MANILA, Philippines - The Los Angeles Lakers marked the end of Kobe Bryant's historic career with a video tribute to the 5-time NBA champion before his final game on Thursday, April 14.

Bryant was treated to toasts from a number of league greats, including Shaquille O'Neal, the big man whom he won 3 NBA titles with and feuded publicly throughout the years. Shaq opens up by calling the 37-year-old Bryant "old man" before declaring him "the greatest Laker ever."

Another Lakers teammate, Derek Fisher, proclaimed that "no other player in the history of our game will be able to compare to what you've done, the way you've done it, how long you will live on."

A number of his contemporaries, including Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, Carmelo Anthony and Dirk Nowitzki, plus Lakers super-fan Jack Nicholson also chimed in.

Kobe Bryant is currently playing his final NBA game as of this story's publication against the Utah Jazz. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Floyd Mayweather Jr earned a tremendous amount of fortune as a professional boxer for 19 years, retiring in 2015 with a total net worth of $350 million.

The 39-year-old celebrated pugilist from Grand Rapids, Michigan has already established himself as a boxing promoter after deciding to hang up his pair of gloves for good. 

However, many still urge Mayweather to make an in-ring return and break Rocky Marciano’s undefeated streak by furnishing an immaculate 50-0 record.

Mayweather shot down the hopes of making a comeback inside the squared-circle and intended to stay retired as he sees a pot of gold in a different sport. 

The former boxing pound-for-pound king expressed his interest in promoting and managing fighters from mixed martial arts (MMA). 

“They want me back. It's time for me to move over to MMA. I mean talking as far as, it’s time for me to start promoting fights for the MMA. I'm ready to get involved with that business now,” Mayweather said in an interview with FightHype.com.

{source}<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/O4BAWEawBAs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>{/source} 

Mayweather has fully spread his wings as a boxing promoter since his retirement, handling boxers such as WBC super middleweight champion Badou Jack, Mickey Bey Jr, Ishe Smith and Gervonta Davis. 

Although Mayweather views MMA as a good business opportunity, he seems to have a hard time keeping his name out of the sport’s landscape. 

Mayweather is known to be the most vocal critic of the sport as it was well-documented when he stated in a 2011 interview with CBS Sports that MMA was created out of a longing to see Caucasians succeed in combat sports due to their recent floundering in boxing. 

In addition, he mentioned during a dialogue with Showtime for his bout against Robert Guerrero in May 2013 that his opponent’s unrefined style was better suited for MMA. 

Mayweather also engaged in a heated war of words with Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) superstars Conor McGregor and Ronda Rousey. 

While his growing desire in MMA was a bit surprising on its own, Mayweather is open to doing business with UFC president Dana White, who is notably not an admirer of the boxer. 

In a separate interview, Mayweather revealed that he and White used to work together back in the day.

“I can remember, I think you can go back to the beginning, to day one of my career, my first fight — my uncle Jeff Mayweather and I, that’s when Dana White used to work for us. He used to be with us. When nobody else knew who Dana White was, before when he was a little square white guy, before he cut all his hair off and became a tough guy in the MMA,” he stated. 

Meanwhile, Mayweather’s rival Manny Pacquiao is likewise involved in MMA as he purchased an undisclosed amount of shares in ONE Championship in August 2014. – Rappler.com

LOS ANGELES, USA - Legions of Los Angeles Lakers fans turned out to bid farewell to Kobe Bryant on Wednesday, April 13 (US time) in a purple-and-gold display of mass adulation for the retiring NBA legend.

Thousands of Lakers fans began gathering around the Staples Center several hours before Bryant's farewell appearance got under way amid searing emotion.

Many had readily splashed out thousands of dollars on tickets for the glittering finale, an 18,000-seat sell-out.

"It's like a family member, we spent $3,000 on two tickets, we are ready to spend a lot of money to see history," one Lakers fan, Miguel, told AFP as he waited with his wife amongst a crowd of thousands outside the Staples Center.

(READ: Kobe Bryant scores 60 in his final NBA game)

Logan, a 35-year-old Angeleno, said he had bought a ticket to witness history entirely by accident.

"I came here to celebrate an amazing player - it’s exciting to witness history," he said. "I bought this ticket at the beginning without knowing it will be Kobe’s last game. I am kind of sad but at the same time, it’s time for him."

Another Lakers fan, Gina Serrano, said she doubted whether she would return to watch the team after Bryant's retirement.  

"I'm going to miss him a lot. I won't even come to any more Lakers games if he's not here. There's nothing left for me," Serrano told AFP. 

Many invoked Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan as they sought to put Bryant's 20-year career into appropriate context.

"I think he is the best ever. Because of what he meant to my childhood. I was too young to watch Michael Jordan. So to me he is the best ever," fan Chris Girgas said.

"He's been so much to this city," chimed in another fan, Marcus Michel. "He's an icon. He's like what Michael Jordan is to Chicago."

The tone for Bryant's last day as a professional was set earlier by Magic Johnson issuing a heartfelt paean to Bryant.

Los Angeles transport officials meanwhile got into the spirit of celebration, renaming a metro station near the Staples Center "Kobe Station" for the day.

On Twitter, fans were invited to share their memories under the trending hashtag "#MambaDay", a reference to Bryant's "Black Mamba" nickname.

As day gave way to dusk, Los Angeles City Hall was lit up in the Lakers' iconic colors of purple and gold.

Announcing the gesture earlier in the day, Los Angeles City Council President Herb Wesson declared the move a fitting tribute to the 37-year-old.

"The City of Angels owes Kobe Bryant a debt of gratitude for sharing with us 20 remarkable years of electrifying dedication and commitment to the city, our fans and communities," said Wesson.

"His work ethic, hustle and quest for championships ensures his place in the history books - there will never be another Kobe Bryant." – Rappler.com

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – Moments after dropping 60 points and leading the Lakers to a win over the Jazz in his final ever NBA game, 5-time NBA champion Kobe Bryant took the middle of the Staples Center in Los Angeles and gave his final farewell speech to the crowd.

It was emotional, as Bryant took a trip down memory lane, thanked the fans, thanked his family, and provided a light-hearted moment.

“I can’t believe how fast 20 years went by. This is crazy,” the former NBA MVP and third all-time leading scorer in league history started his speech.

“We’ve been through our ups, we’ve been through our downs, I think the most important part is that we all stayed together throughout. I grew up a die-hard, I mean, a die-hard Laker fan. Die hard. And I knew everything about every player that has ever played here so to be drafted, and to be traded to this organization and to spend 20 years here, I mean, you can’t write something better than this,” he later said.

Bryant, who finishes his career with 18 All-Star appearances, also mentioned it was the tough seasons during his Lakers tenure which he’s most proud of.

“I’m more proud about the fact that - not about the championships - but about the down years because we didn’t run. We didn’t run. We played through all that stuff. We got our championships and we did it the right way,” said the guy nicknamed Black Mamba.

“All I can do here is just thank you guys, thank you for all the years of support, thank you guys for all the motivation, thanks you for all the inspiration.”

Kobe also made some jokes, saying: “The thing that had me cracking up all night long was the fact that I go through 20 years of everybody screaming, ‘pass the ball!’ and last night they’re like, ‘Don’t pass it!’”

“I can’t believe this has come to an end,” Bryant also lamented. “You guys will always be in my heart and I sincerely, I sincerely appreciate it. No words can describe how I feel about you guys. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I love you guys.”

Towards the end of his speech, Bryant singled out his family, especially his wife Vanessa, who he says was the rock of their establishment.

“To my family, to my wife Vanessa, our daughters Natalia and Gianna, thank you guys for all your sacrifice. For all the hours I spend in the gym working and training, and Vanessa you holding down the family the way you have… there’s no way that I can thank you enough for that. So from the bottom of my heart, thank you.”

How did Bryant end his speech? In absolute Kobe fashion:

“What can I say? Mamba out,” Bryant said before putting the mic down. – Rappler.com

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – Aside from fierce competition on the pitch, court, track, mat, or pool, the 18 regions also have a different battles at billeting areas – the race to becoming the cleanest and greenest region at the 2016 Palarong Pambansa.

The Department of Education (DepEd) is already on its 6th year of conducting the "Clean, Green, Organized and Eco-friendly Palarong Pambansa" contest, where regions ensure their billeting areas are environmentally friendly.

That includes efficient water and electricity usage, bringing reusable kitchen utensils instead of styrofoam or plastic materials, and practicing proper waste segregation.

The collection, transport, storage, and disposal of solid wastes for the whole duration of the Palaro as well as sanitation and food safety measures are also part of the program.

Mimaropa or Region IV-B has been a perennial champion of the annual contest, having won 3 times including back-to-back victories in 2014 and 2015. They're gunning for a 3-peat this year.

"Discipline is a big factor to achieve the cleanest and greenest delegation. Also ang pagiging organized ng mga athlete (Also, organized athletes), cooperation and unity of every member of the delegation [are the reasons we always win]," said Mer Galang Lalo, DepEd Mimaropa regional sports officer.

Choosing the winner

According to DepEd Memorandum No. 40 series of 2015: "An evaluation team from the DepEd Central Office will inspect the different billeting areas at random during the week-long Palaro. All designated clean and green coordinators are requested to be present during the inspection of the billeting areas."

Each region is also required to plant a minimum of 30 native trees at the school they are billeted in or in the area they are staying in, to be led by the regional director together with the sports and school officials.

There are 4 awards that are being given under the competition: Most Disciplined Delegation, Most Organized Delegation, Best Billeting Center, and Cleanest, Greenest and Eco-Friendliest Delegation.

The winning region receives P30,000, while the second and third placers get P20,000 and P10,000, respectively.

When asked where Mimaropa's prizes go, Lalo said "it is being used for next year's preparation of our billeting quarter for beautification and physical arrangement."

Mimaropa's 'Clean and Green' action

This year, Mimaropa is billeted at Gogon Elementary and High School (GEHS), where it has initiated its best clean and green practices.

For proper waste segregation in GEHS, the region created trash bags inspired by basketball rings. These are segregated as "Nakaka-udong" (toxic); "Nareresiklo" (recycled); "Nalalapa" (biodegradable); and "Dai Nalalapa" (non-biodegradable).

The basketball ring-inspired trash bag was an idea of the Calapan City Division that was adopted by Mimaropa during the regional meet.

The Mimaropa delegates also planted vegetables like gabi (taro), cabbage, and okra in areas in the school that can be cultivated.

"Usually 'yung basurahang parte ng school – 'yung hindi nabibigyan pansin ng school," Lalo said. "Kung ano 'yung need of billeting quarter o community nag-iisip kami ng pwedeng gawin."

(Usually it's the areas the school doesn't pay attention to. We think of what we could do based on the needs of the billeting quarter or community.)

"This year, we implemented the coastal clean-up wherein we adopted one barangay somewhere in San Roque, Legazpi City," he added.

For 5 years now, the region has also conducted Brigada Mimaropa (which entails adopting a community to clean up and beautify), tree planting, and Gulayan sa Paaralan (planting crops in schools) as the region's legacy for its billeting quarters. 

"Ipinapakita namin sa kanila na sana maging way of life na ng community, teachers, and the students as well [ang pagpapanatili ng kalinisan ng schools at community]."

(We show them that we hope maintaining cleanliness in schools and in the community becomes a way of life for the teachers and students as well.)

Feedback, positive impact

Lalo shared that some schools they stayed in during previous editions of the Palaro have thanked Mimaropa for implementing its "Clean and Green" program.

"'Yung schools keep on texting [us] na maganda 'yung nagiging feedback [ng 'Clean and Green' program] sa mga bata dahil naa-adapt na nila," he said. 

(Schools keep texting us good feedback and tell us that the kids are adapting.)

"Natutuwa sila dahil the school really transformed sa dating itsura nito hanggang sa umalis kami at iniwan yung legacy ng Mimaropa sa school."

(They're happy because the school really transformed and we left Mimaropa's legacy at the school.)

DepEd Mimaropa is very strict when it comes to cleanliness during the Palarong Pambansa.

"'Yung bata hindi lang dapat naglalaro kundi may disiplina and then 'yung pangangalaga sa kalikasan ay dapat ma-inculcate sa kanila." 

(The students shouldn't just play, they should also have discipline and caring for the environment should be inculcated in them.)

"Kung gaano kami kalinis sa Palawan dinadala lang namin dito para makita ng mga Bicolano na disiplinado kami," said 16-year-old Emmanuel Cocjin, a Grade 10 student of Faith Adventist Academy in Palawan and Mimaropa's athlete for sepak takraw.

(As clean as we are in Palawan, we bring that with us here so the Bicolanos can see we are disciplined.)

In terms of DepEd Mimaropa's National Greening Program, the regional sports officer said that the platform has indeed made a positive impact on the students' lives.

"After nilang sumali sa Palarong Pambansa, pag-uwi nila sa kani-kanilang mga bahay, mai-a-apply nila sa buhay kung ano 'yung nakita nila dito."

(After the Palarong Pambansa, when they return home, they can apply what they learned here.) – Joshua Caleb Pacleta/Rappler.com

Joshua Caleb Pacleta, 20, is a Journalism graduate of the Bicol University College of Arts and Letters. He is a Rappler intern for the 2016 Palarong Pambansa.

MANILA, Philippines - Every basketball fan had the date of Kobe Bryant's final NBA game circled on their calendar. What few of those fans could have imagined is that Kobe Bryant would have one of the best scoring outputs of his career to walk off on the highest note imaginable.

That's exactly what Bryant did, turning in 60 points as the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Utah Jazz, 101-96, at Staples Center. Bryant started slow, the wear and tear of a 20-year career weighing on his once explosive legs, but he caught fire late, scoring jumper after jumper, including the go-ahead jumper inside the final minute.

Bryant tallied his sixth career 60-point game in the process. Watch the magic that was the Black Mamba's final NBA game above. – Rappler.com

DARAGA, Philippines – Fueled by determination to bring home the 2016 Palarong Pambansa volleyball title, the new Negros Island Region (NIR) pummeled host Bicol Region, 25-13, 25-17, on Thursday, April 14 here.

With a 4-0 win-loss card, NIR secured the top spot in Group B in secondary girls volleyball and advanced to the quarterfinals.

Hannah Nicole Infante, NIR's team captain and 5-time Palaro qualifier, banked on cross-court spikes off Patricia Nicole Escares' excellent sets to notch the emphatic win.

"Naging consistent kami, hindi nagbigay ng kumpiyansa and we gave it our all (We stayed consistent, we did not give them confidence and we gave it our all)," said Infante, who was also part of Western Visayas' line-up in the Shakey's V- League.

Jessa Ordiales, Linnel Maputi, Alyssa Bertolano, and Jewel Maligmat unloaded solid attacks while setter Escares had sharp serves in the win. Maicah Larroza anchored the net defense with her solid blocks.

Powerhouse NIR also defeated Davao Region in 3 sets, 25-16, 23-25, 26-24, and swept Zamboanga Peninsula, 25-16, 25-23, as well as Cagayan Valley, 25-20, 25-6, before Thursday's win.

NIR will face Group C's second seed Western Visayas in the quarters on Friday, April 15, at Bicol Colleges. – Rappler.com

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – Kobe Bryant had a farewell game to remember, dropping 60 points to lead the Lakers past the Jazz in the final time we see him play an NBA match.

Kobe’s scoring explosion, which was vintage Black Mamba, sent social media into a frenzy. Even athletes from the Philippines were left in adoration, as proven by many tweets. We’ve collated some of those social media posts. Check them out below:

{source} <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="tl" dir="ltr">Mamba out.</p>&mdash; Kiefer Ravena (@kieferravena) <a href="https://twitter.com/kieferravena/status/720479925325668353">April 14, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source}

{source} <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Grabe kobe, you&#39;re making this guy cry. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MambaDay?src=hash">#MambaDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/XCrW4MxEuS">pic.twitter.com/XCrW4MxEuS</a></p>&mdash; Alyssa Valdez (@AlyssaValdez2) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlyssaValdez2/status/720456954536177665">April 14, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source}

{source} <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Wow What an exit! Thank you Kobe, thank you! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MambaDay?src=hash">#MambaDay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KB24?src=hash">#KB24</a> #60</p>&mdash; Jeron Teng (@jeronteng) <a href="https://twitter.com/jeronteng/status/720477232578359300">April 14, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>{/source}

{source} <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">That&#39;s how you go out!!</p>&mdash; Chris Newsome (@New11New) <a href="https://twitter.com/New11New/status/720476826276143105">April 14, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source}

{source} <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Thank you so much kobe!</p>&mdash; Terrence Romeo (@tbvromeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/tbvromeo/status/720492054552383492">April 14, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source}

{source} <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="ht" dir="ltr">60pts kobe</p>&mdash; Kevin Ferrer (@Kevferrer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kevferrer/status/720477299016146944">April 14, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source}

{source} <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kobe already raised the bar for a great career. Now he even sets the bar on how to END your career.</p>&mdash; Gabe Norwood (@GNorwood5) <a href="https://twitter.com/GNorwood5/status/720476704964259841">April 14, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source}

{source} <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&quot;What can I say? ... Mamba Out&quot; -KB24 last line</p>&mdash; Gelo Alolino (@geloalolino) <a href="https://twitter.com/geloalolino/status/720479793440034817">April 14, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source}

{source} <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A basketball god has left the building...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThankYouKobe?src=hash">#ThankYouKobe</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Respect?src=hash">#Respect</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MambaDay?src=hash">#MambaDay</a></p>&mdash; Jimmy Alapag (@JAlapag3) <a href="https://twitter.com/JAlapag3/status/720477734602940417">April 14, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source}

{source} <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="ht" dir="ltr">Mamba Out! RESPECT.</p>&mdash; L.A Tenorio (@LA_Tenorio) <a href="https://twitter.com/LA_Tenorio/status/720481241410179072">April 14, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source}

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – It’s rather unusual that Cebu native Marlon Cabullon loves tennis more than basketball.

The Queen City of the south has produced many a national basketball player, including current PBA standout June Mar Fajardo and many other stars in sports like football and track and field. Tennis, however, held serve in Marlon’s heart. 

Marlon grew up watching German great Boris Becker in the 1980s, and on the tennis court, imitated his one-handed backhand and diving volleys. “Si Becker… grabe,” Cabullon racks his head for those memories of a simpler time. “Patay kung patay yung laro.”

(Becker… was something else. He played like there’s no tomorrow.)

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – I want you to take a moment and embrace the absurdity of the next sentence you’re about to read. At age 37, with more than 48,000 minutes of basketball to his name, Kobe Bryant scored 60 points in his final game. The oldest player in NBA history to ever do so. And every point of it, every moment, every second - was vintage Black Mamba. It was Kobe Bryant the way we grew up adoring him.

Kobe likens himself to a villain, but the truth is, he was always more hero than adversary. Was he perfect? Absolutely not. There was the sexual assault case in Denver in 2003 which was ultimately resolved. There were the numerous spats with Shaquille O’Neal. The list goes on.

But there was something about Bryant that drew the spectators to him, whether it was voluntary on his part or not. There was an obsession inside him for the game that made us, in turn, fall in love with basketball as well. The game was more than just a craft for him. It was life. With every dribble he took and every jumper he attempted, what was always constant was this: he gave his heart to the game, and so many of his fans put their faith in him.

Die-hard sports fans often get asked: “why do you care so much?” Why does a win or loss affect your mood for the rest of the day? Why do you look depressed when your favorite player, someone whom you’ve never met in your life, gets injured? Why do you sulk for weeks after they’ve been eliminated for the season?

They don’t get it. Some never will. Most of the time, being a die-hard fan of a team, especially in the NBA, ends in heartbreak. After all, only one out of 30 can win a championship every year. But does that deter us fans halfway across the world from getting up at the wee hours of the morning to watch our idols play a game of hoops for 48 minutes anyway? Absolutely not. Because we care. We get attached. We take delight in victories and sorrow in defeats. We revel in championships and despair in heartbreaking eliminations.

But there are times when we care too much and feel that it isn’t reciprocated by our favorite players. Maybe it’s a lazy defensive possession. Maybe it’s when they decide to rest a game rather than play when you’ve travelled miles to watch them live at the arena.

Bryant? He was the opposite of that. He fought through so many injuries it came back to haunt him towards the end of his career. His icy glare at teammates for the smallest of lapses rarely went unnoticed. It was the perfectionist inside him, for better or worse.

Like I said, he invested his life in the game. He was possessed about it. He cared way more than his fans even did, because winning was what truly mattered to him. There was a psychotic edge that made him the ultimate competitor. Friend or foe, anyone who got in his way of triumph was more often than not left in the dust.

The game against Utah was the perfect example. It was Kobe at his finest. Lethal jumper after another. Using impeccable footwork to relieve himself of defenders and get to the rim. He brought out the full arsenal for a final curtain call, reminding us once again of the greatness that had us infatuated from the very beginning.

Out of his 60, 23 came in the fourth quarter. When the Lakers were down 10 with 2:15 left, he made two free throws to cut the lead to 8. After a Gordon Hayward miss, he drove to the basket and scored again to cut the deficit to 6. With 1:27 left, he hit a classic 15-footer that he’s drained time and time again over the years like clockwork.

Then with 59 seconds left, he pulled up from 26 feet for a 3-pointer. Swish. 96-95. After a Shelvin Mack miss, Bryant took a jumper from 20 feet. Nothing but net. Clutch. 97-96, Los Angeles.

When it was time to put the finishing touches, that’s what he did: two free throws and a pass to Jordan Clarkson for the game-sealing basket. 

It unfolded like a movie, but no scriptwriter could have penned the finish this way. 

Did he take a lot of shots (50)? Yeah, sure. But this was his night, not the Lakers’. He could have taken way more and it would have been understandable. That’s the kind of privilege a resume' consisting of 5 championships, two finals MVPs, 18 All-Star appearances, and 33,643 points gives you.

Yet even with how high his usage rate skyrocketed, he eventually delivered the only thing that has ever mattered to him starting with the moment he stepped foot in the NBA: the win.

That’s why he was a hero to his fans. We always seek for inspirations to look up to, and he always did his best to play the part. It's why, until this day, you'll find kids at the park scream "KOBE!" when holding their follow-through.

For 20 years, Kobe Bryant gave his life and soul to the game. For 20 years, we asked for his hustle and he gave us his heart. For 20 years he showed us what greatness is all about - and more importantly, what type of sacrifice, determination, and passion were required to get there. For 20 years, he elevated his game to places where only few can ever do so.

He gave us countless game-winners, eye-opening dunks, head-shaking records, and many more moments to last for a lifetime. He gave his fans his all - every point, every moment, every second - and he became their icon. Their legend. Their Black Mamba.

Before the game against Utah, O’Neal challenged Kobe to score 50. So what did he do?

{source} <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Just spoke to Shaq - he said &quot;I challenged him to get 50 and the mother****er got 60&quot;</p>&mdash; Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rachel__Nichols/status/720481774594342913">April 14, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source}

“The mother****er got 60.”

Once again, for one final time, Bryant elevated himself. Just like heroes do. – Rappler.com

MORE KOBE BRYANT RETIREMENT COVERAGE:

• IN PHOTOS: Kobe Bryant's journey from phenom to legend
• WATCH: Lakers bid farewell to Kobe Bryant with tribute video
• WATCH: Kobe Bryant’s farewell speech
• Magic Johnson delivers touching tribute to Kobe Bryant
• Lakers fans pay emotional farewell to Kobe Bryant
• WATCH: Kobe Bryant torches Jazz for 60 in final NBA game

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – The Department of Health Bicol Region reported consultations as of Thursday, April 14, that were done from the billeting areas and playing venues, as well as reports from Albay's provincial hospital during the ongoing 2016 Palarong Pambansa here.

According to a health report released to the media Thursday afternoon, there were a total of 538 consultations at the 26 billeting areas occupied by the delegates and technical officials of the annual national youth games.

Sixty or 11% of the patients were transported to the Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital or BRTTH. 

The top 10 causes of consultations were: wounds, injuries, or sprain (112), acute respiratory infection or ARI (85), blood pressure monitoring (76), musculoskeletal pain (36), toothache (35), abdominal pain (34), headache (32), fever (27), loose bowel movement (24), and high blood pressure (12). 

Meanwhile, 147 sessions were done at the playing venues with 35 (24%) of the athletes admitted to BRTTH. There were 17 patients taken to the hospital during the opening ceremony on Sunday, April 10.

The remaining 112 (76%) patients were managed on-site by the different medical teams, according to the report.

The causes of consultation in the playing venues were soft tissue injury, leg cramps, abrasions or lacerations, body weakness, and abdominal pain.

Meanwhile, for the reports from the BRTTH, the core referral facility of Palaro, 88 patients were managed at the hospital. Of them, 12 (14%) were admitted.

Food intolerance, upper respiratory tract infection or URTI, appendicitis, and blunt abdominal trauma were the top causes of admissions. – Joshua Caleb Pacleta/Rappler.com

Joshua Caleb Pacleta, 20, is a Journalism graduate of the Bicol University College of Arts and Letters. He is a Rappler intern for the 2016 Palarong Pambansa.

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – First time Palarong Pambansa gold medalist Marjun Sulleza from Koronadal City, South Cotabato is one of the many faces of young athletes in Palaro who play to give their families a better life. 

Rappler met him last Wednesday afternoon, April 13, at the Soccsksargen quarters. Sulleza just won his first gold medal that morning in the secondary boys 400-meter hurdles and even came close to breaking last year’s record.

Before the interview, Rappler spoke with the boy who was all-smiles all throughout. But the moment he was asked about his inspiration in running, the 16-year-old athlete turned silent before he suddenly broke out into tears.

“Pamilya po (My family),” he stuttered. 

“Umangat lang kami sa kahirapan (I want us to get out of poverty),” the boy added. 

Sulleza is the eldest of two children whose parents are rice farmers in Cotabato. According to him, his father has been having difficulties in farming because of the El Niño that agricultural parts of the country have been suffering in the past weeks. 

The Grade 10 student from the Koronadal National Comprehensive High School was a silver medalist at last year's Palaro in the 400-meter hurdles. He also clinched the gold in the 2015 Batang Pinoy under the same category.

His cash incentive from last year’s Palaro served as his family’s down payment for their residential lot. He aims to build his family a home with the help of the cash incentive he’ll receive this year.

According to the Department of Education, gold medalists get P 3,000. While silver and bronze medalists will receive P1,500 and P750, respectively.

‘Make family your inspiration’ 

He said young athletes like him should always keep in mind what they are playing for. In fact, he has some advice to young athletes like him who compete for a prize.

“Train hard tapos huwag makuntento, tapos gawing inspirasyon ang pamilya.” (Train hard and never be contented, then make your family your inspiration.) 

True enough, Sulleza trained hard to clinch that first gold medal. He spent 5 hours a day in training for his preparation ahead of Palaro. 

“Masaya kasi palagi akong talo dati. Masaya ako kasi nakapag gold medal na ako,” he said of his past frustrations. (I’m very happy because I always lost before. I’m very happy that I’ve finally bagged a gold.) 

Aside from building his family a home, his other dream is to play for the national team one day.

As of now, Sulleza has already received a couple of recruitment offers from National Collegiate Athletic Association school members like Colegio de San Juan de Letran, San Beda College, and Emilio Aguinaldo College. He hasn’t made any decision yet as of the moment.

This young runner makes sure that recognition comes second to winning for the sake of his family. 

“Gusto ko din pong tumaas ‘yong pangalan ng pamilya namin.” (I really want to give honor to our family name.) – Rappler.com

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – No region will leave this city without a gold medal.

Last year's cellar dwellers Ilocos Region – as well as Zamboanga Peninsula and CARAGA – finally snatched gold medals at the close fo Day 4 in the 2016 Palarong Pambansa.

Ilocos Region picked up its only gold so far in the secondary boys 110-meter hurdles. The region also has 9 silvers and 14 bronzes as they currently sit at 16th place, two places from the bottom.

Zamboanga Peninsula, on the other hand, won gold in the elementary boys 100-meter dash to add to its 6-9 silver-bronze haul so far.

CARAGA continues its struggle in last place, having won its lone gold from secondary boys archery at the 70-meter distance. They have 4 silvers and 10 bronzes.

Reigning 11-time champion NCR remains a distant lead with 61 golds, 36 silvers, and 28 bronzes. Calabarzon is a far second with 29-24-32 medals on its plate.

But they haven't secured the bridesmaid finish as Western Visayas, Northern Mindanao, the new Negros Island Region, and Soccsksargen are still threats for a podium finish.

Soccsksargen's Feberoy Kasi clocked in 10.74 seconds Thursday morning to break 100-meter dash record of 10.8 seconds set by NCR's Jomar Udtohan in 2014.

Full results per sport can be viewed here. Check out the full medal tally as of 10:33 pm below.

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – BJ Penn’s comeback bout has now a date and venue as he is slated to square off with German featherweight Dennis Siver on the undercard of the UFC 199 pay-per-view event on June 4 (June 5 in PH).

The world’s premier mixed martial arts organization cleared Penn to compete after his return to the Octagon was delayed due to recent allegations of sexual assault and drug use by his former employee.

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<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version="6" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50.0% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BEJnuhuJJXy/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">The Prodigy is back! #UFC199 adds @bjpenn vs Dennis Siver!

MANILA, Philippines - The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) was forced to cancel the rematch between Dan Henderson and Lyoto Machida on Sunday, April 17 (PH Time) after the latter’s disclosure of using a performance-enhancing drug.

According to a statement released by the UFC on Thursday, April 14 (Manila time), Machida admitted to the violation during an out-of-competition sample collection by the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) last week.

“Machida stated that he was unaware that the substance was prohibited both in and out of competition and, in accordance with the UFC Anti-Doping Policy, his disclosure of usage will be taken into consideration by USADA during any potential results management and adjudication process,” the statement read.

While USADA did not name the banned substance that Machida took, the Japanese-Brazilian fighter’s Facebook post identified it as DHEA, which is an endogenous steroid hormone.

Machida claimed that he has no knowledge regarding the prohibition of the substance’s usage from competition.

“I'm here to tell you that I was caught by surprise by this news. It has been very difficult for me. I've trained a lot for this fight. I've dedicated a lot with all my teammates. I want to tell you that I really didn't know about this substance, so I listed it on my declaration form amongst everything else I was taking, and this substance was recently banned in 2016, so I take the blame for not knowing that, and I'd like to say I'm really sorry and apologize to my fans, teammates, and my family. I always try to play by the book, but unfortunately this happened,” he said.

A former UFC light heavyweight champion, Machida had never failed a drug test prior to the unfortunate incident.

Meanwhile, UFC officials publicly confirmed that Henderson will be re-booked for another event on a later date. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - ONE Championship will now be a staple of Philippine free television as Asia’s largest mixed martial arts (MMA) organization inked an exclusive broadcast partnership with ABS-CBN.

ABS-CBN is no stranger to MMA, having broadcasted the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s fight cards and newsmagazine shows on its now-defunct cable sports channel Balls from 2007 to 2015.

When the Manuel V. Pangilinan-bankrolled TV5 acquired the broadcast rights of the UFC in late 2015, ABS-CBN saw an opening to offer a television deal with ONE Championship, which locally aired its selected events on IBC 13 before.

“When we said we are committed to helping develop sports in the country, we knew we would have to give exposure not just to popular sports like basketball or boxing. ABS-CBN has played a big role in promoting mixed martial arts in the country for many years, and we hope to continue leading the way by supporting exciting and quality fight leagues in MMA or mixed martial arts, such as ONE," ABS-CBN integrated sports head Dino Laurena said.

The two companies formalized their joint venture on Thursday, April 14 at City of Dreams in Paranaque City.

However, the exact terms and length of the agreement between ONE Championship and ABS-CBN were not publicly disclosed.

“ABS-CBN is by far the largest TV broadcaster in the Philippines with reach that spans the entire country, as well as internationally to millions of homes across the globe. We’re excited at the multitude of possibilities this tremendous opportunity presents to bring our unique brand of world-class mixed martial arts action to Filipino fight fans all over the world,” ONE Championship CEO Victor Cui stated.

As the official broadcast partner, ABS-CBN will air ONE Championship events through its “Sports and Action” outfit, starting with the “Global Rivals” card on April 15.

ONE: Global Rivals, which takes place at the 20,000-seater SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, is headlined by a welterweight championship clash between current titleholder Ben Askren and Nikolay Aleksakhin.

In the co-main event, Team Lakay’s Geje Eustaquio faces Malaysia flyweight Gianni Subba. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Mixed martial arts and politics are two different fields, but it did not prevent homegrown talent Geje Eustaquio from delivering a strong message regarding the Philippine general elections on May 9.

It is customary for prizefighters to set their gloves aside and talk about their preparations for their upcoming bouts at a pre-fight press conference, but Eustaquio diverted from the usual by calling on his countrymen to support whoever wins in the elections.

Eustaquio cited that many Filipinos clamor for change, but according to him, change cannot be achieved without complete acceptance of its results and total support of the newly-elected officials.

“Change won’t happen without our help.  Change will always start within us. Always put that in your minds. We are responsible individuals and responsible citizens. And I am pretty sure that we will change the president,” he stated.

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<blockquote class="twitter-video" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Geje Eustaquio calls on every Pinoy to support whoever wins in the elections. <a href="https://twitter.com/RapplerSports">@RapplerSports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rapplerdotcom">@rapplerdotcom</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PHVote?src=hash">#PHVote</a> <a href="https://t.co/dXt30Fq2cD">pic.twitter.com/dXt30Fq2cD</a></p>&mdash; NISSI ICASIANO (@Nissi_Icasiano) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nissi_Icasiano/status/720513090882793473">April 14, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source}

However, when asked on who among the presidential candidates will he support, Eustaquio declined to reveal his choice and opted to keep it confidential.

“I would like to consider that confidential,” the 26-year-old Team Lakay standout said in jest.

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<blockquote class="twitter-video" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Geje Eustaquio refuses to answer which candidate he will support. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ONEFightnight?src=hash">#ONEFightnight</a> <a href="https://t.co/PuDLOdtzp8">pic.twitter.com/PuDLOdtzp8</a></p>&mdash; NISSI ICASIANO (@Nissi_Icasiano) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nissi_Icasiano/status/720520826794176512">April 14, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source}

Eustaquio is scheduled to don the country’s colors on Friday, April 15 as he faces Malaysian flyweight Gianni Subba in the co-headliner of ONE Championship’s “Global Rivals” event, which takes place at the 20,000-seater SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Many observers suggest that Subba presents a stiff test to Eustaquio due to his well-rounded background, but the latter says that he is prepared for wherever the fight goes.

“Gianni knows that I have the edge in terms of striking and endurance. He will be coming to this fight with all of his wrestling and jiu-jitsu arsenal. This makes me happy because once and for all I will test my grappling skills,” Eustaquio told Rappler.

If he secures an impressive victory over Subba, Eustaquio might place himself on the verge of another shot at ONE Championship’s world flyweight title, but he prefers to take the long road to a second championship crack than prematurely vie for the gold-plated strap.

“I don't race to be in line for that belt, but I'm racing to perfection in MMA,” he stressed. – Rappler.com

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – Hellen Keller once said, "One can never consent to creep, when one feels an impulse to soar."

This inspires Maria Ellyza Espieras, a blind and orthopedically impaired 15-year-old, to continue her dreams. A first-timer at the 2016 Palarong Pambansa special games, the Sagay City, Negros Occidental native is very excited about joining the 100-meter dash, standing long jump, and goal ball.

Life-changing accident

It was in 2009 when Espieras' neighbor played with live ammunition and it exploded. Shrapnel hit Espieras, leading to the loss of her eyesight, and her right hand.

It was a very traumatic experience for an 8-year-old girl who had just been crowned Little Miss Maria Lopez Elementary School that year and suddenly became blind.

"When I learned about the incident, I Immediately told her parents that I would take care of her in school," said Virginia Repal, a teacher of the visually impaired at the Maria Lopez Elementary School – Sagay City SPED Center, who continues to be her mentor up to now.

Achiever since birth

When Espieras still had her sight, she was a contestant in the MTAP mathematics competition and excelled in that field.

After the accident, Repal did not separate Espieras from class. Instead, the young girl stayed on, guided by her teacher.

"Ellyza is an intelligent girl and I know she can cope up with the rest," said Repal.

"I did not feel different in class. My classmates showed their concern and helped me a lot," Espieras explained. 

She also joined and topped a quiz bee for SPED pupils from school, district, and division levels. In 2014, she became a regional finalist in the quiz bee.

Espieras eventually tried her luck in sports, excelling as well, and making it to the national stage. She never imagined that she could reach this far. 

Staying positive

It is Espieras' faith that keeps on inspiring her to pursue her dreams.

"Hindi ako nawawalan ng pag-asa. Iniisip ko na kaya naming gawin ang mga bagay kahit may kapansanan," she said.

(I don't lose hope. I always think I can still do things even if I have this disability.)

Espieras also wants to finish college and work afterwards.

As a Stevie Wonder quote goes, "Just because a man lacks the use of his eyes doesn't mean he lacks vision." – Rappler.com

LOS ANGELES, USA - The National Basketball Association published a letter of gratitude to Kobe Bryant on Thursday after the Los Angeles Lakers legend said farewell to the sport with a fairytale 60-point performance.

In a letter entitled "Dear Kobe" on The Players' Tribune website - where Bryant announced his retirement in November last year - the NBA praised the icon for his "passion, commitment, and dedication to basketball."

"Thank you for giving and giving and giving," the letter read.

"Thank you for pushing through even when your body was screaming 'no,' but your mind and your heart kept saying 'yes.'

"For the games that you refused to lose, and those that you always seemed destined to win.

"Thank you for your endless drive ... For 20 years you gave our game all you had, and we are eternally grateful."

Bryant retired from basketball on Wednesday night, bringing the curtain down on a 20-year career with a remarkable display in his final match against the Utah Jazz. – Rappler.com

MORE KOBE BRYANT RETIREMENT COVERAGE:

• IN PHOTOS: Kobe Bryant's journey from phenom to legend
• In his dramatic finale, Kobe Bryant again proves he’s more hero than villain
• WATCH: Lakers bid farewell to Kobe Bryant with tribute video
• WATCH: Kobe Bryant’s farewell speech
• Magic Johnson delivers touching tribute to Kobe Bryant
• Lakers fans pay emotional farewell to Kobe Bryant
• WATCH: Kobe Bryant torches Jazz for 60 in final NBA game

LOS ANGELES, USA - The Sacramento Kings made it official on Thursday, sacking head coach George Karl a day after completing a 33-49 season and missing the NBA playoffs.

"After evaluating the team's performance this season, I determined it was necessary to move forward with a new voice from the head coaching position," Kings president of basketball operations Vlade Divac said in a statement. 

"I have a great deal of respect and admiration for George and his accomplishments throughout his nearly 30 years in the NBA.

"On behalf of everyone in the Kings organization, I thank him for the contributions made during his time in Sacramento and wish him good fortune in the future."

Karl almost lost his job in November after feuding publicly with star center DeMarcus Cousins. He was reportedly already headed for the exit when he coached Sacramento's final game of the season on Wednesday night - a 116-81 loss to the Houston Rockets.

ESPN reported that the 64-year-old Karl will receive the remaining $6.5 million guaranteed from his four-year contract.

He was hired during the 2015 All-Star break to replace then-interim coach Tyrone Corbin, but was unable to end a Kings playoff drought that has now stretched over 10 straight seasons.

The Washington Wizards officially parted ways with coach Randy Wittman on Thursday, choosing not to pick up the option on his contract.

"There were high internal and external expectations for this team coming into this season based on the momentum we had generated over the previous two years," said Wizards president Ernie Grunfeld. 

"Unfortunately, the inconsistency of the team's performance and effort, particularly on our home court, did not allow us to meet those expectations and we decided a coaching change was needed."

Wittman originally was promoted to head coach on Jan. 24, 2012, and compiled a 178-199 overall record in 4½ seasons with the Wizards. During his tenure, the team advanced to the second round of the playoffs twice, in 2014 and 2015.

This season the Wizards finished 41-41, a combination of injuries and defensive deficiencies contributing to their failure to make the playoffs.

Karl and Wittman weren't the only coaching casualties as the season ended. The Minnesota Timberwolves announced on Wednesday night that they would be looking outside the organization for a replacement for Sam Mitchell - who was installed as interim head coach in September when the team announced that head coach Flip Saunders was battling the cancer from which he passed away in October. – Rappler.com