He says that he looks forward the most to interacting with Filipino fans, adding that "Filipino fans know and love basketball," to which he would like for them to come out and support this worthy cause.

He also sees this as a chance to meet up with friends that he has not yet seen in a while, noting that they have treated him well and made feel at ease during his brief stay in the country, a stay that he hopes would equate to another stint in the PBA as an import.

Johnson, along with fellow NBA lottery selection Eddy Curry, will be reinforcing Team PCWorx, which will be handled by multi-titled head coach Tim Cone, as they face the Ball Up-represented Team Gawad Kalinga that will be handled by NBA legend Allen Iverson.

On the prospect of facing Iverson, DerMarr says that he won't make things easy for "The Answer," even though they are friends off the court.

He and Curry hopes to help a team bolstered by collegiate standouts against the Ball Up streetballers, who themselves will be reinforced by PBA legends Jerry Codinera, Renren Ritualo, and Willie Miller. In the end, though, he believes that the game would provide fans with a good show, adding that he will be "going out there to get a win."

Tickets for the All In basketball charity match are still available via SM Tickets and at selected PCWorx branches in Metro Manila. Proceeds from the event will go to Gawad Kalinga.

This event is backed by: Philippine Airlines, NBA Café Manila, Solaire Resort and Casino, Samsung, Intel, Microsoft, PhilCare, Canon, Rapoo, Accel, and the Mall of Asia Arena.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas charts new direction for Philippine basketball

Philippine basketball takes a new direction after Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Manny V. Pangilinan held a board meeting on Tuesday at the PLDT office in Makati.

After seeing the Philippines participate in its first-ever FIBA U-17 World Cup and return to the world basketball stage for the first time in forty years in the 2014 FIBA World Cup, MVP has opted to conduct a "participative and consultative approach" in the selection process for its future national teams.

The SBP has established selection committees that will look into the process of naming coaches and players for the upcoming basketball competitions next year. These committees will then submit its "short list" of candidates to the SBP Executive Committee, composed of the NSA's chairman, president (MVP), vice chairman, vice president, and executive director (Sonny Barrios), which will then submit for ultimate final approval with the SBP Board of Trustees.

The Philippines is set to enter at least nine international tournaments next year, including the 28th SEA Games in Singapore and the 28th FIBA-Asia men's championships in China, which happens to be regional qualifier for the 2016 Rio Olympics.

For the top regional and global competitions like FIBA-Asia, Asian Games and the World Cup, the selection committee will be composed of SBP Board Members from the PBA, the PBA D-League, and the SBP. While for the sub-regional competitions like the SEA Games and SEABA, the selection committee will be composed of SBP Board Members from the different collegiate leagues (UAAP, NCAA, CESAFI, NAASCU) and the SBP.

MVP then briefed the federation on details regarding the Philippines' initial hosting bid for the 2019 FIBA World Cup. FIBA is expected to release an initial list of candidates by the end of November.

Also thoroughly discussed in the meeting is the expanded grassroots development program, in which Pangilinan outlined his plan of an "all-encompassing overall nationwide program" for the next two years. He already has urged the regional SBP leaders to undertake a more active role in adapting the program in their respective regions.

Some established age-group tournaments have already been tapped for SBP grassroots program, with the ongoing Philippine Collegiate Champions League of Rey Gamboa and Joe Lipa, as well as the Seaoil-National Basketball Training Center of Eric Altamirano and the Milo-BEST Center of Nic Jorge.

SBP also intends to adapt the FIBA 3x3 format as a means to promote the sport nationwide. They are also looking at establishing a SBP Referees National Accreditation Commission and a SBP coaching program.

Ticketing details for IPTL leg in New Delhi revealed

Tennis fans will have the chance to see their favorite stars in person this December, as the Micromax Indian Aces of the International Premier Tennis League (IPTL) revealed details about ticket sales for the Indian leg of the competition, which is set to take place from December 6-8.

Starting at 9am IST on Friday, October 31, fans can purchase tickets via its official online ticketing partner www.bookmyshow.com. Ticket availability will be conducted via phases, with 6,000 tickets across different prices to be sold for Phase 1.

Leading the Aces are Swiss tennis icon Roger Federer and 14-time Grand Slam winner Pete Sampras.

Completing the crew are Ana Ivanovic and Frenchmen Gael Monfils and Fabrice Santoro, while giving it a local flavor are Sania Mirza and Rohan Bopanna.

Hosting the Indian leg of the IPTL is the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi, the country's largest indoor sports arena, seating 15,000.

With the intent of making the tournament accessible to as many fans as possible, tickets will be sold for as low as RS 3,240 for the Category 3 seats (South, West, North West, South East, and South West).

Premium Seats On Court (North & South) and Off-Court (North, South, East, West, and North West) are priced at RS 49,680 and 29,160 respectively.


Category 1 seats are priced at RS 25,920 (South- Cushion Seats), RS 22,680 (North), RS 19,440 (East and West), RS 19,440 (South West – Cushion Seats), and RS 16,200 (North West, South East, and South West – Plastic Seats).

Category 2 seats are priced at RS 22,680 (South – Cushion Seats), RS 19,440 (North and South – Plastic Seats), RS 16,200 (East and West), RS 16,200 (South West – Cushion Seats), and RS 12,960 (North West, South East, and South West – Plastic Seats).

NBA Café Manila offers Allen Iverson meet and greet

In line with the arrival of NBA legend Allen Iverson for the "All In" basketball charity event for Gawad Kalinga this November 5, NBA Café Manila will be offering the "ultimate dining and entertainment experience."

Customers can pick a certain dining package to have the chance to dine with, as well as meet and greet "The Answer" on November 4.

NBA Café Manila general manager Nian Liwanag-Rigor says, "We want to offer our avid patrons a unique dining experience by offering them different packages for a chance to dine with and meet their basketball idols." She adds that limited slots are available and will be on a first-come-first serve basis.

Interested diners can call (02) 556-1683 for reservations.

The meet-and-greet is among the many activities highlighting the visit by Iverson, which culminates with the exhibition match involving collegiate stars reinforced by former NBA lottery selections DerMarr Johnson and Eddy Curry, going up against the Ball Up streetball crew reinforced by PBA legends Jerry Codinera, Renren Ritualo, and Willie Miller.

“The Professor” excited to make his return to the Philippines

The Professor

Streetball legend Grayson "The Professor" Boucher is among the ballers that will be making their way to the country for the "All In" charity event, presented by PCWorx, at the Mall of Asia Arena on November 5 at 7pm.

The Professor is part of the Ball Up Streetball All-Stars that will banner the Allen Iverson-coached Team Gawad Kalinga. They will face Team PCWorx, composed of a local all-star selection that is bolstered by former NBA Draft Lottery selections Eddy Curry and DerMarr Johnson. The locals will be a mix of collegiate standouts and former PBA legends.

Boucher had been part of the And-1 Mix Tape World tour that made a stop in Manila back in 2004 remembering how excited fans were during the games, and that he can't wait to make his return to the Philippines after more than a decade..

He shared in an e-mail that he was "looking forward to the crowd energy during the game," acknowledging the popularity of the sport in the country. He admitted that a "huge percentage of my (online) viewers and international fans are Filipinos," and that he is appreciative and "very thankful" for their support.

He also is looking forward to working with Iverson again, adding that "It's an incredible experience and an honor for me to work with Allen because he was one of the first players I tried to emulate on the basketball court." He is a huge fan of "The Answer," noting that when he was in sixth grade, he was known as the "little white kid with the crazy AI crossover."

Tickets to the "All In" charity event are still available at SM Tickets and smtickets.com, as well as in selected PCWorx branches. Ticket prices are pegged at P6,500 (VIP), P5,500 (Patron), P4,000 (Lower Box), P2,000 (Upper Box), and P600 (General Admission).

TV5 to air PBA’s 40th Season opener this Sunday

Two of the twelve muses this Sunday

The Philippine Arena is set to be the host for the opening of the PBA's 40th season, with TV5 set to air the opener this Sunday afternoon LIVE, starting at 1pm.

The Opening Ceremonies will have a sense of nostalgia, with the theme "Apat na Dekada ng Nag-iisang Liga." The ceremonies will include the honoring of the members of the Gilas Pilipinas national basketball team that participated in international competitions during the offseason.

Sports5 Head Chot Reyes promises "thrilling coverage" for the upcoming season, expressing excitement for the league's Ruby season.

Of course, no opening ceremony is complete without the parade of teams, and their respective muses, which have been revealed as:

Alaska Aces – DLSU Lady Spiker alumna (and PBB housemate) Michelle Gumabao
Barako Bull Energy – 2013 Miss International 1st Runner-Up Natalie Den Dekker
Blackwater Elite – Actress and brand endorser Sunshine Cruz
Barangay Ginebra San Miguel – Actress and model Ellen Adarna
Globalport Batang Pier – DLSU Lady Spiker alumna Cha Cruz and FEU Lady Tamaraw alumna and FHM Covergirl Rachel Ann Daquis
Kia Sorentos – Sarangani vice governor Jinkee Pacquiao
Meralco Bolts – Actress Ritz Azul
NLEX Road Warriors – Actress and host Dianne Medina
Purefoods STAR Hotshots - Bb. Pilipinas-Universe 2014 Mj Lastimosa
Rain or Shine Elastopainters – Mutya ng Pilipinas Cordillera Glennifer Perido
San Miguel Beermen – Actress Alice Dixson (although Snow Badua on his show made references to Alaina Bergsma and Erica Adachi, who are the foreign reinforcements of sister team Petron Blaze Spikers in the PSL SuperLiga Grand Prix, as possibilities)
Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters – Ms. World 2013 Megan Young

After the ceremonies, the basketball action will take place, with Manny Pacquiao expected to make his official debut as a playing coach for Kia against fellow expansion team Blackwater in the opening game. Completing the doubleheader is Barangay Ginebra facing TNT.

PBA Games will take place five days a week, with weekday 4:15pm and 7pm doubleheaders on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays; 3pm and 5pm Sunday doubleheaders; and a lone Saturday game at 5pm.

The opening ceremonies and the doubleheader (as well as the upcoming PBA games) will also be heard on the different Radyo5 NewsFM stations nationwide (92.3 News FM in Manila, 101.9 News FM in Cebu and Davao, 102.3 News FM in Bacolod, and 97.5 News FM in General Santos City). You can also access this radio streaming on Interaksyon.com

Interested fans overseas (US, Guam, Middle East, Europe) can check with their cable provider for AksyonTV International, which is the channel to look for the PBA games.

Takayama, Lubas lead Team Philippines in WPT-Solar Sports Nations Challenge

Mike Takayama

The Filipino contingent for the inaugural National Challenge, presented by Solar Sports, has been finally revealed.

Reigning Asian Poker Tour (APT) champion Mike Takayama and Gerardo "Jay" Lubas will lead the squad that is skippered by Wally Sombrero.

The former billiards pro Takayama is considered as the hottest tournament player in the country, and has already netted the 2014 APT Macau Six-Max tournament.

The imposing Lubas is best remembered as the two-day overall chip leader in the 2012 World Series of Poker Main Event. He also finished second, behind Takayama, in the 2014 APT Manila Main Event.

The other members of Team Philippines are online phenom Mark Benasa, 2012 Philippine Poker Tour Player of the Year Martin Corpus, APT Head-Hunter titlist Jay Tolon, APT Cebu Heads-Up king Stephen Gaw, and the three Rivera brothers (Czardy, Marc, and Euryd).

Sombrero referred to this group as a "good mix," although it is missing a couple of well-known names in poker circles, as both Neil Arce and Vic de Guzman have begged off due to commitment issues. In the latter's case, he also serves as part of the organizing committee.

Teams from China, Japan, Korea, and Malaysia are expected to oppose the Filipinos, with the possibility that Australia, the United States, and Vietnam might field their own respective squads to contest in the team event.

The Nations Challenge kicks off the WPT National-Philippines this Saturday at the Grand Ballroom of the Solaire Resort and Casino in Parañaque City. It coincides with the Solaire Cares charity tournament, with local celebrities and international pros like Lacey Jones participating to raise funds for charity.

Wally Sombero to lead Filipino contingent in WPT Nations Challenge

Wally Sombrero ready to lead the Filipinos
in the WPT Nations Challenge

Retired Philippine National Police Chief Superintendent Col. Wally Sombrero has been tasked to lead the Filipino contingent in the first-ever Nations Challenge.

Sombrero is considered as the Godfather of Asian poker, and was the consensus pick to lead because of his enormous contributions to the sport, as well as his skills on the table.

He is credited with bringing poker to Asia, organizing the first poker tournament in the continent back in 2006, with the unbridled support of World Series of Poker founder Jack Binion and poker legend Doyle Brunson. He also helped establish the poker department within the Philippine Amusements and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), from which the private sector can own and operate their own poker room (once a license has been secured).

Nicknamed "The Dream," Sombrero also lobbied for the game to be part of the sports under the umbrella of the International Mind Sports Association (IMSA).

In a phone interview, he was very glad that his "dream of making the game a sport is now being realized, sharing that "The Nations Challenge now makes it like the Olympics."

He also acknowledged the efforts of Solaire Poker Room owner Mike Kim in bringing a world-class poker event to the country, noting that he shares his dream of bringing "poker to the next level in the Philippines."

Although the identities of the other nine members of Team Philippines have yet to be revealed, it is highly likely that former Asian Poker Tour champions Neil Arce and Vic de Guzman will be included, alongside two-time national winner Kent del Rosario, Mark Benasa, and the Rivera brothers.

China, Japan, Korea, and Malaysia are among those who will be a threat to the Philippines in securing the inaugural title, with organizers revealing the possibility of countries like Australia, Vietnam, and even the United States forming their own squad.

The Nations Challenge serves as the first of nineteen events for the World Poker Tour National Philippines, which kicks off on October 18 at the Solaire Resort and Casino in Parañaque City. Lasting eleven days, it is the biggest event on the WPT calendar, with the highly anticipated Main Event to take place starting October 23.

Allen Iverson adds a second basketball clinic during Manila visit

Organizers have added a second basketball clinic onto the schedule of Allen Iverson when he arrives in Manila next month, this time tailored for adults of at least 20 years of age at the Mall of Asia Arena on November 5, hours before the "All In" charity basketball event.

For only five thousand pesos, participants of that 3-5pm clinic will have snacks, a t-shirt, a certificate, a free basketball clinic ticket for spectators, and a General Admission ticket for for "All In" charity basketball event that takes place later on that night.

In a telephone interview, Iverson said, "It's always a privilege for me to go out there and share my love and passion for basketball." He also shared that this will not be "an ordinary basketball clinic," as he will be sharing a part of himself along with his knowledge in basketball, a means of saying thanks to his fans that have stood by him all these years.

Interested participants can contact PCWorx at 575-1520. Registration kicked off last October 13 and will be run until October 25.


This announcement came a week after organizers revealed a clinic for teens will take place on November 4 in Brgy. Holy Spirit, Quezon City, with multi-titled head coach Tim Cone on hand.

Meanwhile, tickets for the "All In" event are still available at SM Tickets, www.smtickets.com, and selected PCWorx branches.

Iverson will be coaching Team Gawad Kalinga, represented by the Ball Up Streetball All-Stars. Facing him will be Team PCWorx, a venerable group of local players reinforced by former lottery picks Eddy Curry and DerMarr Johnson.

Team Manila West ready to represent in FIBA 3x3

FIBA 3x3 basketball communications manager Julien Debove (center) explains pre-competition requirements to Team Manila West after their arrival in Sendai, Japan.

Half of Team Manila West arrived on Thursday in Japan, with Meralco Bolts forward Rey Guevarra and Globalport's Terrence Romeo accompanied by La Salle Greenhills head coach John Flores.

The other half, composed of Aldrech Ramos and KG Canaleta of the NLEX Road Warriors, will arrive on Friday alongside SBP Executive Director Sonny Barrios.

Team Manila West advanced to the Japan Finals after conquering the Manila Masters this past August, defeating Doha, 21-17. They will be grouped in Pool B alongside Sao Paolo and Bucharest, whom they will play on Saturday afternoon (1:10pm against Sao Paolo, 2:55pm against Bucharest).

The Brazilians are the champions of the Rio Masters, defeating Santos 21-12, while the Romanians are the runners-up in the Prague Masters, losing to Novi Sad, 16-14.

If the Filipinos advance out of Pool B, they will be facing someone from Pool C.

Although the world champions qualified to play in Sendai, a couple of the players were injured while participating in the Asian Games, forcing the Qataris to withdraw. Replacing them in Pool C is Jakarta.

Guevara could only marvel at the size of their opposition in the World Tour Finals, noting that in the Manila Masters, they had to deal with small opposition, except for Doha. He remains unfazed by them, however, noting that they can overcome size with team effort, ball movement, cooperation and full understanding of his teammates.

2014 Jr. NBA / Jr. WNBA All-Stars to watch NBA game in China

The Jr. NBA and Jr. WNBA All-Stars, as well as the Jr. NBA and Jr. WNBA Coach of the Year winners from the ASEAN region will have the chance to watch the best players in the world in action, as they have been rewarded with a trip to China and attend the 2014 NBA Global Games in Beijing, presented by ZTE.

The latest edition of the China Games features a preseason matchup between the Brooklyn Nets and the Sacramento Kings, and will take place at the MasterCard Center on October 15. It serves as the final game of the NBA Global Games in the preseason.

Ten boys and five girls out of at least two thousand participants from from Manila, Dagupan, Cebu, Iloilo, Puerto Princesa, and Surigao will join their counterparts from Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam in watching the game. This serves as the means for the Jr. NBA and Jr. WNBA programs to provide its top-performing participants with an enriching NBA experience. In addition to watching the game, the All-Stars will be playing in exhibitions against local basketball teams and have the chance to visit Beijing's historical landmarks.

Alaska Milk President and CEO Wilfred Steven Uytengsu shared that these fifteen athletes "are the embodiment of our aspirations to keep children in their winning form." He adds that the partnership with the NBA allows them to "holistically address a child's development, nourishment through the goodness of milk, coupled with encouragement through the power of basketball, for children to lead active, healthy lifestyles."

This is the seventh season of the tie-up between the NBA and Alaska Milk for the Jr. NBA program, which also serves as part of Alaska's efforts to improve children's health in the Philippines via nutrition and an active lifestyle through its "Nutrition. Action. Champion." initiative. From just 16 schools in 2007, the program now has a reach of more than 1,000 schools, touching base with over sixty thousand children, parents, and coaches. Given the success of the program, Alaska's mother company Royal FrieslandCampina has since extended the partnership to a multi-year deal and expanded the program into a regional initiative (Drink. Move. Be Strong) that encourages parents and children to drink a glass of milk and engage in one hour of outdoor sports daily.

Fans can visit the official event website at www.jrnba.asia/philippines and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/jrnbaphilippines for more information on the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA program.

Manila West drawn into Pool B of FIBA 3x3 World Tour

Manila West head coaches: John Flores on the left,
Eric Altamirano on the right

The path towards the knockout rounds in the FIBA 3x3 World Tour have been determined, with Manila West having to deal with Sao Paolo and Bucharest in Pool B.

The Pinoys will have to finish in the top two of their Pool to advance into the knockout rounds.

The quartet of KG Canaleta, Rey Guevarra, Aldrech Ramos, and Terrence Romeo defeated reiging world champions Doha, 21-17,  in the final of the Manila Masters to earn their berth in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Eric Altamirano and John Flores will be handling coaching duties, while SBP executive director Sonny Barrios will be leading the Filipino delegation.

Altamirano admitted that the team needs to reacquaint themselves with each other, as he only managed to meet up with them just this week. He also acknowledged the need to "get used to the rules again," suggesting some practice games may be arranged with the other competitors.

Comprising the other teams in the FIBA 3x3 finals are:

Pool A: Denver (US), Santos (Brazil), and Novi Sad (Serbia)
Pool C: Kranj (Slovenia), Jakarta (Indonesia), and Wukesong (China)
Pool D: Saskatoon (Canada), Trbovlje (Slovenia), and Kobe (Japan)

TV5 to air 40th season of the PBA

TV5 is to air the opening ceremonies for the 40th season of the Philippine Basketball Association on October 19.

To be held at the newly-opened Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan, the LIVE telecast will begin at 1pm, as they will celebrate the beginning of another season for the first professional basketball league in Asia.

As always, highlighting the opening will be the traditional parade of teams with their respective muses. With the recent achievements of the national team in the different international competitions, the league will also honor the squad.

Afterwards, coverage will begin with the first game of the season involving the two expansion teams in Kia and Blackwater, with the main game featuring Ginebra and Talk 'N Text.

Sports5 head Chot Reyes is excited with the upcoming season, noting that the addition of the two expansion teams "is a tremendous boost to the popularity of the PBA and we promise that Sports5 will give the PBA the most thrilling coverage ever yet."


LIVE PBA coverage on TV5 will be five days a week, with weekday doubleheaders on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 4:15pm and 7pm, then Sunday doubleheaders at 3pm and 5pm. There will also be a 5pm Saturday game. Games will also be broadcast on Radyo5 NewsFM stations nationwide (92.3 in Manila, 101.9 in Cebu / Davao, 102.3 in Bacolod, 97.5 in General Santos City). Streaming coverage of the PBA can done as well on Interaksyon.com

PBA fans overseas (United States, Guam, the Middle East, and Europe) can watch the games via AksyonTV International. Do check your channel listings to find it in your area.

UE bags 11th straight Jrs Volleyball Crown

The University of the East extended its reign in UAAP boys' volleyball to eleven straight seasons, completing the sweep with a 20-25, 25-20, 25-14, 18-25, and 20-18 win over Ateneo this past Sunday.

Having to deal with the graduation of last year's MVP in Edward Camposano and an ACL injury to Ruvince Abrot during the last day of the eliminations, the senior-laden Junior Warriors relied on Tournament MVP Ron Medalla, Best Attacker Joshua Umandal, Best Setter Adrian Imperial, and Best Libero Ralph Imperial to preserve its unblemished record. Medalla would clinch the title with a smash towards Anthony Sarino.

Head coach Ruel Pascual said, "The players worked hard for this one. We are blessed to win another championship."

Ateneo did come close to ending UE's streak, after forcing them to the full five-set limit in both finals games. Their runner-up finish was buoyed by their do-or-die victories against UST in the playoff and against National University in the semifinals.

Completing the award winners are Best Server Sebastian Cuerva, Best Blocker Gian Carlo Glorioso, (both from Ateneo) Rookie of the Year Reymart Reyes, and Best Receiver Daryl Cayamso (both from NU).

Tim Cone and Allen Iverson to hold a basketball clinic

SanMig Coffee head coach Tim Cone will team up with NBA legend Allen Iverson in overseeing a basketball clinic.

To be held at Barangay Holy Spirit in Quezon City on November 4, it is one of the activities lined up with "The Answer" during his Manila visit, highlighted by the November 5 "All In" charity basketball event at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Cone is already looking forward to the clinic, saying "I’m so honored to work with one of the true legends of the NBA. Just his mere presence will excite everyone." He adds, "Allen impacted a whole generation with his style and flair. Young people copied the way he played and copied the clothes he wore. He was also one of the great scorers in NBA history despite his height and frame, and he often carried teams on his back to the playoffs. He was a true winner on and off the court."

In a phone interview with his Philippine agent, Sheyrl Reyes, Allen can't wait to share his basketball know-how, as she has made him aware about Cone's accomplishments as a head coach, with the idea of the two of them working together being an exciting proposition for the retired guard.

Assisting Cone and Iverson in this project are PBA players Harvey Carey, Willie Miller, Sol Mercado, Chris Ross, and Jay-jay Helterbrand.

The clinic is for aspirants aged 10-15 years old. Limited slots are still available for a PhP 2500 fee. Interested parties can call (02) 575-1520 for reservations and inquiries.

Tickets are still available for the "All In" fundraiser, which can be purchased at www.smtickets.com, all SM Tickets outlets, and all PCWorx branches.

Ateneo dominates swimming in UAAP Season 77

Ateneo celebrating after copping the UAAP men's and women's swimming championship Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Swimming Pool. Asian Games campaigner Jessie Khing Lacuna and Hannah Dato won the MVP honors.

Ateneo copped the collegiate titles in the UAAP swimming championships at the Rizal Memorial complex.

National team standout Jesse Khing Lacuna led the Blue Tankers to the men's title, thanks to his seven gold medal haul in the tournament, with each one breaking the UAAP record books. It was their second in the last three seasons.

Lacuna topped the 200-m individual medley (2:05.59), 400-m freestyle (4:04.86), 100-m butterfly (56.01), 200-m freestyle (1:53.02), 50-m butterfly (25.47), 400-m individual medley (4:37.1), and 200-m butterfly (2:03.93) on his way to being named as the Most Valuable Player. He netted 105 out of the 540 points Ateneo secured in the competition.

Teammate Aldo Batungbacal was named as the Rookie of the Year, as he broke Timmy Chua's 13-year old record in the 200-m breaststroke (2:24.23) on his way to securing 90 points.

Deposed champions UP finished second with 325 points, while UST finished third with 187.

The Lady Tankers ended a six-year drought by pipping UP, 468 to 430, to take their second UAAP women's title.

Hannah Dato replicated Lacuna's feat, winning seven gold medals on the same seven events and breaking records in every one of them, to be named as the MVP.

The transferee smashed records in the 200-m individual medley (2:21.66), 400-m freestyle (4:30.76), 100-m butterfly (1:02.22), 200-m freestyle (2:07.87), 50-m butterfly (28.2), 400-m individual medley (5:05.08), and 200-m butterfly (2:19.71).

Teammate Ariana Herranz was named as the Rookie of the Year after netting 80 points.

Finishing in third place is La Salle with 121 points.

Not surprisingly, Ateneo's Sherwin dela Paz and Candice Esguerra were named as the Coach of the Year for each division.

In the high school ranks, Ateneo continued its reign in the boys' division, winning its tenth straight title with 544 points, finishing ahead of UST (318) and La Salle-Zobel (211). On the girls' division, UST took the crown with 360 points, with UP Integrated School (317) and La Salle-Zobel (235) serving as runners-up.

17th Asian Games Closing Ceremony to be aired on TV5

TV5 will telecast the Closing Ceremonies of  the 2014 Asian Games at the Incheon Asian Main Stadium tonight via satellite at 9:45pm.

Performances from noted K-Pop stars like Big Bang will highlight the event, which aims to recapture the moments that took place during the 17th edition of the festivities, which will be capped off with a grand fireworks display.

In addition, a turnover ceremony will take place, from the current Korean organizers to their Indonesian counterparts, who will be hosting the next edition of the games in 2018.

Sports5 handled the coverage of the Games via TV5, AksyonTV, HYPER, and the Cignal PPV channels, highlighting the campaigns of our Filipino athletes, who secured fifteen medals in six events:

Archery: Paul dela Cruz (Bronze in Compound Men's Individual)
Boxing: Mark Anthony Barriga (Bronze in Men's Light Fly), Mario Fernandez (Bronze in Men's Bantam), Charly Suarez (Silver in Men's Light), and Wilfredo Lopez (Bronze in Men's Middle)
Cycling BMX: Daniel Caluag (Gold in Men's BMX)
Karate: Mae Soriano (Bronze in Women's 55kg)
Taekwondo: Benjamin Keith Sembrano (Bronze in Men's 68kg), Samuel Morrison (Bronze in Men's 74kg), Mary Anjelay Pelaez (Bronze in Women's 46kg), Levita Ilao (Bronze in Women's 49kg), Kirstie Elaine Alora (Bronze in Women's 73kg)
Wushu: Daniel Parantac (Silver in Men's Taijiquan and Taijijian All-Round), Francisco Solis (Bronze in Men's Sanda 56kg), Jean Claude Saclag (Silver in Men's Sanda 60kg)