The Meralco Bolts dealt their first loss in the second season of the East Asia Super League (EASL) at the hands of Japan B.League squad, Ryukyu Golden Kings, 77-74, Wednesday night, October 16, at the Okinawa Arena in Japan.

The Bolts fell prey to last year’s B.League runner up despite making a valiant effort to mount a comeback rally. Import Allen Durham, who was playing against his former team for the first time, along with Bong Quinto and DJ Kennedy, steered the team into a late game surge that only fell short.

With 2:50 minutes left, the Bolts were behind 66-77 before they sank eight unanswered points to cut the deficit to three, 74-77, with 41.7 remaining. Durham had the opportunity to force the game into overtime but his game-tying three-point attempt was knocked by Ryukyu import Victor Law.

Law, who once played for the Orlando Magic, helped the Golden Kings to avoid catastrophe as they won their first EASL game to take a 1-0 lead in Group B.

Durham finished with 18 points, nine rebounds, and five assists in the losing cause that dropped Meralco to 1-1 record after failing to build on its recent home soil victory over the Macau Black Bears, 97-85, at the SM Mall of Asia.

Kennedy paced the Bolts with 30 markers and 12 boards, while Chris Newsome hammered 18.

Law led the Golden Kings with a double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds, another import Jack Cooley fired the same output along with seven boards, while naturalized player Alex Kirk supplemented 12.

The Bolts' next game is against Busan KCC Egis of the Korean Basketball League on November 13 at Philsports Arena.

The Scores:

Ryukyu (77) — Law 18, Cooley 18, Kirk 12, Eumatsu 9, Matsuwaki 9, Waki 6, Kishimoto 3, Arakawa 2, Onodera 0.

Meralco (74) — Kennedy 30, Durham 18, Newsome 18, Kouame 4, Quinto 4, Bates 0, Almazan 0, Caram 0.

Quarter Scores: 23-18; 51-35; 66-57; 77-74.

University of Santo Tomas unlatched its second round campaign with a dominating win over University of the Philippines, 84-57, in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Women’s Basketball Tournament Sunday afternoon, October 14, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. 

Veteran guard Tacky Tacatac showed no signs of ceasing her hot streak as she bolstered UST to a 7-1 record with their fourth straight win. 

Tacatac finished with a game-high 23 points, as three consecutive three-pointers courtesy of Karylle Sierba and Kent Pastrana ballooned UST’s lead to 14 entering the fourth period, 60-46, keeping hold of solo second place. 

“Coach told us in the dugout that we needed to focus on defense because our scoring was useless if we were also letting the opponent score, which is why we couldn’t pull away. Luckily, in the second half, we were able to stop UP,” said Tacatac.

Sierba contributed 15 markers, all from the three-point line. Pastrana chipped in 11 points and five rebounds. CJ Maglupay scored 10 and 11 boards, while Brigette Santos tallied eight markers, seven dimes, and six deflections.

In the fourth quarter, Louna Ozar gave the Fighting Maroons a quick boost by scoring four points a row to cut the deficit to 10, 50-60. But that hope swiftly diminished when UST answered with a 17-2 run, taking a dominating 77-52 lead with 5:08 remaining in the game.

The Growling Tigresses will seek for another win when they face Ateneo on Saturday, October 19, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

As the Fighting Maroons dropped to fifth place with a 3-5 slate, they will have to take on  National University on Sunday, October 20, at the same venue.

The Scores:

UST 84 – Tacatac 23, Sierba 15, Pastrana 11, Maglupay 10, Santos 8, Ambos 6, Soriano 5, Reliquette 4, Pineda 2, Bron 0, Pescador 0, Danganan 0, Serrano 0, Lopez 0, Amatong 0.

UP 57 – Ozar 15, Pesquera 10, Bariquit 8, Sauz 6, Maw 6, Tapawan 5, Lozada 5, Mendoza 2, Jimenez 0, Barba 0, Vingno 0, Solitario 0, Nolasco 0.

Quarter Scores: 22-16, 41-38, 60-46, 84-57

National University maintained its flawless record in the second round of the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Basketball Tournament on Sunday, October 13, with a commanding 20-point victory against Ateneo, 82-62, at the Araneta Coliseum.

Rookie Cielo Pagdulagan delivered her usual fine form for the Lady Bulldogs with 16 points along with seven assists, six rebounds, and five steals without committing a turnover to end the match with a game-high plus-27 rating off the bench.

In their first round matchup, Ateneo had given NU everything it had before the Lady Bulldogs clinched 66-58. This time, they had less difficulty, taking control of the game with a 20-point second quarter and winning by a significant margin.

"The one week break that happened between the first round and the second round really helped us in preparing for this game specifically because we had a lot of time processing and laying down the game plan," said NU coach Aris Dimaunahan. 

Banking on the absence of Ateneo’s leading player Junize Calago, who fouled out early in the third quarter at 7:18, the Lady Bulldogs extended their lead to a game-high 22 points, 56-34, courtesy of Aloha Betanio’s layup and triple.

Betanio recorded 11 markers, five boards, three dimes, and four deflections, while May Canuto supplemented 11 points, four rebounds, and two assists. 

Jainaba Konateh and Camille Clarin each provided eight and seven markers, while Angel Surada only managed to score three points on one of four shots but still pulled down eight rebounds.

The Lady Bulldogs hope to keep their record unblemished when they face the UP Fighting Maroons next Sunday, October 20, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

Meanwhile, Kacey Dela Rosa tallied her eight consecutive double-double with 22 points and 17 rebounds, as well as an assists and a block, while Nigerian center Sarah Makanjoula was limited to seven markers on 2-of-8 shooting but still managed to finish with 11 boards, two deflections, one rejections, and one dimes.

After fouling out, Calago posted six points, four rebounds, four assists, and two steals, but also committed six turnovers. 

Ateneo will strive to end a two-game losing streak against the reigning champions Growling Tigresses next Saturday, October 19, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

The Scores:

NU (82) - Pagdulagan 16, Betanio 11, Canuto 11, Konateh 8, Clarin 7, Villanueva 6, Pingol 5, Fabruada 4, Solis 4, Cayabyab 3, Surada 3, Ico 2, Alterado 2, Pring 0, Talas 0

Ateneo (62) - Dela Rosa 22, Makanjuola 7, Cruza 7, Calago 6, Batongbakal 6, Oani 6, Angala 5, Villacruz 2, Eufemiano 1, Nieves 0, Aquirre 0, Olivenza 0, Cancio 0, Lopez 0, Fetalvero 0.

Quarter Scores: 19-14, 39-25, 64-47, 82-62.

Wello Lingolingo saved the UE Red Warriors on Sunday night, October 6, by knocking down a game-winning buzzer beater jumper to take a thrilling 63-62 victory against Adamson Soaring Falcons at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Lingolingo got a timely offensive board off a Nico Mulingtapang miss, then double-pumped in the air before taking a bank shot at the buzzer that sealed the game and extended the University of the East win streak to five games.

UE finished the first round of eliminations with a 5-2 record to place solo third.

“Yung nakita ko yung oras, hindi ako nag-dala­wang isip. Luckily, pumasok yung shot,” said Lingolingo off his game-winning basket.

“Sinasabi ni coach Jack (Santiago) na hindi dapat hinahanap ‘yung laro, ha­yaan mo ‘yung laro ‘yung pupunta sayo. ‘Yun lang yung ginagawa ko wala akong tinitake na forced shot. ‘Yung game-winning shot hindi ko talaga ini­-­expect, parang nandoon lang talaga ako tapos na-make ko lang salamat kay God,” he added. 

Precious Momowei led UE in scoring with 14 points, together with 11 rebounds and three steals, while Devin Fikes added 11 markers and three boards.

The Red Warriors only led twice in the game, the first being a 53-52 advantage at the 7:53 mark of the fourth period on a Lingolingo three-pointer before the Soaring Falcons answered back. 

UE’s second lead was the game-winner.

Meanwhile, Adamson suffered their second straight loss and fell to fifth place with a 3-4 slate.

The Scores:

UE 63 – Momowei 14, Fikes 11, Lingolingo 10, Galang 10, J. Cruz-Dumont 8, Mulingtapang 4, Maga 4, Abate 2, Wilson 0, Spandonis 0, H. Cruz-Dumont 0.

ADAMSON 62 – Montebon 12, Erolon 11, Mantua 9, Manzano 9, Yerro 7, Calisay 6, Fransman 5, Anabo 2, Ojarikre 1, Barasi 0, Ramos 0, Ignacio 0, Barcelona 0, Dignadice 0.

Quarters: 18-23, 34-39, 48-50, 63-62.

The PBA Commissioner’s Cup will feature a one-import format with unlimited height.

There will also be a guest team in Hong Kong Eastern which is close to finalizing their entry for the said conference.

Each team will be allowed to field one import with unlimited height, including HKE as the 13th team of the tournament after they formalized their entry.

"Imports natin for the Commissioner's Cup isa lang with unlimited height. Pinag-usapan din namin sa Hong Kong Eastern yun. And pumayag din sila doon," said PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial.

Marcial added the league and the Hong Kong-based ballclub already agreed in principle about the team's coming participation in the mid-season conference which comes off the wraps on November 27.

"Kontrata na lang. Pero in principle ok na kami nung team owner (chairman Frankie Yau). Kausap ko siya nung isang araw nasa Europe siya. Gagawa na lang ng kontrata," said Marcial.

The guest team can also change imports but could only field one at a time and import-change should be according to the PBA's regulation.

It means that the original import can be replaced, but had to be relegated in the injury/reserved list in order to be eligible to return if ever his team decides so.

But the replacement import could no longer return once he's been supplanted by the original reinforcement.

Hong Kong Eastern is also eyeing a two-year stint with the league but Marcial said they have to discuss it first after the season finished.

One more thing, the Hong Kong team will not have a home game this conference and they will play their entire schedule in the country.

Adamson University ended the first round of the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Basketball Tournament, securing a solo third place following a 63-51 win against University of the East on Sunday, October 6, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Lady Falcons delivered a stellar performance for their Season 87 campaign, closing out the first round with a 5-2 record. The last time they achieved this much success was when they finished third place after losing against De La Salle University back in Season 75 in 2012.

“I’m very happy with how the first round went for us. It’s all about the effort of the players. On our part, we’ll just guide them,” said Lady Falcons head coach Ryan Monteclaro.

The third quarter became a challenge for the Lady Falcons as they had to weather UE’s charges. The Lady Warriors kicked off the second half with a 16-6 run fueled with Ivy Yanez’s eight-point surge to cut the deficit to 47-37.

However, Adamson was able to quickly regain their composure with nine unanswered points in the final period as their lead ballooned to 56-37 advantage eventually sealing the game to secure their fifth win of the season. 

Monteclaro fielded all of 16 of his players, with 13 of them getting on the scoresheet.

Kim Limbago tallied 10 points on 4-of-5 shooting with three assists, two rebounds, and one steal for the Lady Falcons. Kim Adeshina supplemented seven markers, 11 boards, three blocks, one deflection, and one dime, while Angela Alaba contributed seven points, four rebounds, two assists, and two steals.

Yanez led the Lady Warriors with 16 markers, six boards, three dimes, and one block, while Katherine Ruiz and Aliyah Ronquillo supplied 12 and 10 points, respectively, in the losing effort.

San Miguel averted disaster after dispatching the Converge FiberXers in the toe-to-toe Game 5 of their quarterfinals match-up, 109-105, on Sunday night at the Ynares Center, Antipolo.

June Mar Fajardo showed why he's an eight-time MVP by producing a monster double-double of 40 points and 24 rebounds to lead the Beermen in entering the semis of the PBA Season 49 Governors' Cup.

Fajardo went 15-of-27 from the field and shot 10-of-12 from the free throw line to carry much of the load in SMB's triumph.

Though having a lot of contributions, JMF said that they all step-up in their do-or-die victory.

"Nag-step up kami lahat sa game na ito. Do-or-die na ito, kapag natalo kami, uuwi na. Ayaw pa naming umuwi," said Fajardo.

"Lagi kaming sinasabihan ni coach (Jorge Gallent) na laruin ang 'San Miguel basketball' at 'yun nga ang ginawa namin para makuha ito," he added.

The FiberXers might have fallen down in the series but they made a gallant stand against the mighty Beermen led by their import Jalen Jones who also had a double-double of 29 points and 17 rebounds.

Alec Stockton produced 22 for Converge, while Bryan Santos and Alex Cabagnot contributed 16 and 14 markers, respectively.

They were still in the game until Schonny Winston misfired a four ball then Jones fumbled a kick-out from Cabagnot in the closing seconds.

SMB now set a best-of-seven semi-finals match-up against Barangay Ginebra that will begin on Wednesday, October 9, at the PhilSports Arena.

Rain or Shine advanced to the semi-finals of the PBA Season 49 Governors' Cup after defeating Magnolia in the Game 5 of their grueling battle, 113-103, on Saturday night, October 5, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

Andrei Caracut rose to the occasion by scoring six of his 14 points in the final two minutes of the game.

Aaron Fuller produced his usual contribution by knocking 26 points and grabbing nine rebounds, while Jhonard Clarito and Adrian Nocum added 17 markers each.

Leonard Santillan and Keith Datu were also vital in the Elasto Painters’ win as they chalked up 12 and 11 points, respectively.

RoS head coach Yeng Guiao said that he is proud of how his young team fought against a veteran team like Magnolia.

"Proud ako as they competed and fought it out and hindi sila bumigay under pressure. It's the fighting heart that these guys showed," said Guiao.

Javari Bird led the Hotshots with 23 points and 15 rebounds, while Calvin Abueva added 16 and Jerrick Ahanmisi contributed 15.

Rain or Shine will now face the TNT Tropang Giga in a best-of-seven semi-finals series that will start on Wednesday, October 9, at the PhilSports Arena.

Converge surprised the mighty Beermen once again as they dragged them to a winner-take-all showdown after having a 114-110 victory in Game 4 of their PBA Season 49 Governors' Cup quarterfinals match-up to tie the series on Friday night, October 4, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

The FiberXers put the pressure on SMB by making clutch plays in the end including Bryan Santos' back-to-back triples that gave them a 101-95 lead in the home stretch.

“We just bank on hope in Game 3 because we were down 2-0. And now we banked on grit. We’ll bring that hope and grit to Game 5,” said Converge head coach Franco Atienza.

Deschon Winston steered Converge in scoring with 26 points, including 16 in the third canto, while Justin Arana contributed solid 25 markers.

Import Jalen Jones added 22 for the FiberXers but had to sit down in the precious minutes of the game when he was called for a flagrant foul penalty on a landing spot rule.

Good thing for Converge, Santos stepped up when he came in to give the FiberXers the boost they needed to erect a 14-point lead that virtually sealed the game for them.

“Wala na 'yong stats, wala na 'yong mga (previous games). Everything is out of the window. It’s just one game,” added Franco ahead of Sunday’s do-or-die encounter.

SMB was led by EJ Anosike with 35 points and 11 rebounds, while June Mar Fajardo added 17 markers and 20 boards.

Game 5 will be held on Sunday, October 6, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. The winner will then face Barangay Ginebra in a best-of-seven semifinals series.

The Elasto Painters team is now ready for their competition against Magnolia Hotshots in another do-or-die game tomorrow, Saturday, October 5, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.

Coach Yeng Guiao firmly believes that through this match, their desire to end the eight-year hunger for a title will be strong and soon to get hold of it.

It can be remembered that last Tuesday in their intense Game 4 against the Hotshots, Rain or Shine failed to get the third win and they were dumped by Magnolia, 129-100. Guiao said that his team's stability as well as their resiliency and character will be tested in their clash tomorrow (Saturday) against the Hotshots.

“Yung experience of playing a Game 5, of being in a winner-take-all situation, sa akin, kasama na ng build up yun. We're always getting better every playoff game that we played,” said the head coach of Rain or Shine.

“So investment namin ito sa future ng team na para lalo kang tumitibay pag ka ganitong sitwasyon. So a Game 5 would be good for us as a team. This Saturday pag balik namin kailangan mas prepared kami for a very physical game, noting how the Hotshots played physically in the previous game.” Guiao added. 

“On our end, siguro kailangan kaming mag step up in terms of being a little bit more aggressive defensively and medyo yung transition game namin, yung running game namin, I don’t know if we’re tired or we’re a little slower or not able to get into the pace that we would usually be playing,” told Guiao. 

The winner of the series will play TNT Tropang Giga in the best-of-seven semis that begins on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.

Meralco tamed the new team Macau Black Bears and gave them a rude welcome in the East Asia Super League (EASL) Home and Away Season 2.

The Bolts, just recently eliminated from their PBA Governors’ Cup campaign, poured out their frustrations against Macau with a 97-85 win on Wednesday night, October 2, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Chris Newsome led Meralco with 18 points and six assists, while import Allen Durham produced double-double numbers, 17 markers and 11 boards.

The other Meralco import, DJ Kennedy contributed solid numbers by scoring 17 points, grabbing nine rebounds and dishing off eight dimes.

Another Chris also tallied double-digit in scoring as Banchero shared 14 for the Bolts.

Naturalized player Ange Kouame added nine points and nine rebounds for Meralco, which led by as many as 19 points.

"It's nice to win our first game in the country. We played with a lot of pride, although we didn't play our best game, at least we got one over here in our home turf," said coach Luigi Trillo after the game.

On the other hand, Will Artino and Jeantal Cylla both scored 23 for Macau while grabbing a combined 21 rebounds.

Meralco will be in action again on October 16 against Ryukyu Golden Kings at the Okinawa Arena, Japan.

The scores:

Meralco (97) -- Newsome 18, Durham 17, Kennedy 17, Banchero 14, Kouame 9, Almazan 7, Quinto 7, Hodge 4, Caram 2, Bates 2.

Macau Black Bears (85) -- Cylla 23, Artino 23, Chongqui 21, Leung 10, Deguara 8, Chao 0, Li 0, Zeng 0, Lao 0, Chan 0.

Quarter Scores: 24-17; 43-39; 73-64; 97-85.

San  Miguel Beermen failed to protect home court in the opening game of the East Asia Super League (EASL) Home and Away Season 2 as they succumbed to Suwon KT Sonicboom of the Korean Basketball League, 87-81, on Wednesday night, October 2, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The 6-foot-9 import of Sonicboom, Rayshaun Hammond dropped 39 points and 14 rebounds to lead the Korean squad in defeating the reigning PBA Commissioner’s Cup champion.

Hammonds even scored seven in the 9-0 blast made by Suwon at the tail end of the fourth period to give their team an 87-75 lead.

Meanwhile, Beermen import EJ Anosike led the team with 34 markers and seven boards, while PBA reigning MVP June Mar Fajardo produced 19 and 9.

At the end of first half, SMB was still leading at 43-39 but the team did not sustain their good start.

"In the first half of this game, everybody played well, everybody played hard. It was just those small things coming to the end game that really cost us the game," said San Miguel coach Jorge Gallent.

On the side of the visitors, Suwon KT coach Son Young-jin uttered, "We execute well our game plan."

Next game for the San Miguel Beermen will be on November 13 against the Taoyuan Pauian Pilots at the PhilSports Arena.

The University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigresses secured its second straight win after hammering University of the Philippines, 84-60, in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Basketball Tournament on Wednesday, October 2, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Tacky Tacatac delivered her best performance of the season after unloading four triples to finish with 20 points, including 14 in the fourth quarter that gave UST an 84-58 cushion with 1:20 remaining on the clock.

“I hope she (Tacky) continues to play well. Like they say, a shooter will always be a shooter. It will give us more space in our offense because the defenders are focused on Tacky,” UST head coach Haydee Ong said post-game.

Kent Pastrana as usual sustained her outstanding performance, finishing with 21 markers, highlighted by three triples, nine rebounds, four assists, and two steals to improve the Growling Tigresses record to 5-1.

UST rookie Karylle Sierba recorded 11 markers, six dimes, three boards, and two deflections, while Season 85 MVP Eka Soriano chipped in five points, eight rebounds, and four steals in the winning effort. 

The Growling Tigresses will aim to conclude the first round on a winning note against Far Eastern University on Saturday, October 5, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. 

A resounding recommendation from Kiefer Ravena undeniably fuelled the NLEX Road Warriors with American DeQuan Jones joining the team in the remainder of the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup.

Prior to replacing Myke Henry and donning the shades of blue, orange, and white for his first ever PBA stint, Jones played alongside Ravena, who was a former Road Warriors, for the B. League team Shiga last season.

In spite of having no experience playing for Filipino teams, Jones had a minimal to none adjustment period as he insinuated that it is fun to play in a country that really loves and respects the game of basketball.

“The Philippines is a great place,” Jones said during an exclusive interview with Dribble Report. “I can tell the love for the game is deeply rooted in the culture and in the people. It has been a fun experience so far.”

His scorching performances propelled the Road Warriors to book a ticket into the quarterfinals of this year’s Governors’ Cup and even earned a gleaming nod from Filipino basketball enthusiasts.

As the road towards the crown became suffocating, Jones complimented his squad saying despite there might be times that the game would not play out the way they had hoped for, they still fought through the adversity.

“I think to some extent they didn't beat us. We beat ourselves with turnovers,” told the alumnus of University of Miami.

“I think that speaks to what type of talent and what kind of team we have. I don't think they beat us. I think we beat ourselves,” he added.

Jones also did not forget to take pride in his relationship with his teammates and an incredible amount of compliments were showered to their head coach, Jong Uichico who boasts a wealth of experience that steered them to where they are today.

“Our relationship is really good. Coach Jong as a coach, his skill set, he does a great job with keeping everybody poised,” praised Jones with regards to the veteran tactician. 

The 6-foot-8 forward also added that Coach Jong does a great job with managing emotions and handling temperaments within his wards.

“He does a great job regardless of what the circumstances are. Keeping everybody focused. Keeping everybody engaged. I think that's a testament to his experience and his tenure as head coach.”

Coach Jong took the reins of leading the NLEX Road Warriors after Frankie Lim stepped down from the position after two years with the ballclub.

As of writing, the NLEX failed to establish a roadblock that would prevent TNT from securing a semifinal spot. 

The firepower of Tropang Giga prevailed as they pounced the Road Warriors with a 125-96 victory.

TNT booked the second ticket in the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup semi-finals after dispatching the NLEX Road Warriors, 125-96, in their game last night, October 1, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

The Tropang Giga got the 3-1 triumph in their best-of-five series with a 29-point blowout to continue its journey to their title defense bid.

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson once again led TNT with his 35 points and 11 rebounds, while Rey Nambatac delivered 19 markers on a 7-of-12 shooting from the field, and RR Pogoy also contributed 18 on 6-of-10 shooting.

Calvin Oftana had his own share by manufacturing 11 points and grabbing 10 boards.

At the end of first quarter, the Tropang Giga already erected a 10-point lead. Then, they started the second period with an 11-0 blast, and never looked back from that moment to finally seal the deal at the end of the game.

With the quick series win against the Road Warriors, TNT will enjoy some rest while awaiting the Rain or Shine-Magnolia knock-out matchup on whom they will play in the best-of-seven final four.

"In basketball, it's about playing defense and putting the ball in the hoops. In the quarterfinals, we finally hit some shots," said TNT coach Chot Reyes.

"Whichever we play will be a much different team, and it will be a test for our flexibility and adaptability. It will be a big test for our defense," he added.

Robert Bolick and DeQuan Jones had 25 and 21 markers, respectively, for NLEX, but TNT’s hot 57.5 percent shooting from the field was too much for the Road Warriors to overcome.

Magnolia recovered from a disappointing start to dominate Game 4 of their quarter final series against Rain or Shine on Tuesday night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium to force a knockout game on Saturday, October 5.

The Hotshots relied on their four-point shooting to extend their campaign in the 2024 PBA Governors’ Cup as they recorded a 129-100 win after.

Paul Lee, in the most opportune time played his best game of the series to lead the team in saving their tournament lives. The ‘Leethal weapon” produced 25 points highlighted by a 3-of-4 four-pointers.

Jabari Bird as usual delivered a quiet but effective offensive prowess for Magnolia as he led them in scoring with 30 markers.

Jerrick Ahanmisi also helped in the scoring parade by contributing 14, including two 4-pointers to move out of a tie with Blackwater’s import George King (17) as the No. 1 in most four-pointers made in the PBA. His two conversions gave him the 18th and 19th of his career.

Veterans Mark Barroca and Ian Sangalang also produced double-digit scoring for the Hotshots as they contributed 10 apiece. Calvin Abueva, Aris Dionisio and Rome Dela Rosa also helped in their offensive thrust as they tallied nine markers each.

"I'm thankful to the players for having the right mindset and focus. Sa board namin sa pre-game, sinulat ko doon 'it's all about believing.' In order for us to win this game, we need to grind for 53 minutes," said Magnolia coach Chito Victolero.

"I think the players were so focused. They wanted to have another chance on Saturday."

Rain or Shine actually started the game on a 11-2 run before Magnolia made their comeback to tie the game at the end of the first period with 26 apiece.

The Hotshots even ended the half with a 62-44 lead. Then, they finished the third canto with a 99-79 advantage, and concluded the game at 129-120.

Aaron Fuller led the Elasto Painters with 22 markers and 10 boards in a losing cause, while Jhonard Clarito added 15 points.

Their fifth and final game of their quarter final series will be on Saturday at the Ynares Center, Antipolo City.

The scores:

MAGNOLIA 129 – Bird 30, Lee 25, Ahanmisi 14, Barroca 10, Sangalang 10, Abueva 9, Dela Rosa 9, Dionisio 9, Mendoza 8, Eriobu 5, Laput 0.

RAIN OR SHINE 100 – Fuller 22, Clarito 15, Nocum 11, Belga 11, Caracut 11, Mamuyac 10, Asistio 5, Santillan 4, Tiongson 4, Ildefonso 4, Datu 2, Lemetti 1, Norwood 0.

QUARTERS: 26-26; 62-44; 99-79; 129-100.

The East Asia Super League (EASL) Home and Away launches its 2024-25 season, kicking off a thrilling double-header at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday, October 2.

Two PBA basketball champions will banner the opening games with the reigning Commissioner’s Cup victors San Miguel Beermen will face Korean Basketball League finalist Suwon KT Sonicboom in the first game of the night, while PBA Philippine Cup winners Meralco Bolts will then take on Macau Black Bears.

“We feel that tomorrow's games will be a great way to launch the 2024-2025 season,” Banjo Albano, Head of Philippines for the East Asia Super League, told the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

The magnitude of how much the Philippine fans love the game of basketball propelled Albano and his company to conduct the EASL tip-off in the country, citing Manila as the best place to commence this year’s season opener. 

“Not only is it an honor, but really more of an obligation to grow the game here locally as well. So, once the chance came about scheduling the games here in Manila, the whole team, Adam included, we had a great deal of discussion, and we felt that Manila would be the best place to kick off the season.”

Heading into the second season, EASL has recently expanded in terms of number of teams. From previously having eight teams, they stretched the participating teams into 10. 

“We have added a team from Hong Kong and from Macau. So, we will be playing 34 games, starting with tomorrow, on the 2nd of October. The games will then go all the way through, all across about six months, and finish on the 9th of March,” said Vice President and Head of Commercial and Broadcast Operations, Adam Zecha.

“This will be 30 games during the group stage, four games during our playoffs, which is our final four. So, it is bigger. It is a bigger season than we had last season,” he added.

With EASL welcoming the expansion of participating teams within the neighboring countries, possibilities of inviting leagues from Australia and New Zealand entered the discourse as they are also playing in the FIBA Asia. 

Zecha explained that when there are champions of Asia playing each other, it attracts a lot of attention. It gets a lot of interest from different leagues around the region close by, as well as further away.

“We enjoy that, we like that, we welcome it. We want to be able to have the best teams playing across the world,” he said. “We need to work on the logistics on how we will make that happen. There are a lot of conversations going on about how to best structure something like that.”

Zecha even reckoned that they are not closing their doors to that opportunity in the future as they are always having conversations with other leagues about having more teams to join. 

In the previous edition, the Japanese team Chiba Jets won the championship with Philippine representatives, TNT Tropang Giga and Meralco Bolts failing to make it to the Final Four. 

No announcement yet on the location for the Final Four playoffs as the finishing season was held in Cebu last year. 

Aaron Fuller, a native from Mesa, Arizona, started playing basketball during his college years in the University of Iowa and University of California before he became a professional player, and played in Portugal, New Zealand and Mexico, and later in the Philippines.

In 2017, Fuller decided to play basketball in the Philippines where he signed with the NLEX Road Warriors as an import for the 2017 PBA Governors’ Cup where he averaged 22.6 points  17.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.6 steals and 1.5 blocks in 11 games.

After a year, Fuller re-joined the NLEX Road Warriors in August for the 2018 PBA Governors' Cup as replacement for Olu Ashaolu who suffered an injury. Fuller also played for Blackwater Elite in 2019 and in TNT Tropang GIga in 2021-2022.

In July 2024, Fuller returned to the Philippines for the fifth time, this time playing as an import for the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in the 2024 PBA Governors' Cup. This is Fuller's fourth team in the PBA. He also reunited with coach Yeng Guiao who coached him during his stay with the NLEX from 2017-2018. 

In an exclusive interview of Scoreline.ph, Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao expressed that Aaron Fuller was the type of their import that is a simple and quiet person, not showy or flashy.

Guiao has confidence in Fuller in terms of being proactive and reactive. He also believed that his import can always contribute in offense, as Fuller was able to produce around 20 points, 15-20 in rebounding and can play defense too, plus he has a strong body.

“Our import is very solid. He is not flashy, he doesn’t talk a lot, he is just quiet. But you can rely on him. He has a solid offensive game, there are (games) that he can contribute 20, he can also defend. He can even give you 15-20 rebounds. You can’t bully him inside as he has a strong body,” said Guiao in Filipino as he complimented his import.

Guiao also added that it is an advantage to their team that they have an import like Fuller that has chemistry with other local players, and his teammates like him very much. 

“His teammates like him. It’s a big factor when your import has good chemistry with the locals,” coach Yeng added.

His co-player forward Jhonard Clarito describes him as a very kind import and knows how to deal with the other players especially in his own teammates. 

“Our import Aaron, he is so kind and knows how to get along with us,” said Clarito. 

For other players, they see Fuller as an energetic man who can provide tons of second chance points for any other team and that is why coach Yeng again chose him and called him to suit up as an import for the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters.

Fuller is a source of inspiration with a warrior’s spirit that can always bring encouragement, and he always plays with a big heart for the sake of his team.

Converge Alec Stockton made the final say in the Game 3 of their quarter finals against San Miguel when he hit a two-point jumper at the end of the buzzer to lead the FiberXers victory against the Beermen, 114-112, on Monday night, September 30, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

The victory was the first franchise win of Converge in a post-elims play and the team did it in a fashionable way as they pulled off a fourth-quarter comeback from 21 deficit.

San Miguel’s lead even reached as high as 27 points when they erected an 83-56 advantage before entering the final canto with an 83-66 edge.

Then, the FiberXers resilience prevailed in the end as Stockton buried the game-winning shot over the outstretched arms of CJ Perez.

Stockton's buzzer-beater became possible after the Converge guard stayed in the game when a flagrant foul penalty two called on him in the first quarter was downgraded to a penalty one after a review.

He was initially called for a F2 after elbowing Kris Rosales in the closing seconds of the first period, but after the referees changed the call, allowing Stockton to stay in the game.

Stockton finished with 20 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists for the FiberXers, while Justin Arana produced 23 markers and 11 boards, and import Jalen Jones added 17.

“It’s still far. Isa pa lang ito. It’s one of the three. It’s hard to beat that team three straight. But we will take it one game muna,” said Converge coach Franco Atienza.

EJ Anosike racked up 39 points, grabbed nine rebounds, and dished off five assists, while Perez added 18 points and 10 rebounds for the Beermen in the defeat.

The Beermen still lead the best-of-five series, 2-1, and will try to close it again on Friday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Barangay Ginebra swept rival Meralco Bolts, 113-106, in their best-of-five quarter finals series last night, September 30, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium to get the first ticket to the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup semi final round.

Justin Brownlee led the Gin Kings in scoring by producing 23 points including two booming four-pointers that started their ‘never-say-die’ comeback after being down as much as 12 points.

Stephen Holt, who was named Best Player of the Game, together with RJ Abarrientos and Maverick Ahanmsi helped Brownlee in their fightback as they also delivered from the two rainbow countries.

Holt had a total of 19 markers which include a triple that gave the Gin Kings their largest lead at 105-98 with 2:36 left in the game.

Abarrientos produced 17 points, while Ahanmisi contributed the same numbers including three 3-pointers.

Ginebra head coach Tim Cone said that he was shocked that they have defeated the Bolts in three straight games, “First of all, I’m totally shocked that we were able to beat them in three straight games. And each game came with a play here or play there would have changed the whole complexion of the game.”

"Credit just goes to the guys for really reaching deep. They really locked in the second half and so it was amazing to see them really reach deep from within themselves to pull this game out," he added.

Allen Durham paced Meralco with 38 points and 13 rebounds, while four of his teammates also produced double-digit scoring.

The Gin Kings now await the winner of the SMB-Converge series on whom they will face in a best-of-seven semi final showdown.

PBA Season 48 Most Improved Player Jhonard Clarito has shared his basketball journey in an exclusive interview with Dribble Report when the team visited one of the practices of the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters.

Style of Play

The first thing he shared with Dribble Report was the transition of his game play from his college days to commercial league to how he does it now.

“More on running and defense. Defense first. That’s my mindset since I played in college. My school and I were not famous,” Clarito, who was an alumnus of De Ocampo Memorial College, said in Filipino.

Then, he brought his talent to the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) where he played with San Juan Knights under coach Randy Alcantara and even won a championship with them in 2019.

“In San Juan Knights, under coach Randy, the playing style is the same – transition and defense,” added Clarito.

Transition to Rain or Shine

After his MPBL career, Jhonard brought his wares to the Philippine Basketball Association where he was drafted by Rain or Shine in the second round of the 2022 PBA Draft as the 22nd pick overall.

Coach Chris Gavina was still the coach of the Elasto Painters when Clarito was drafted in that year but he didn’t play that much.

“When I was drafted here under Coach Chris Gavina, I didn’t play much because I think I was sick by then. Then, after a year Coach Yeng came in.”

Thriving in Coach Yeng’s system

Clarito said that when coach Guiao arrived, he was given the amount of playing time that he needed and became comfortable to CYG’s system as his game not just only blossomed but also improved.

“When coach (Yeng) arrived, I was given playing time. I played my game again and even improved it.”

Asked if they entered the semis or even the finals on what he can contribute more for the team, he said, “I think, I need to double my effort in defense and offense. I also need to create (plays) for my teammates and I need to play hard inside so that they can imitate my aggressiveness. That’s just what we need - go hard inside and you should know what to do in defense.”

Relationship with his coach, import, and teammates

Jhonard also shared with Dribble Report his close relationship with his teammates and his gratitude to his coach.

“With my teammates, we always joke around. There’s no problem with us. It’s important that we joke with one another but no one gets offended. Especially those Bisaya like me - Santi (Santillan), Kuya Beau (Belga) and F (Escandor). That’s what makes our team happy, when we ‘bully’ each other.”

Clarito was all praises also to their import Aaron Fuller who’s an integral part of their success in their PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup campaign where they finished the elimination round as the top seed in Group B.

“Aaron, he is good. He just does his job. He doesn’t demand to score but if he needs to, he will. If rebounding is needed from him, he will rebound. That’s the beauty of having him (as in import). We also need to help him so we can continue our momentum,” he said of their prized import.

When asked about what he can say about Coach Yeng, Jhonard was deeply grateful that he has a mentor like Guiao.

“For me, Coach Yeng is a good coach. He is not just coaching us inside the court. He also mentored us in our lifestyle. He taught us how to save and what to do with those.”

Clarito also said that CYG is father-figure to them, “Coach is always telling us that we will not play basketball forever, so we have to save for our future and our family because the worth of our salary today, we cannot get if after retirement.”

Another attribute that Jhonard appreciates from his coach is that he trusts his players as long as they work hard.

“Coach Yeng is so kind. He will only scold inside the court if you made mistakes. What is important for him is that you play the right way and defend well. He will still use you if you make turnovers as long as you bounce back.”

Jhonard Clarito might have won the MIP award already but with the guidance of his coach and trust of his teammates, he is continuously improving. That being said, the best is yet to come to the pride of Davao del Sur.

It is no surprise that the foundation of Rain or Shine has been built through the camaraderie of homegrown talents, who are thirsty to prove their worth and place in the fiercely competed Philippine Basketball Association or PBA.

The Elasto Painters’ roster now boasts an abundance of options on offense and defense, a pivotal balance that could anchor the team away from their 12-year drought of the Governor’s Cup win.

Seasoned veterans might have propelled the team with its depth that proves they could etch their name as one of the most formidable teams, but with the Rain or Shine being bolstered by young players, especially with this year’s draft picks, they might have a chance to attain the crown that was once in their hands.

No.7 overall pick in the draft, Caelan Tiongson proves that it is not too late to pursue one’s dream even at 32. With his impressive credentials, Tiongson is no longer a stranger to the sport. 

A lot of PBA teams wanted to capitalize Tiongson’s experience since showcasing his impressive play in the ASEAN Basketball League, starting with Chong Son Kung Fu and then Alab Pilipinas. 

Tiongson came out of his retirement in 2021 to take another shot at a hoops career by suiting up for Taoyuan Leopards of the T1 League in Taiwan before coming back to the Philippines to play for Strong Group in the 43rd William Jones Cup. 

The 6-foot-5, Filipino-American forward reaped the expectations of Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao as he boosts the team’s frontline when it comes not only on the offense but also on the defense.

“I don't treat Caelan as a rookie anymore,” coach Yeng told Dribble Report. “He has played a lot. So, you know his mentality is like a veteran.”

When asked regarding his experience under coach Yeng’s wing, Tiongson shared that he has been great so far and that his gameplay style is different from what he was used to. 

“This is the first time I've played this kind of style of basketball. I'm used to a slower style. So, he just preaches a lot of confidence,” said Tiongson. “Still getting used to it for sure. I have enjoyed playing for him. He wants to win and that’s really what's important when I play for a coach.” 

On the other hand, the No. 8 overall pick in the draft has exceeded forecasts just as his pick came as a shock to some basketball enthusiasts. 

After choosing a more established name in Tiongson, the Elasto Painters took a chance on the Filipino-Swedish Felix Lemetti who was bannering a heap of experience in just the age of 25. 

Before his stint with KFUM Fryshuset Basket of the Swedish Superettan, Sweden’s second-tier men’s pro league, Lemetti already played for three different NCAA Division 1 schools: first with Fairfield, then Omaha, and lastly with Southern Utah.

Lemetti was also exposed to FIBA youth competitions, expounding his background qualifications.

As he parade numerous overseas stints, coach Yeng is positive towards the performance Lemetti is displaying throughout their games.

“He is still young but he has already played in Europe. He has already played in NCAA Division 1. So, he just needs to have more experience or he needs to feel how we play here in the Philippines,” said coach Yeng about the 25-year-old guard.

“He has played in 11 games so far, and he will improve every game. But, of course, the playoff is different. He will improve himself. He will be able to adjust.”

Despite having the same sentiments with Tiongson in regards with the Rain or Shine’s main tactician, Lemetti expressed that it is the style that fits him well.

“I like to push the ball a lot. I like to shoot a lot of threes. It fits me really well,” the Enskede, Stockholm native said.

“Obviously, the winning part was a big thing, that always plays a factor. You always want to win. To be able to do so your first year is a great experience,” he added.

Coach Yeng emphasized that even though the two rookies are making improvement, he believes they will get even better through additional familiarity as they have just barely touched the surface. 

Tiongson, who didn’t play for two years, is practically getting back into the game and polishing his skills, while Lemetti has played in Sweden and the United States, so he is unfamiliar with the local style. 

However, the team is confident in their ability to make the necessary adaptations as Tiongson and Lemetti are one of the key Elasto Painters that can steer the hungry Rain or Shine back to its winning ways. 

Rain or Shine takes Game 3 in a thrilling overtime game against Magnolia, 111-106, on Sunday night, September 29, at the Ynares Center, Antipolo City.

Jhonard Clarito was named the Best Player of the Game after scoring 18 points and grabbing eight rebounds. He was supported by Gian Mamuyac and Andrei Caracut who scored 15 apiece for the Elasto Painters.

“I'm happy that we were able to hold our emotion, we were able to play through the end game," said Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao.

"They are really a veteran team (Magnolia). They’ve been through a lot of battles like this. When you defeat Magnolia in a close match at the end game, it means that you are also tough when it comes to closing the game," added the fiery mentor in Filipino. 

RoS import Aaron Fuller, who's doubtful to play in Game 3 after sustaining an eye injury in their previous game still suited up and even managed to put up double-double producing 29 markers and 11 boards.

The Elasto Painters erected multiple double-digit leads during the game but the Hotshots were so resilient to come back. They even tied the game at 98 after sophomore Zavier Lucero sank a four-pointer with 13.4 seconds in the fourth period.

A botched play of RoS almost cost them the game as it led to Magnolia's steal and gave them a chance to take the last shot in regulation but Mark Barroca's layup didn't go in.

It was a see-saw battle in the overtime period until the ending sequences happened.

Down 106-104, Lucero drove to the basket to lay his shot but was blocked by Clarito forcing the Hotshots to foul Mamuyac.

The play was reviewed by the referees and the block was deemed a goaltending violation, giving Lucero the points and forcing another deadlock at 106.

However, the foul called on Magnolia stood and the free throws were awarded to Mamuyac, much to the dismay of Hotshots coach Chito Victolero.

Mamuyac split his freebies, but Fuller got the offensive board, was fouled, and made the two foul shots to take a 109-106 lead.

A Magnolia turnover happened next that led to Clarito's steal. He was then sent to the foul line and sank both charities to seal the game.

Jabari Bird led all scorers with 31, while Lucero had 24 markers for the losing squad.

Game 4 of their quarter final series will be on Tuesday, October 1, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Ateneo de Manila University took advantage of shorthanded Far Eastern University, trampling the latter team, 69-53, to stay in the top four of the UAAP Season 87 women’s basketball tournament on Sunday, September 29, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Reigning UAAP Season 86 MVP Kacey Dela Rosa paced the Blue Eagles, delivering 20 points and 12 rebounds, while Nigerian student-athlete Sarah Makanjuola registered 17 markers and 17 boards.

FEU was able to control the game by as many as 16 points before a 10-4 run in the final quarter. 

The pressured Blue Eagles, however, quickly found its rhythm once again by supplying a crucial three-pointer courtesy of Gracie Batongbakal, a layup from Makanjuola, and a technical free throw by Kani Oani prompting Ateneo’s lead to 22 points, with less than 2:30 remaining on the clock.

“We’re looking for some consistency, and I expected us to be a little bit rocky in the first round,” said Blue Eagles head coach LA Mumar.

“It’s a big adjustment for all of us, but I think our girls are responding well. We’re an inside-out team and we feel that we can really build the team around these two girls (Dela Rosa and Makanjuola). We are gonna roll with that identity.”

Raiza Palmera-Dy’s team dropped to a 1-5 record as the Lady Tamaraws were playing without sidelined Congolese student-athlete Josee Kaputu, due to an ACL tear in her left knee, and Shane Salvani, who was serving a one-game suspension following a disqualifying foul committed prior to their game with De La Salle University. 

Yvette Villanueva stepped up for the nine-woman team with 18 points and nine rebounds, while MJ Manguiat struggled to find her form, limiting her performance to only 10 in the losing cause.

Ateneo will strive to continue its winning ways as they battle against University of the East on Wednesday, October 2, at the same venue in Cubao.

FEU, on the other hand, will attempt to bounce back when they face UAAP Season 86 reigning champion University of Santo Tomas on Saturday, October 5, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Scores:

Ateneo (69) – Dela Rosa 20, Makanjoula 17, Batongbakal 9, Calago 9, Villacruz 4, Oani 4, Cruza 3, Cancio 2, Fetalvero 1, Angala 0, Lopez 0, Eufemiano 0, Olivenza 0, Nieves 0, Salgado 0, Aquirre 0.

FEU (53) – Villanueva 18, Manguiat 10, Libor 8, Pasilang 5, Lopez 5, Ong 4, Dela Torre 3, Paras 0, Nagma 0, Gavaran 0.

Quarter Scores: 18-7, 28-19, 48-34, 69-53