NCAA Season 90 Juniors Rosters

Arellano University

Juniel Balbarona
Ira Spencer Bataller
Karl Vincent Cabahug
Robert Dean Clemente
Dominic De Lara
Guilmer Dela Torre
Anaclito Dulatre
Mark Anthony Enriquez
Krystoffer Gonzalo
Maiko Elis Juico
Primo Manaloto III
Joshua Kyle Manalac
John Joseph Peralta
Jason Strait
John Kenneth Zamora

Colegio de San Juan de Letran

Jerrick Balanza
Kenneth Bryant Bernardo
Enrique Caunan Jr.
Carlo Miguel Dava
Rhayniel John David
Klyve Audric Dungan
Tommy York Gedaria
Joshua Christian Gonzales
Romero Roberto Nicolas Magsino V
Kenneth Matthew Maneze
Gian Marasigan
Jerus Ramirez
Jacob Gabriel Reyes
Johann Red Rubite
Miguel Villasis

La Salle Greenhills (a.k.a College of Saint Benilde)

Mark Don Victor Alcala
Bryeo Bernhard Bunyi
Michael Louise Dela Cruz
John Winifred Gob II
Ian Joseph Herrera
Miguel Carlo Lanot
Alain Jethro Madrigal
Rodney Jaye Manuel
Prince John Carlo Ollano
Renzo Rein Pagulayan
Ricci Paolo Rivero
Rafael Louis Salonga
Amando Emanuel San Juan II
Luis Miguel Velasco

Jose Rizal University

Gian Myron Abrigos
Toby Brian Agustin
Patrick Gabriel Anonuevo
Christan Paolo Anore
King Genrev Astrero
Andrei Simoun Dada
Mark Justine Dela Virgen
Mark Dexter Deloria
Joco Estrada
Darious Duane Estrella
Jamil Garcia
Julius Raphael Rodas
Ross Jacob Ross
John Lloyd Sta. Maria
John Jairuz Torre

Mapua Institute of Technology

Dennel Jay Aguirre
Warren Bonifacio
Vince Louis Cabural
Emmanuel Calderon
Sherwin Concepcion
Michael Vincent Enriquez
Sean Aaron Dela Cruz
Noah Tracy Lago
Raymund Pascua
Jomari Rivera
Neil Russel
Jasper Salenga
David Velvez
Laurenz Paul Victoria
Franz Oliver Yco

San Beda College

Niko Angelo Abatayo
Samuel Abuhijle
Kenneth Louie Alas
Pedro Alfaro III
Ayron Apolto
Alberto Bordeos, Jr.
Joshua Andrei Caracut
Norrish Marc Decapia
Marc Joper Diputado
Prince Alexis Etrata
Mark Anthony Clyde Framil
Evan Jacob Furaque
Rensie Geralao
Eduardo Velasquez, Jr.
Gerald Jasper Zamora


San Sebastian College-Recoletos

Jose Mari Miguel Alfaro
Jesse Bardaje, Jr.
Mario Emmanuel Bonleon II
Jasneth Causon
Jeremy Cruz
Regille Kent Ilagan
Jasper Philip Magno
Jethro Glewellyn Malamug
Aoki Rile Mercado
Johnson Miasco
Lorenzo Fernando Navarro
Enrico Gabriel Ong
John Daniel Paclarin
Augustus Ceasar Padigdig
Chester Sera Josef

University of Perpetual Help System Dalta

Victor John Glenn Alarcon
Louis Gabriel Balatbat
Reginald Jason Balisi
Raphael Jose Chavez
Kyle Delmer Manaligod
Ken Mark Miranda
Sean Andrew Neri
Jeszir Sison
Khristian Danreb Tan
John Anthony Umali
Noel Villaceran
Gian Franco Yaco
Phillip Given Yaco

Emilio Aguinaldo College

Patrick Bacani
Roland Baliquig, Jr.
Angelo Rod Beduria
Mark Lester Castillo
Marwyn Catusalem
Edlor Cayabo
Maui Cruz
Enrico Silverstre Dungca
Kaile Xavier Falcon
Justin Philip Gentile
Reymundo Justan, Jr.
Arold Wendel Ligot
Evan Jim Montilla
Jose Antonio Piopongco
Junniel Tayomora

Lyceum of the Philippines University

Fernard Jassen Agdon
Fernard Jastin Agdon
John Raphael Bautista
Marc Kenneth Castaneda
Generoso Cecilio
Sergie Giourgiou Glipo
Mclaude Guadana
Chester Clyde Jungco
Miguel Amiel Lagman
John Reynhold Menil
Kent Richmond Pere
Jorge Martin Romanes
Makki Jandee Santos
Alvin Troy Tropicales
Joshua Wong

NCAA Season 90 Seniors rosters

Arellano University:

Keith Jasper Agovida
Nichole John Bangga
Julius Salvador Cadavis
Prince Renmer Caperal
Isiah Ciriacruz
Allen Enriquez
Donald Gumaru
Levi Hernandez
Dioncee Holts
Jiovani Jalalon
Zachary James Nicholls
David Ortega
Christian Mari Palma
Nard John Pinto
Ralph Chrysler Salcedo

Colegio de San Juan de Letran:

Felix Apreku, Jr.
John Paul Calvo
Fidel Albert Castro
Mark Cruz
Chrisantoni De La Pena
Jamil Joseph Gabawan
McJour Luib
Rey Benedict Nambatac
Reynaldo Publico, Jr.
Kier John Quinto
Kevin Kent Racal
Reneford Ruaya
Reuben Chester Saldua
Daryl Singontiko
John Von Jovi Tambeling

De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde:

Anton Louis Altamirano
RJ Edward Argamino
Roberto Bartolo Jr.
Ralph Jeffrey Deles
Ervin Justin Flores
Jonathan Grey
Travis-Jerome Jonson
Jose Lorenzo Mercado
Raphael Romeo Nayve
Jeffrey Ryan Ongteco
Freddy Pajarillaga, Jr.
Mark Andre Romero
Jose Alfonso Saavedra
Luis Antonio Miguel Sinco
Juan Paolo Taha

Jose Rizal University:

Abdul Razak Abdul Wahab
Jaycee John Asuncion
Kristian James Astilla
Marco Paulo Balagtas
Schever Anthony Benavides
King Benemerito
John Ervin Grospe
Michael Mabulac
Genesis Manuel
Clint Munez
Gio Nicolo Lasquety
Philip Criszam Paniamogan
Juan Edilfierto Salaveria
Dave Richard Sanchez
Bernabe Teodoro

Mapua Institute of Technology:

Exeqiel Biteng
Jerome Canaynay
Jeson Ray Cantos
Joseph Emmanuel Eriobu, Jr.
Andrew Estrella
Hesed Leo Jose Gabo
James Galoso
Carlos Isit
Raphael Joesh Layug
Darrel Dave Magsigay
Jobert Medina
Jessie Saitanan
Justin Oliver Serrano
Jomari Tubiano
Ronnel Villasenor

San Beda College:

Van Adam Abatayo
Lancelot Mikhail Abuda
Oladie Jubril Adeogun
Baser Amer
Jeramer Cabanag
Arthur De La Cruz
Ryusei Koga
Jaypee Mendoza
Javee Mocon
Kyle Pascual
Roldan Sara
Anthony Paul Semerad
David John Semerad
Michole Sorela
Ranbill Angelo Tongco

San Sebastian College-Recoletos:

Eulo Ryan Aquino
Earvin Oliver Alvarez
Bobby Balucanag
Michael Calisaan
Israel Ivan Camasura
Ryan Paule Costelo
Jovit Dela Cruz
Jerick Fabian
Bradwyn Guinto
Justine Louie Mercado
Jon Kervin Ortuoste
Jaymar Perez
Spencer Pretta
Jeffrey Santos
Rhanzelle Yong

University of Perpetual Help System Dalta:

Justine Matthew Alano
Harold Miguel Arboleda
Juneric Baloria
Nestor Bantayan, Jr.
Gabriel Dagangon
Gerald Dizon
Ric Gallardo
Joel Jolangcob
Kervin Lucente
Kevin Oliveria
Kieth Llowel Pido
Flash Gordon Sadiwa
Antonio Romulo Tamayo
Earl Scottie Thompson
John Genmar Ylagan

Emilio Aguinaldo College:

Ariel Aguilar
Jack Lord Arquero
Jozhua Macdaniel General
Cedric Benjamin Happi Noube
Al-Rashid Indin
Igee Bobbie King
Jan Niccolo Jamon
Christ Fernan Mejos
Sidney Nelson Onwubere
Faustine Pascual
Mannelle Jinsen Quilanita
Edsel Roy Saludo
John Lenyer Santos
Jerald Serrano
John Marco Tayongtong

Lyceum of the Philippines University:

Wilson Baltazar
Jebb Bulawan
Seraj Aldin El-Mejrab
Joseph Angelo Gabayni
Shane Albert Ko
Tirso Lesmoras, Jr.
Rhoel Maconocido, Jr.
Allyn Mark Malabanan
Guy Mellon Mbida Essono
Aziz Faycal Mbomiko Issah
Christian Paul Pamulaklakin
Paul John Soliman
Jeremiah Taladua
Dexter Wilbur Zamora

FOX Sports Philippines to telecast 2014 Wimbledon

Starting tonight at 6:30pm, Fox Sports Philippines will be showing the third tennis Grand Slam of the year, the 2014 Championships at Wimbledon.

Andy Murray is looking to repeat his title conquest last year, a triumph long overdue for British tennis fans, who had been waiting for the chance to extinguish the ghost of 1936, until the Scot's clincher against Novak Djokovic.

Djokovic has a chance at redemption this year, with the World #2 seeded first at the All-England Club. Top-ranked Rafael Nadal is seeded second. Roger Federer is seeking his eight title, this time seeded fourth behind the two aforementioned and the third seed Murray.

On the distaff side, there is will be no title defense, as reigning champion Marion Bartoli retired from the sport not long after her triumph over Sabine Lisicki. The German is seeking a return trip to the finals as the 19th seed.

Serena Williams is seeded first in the draw, with Li Na seeded second. Newly minted French Open champion Maria Sharapova is seeded fifth, behind the lady she beat in Roland Garros, Simona Halep (3rd) and Agnieszka Radwańska (4th).

Meanwhile, Filipino tennister Treat Huey (alongside his British partner Dominc Inglot) is seeded tenth in Gentlemen's doubles.

Fox Sports PH coverage starts with the first round tonight, with the Quarterfinals pegged to begin on July 1. The final will take place on July 5 & 6. They will have daily highlights at 8am.

Fox Sports is seen on channel 31 on Sky and Destiny Cable, channel 48 on Cignal TV and in over 200 local cable operators nationwide. For high definition viewing, Fox Sports Plus HD is on channel 176 on Sky and channel 121 on Cignal TV. Full telecast schedule is available via tv.foxsportsasia.com.

Projecting the upcoming 2014 PBA Draft Order

The upcoming draft is ticketed to be an interesting one, so just like last year, I have already made the decision to execute the projection on the draft order.

I am basing this still on the explanation given to me last year by Fidel Mangonon III on draft computations.

40% goes to All-Filipino, 30% each for the import-laced ones.

Here are the current finishing positions from the previous two conferences, as well as the quarterfinals of the ongoing one.

10 - Air 21
9 - Meralco
8 - Alaska
7 - Globalport
6 - Barako
5 - TNT
4 - Petron / San Miguel
3 - Ginebra
2 - Rain or Shine
1 - SanMig

10 - Globalport
9 - Barako
8 - Ginebra
7 - Meralco
6 - Alaska
5 - San Miguel
4 - Air21
3 - Rain or Shine
2 - TNT
1 - SanMig

10 - Globalport 

9 - Meralco

8 - Barako Bull

7 - Air21

6 - Ginebra
5 - San Miguel
4 - Alaska
3 - TNT
2 - SanMig Coffee or Rain or Shine
1 - Rain or Shine or SanMig

4
3.6
3.2
2.8
2.4
2
1.6
1.2
.8
.4

3
2.7
2.4
2.1
1.8
1.5
1.2
.9
.6
.3

Air21 = 4+1.2+2.1 = 7.3
Alaska = 3.2+1.8+1.2= 6.2
Barako = 2.4+2.7+2.4 = 7.5
Ginebra = 1.2+2.4+1.8 = 5.4
Globalport = 2.8+3+3 = 8.8
Meralco = 3.6+2.1+2.7 = 8.4
Petron / San Miguel = 1.6+1.5+1.5 = 4.6
Rain or Shine = .8+.9 = 1.7
SanMig = .4+.3 = .7
TNT = 2+.6+.9 = 3.5

Globalport = 8.8
Meralco = 8.4

Barako = 7.5
Air21 = 7.3

Alaska = 6.2

Ginebra = 5.4
Petron / San Miguel = 4.6
TNT = 3.5
Rain or Shine = 1.7
SanMig = .7

As such, my projection for the upcoming 2014 PBA Draft order is as follows:

1 & 2. Globalport / Meralco
3. Barako Bull
4. Air21 (or soon-to-be NLEX? will be NLEX, as the PBA has given it's ok on the sale)
5. Alaska
6. Barangay Ginebra
7. San Miguel
8. Talk 'N Text
9. Rain or Shine
10. SanMig Coffee
11 & 12. Kia / Blackwater

The winner of the Globalport / Meralco draft lottery drafts first in the first (and subsequent odd ones) round, while the loser drafts first in the second (and subsequent even ones) round.

It is assumed that the expansion team that will pick first in the dispersal draft will not be picking eleventh in the PBA draft, as it pertains to Kia / Blackwater. It is also assumed that they will alternate picks as well, much like the two worst teams.

EDIT: It has been pointed out by Job de Leon about this quote from a Karlo Sacamos piece:

The league has also given to the three new teams — apart from the 11th ,12th, and 13th picks — the first, second, and third selections of the second round, as well as the remaining picks from the third round onwards in the Rookie Draft on August 24.

Integrating the trades of picks (EDIT: as well as recently-concluded and controversial Draft Lottery), the draft order of the two rounds are as follows:

1st round:

1. Globalport
2. Rain or Shine (from Meralco)
3. Barako Bull
4. NLEX
5. Alaska 
6. Barangay Ginebra
7. SanMig (from San Miguel via Barako)
8. Barako Bull (from Talk 'N Text)
9. Rain or Shine
10. Barako Bull (from SanMig)
11 & 12. Kia / Blackwater

2nd round:

1 & 2. Blackwater / Kia
3. Alaska (from Meralco)
4. Rain or Shine (from Globalport)
5. Barako Bull
6. Alaska (from NLEX)
7. Alaska 
8. Barako Bull (from Barangay Ginebra)
9. Alaska (from San Miguel via Meralco)
10. Talk 'N Text
11. Rain or Shine
12. San Miguel (from SanMig Coffee via Barako)

As such, the breakdown of the top 24 picks are as follows:

Alaska and Barako Bull will each have a total of five picks in the first two rounds.
Rain or Shine will have a total of four picks in the first two rounds.
The expansion franchises each have a couple of picks in the first two rounds.
Globalport, NLEX, Barangay Ginebra, San Miguel, TNT, and SanMig will each have a pick, while Meralco does not have a pick in the first two rounds.

And with that, you may proceed with your mock draft/s.

NBA 3X to return to the Philippines, DeMar DeRozan to attend

He is coming here in July.

3-on-3 basketball returns to the Philippines with the 2014 NBA 3X Philippines, presented by Sprite.

Also supporting this event are official partners adidas, Smart Communications and PLDT, KFC and Phoenix Petroleum.

Acer and Spalding serve as supporting partners, while the official NBA broadcasters are ABS-CBN Sports + Action and Basketball TV.

The 4th edition of this event combines competitive 3-on-3 basketball with authentic NBA entertainment for fans this coming July 4-6.

Toronto Raptors swingman DeMar DeRozan will be coming over to the country to headline the event and assist with running the basketball clinics. The USC alum helped the Canadian side to their best regular season in franchise history, taking the Atlantic Division crown and leading the team in scoring and minutes during the postseason, where they fell short in a competitive seven-game series against the Brooklyn Nets.

DeMar is excited for his first visit to the country and experience its unique culture. He adds that "Filipinos are world-renowned for their passion for the NBA and I can’t wait for this exciting showcase of their basketball skills."

To take place at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall (with the PICC serving as an alternative venue), NBA 3X Philippines will feature around eight divisions, with an under-18 and under-16 division for both boys and girls, and an under-13 for boys. There is also an open division for both men and women, as well as a Celebrity division.

Alongside the basketball, there will be some fan activities, including a dunk contest, 3-point shootouts, skills challenges, autograph sessions, and basketball clinics. There will also be performances, as well as NBA merchandise giveaways. 

NBA Asia's Philippines Country Manager Carlo Singson says that the NBA 3X Philippines is their way of continuing their goal of providing its loyal supporters with an authentic means to engage with the league, whether via events, programming, NBA.com or social media. He adds that it has been a historic year of activities for Filipino NBA fans, highlighted by the first NBA preseason game in the region, as well as the first-of-its-kind NBA Cafe Manila.

Coca-Cola Philippines' Marketing Manager for Sparkling, Teejae Sonza, says that they are glad to be able to support programs encouraging people to play basketball, staying physically active, improving strength and endurance, achieving energy balance, and drinking Sprite.

For more information on NBA 3X Philippines 2014 presented by Sprite and to register for the 3x3 tournament, log on to www.nba3x.com/philippines. Fans can also get updates on the event by following the NBA on Twitter at www.twitter.com/nba_philippines and through Facebook at www.facebook.com/nba3xasia and www.facebook.com/philsnba.

Master Game Face All-Star rosters finalized

It is official. After speculation from certain sectors, it was officially announced that Minnesota Timberwolves big man Kevin Love will be coming to Manila on June 21 for the 2nd Master Game Face Challenge.

Although he has been in the attention as he possibly plots his imminent future with the likelihood of exercising his opt out clause in 2015, he will be the center of attention at the halftime show for the Master Game Face Challenge, where he will be in a skills challenge as well as face off in a three-point shootout against PBA players.

Love will be accompanied by a group of dunkers that will help entertain the crowd attending the all-star game.

Unilever's Male Grooming manager Jonathan Pua expressed his excitement with the arrival of Love in the country, noting that "he will elevate Master Game Face to a higher level" this year.

Aside from the announcement, a couple of highly anticipated events took place at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall on Saturday afternoon.

First, Team Manila, represented by Arellano University, beat Team Davao 15-8 to take Master Game Face 3-on-3 Barangay Challenge.

Second, Chris Tiu and Marc Pingris completed their teams that will face each other in the game.

After six weeks of voting, the draft finally took place that sees both teams pick six PBA players to complement the collegiate stars already on both sides.

Team Chris selected Ranidel de Ocampo, Jeff Chan, Mike Cortez, Jimmy Alapag, Cliff Hodge, and Alex Nuyles. They join UAAP stars Jeron Teng, Chris Newsome, Mike Tolomia, and Kevin Ferrer, as well as NCAA standouts Rome dela Rosa, Mark Cruz, and Zach Nichols. Tiu wanted a combination of youth and experience with his group.

Team Marc selected Gary David, Mark Barroca, Larry Fonacier, Jared Dillinger, Jeric Teng, and Paul Artadi. They join UAAP standouts Andre Paras, Roi Sumang, Jericho Cruz, and Jeoffrey Javillonar, as well as NCAA stars Baser Amer, Kevin Racal, and Josan Nimes. Pingris express confidence with his new additions.

The Master Game Face All-Star Challenge will take place on June 21, 7pm at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum. It will be televised LIVE on TV5 and tickets can be purchased via Ticketnet (911-5555 or www.ticketnet.com.ph).

Tickets are priced at Php120 for General Admission, Php240 for Upper Box, Php420 for Lower Box, Php820 for Patron A and Php930 for Patron B.

In addition, tickets can be acquired by purchasing 1 Master® 100g Facial Wash and 1 Master® Face Cleanser 135ml at participating SM Supermarkets.

For more details, check out www.MasterPhilippines.com.ph and facebook.com/MasterPhilippines, as well as follow their Twitter and Instagram accounts.

The Gatorade #Unreal Football Experience might just include you

Want to be #UNREAL like Lionel? Read on...

A week ago, Pepsico Marketing Manager Mikey Rosales revealed at the launch of the Green Fury flavor of Gatorade about the chance at what he calls the "unreal football experience."

He then asked to play this particular clip on the screen.



Mikey is referring to the Gatorade Unreal Around The World Contest, which you can check out on GatoradeFootball.com for complete details.

Five footballers will have a chance to have a memorable football experience, spread across three continents and six countries.

They will first spend it in the United States, specifically at the Gatorade Sports Science Institute inside the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.

Moving to England, they will get to train at the fabled Liverpool Academy, followed by a behind-the-scenes look inside the Emirates Stadium during an exhibition football match involving Arsenal.

In Spain, they will get to experience being inside not just Camp Nou, but also the legendary La Masia of FC Barcelona.

Completing the European swing will be a trip to Milan, where they will be given an all-access look with the rossoneri of AC Milan.

Buenos Aires, Argentina opens the South American leg with a chance to train at the Nutrition Lab of continental club powerhouse Boca Juniors. They will also have the chance to meet club legends then and now.

The last part of the trip features a visit to Rio de Janeiro to see Flamengo play at the Maracanã and get some VIP access. Completing the experience will be something in relation with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).

How can one have the opportunity to have that experience?

One, make a 30-second to two-minute video clip showing your football skills.
Two, submit it along with the pertinent details, which includes a short essay on how you are trying to be a better player.

Clips will be judged on football handling skills, creativity and originality, and dedication and passion to improve performance via hard work.

Interested peeps have until 11:59 PM on June 12 (in Manila, that translates to 11:59 am of June 13) to submit an entry. The Philippines is among those who can submit entries, so take advantage of an #Unreal experience.

Radyo5 92.3 FM to air LIVE PBA games

Starting this Monday with the Air21 vs SanMig game, the PBA will now be heard LIVE on FM radio.

Radyo5 92.3 NEWS FM will be the latest radio station to broadcast RadyoPBA action. Thanks to its sister stations 101.9 NEWS FM in Cebu & Davao, 102.3 NEWS FM in Bacolod, and 97.5 NEWS FM in General Santos City, PBA on FM radio will have a national reach. The broadcast will also be streamed online via Interaksyon.com.

It will complement the ongoing radio coverage that is currently on DZSR Sports Radio 918 on the AM band, which also has a nationwide reach via its satellite stations (DZEQ 999 in Baguio, DZMQ 576 in Dagupan, DWRB 549 in Naga, DYLL 585 in Iloilo, DYMR 576 in Cebu, DZMR 1170 in Zamboanga, DXIM 936 in Cagayan de Oro, and DXRP 666 in Davao.

This move will be especially handy for many PBA fans who are on the go and have their mobile phones with FM radio capability.

Kudos to Sports5 head Chot Reyes for this long-overdue move.

TV5 to show the third CLEAR Dream Match

Bragging rights are on the line on Saturday night, as Phil and James Younghusband face each other to see who is better between the two siblings in the third CLEAR Dream Match.

The Loyola Meralco Sparks talismans have each won one against the other, with this game to be the rubber match. Phil won the first, 5-1. James won the second, 4-1.

Like last year, CLEAR will be bringing in a couple of legends to spice up the match. In this case, thanks to their tie-up with Manchester United, they will be bringing in a couple of Red Devil legends. Thanks to Team Phil winning the online fan voting, they had the chance of picking first, going with midfielder Paul Scholes. Team James, naturally, will have Andy Cole on his side as his legend.

The only other major difference with this edition compared to the previous two is the absence of celebrities. Save for six participants who gained entry via the CLEAR-Manchester United Football camp, all the footballers present came from the United Football League.

The University of Makati Football Field will once again be the host of the CLEAR Dream Match, which will be televised LIVE at 8pm on TV5.

Team composition below:

Tickets are still available.

Gatorade launches special edition "Green Fury"

Gatorade Green Fury

In time for the upcoming 2014 FIFA World Cup and coinciding with its worldwide "UNREAL" football campaign, Gatorade released a limited edition flavor called "Green Fury."

Already available in your nearest stores and supermarkets, the kiwi-flavored Green Fury was officially launched in the Philippines this past Monday at the Gatorade Blue Pitch in Makati, with the support of Chelsea FC Soccer School Philippines, Adidas, and the Center for Health Research and the Sports Science Department of the University of Santo Tomas.

Highlighting the football aspect of the flavor is that Argentine footballer Lionel Messi is featured on the bottle, joining the likes of Michael Jordan and Dwyane Wade as sporting figures with such a feat.

Pepsico Marketing Manager Mikey Rosales says that the Green Fury is "one way of showing Gatorade's support for football." He cited the fact that they are supporting four United Football League Div I clubs (Loyola, Kaya, Green Archers, and Stallion) and have three national team stalwarts among its brand ambassadors (the Younghusband brothers and Emelio Caligdong). Phil, James and Chieffy, according to him, exemplify the message that Gatorade wants to convey to everyone, that "with every ounce of work and sweat, you too can turn in an unreal performance on the pitch."

Photo from the launch. c/o Gatorade PH's Facebook page

Rosales adds that international sporting figures being associated with Gatorade like Messi, his fellow Argentine Sergio Aguero and Brazilian David Luiz and Spaniard Sergio Ramos highlights the notion that Gatorade hydrates like no other.

ASEAN Basketball League releases 2014 schedule

 Ooi Ban Sin of Westport Malaysia Dragons guarding Jobstreet.com Singapore Slingers guard Desmond Oh Wei Jie

After a long delay, the AirAsia ASEAN Basketball League will finally take place this July, albeit without a Philippine team on its docket.

Six teams from five countries (Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia Vietnam and Singapore) will duke it out starting July 16 to determine who will be the king of ASEAN basketball.

Newcomers Hitech Bangkok City will host Westports Malaysia Dragons at the Thai Japanese Association Stadium to open the league, with last year's losing finalists Indonesia Warriors facing the Saigon Heat at the CIS Arena in Ho Chi Minh City. Completing the first round of matches are the other newcomers, Indonesian side Laskar Dreya against the JobStreet.com Singapore Slingers at the OCBC Arena in the city-state on July 20.


The schedule is composed of a home-and-away schedule, with teams hosting the opponent twice. There will be a total of 60 matches to take place, with the top four teams to advance to the playoffs that is to take place in November.

You can check further details on the schedule of the AirAsia ASEAN Basketball League on its website, http://www.aseasnbasketballleague.com.

NBA Cafe to host the NBA Finals Viewing Party

As always, Solar Entertainment, specifically from Basketball TV, NBA Premium and Solar SportsDesk, will have its usual NBA Finals viewing party, in partnership with the NBA Philippines.

This time, the venue for the party will be at the snazzy NBA Cafe inside SM Aura in Taguig. Its 16 TV screens spread all across the facility ensures everyone will not miss the rematch between the San Antonio Spurs and the defending champions Miami Heat.

Hosting the party will be our friends from Solar, and games will take place during lulls to enhance the viewing experience. There will be prizes and freebies at stake.

The NBA Cafe has crafted a specific menu for this postseason, and now that it is the Finals, they stepped it up further by crafting another set menu,



Just like the previous menu, guests can opt to order a la carte as well.

The NBA Cafe opens before the actual mall does, so fans can actually get there earlier to be ready for the actual event.

Here is the Finals schedule:

Game 1 - June 6 (9am)
Game 2 - June 9 (8am)
Game 3 - June 11 (9am)
Game 4 - June 13 (9am)
Game 5 - June 16 (8am)
Game 6 - June 18 (9am)
Game 7 - June 21 (9am)

For more information, call 556-1683 or go to www.facebook.com/nbacafemanila.

Fox Sports PH with exclusive coverage of the 2014 French Open

The second event of the Tennis Grand Slam already started yesterday with the 2014 French Open at Roland Garros in Paris.

Rafael Nadal is looking to maintain his dominance in the men's singles competition, with the King of Clay trying to nab his ninth title in the last ten years. The only man to break Rafa's stranglehold in Roland Garros is Roger Federer, back in 2009. Seeded 4th, the Swiss already booked his seat in the second round, winning his opener.

Other possible challengers to the Spaniard are Novak Djokovic and Stan Wawrinka. Nole won the Italian Open, beating Nadal, while the Australian Open champion Stan won at Monte Carlo.

In the women's singles, Serena Williams is rounding into form after winning the Italian Open, while looming in the horizon is Stuttgart and Madrid Open winner Maria Sharapova.

Filipino fans will also have something to look forward to in this Grand Slam event, with Treat Huey participating in the men's doubles with Dominic Inglot.

The Philippine telecast of the 2014 French Open will be on Fox Sports Philippines and on FOX Sports HD. As a consequence of the coverage that will last until the finals scheduled on June 7 and 8, no PBA games will be shown on May 28 and June 4.

PBA televised schedule for the Governors' Cup elims

PBA six times a week? That's going to be the case with the 2014 PLDT Home TELPAD PBA Governors' Cup.

Basketball will keep your weeknights preoccupied with games on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Doubleheaders will be the case, with the first game to tip off at 5:45 pm. It will be shown on Aksyon TV live, with an 11pm delayed telecast on TV5. The second game will be shown LIVE on TV5 at 8pm.

Saturdays and Sundays will have an earlier time slot, with both games to be shown on TV5. The former will have 2:45pm & 5pm, with the latter having a 3pm and 5pm tip.

The games will also be shown HD at the Cignal Ch. 199, with encore telecasts on HYPER.

Meanwhile, Kuwentong Gilas will now be shown on Thursdays, starting tonight at 9:30pm with the episode featuring TNT forward Ranidel de Ocampo. Entitled "Ang Pamana," it centers on his return to his hometown of Tanza, Cavite.

Taiwan to host first Basketball Without Borders in Asia

The NBA via its global social responsibility program NBA Cares, in conjunction with FIBA and the Chinese-Taipei Basketball Association (CTBA), is bringing its Basketball Without Borders project to Asia for the first time, with its BWB Asia program in Taipei next month.

The program aims to teach its participants of the values of the game, through its grassroots basketball development, community service and life skill seminars. Extensive community outreach efforts will take place in the different venues (i.e. donations of school supplies, clothing, etc. to community-based organizations)

36 BWB camps have been conducted worldwide, with over 150 current/former NBA & WNBA players and almost 140 NBA personnel being involved.

Scheduled to take place in June 13-16 in Taipei, BWB Asia brings together the top fifty players (born in 1996 or 1997) in the Asia-Oceania region.

NBA Taiwan Associate VP and Managing Director Bimal Kapoor says that “Basketball without Borders helps us to grow the game of basketball and bring attention to important social issues that affect communities in Taiwan.” He adds that they are thankful for the CTBA for being the host this program and provide the youth with the opportunity to develop their skills in both basketball and in life.

CTBA President Ting Shou-chung expressed delight to be able to work with the NBA in providing the opportunity for the youth to learn from the best players and coaches in the world. He believes that this project is another step in the broadening the league's relationship with them and reiterates their commitment to continue their basketball development.

Among the participants in the BWB Asia is Jr. NBA Philippines 2011 All-Star (and National University commit) Rendell Senining

Toronto Raptors swingman John Salmons, Minnesota Timberwolves reserve big man (and recent Manila visitor) Ronny Turiaf, and Charlotte Hornets rookie Cody Zeller will headline the program, with assistant coaches Bryan Gates (New Orleans Pelicans), David Vanterpool (Portland Trailblazers) and Bobby Jackson (Minnesota Timberwolves) also on hand to participate.

Also expected to make an appearance is Yao Ming.

Meanwhile, BWB will also have its European camp in Rome and will make a return to Johannesburg this year.

BWB Europe will take place on June 2-5 in Rome, with Brandon Knight and Al Horford joining camp alumni Danilo Gallinari, Andrea Bargnani and Gigi Datome. They will oversee the top 50 European players (born in 1997).

On the other hand, BWB Africa will take place in Johannesburg on August 5-8, with Brooklyn Nets forward Andrei Kirilenko and Oklahoma City guard Thabo Sefolosha joining NBA head coaches Dwayne Casey, Brian Shaw and Jeff Hornacek overseeing the top 60 Africans (born in 1997 or 1998). 

As one of its global partners, Nike will be outfitting the campers and coaches with its apparel and footwear.

Postseason Treats at the NBA Café Manila

The NBA Cafe. The first one of its kind.

With the NBA playoffs already upon us, the NBA Café aims to add some more flavor for its diners.

Since May 10, the cafe has opened at 7am, to coincide with the tip-off of the first game of the postseason doubleheaders, making sure fans can catch the heat of the action LIVE. Since this is earlier than the normal operating hours of the SM Aura in Taguig, a special entrance has been made available that can be accessed from the parking area.

In addition to the special opening time, the NBA Café will also have a specific menu (PhP 800++, also available ala carte) for the entire postseason to commemorate the occasion.

Much like its basketball counterparts, it's subdivided into two counterparts, the Eastern Feast and the Western Delight.

The Eastern Feast is made up of Beer Battered Fish and Chips served with hand-cut triple-cooked Kennebec Fries, Tartar Sauce and Cole Slaw; Creamy Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon-Crusted Crumble; Cheeseburger Topped with Gruyere Cheese, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Onions, Sliced Dill Pickles and Truffle Aioli plus your choice of assorted sodas or a glass of Draft Beer.

Eastern Feast

On the other hand, the Western Delight, is composed of: Lemon-Brined Roasted Chicken with Mashed Potatoes, Succotash and Parsley Gravy; Penne with Sun Dried Tomatoes, Pesto  Sauce and Pine Nuts, Sloppy Joe with Juicy Ground Beef, slow-cooked in a spicy, rich Tomato Sauce, and your choice of assorted sodas or a glass of Draft Beer.

Western Delight

You can call the cafe at 556-1683 for queries or check out their website.

2nd Master Game Face All-Star Challenge to take place

Master launched its Game Face All-Star Challenge last year by bringing a collection of the best collegiate players under the coaching acumen of Chris Tiu and Borgie Hermida, with the latter coming out as the winner at the Arena in San Juan.



For the second edition of the challenge, the country's leading men's skin care and face care brand jiggered things up a bit, as they invited some of the PBA's best players to participate alongside the best collegiate players. They also incorporated one of their new brand ambassadors, Marc Pingris of the SanMig Super Coffee Mixers, into the mix as the new challenger to Chris..


Launched last April 24 in Taguig, the second-ever Master Game Face All-Star Challenge will have Team Chris going up against Team Marc at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum on June 21.

According to Unilever Male Grooming Brand Manager Jonathan Pua, “it is natural for us to come up with an activity featuring the no. 1 sport – basketball." He adds that "It will be a good venue to showcase how top Filipino basketball players put their oil-free game faces on with Master Oil Control Max Facial Wash”


For Team Chris, joining the Rain or Shine guard in the starting lineup are UAAP stalwarts Jeron Teng, Chris Newsome, Kevin Ferrer and Mike Tolomia. Complementing the five are Rome dela Rosa, Mark Cruz and Zach Nichols from the NCAA.

Chris says that “Fans are going to have a great time seeing such powerhouse players in the Master Game Face All-Star Basketball Challenge this year, and I’m especially happy to be able to play with such talented young blood and with other professional basketball players.”

For Team Marc, joining the SanMig Coffee forward in the starting lineup are UAAP stalwarts Andre Paras, Jeoffrey Javillonar, Jericho Cruz and Roi Sumang. Complementing the five are Baser Amer, Kevin Racal and Josan Nimes from the NCAA.

Marc adds. “I’m excited to start playing with my team. We hope to put up a great game against our opponents and to show young athletes how to put their Game Faces on with Master.”

Basketball fans can chime in on their choices for the rest of Team Chris and Team Marc by going to Master's Facebook page and clicking the Master Game Face app. Once the votes have been tabulated, a special draft is scheduled on May 31 (much like their fellow Unilever brand CLEAR and how they did their Dream Match Draft) for a twelve-player pool that both Chris and Marc can make their selections on to complete their rosters.

Fans that can correctly guess the lineups would have the opportunity to win prizes.
  

Master Game Face All-Star Challenge Draft Pool:

Point Guard: Jimmy Alapag, Paul Artadi, Mark Barroca, Mike Cortez, Sol Mercado, Terrence Romeo, Emman Monfort, Jai Reyes, RJ Jazul, Anjo Caram, Bonbon Custodio

Shooting Guard: Ryan Arana, Gary David, Jared Dillinger, Larry Fonacier, Rey Guevara, Jeric Teng, John Wilson, Bonbon Custodio, AJ Mandani

Center: Beau Belga, Nonoy Baclao, Justin Chua

Small Forward: Dylan Ababou, Jeff Chan, Elmer Espiritu, Rey Guevara, Alex Nuyles

Power Forward: Beau Belga, Jervy Cruz, Ranidel de Ocampo, Cliff Hodge, Jon Dan Salvador, Elmer Espiritu


Follow Master on Twitter and Instagram via @MasterGameFace to find out the latest about Master
products and about the Master Game Face Challenge. 

#MasterGameFace

NASCAR All-Star Race on FOX Sports Philippines

This weekend, the NASCAR on FOX Sports (Asia) telecast will broadcast arguably the biggest all-star event in sports, the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race at the Charlotte Motor Speedway.

With $1 million on the line for the winner, there is a huge incentive to go all out for the win.

Carl Edwards (2011 winner) says, “We all race very hard for every win. You drive as hard as you possibly can, but I can tell you this: leading that All-Star race the year we won it, for the last few laps, the stress level was through the roof. It is a million dollars! They put that big money on the line."

Kurt Busch (2010 winner) adds, "The All-Star race is very unpredictable and it always creates those big highlight moments. Charlotte challenges us in ways that other tracks don't, and that's why this track has always been deserving of the All-Star atmosphere.

Jimmie Johnson has won this race the last couple of years and is seeking a three-peat.


Nineteen teams have already secured qualification for the race, thanks to the special criteria:

1. Drivers who have won Sprint Cup races last season and so far this season.
2. Former Sprint Cup champions in the last ten years.
3. Past winners of the All-Star Race the last ten years.

Here are the qualified drivers as of the moment:

Jimmie Johnson, Carl Edwards, Matt Kenseth, Kasey Kahne, Kyle Busch, Kevin Harvick, David Ragan, Tony Stewart, Greg Biffle, Martin Truex, Jr., Brian Vickers, Ryan Newman, Joey Logano, Brad Keselowski, Jamie McMurray, Jeff Gordon, Denny Hamlin, Dale Earnhardt Jr, and Kurt Busch

In addition, there will be three more entries. Two will come from the NASCAR Sprint Showdown that is to take place on Friday (Saturday here in Manila). The two teams on top after a 40-lap race  (divided into two 20-lap segments), will be rewarded with a chance at the million.

The last entry goes to the winner of the fan vote conducted on the NASCAR website and the mobile app. Last day for voting is scheduled on Friday.

The breakdown of how this 90-lap race goes can be seen on the infographic below.

Regardless of the result, this race helps the teams prepare for the race the following week, the Coca-Cola 600. To be held at the same track, it is the longest race on the NASCAR calendar.

The NASCAR All-Star Race will be shown on May 18, Sunday, 8am on FOX Sports PH, with the initial replay on Monday, May 19, at 5pm.

NASCAR on FOX Sports PH is fueled by Seaoil Philippines, now powered with STP additives.

TV5 series feautres boxing champion Denver Cuello

Last week, the TV5 series Beki Boxer featured a guest appearance from a real-life boxer.

WBC Silver World Champion Denver Cuello had been tabbed to play the role of Marvin "The Hammerhead" Ortega, the first opponent that Alwyn Uytingco (as Rocky "The Tsunami" Ponciano) will face in his ascent to boxing greatness.

The man (33-5-6 with 21 KOs) dubbed as "The Excitement" is on the comeback trail after suffering a loss Xiong Zhao Zhong in his last fight.

Beki Boxer is shown weekdays at 7pm on TV5.

Johnriel Casimero wins, but gets stripped of title

Johnriel Casimero was able to secure the victory in the main event of Pinoy Knockout this past weekend in the Waterfront Hotel & Casino in Cebu, but the win is hollow for the Filipino.

Casimero was stripped of his IBF Junior Light Flyweight title and a portion of his purse was docked after he weighed five pounds over the limit.

In spite of not making the 108-lb weight limit, the fight pushed through and Johnriel managed to beat Mauricio Fuentes in the opening round. He knocked the Colombian down three times, the third one forcing referee George White to end the match at the 2:59 mark.

Casimero ended Fuentes' winning streak and with the victory, is expected now to move up to flyweight and position themselves for a possible title shot against Juan Francisco Estrada.