MANILA, Philippines – An atrocious refereeing job marred what was an otherwise competitive boxing fight between Filipino boxer Randy Petalcorin and Australia-based Tanzanian Omari Kimweri in Melbourne, Australia, on Friday night, April 14.

At least 4 knockdowns which should have been credited to Petalcorin were not acknowledged by Australian referee Malcolm Bulner, costing Petalcorin a split decision loss and the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) silver flyweight title.  

Many who viewed footage of the fight are calling it hometown officiating and highway robbery, but for Petalcorin, who entered the fight rated number two at 108 pounds by The Ring magazine, the word that describes his feelings is disappointment.

“It feels horrible. I came to win,” said Petalcorin, 24, of Davao City, Philippines. “During the fight, I was already discouraged about the officiating of the ref plus they announced that I’m losing. But I fought on.”

Petalcorin (23-2-1, 18 knockouts), a former WBA interim junior flyweight titleholder who is regarded as one of the most promising young Filipino boxers today, was shaking off inactivity after having fought just one round in 2015.

He knocked Kimweri (16-3, 6 KOs) to the canvas in round one on a left hand to the head, and should have been credited two knockdowns in round 7 after the ropes kept Kimweri from falling out of the ring as the result of a punch twice. The same situation occurred in round 12, and once again there was no knockdown called. 

According to WBC rules for championship fights, "if the ropes prevent a fighter from going down, the referee will call it a knockdown."

“I saw 4 knockdowns, clear ones myself,” said Peter Maniatis, an Australian boxing veteran who co-manages Petalcorin alongside Jim Claude Manangquil. “Why would the referee not call it a knockdown, and then why would he push Randy away and ask Kimweri if he’s OK? What rulebook is that from?” 

Bulner’s wife Samantha was one of the judges for the fight, and was one of the two judges who scored the fight 115-112 in favor of the local fighter. A third scored Petalcorin the winner by the tally 114-113. 

In a conversation on Facebook, the event's promoter Brian Amatruda responded defiantly when asked to comment on the video of the missed knockdowns.

“Oh well complain all you want, the decision won't change. Omar won and that's it,” responded Amatruda, who handles Kimweri. Amatruda cites a point deduction in round 10 as proof that the referee was on the level, though the deduction for hitting on the break came after WBC open scoring revealed a lead for Kimweri after round 8. 

Kimweri was not penalized for hitting Petalcorin following a slip to the canvas in round one nor was he penalized for hitting Petalcorin after the bell to end round 3.

The video compiling the 4 knockdowns was shared on Facebook nearly 200 times in 17 hours after being posted and has been viewed nearly 15,000 times as of this story's publication. One person claiming to be associated with the event’s production messaged this writer asking that the video, which is 50 seconds in duration, be deleted. This writer cited fair use and was blocked from further correspondence on Facebook afterwards.

“Nice cut and paste there mate your (sic) just missing 1 word. Morals,” the person replied.  

Maniatis said he plans to file a protest with the WBC, which sanctioned the fight, and seeks to have the fight ruled a no contest and an immediate rematch ordered.

“I think the WBC needs to do this just to restore credibility,” he said.

A phone call to the Combat Sports Unit of the Victoria State Government was not answered on Saturday afternoon, while an email sent to WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman seeking comment was not immediately responded to.– Rappler.com

Ryan Songalia is the sports editor of Rappler, a member of the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA) and a contributor to The Ring magazine. He can be reached at ryan.songalia@rappler.com. Follow him on Twitter @RyanSongalia.

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – "Kembot Davao! Kembot Davao! (Shake it, Davao! Shake it, Davao!)"

Spectators yelled non-stop at the track oval in the BU-Albay Sports and Tourism Complex as they were entertained by the athlete from Davao Region who won gold in the boys 2000-meter walk – a demonstration sport – during the 2016 Palarong Pambansa Saturday, April 16 here.

Jomar Angga, 17, displayed graceful struts that turned the audience wild and boisterous.

He recorded 11:17.10 seconds to grab first place. He was followed by Rey Jun Tamparong of Caraga with 11:31.61 and Francis James San Gabriel of Ilocos Region, 11:58.42.

In the first two laps, San Gabriel led his opponents while Angga was a consistent walker in third place.

But because of his eye-catching gait, Angga stole the audience’s attention. The crowd support, he said, contributed to his burst of speed and agility.

“Alam ko pong ako ang tsini-cheer nila kaya lalo kong binilisan. Kahit nahuli ako noong mga naunang ikot, hindi ako na-tense para hindi ako ma-DQ (disqualify),” he said. (I know they are cheering for me, that's why I was pushed to walk faster. Even if I was behind in the first couple of laps, I did not allow myself to tense up and to avoid getting disqualified.)

Angga, who is openly gay, admitted he sometimes experiences bullying, which he says doesn't bother him.

Instead, being gay gives him confidence to join various activities in his school. 

“Para kina nanay at tatay po ang medal ko (My medal is for my mother and father),” he said. 

– Rappler.com

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – She was never involved in sports due to scoliosis and never dreamt of being part of any big league sporting event. However, her innate talent in the field of visual arts earned her a distinct achievement in Albay’s history as the province hosted the 2016 Palarong Pambansa.

A fresh graduate of a Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree this month at Bicol University, Mariane Medina Cadiz, or Anne as she is fondly called, was commissioned by the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Legazpi to craft the design of this year's Palaro torch.

According to Marlon Loterte, JCI’s internal vice president and Albay’s spokesperson for Palaro 2016, JCI selected Anne to do the artwork as part of their advocacy in recognizing budding local talents.

Albay governor Joey Salceda gave the task to JCI to plan and manage the torch relay activities due to its active and successful involvements in numerous socio-civic events in the province.

Torch design

The torch, dubbed “Transcendence,” captures Albay’s response to challenges. 

(READ: Palaro's first PWD torchbearer shows sports binds all)

Anne refined and integrated details on the rough rendition of Carlos Garcia, JCI-Legazpi secretary general, based on the original concept of Yves Eli Yu, JCI-Legazpi past president.

The design narrates Albay’s recent history starting from the bottom design going upwards.

The bottom icon resembles Mayon Volcano’s eruption, emerging from it a figure of an intertwined family which represents the Albayanos' resilience amid adversities, particularly its rehabilitation efforts after suffering from Typhoon Reming’s devastation in November 2006.

Moving upwards, the figures of two boats and a hand clasping follow, symbolizing the concept of “no one is left behind” in the entire process of progress and multi-sectoral support, and people’s involvement in the government’s development agenda.

Next are two figures of horses symbolizing people empowerment. Between them is a tree symbolizing growth as a result of empowerment.

On top of the tree are pairs of wings, horn trumpets and blooming sunflowers and trees symbolizing Albay’s advocacies – championing excellence particularly in disaster preparedness and environmental protection programs and projects.

Topmost figures in the torch are the butanding (whale shark), the mythical Daragang Magayon, Cagsawa Ruins, and a more detailed Mt. Mayon highlighting Albay’s rich culture, history, tradition and tourism destinations.

Anne’s design was converted into digital version and laser etched in stainless steel and brass weighing 1.2 kilograms and measures two feet in length.

“I expected revisions so that I can further enhance and put details in the design but the organizers were already satisfied with my initial output,” Anne revealed.

Big breaks

“The Transcendence Torch is my biggest project so far, not in terms of worth but in terms of impact and meaning,” said Anne beaming.

Her family was so touched that the rare opportunity was given to her, Anne added.

“This is maybe the first torch that is laden with history or narrating a story.”

Anne is experiencing a streak of breaks in the art scene lately, which is highlighted with her inclusion to the 2016 University of the Philippines’ (UP) Sandigan Para sa Mag-aaral at Sambayanan (SAMASA) Live Auction last February.

“I consider my participation in SAMASA Live Auction as a turning point,” Anne claimed.

She is the youngest and first Bicolana artist that ever participated in SAMASA Live Auctions, Anne noted.

Anne’s oil painting at the auction is titled “Ibalong Tattoos” which reveals a nude woman with tattoos on her back depicting Albay’s Ibalong Epic. She rendered her artwork using her imagination with no live model.

She also considers her murals at 528 iLawod, a local coffee shop and Grille and Dine restaurant, among her significant breaks.

“It is an expression of my interest in linear art.”

Art as source of financial support

Anne is presently busy preparing herself for apprenticeship next month.

“Actually I can leave earlier but I chose to leave end of May pa kasi gusto kong tapusin lahat ng painting projects ko (I wish to finish all my painting projects),” Anne shared.

She is selling paintings to finance her expenses for the entire duration of her apprenticeship in Metro Manila and to provide for her family.

“Dadalhin ko ang lahat ng painting materials ko sa Manila para makapag-paint pa rin ako during my free time, ayaw ko kasing bitawan ang painting projects ko kasi marami na akong clients,” she said. 

(I will bring all my painting materials in Manila to utilize my free time to paint, I don’t want to lose my painting projects since I have established my clients already)

She started accepting charcoal portraits and painting jobs during her college sophomore year to cover a portion of her tuition fees and daily allowances.

“Since then, I seldom ask money from my mom and siblings for my school expenses except during times that I run short of funds.”

Her father, Alberto, died when she was just 6 years old, leaving the sole responsibility of raising 6 children to her mother Josefina, a housewife.

To date, all the children have finished college and have stable jobs except for one who is still in third year college.

“All of us helped each other to finish schooling,” Anne said.

After a year of apprenticeship Anne plans to take the Architecture Board Examinations.

An artist and architect

Architecture is not really Anne’s first choice of college course.

“I was interested in animation but the nearest university offering the course is in Naga City,” she recalled.

Now that she started to gain significant breaks in the art scene, Anne contemplates on her future either as an architect or a full time artist.

“If given the opportunity na makilala, ipu-pursue ko yung art kasi dun naman talaga ako nagsimula at ngayong college lang ako natuto ng architecture.” (If I will be given the opportunity to become a known artist, I will pursue art because this is where I started and it’s only in college that I was taught about architecture)

She mentioned a college professor told her that others established their names first in the art scene before becoming notable architects.

“Baka way din itong pagiging artist ko para makilala din ako as an architect eventually (I hope that being an artist will pave the way for me to be known as an architect eventually).” – Rappler.com

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – The Ateneo Lady Eagles are on their way to a fifth straight UAAP women’s volleyball finals appearance after taking care of the UP Lady Maroons in the Final Four round of Season 78, 25-19, 25-16, 25-21, on Saturday, April 16, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Ateneo made sure there would be no repeat of the last time both teams faced when State U, the last squad to beat the Lady Eagles this season, won the contest in 4 sets.

The defending champions will face either La Salle or FEU in the finals where they will aim to win a third straight title. 

If the Lady Spikers, who have a twice-to-beat edge over the Lady Tamaraws, win their Final Four series, it will be the fifth straight year ADMU and DLSU face in the championship round.

Jhoana Maraguinot led the winning effort for the Lady Eagles with 17 points on 10 spikes, 4 services, and 3 blocks. Alyssa Valdez had 16 points, while Jia Morado posted 40 excellent sets.

On the other end, Nicole Tiamzon led UP with 13 points while team captain Kathy Bersola posted 8 points. – Rappler.com

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – Third time's the charm for National Capital Region after they finally captured the secondary boys football title by edging the Central Visayas, 2-1, in a heated finals clash in the 2016 Palarong Pambansa on Saturday, April 16 at the BU-Albay Sports and Tourism Complex football field here.

NCR, made up of booters from 6-time UAAP champions Far Eastern University, rebounded from back-to-back years of losing to Mimaropa and Western Visayas since 2014.

The intense match was mired by a fracas in the second half that resulted in the ejection of two NCR players, Ealhwine Jehoiakim Dalam and Darryl Aban, as well as Central Visayas goalkeeper Joseph Kei Ceniza.

It did not help that the referees missed several calls that served to further fuel the intensity between the teams.

Repeated altercations

A few minutes after the start of the second half, the game was interrupted for about 5 minutes when NCR coach Kim Chul Su vehemently demanded the referee call a foul on a Central Visayas player.

The referee decided to eject the coach from the match but he refused to leave the pitch even when the police were called in to interfere. The referee eventually decided to overturn his decision and the game restarted.

The match was once again interrupted for more than 10 minutes when another commotion took place, this time involving the players.

While trying to save a goal, Central Visayas goalkeeper Ceniza got entangled with NCR’s Keith Absalon, who had held on to Ceniza's foot while falling to the ground.

Ceniza tried to pull his foot free, and it must have seemed that he was trying to kick the fallen NCR player as teammate, Aban, immediately reacted by punching Ceniza.

“I didn’t feel good. I need that important player [Absalon]. He is a good striker,” said Kim Chul Su.

Ceniza was then pulled to the side by John Clyde Vitualla in an effort to stop the situation from escalating but NCR players pursued Central Visayas team members and a chase ensued. Police eventually had to intervene.

The spectators also got into an altercation of their own and things would have also escalated if the police had not gone up to intervene.

The game eventually went underway but it was halted again after tournament officials decided to eject 3 players leaving NCR with a 9-man lineup on the pitch as Ceniza was replaced by Jessie Semblante.

Tight contest

Both teams started hot with NCR immediately going for the attack with current UAAP Best Striker and Best Midfielder Chester Gio Pabualan coming close to scoring twice in the early minutes.

However goal attempts were repeatedly foiled by the tight defense employed by Central Visayas, whose team is made up of players from Don Bosco Technology Center, Paref Springdale, Don Bosco Boys Home and the University of Southern Philippines Foundation).

Ryan James Haosen led Central Visayas' attack until team captain Glen Thomas Ceniza eventually found the back of the net when he converted a penalty in the 12th minute as a result of a foul committed on Ouano, who was tackled hard from the back.

NCR tried to level the match via Aban but failed when he figured in a head-on collision against Ceniza, who momentarily laid on the ground holding on to his head.

NCR scored the equalizer in the 25th minute via Dalam, capitalizing on the lapse of Central Visayas defender Erich Rafael Orale who tried to clear out a cross from Aban from the left flank.

Instead, Orale headed the ball straight to Dalam, who was at the center and wasted no time to knock in a goal Ceniza failed to save.

NCR scored their winning goal courtesy of Christian Bacara after he found an opening in the Central Visayas defense with 3 minutes remaining in the match.

The first half ended 2-1 in favor of NCR and neither side scored another goal in the second half.

Special awards

NCR’s Absalon was named the Most Valuable Player as well as Best Midfielder.

Central Visayas’ Orale was named as Best Defender, while Bicol Region’s own Jovan Marfiga was named as Best Striker.

The Best Goalkeeper was copped by Western Visayas’ Ashley Bernales while Caraga was given the Best Fair Play award.

Special awardees received P2,000 worth of Coca Cola products aside from the cash incentives handed by the Department of Education. – with reports from Caleb Joshua Pacleta/Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – After suffering 5-straight disappointing defeats, Honorio Banario returned to his winning ways by outclassing compatriot Vaughn Donayre on the undercard of ONE Championship’s “Global Rivals” event on Friday, April 15 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. 

Banario, a former ONE featherweight titleholder, took the gamble to move up to lightweight and square off with Donayre, who was also seeking his first win under the organization’s umbrella. 

Banario’s decision to leave the featherweight division turned out to be a blessing on his part as he had his hand raised with a 3-round unanimous decision triumph, his first win since February 2013 when he routed fellow homegrown talent Eric Kelly.

It was far from the usual fighting style for Banario as he opted to display his wrestling arsenal and easily slumped Donayre to the mat with 5 takedown attempts.

Donayre attempted to shift the momentum on his side by engaging in a toe-to-toe trade with Banario, who responded by consistently rocking his opponent with a right cross and then frequently shooting for takedowns in the first two rounds of the bout. 

Banario’s superb top control kept the action on the mat, allowing him to punish Donayre with perilous punches and rancorous elbows.

Banario improves his win-loss standing to 9-6 and snaps his 5-fight losing skid.

On the other hand, Donayre tastes his third consecutive setback in ONE Championship and downgrades his prizefighting record to 8-5.

Geje Eustaquio schools Gianni Subba in 3 rounds

Filipino fighter Geje Eustaquio may be on the verge of another ONE Championship flyweight title shot as he pulled off a masterful performance against Malaysian prospect Gianni Subba in the co-headliner.

 The 26-year-old Baguio City native earned a unanimous decision victory, fully utilizing his striking firepower in the stand-up exchanges. 

It took time for Eustaquio to find his groove as Subba’s length and height advantage prevented him to close the distance and deliver his signature strikes. 

Midway point of the opening salvo was when Eustaquio was able to push the right buttons, smacking Subba with a solid right straight and his follow-up left hook. 

Eustaquio actively engaged in a toe-to-toe trade with Subba in the second stanza, catching his Malaysian opponent with thunderous head kicks and lashing leg kicks. 

The 5-foot-5 Team Lakay standout was looking for a big knockout blow at the start of the third and final frame, wildly swinging his right hand.

In a desperate attempt, Subba attained a quick takedown that Eustaquio had never seen coming as he was busy peppering jabs and leg kicks.

However, Eustaquio managed to return to his feet by amazingly twirling behind Subba’s back and continued to stuff his foe’s takedown stabs.

With the impressive victory over Subba, Eustaquio is now riding high on a two-fight winning streak and improves his professional record to 8-4.

On the other hand, Subba snaps his 4-match victory parade with the lopsided loss to Eustaquio and downgrades his win-loss slate to 7-2.

Meanwhile, Filipino-Australian stalwart Reece McLaren (9-3) added another ONE Championship prospect to his list of victims as he earned a hard-fought unanimous decision at the expense of Tajikistani bantamweight Muin Gafurov (10-1).

Aside from Banario, Team Lakay, one of the country’s most popular and elite mixed martial arts groups, went 3-0 on the preliminary card of ONE: Global Rivals.

Joshua Pacio (7-0) overwhelmed fellow Wushu practitioner Rabin Catalan (4-2) with two ground-shattering takedowns before he tattered with malevolent punches to bag the technical knockout triumph at 3:19 of the second stanza. 

April Osenio (1-1) celebrated her 21st birthday by coercing Filipino-Australian atomweight Nathalie Gonazales Hills (1-4) to tap at 3:23 of the opening salvo with an armbar.

Danny Kingad (3-0) made a quick work of Muhamad Haidar (0-1), finishing the Malaysian rookie with ground-and-pound at 2:20 of the first frame. 

However, one Filipino fighter failed walk out of the ONE Championship cage with the sweet victory as Indonesian journeyman Su Noto (4-2) spoiled the promotional debut of Burn Soriano (2-2), surviving a tight Kimura lock before getting the job done at 3:50 of the first round by bombarding his Pinoy counterpart with ground shots. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – From the Southeast Asian Games to the Asian Games, Kirstie Elaine Alora will now continue her taekwondo journey to the biggest sports showcase of all: the Olympic Games.

Inspired by a hometown crowd, the veteran Filipina jin qualified for the Rio de Janeiro Olympics in August by placing second in the women’s +67-kilogram division of the Asian Taekwondo Olympic qualifying competition on Friday, April 16, at the Manila Mariott Hotel Grand ballroom in Pasay City.

It was an anti-climactic finish for Alora, who lost, 0-5, in the finals to her 2014 Incheon Asian Games tormentor, Cambodia’s Seavmey Sorm, who relied on her height and length in capturing the gold medal and a first Olympic stint.

In a field of 5 entries in her division, the hometown bet and 3-time Southeast Asian Games gold medalist had assured herself and the country of an Olympic ticket with a 10-2 whipping of Iranian top seed Akram Khodabandeh in the semifinals.

While the meet drew over 200 Olympic aspirants from 35 Asian countries, the gold and silver medalists in the 4 weight divisions here qualify for the quadrennial meet.  

Allora became the country’s fifth and latest Olympic qualifier after hurdler Eric Shauwn Cray, boxers Charly Suarez and Rogen Ladon, and weightlifter Hidylin Diaz.

Also hoping to qualify is Alora’s teammate Pauline Louise Lopez, who was set to battle Malaysia’s Nurul Farah Alisa at the opening the women’s -57-kilogram division competitions today.

“We really studied the Iranian and used our speed to be able to beat her,” said Elora of the strategy in overwhelming Khobdabandeh, who won a silver in the Incheon Asiad in a heavier division. “We were able to earn a ticket to Rio and that is good for the Philippines.”

Although she started slow, Elora, who opened her campaign by routing Nepal’s Nisha Rewal, 9-0, was like an energizer bunny in the last two rounds in building an imposing lead, delivering a roundhouse kick to the Iranian’s head in the third – worth 3 points – for the coup de grace.   

She will be tracing the footsteps of Marie Antoinette Rivero, who was the last Filipina jin to see action in the Olympics when she represented the country in the 2008 Beijing Olympiad.

Alora’s milestone was a huge boost for the host country after Samuel Morrison and Kristopher Robert Uy absorbed gut-wrenching losses in the men’s division.

Competing in the men’s -80-kg. category, Morrison saw his Olympic quest go up in smoke to Taiwanese Wei Ting-Liu, who rallied from down 3-6 in the last minute of the third and final round of the quarterfinals to eventually win, 9-7, with two successive roundhouse kicks.

Morrison earlier hurdled his round-of-16 match against Pakistan’s Muhammad Faheem, who was disqualified for faking an injury although he was ahead, 2-0, early in the first round.   

Uy suffered a similar fate in the men’s +80-kilogram round-of-16 match, losing to Palestine’s Bahri Tanrikulu, 6-7, in the sudden-death round after both fighters ended the regulation tied at 6-all. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines has the chance to send another taekwondo jin to the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics when Pauline Lopez takes the mat tomorrow, Sunday, April 17 in the final day of the Asian Taekwondo Olympic Qualifiers at the Marriot Grand Ballroom in Pasay City.

Lopez, is the sole remaining home grown bet still in competition. Fellow female jin Elaine Alora booked the first ticket to Rio after her stirring, 10-3, semifinals win over Iran’s Akram Khodabandeh on Saturday. Pinoy jins Butch Morrison and Kristoffer Uy lost in the quarterfinals and Round of 32 respectively.

The 19-year old Lopez, who was born is Los Angeles, California will be facing Malaysian Nurul Farah Alisa Roslan in her preliminary match. Should Lopez proceed to the next round, she will either go up against Thailand’s Phannapa Harnsujin or Cambodia’s Chhoeung Puthearim. A second win will send her to the finals.

“Pauline prepared very well for this competition,” said Philippine National Team Training Director Igor Mella. "She’s very focused and consistent. If the spectators provide the energy that they gave our athletes last Saturday, then that will be a big boost.”

“I am looking forward to watching Pauwee (Pauline’s nickname) fight,” said Alora of her national teammate. “She’s very good. Very smart. It will be fun to watch her compete."

“I am looking forward to this opportunity,” said the 5-foot-6 Lopez. “This is a long time coming as the dream to get to this stage started 9 years ago when I first took up taekwondo. People say that youth means a lack of experience. I’ve been fighting since I was 10 years old so I think I have enough experience. If we can do this now then why not?" – Rappler.com

WASHINGTON, USA - Paul George scored 33 points to lead the Indiana Pacers to a 100-90 victory over the second-seeded Raptors in Toronto on Sunday, April 17 (Manila time) in the NBA Eastern Conference playoffs.

It was a dispiriting start to the post-season for the Raptors, who notched a franchise-record 56 regular season victories to win a third straight Atlantic Division title - achievements that will count for little if they can't win a 7-game playoff series for the first time in club history.

Their only playoff series win was in a best-of-5 first-round set in 2001.

Toronto's All-Star guards Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan both struggled, Lowry connecting on just 3 of 13 attempts from the field while DeRozan made 5 of 19 shots.

DeRozan insisted the Raptors were "not panicking".

"We understand, we just had a bad game," DeRozan said. "We shot 38 percent, turned the ball over and missed 12 free throws. They took advantage of it, got hot in the second half."

Toronto led by two points at halftime, but the Pacers were up by three going into the fourth quarter, thanks in large part to 17 points from George in the third.

George said he watched video at halftime, trying to come up with a better approach.

"I knew I was going to be able to get some good looks and I just had to be smarter about how I took them," he said.

Pacers coach Frank Vogel called George "The biggest reason we won".

"Paul's shot-making at the end of the game was spectacular," Vogel said.

With 2:36 to play George’s pull-up jump shot - after a turnover by Lowry - gave the Pacers an eight-point lead. A three-pointer by guard Monta Ellis made it 95-82 for Indiana with 1:49 remaining.

Ellis finished with 15 points for the Pacers, who hadn't won at Air Canada Centre since March of 2013.

The second game of the best-of-seven series will be on Monday in Toronto.

The winner of the series will play either Miami or Charlotte, who open their set on Sunday, when Eastern Conference top seeds Cleveland host Detroit.

Later Saturday, the Hawks host the Boston Celtics in Atlanta. After earning the top seed in the East last season the Hawks are seeded fourth this year, and face a tough matchup with the fifth-seeded Celtics. – Rappler.com

OAKLAND, USA - The streaking Golden State Warriors shook off an ankle injury to superstar Stephen Curry to thrash the Houston Rockets 104-78 on Saturday in their NBA Western Conference playoff opener.

The reigning champion Warriors picked up where they left off in their record-setting 73-win regular-season campaign, bolting to a 33-15 lead through one quarter and carrying on relentlessly from there.

Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Curry sent a tremor of tension through Oracle Arena when he twisted his right ankle defending Rockets star James Harden late in the second quarter.

Curry went to the locker room for treatment and played briefly early in the third period before coach Steve Kerr called a timeout and took him out of the contest.

Curry visited the locker room again, and though he returned to the bench for the fourth quarter he didn't play again.

Kerr said he didn't know the severity of the injury, calling Curry "questionable" for game two on Monday, saying he wouldn't take chances with his star with the championship finals still a long way away in June.

Team-mate Klay Thompson thought Kerr's caution was overdone.

"He'll be all right," Thompson said of Curry. "We expect him out here on Monday."

Curry inflicted significant damage before his departure. His 24 points included 16 in the first quarter.

In a rematch of last season's Western Conference finals, Golden State harried Houston from tip-off, with frustrated Rockets point guard Patrick Beverly scuffling with Curry less than six minutes  into the contest.

"That's to be expected," Kerr said. "It's the playoffs. Both guys are competitive. Beverly is a good defender, that's what he does, he tries to get under your skin. He's just doing his job."

The Warriors answered with two three-pointers from Curry in a 14-6 scoring run, limiting Houston to six-of-20 shooting in the opening frame.

The Warriors led 60-33 by halftime, and held Harden to four points before the break.

Harden, second to Curry in regular-season scoring with an average 29 points per game, perked up after the interval, hitting 3 3-pointers to finish with 17 points, but he didn't get to the free-throw line once.

"Very satisfied," Kerr said. "I thought our defense was excellent. We made them earn every point."

Draymond Green, who had 12 points and 10 rebounds for the Warriors, received the third technical foul of the contest in the fourth quarter for pulling Rockets big man Donata Motiejunas down from behind.

"It's the playoffs," Kerr said again.

The winner of the best-of-seven series face either the Los Angeles Clippers or Portland Trail Blazers in the second round.

Western Conference action continued later Saturday with the third-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder hosting the Dallas Mavericks.

Second-seeded San Antonio launch their campaign on Sunday against the Memphis Grizzlies. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - Fans of the Golden State Warriors held their breaths as Stephen Curry came up limping during Game 1 of their NBA playoffs first round series against the Houston Rockets on Sunday, April 17 (Manila time).

The reigning league MVP, who missed most of the 2011-12 season with ankle injuries, was once again showing signs of pain in his right ankle near the end of the first half. Curry returned to action briefly in the third quarter before sitting out the rest of the game, which the Warriors won in dominant fashion, 104-78.

After the game, Warriors coach Steve Kerr listed Curry as "questionable" for Game 2 but Curry said he expected to be in action on Tuesday.

"Right now, don't see a scenario where I'll be out," Curry was quoted by ESPN. 

Curry played just under 20 minutes but still finished with a game high 24 points on 5-of-7 shooting from 3-point range. Rockets star James Harden had a dismal first half with just 4 points scored and finished with 17 points total.

The Warriors are looking for a second straight NBA championship after setting a new record for regular season wins with 73. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - The NBA season has ended for Jordan Clarkson and the Los Angeles Lakers, but that hasn't stopped the second-year guard from working on his leaping ability.

The Filipino-American Clarkson showed off his hops on the second day of the Coachella Music Festival, clearing girlfriend/reality star Kendall Jenner. The 20-year-old Jenner stands 5-foot-10 and appeared nervous but was relieved when the 23-year-old hoops star didn't take her head off with the stunt.

{source}<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:62.421875% 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/BESX1hRoC4w/" 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">Lakers&#39; Jordan Clarkson jumps over Kendall Jenner at Coachella. (via Cami Morrone/SnapChat)</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A video posted by Sports Videos (@houseofhighlights) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2016-04-17T03:56:26+00:00">Apr 16, 2016 at 8:56pm PDT</time></p></div></blockquote>
<script async defer src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>{/source}

Philippine hoops fans are hoping to see Clarkson show off his game next in a Gilas Pilipians jersey at the FIBA Olympic Qualifying tournament, but Clarkson threw cold water on the idea in a conversation with Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters.

"I would love to but it kinda conflicts with free agency and stuff. They kinda run in with the qualifiers. But I definitely want to be a part of that sometime," Clarkson is quoted. – Rappler.com

• IN PHOTOS: Kobe Bryant's journey from phenom to legend
• In his dramatic finale, Kobe Bryant again proves he’s more hero than villain
• Shady officiating robs Filipino boxer Randy Petalcorin in Australia
• There will never be another Manny Pacquiao

FT: Global 3, Ceres 1

UFL Cup Final

Telecast Sunday April 17, 9 p.m.

Aksyon TV

A vintage performance from Misagh Bahadoran and some officiating luck help Global recapture the UFL Cup with a 3-1 victory against Ceres on Saturday, April 16 at Rizal Memorial Stadium. Here are post-game thoughts from “The Passionate Fan” Bob Guerrero. 

Is Misagh Bahadoran the Philippines' best player? On Saturday night the man nicknamed “Hollywood” figured in all 3 goals. The first was a tap in from close range off a rebound, the second a finish from Matt Hartmann off his cross, and the third a Messi-like slalom around a shell- shocked Ceres defense. 

Misagh used to be a maddeningly over-dribbler. Now he can spot the pass early. Bahadoran was razor-sharp fit on Saturday, and he did much of the dirty work, like beating Juani Guirado for a loose ball for the second goal, and hustling all over the park. He has matured tremendously and now wears the captain's armband for his club. The skipper picked up the Cup Golden Ball award as well for the most valuable player in the competition. It is great to see him become so versatile. He can burn down the flanks as a winger of play center forward and make life difficult with his pressing and work rate. 

Bahadoran has transitioned into a complete player. Hikaru Minegishi of Global, a Filipino-Japanese midfielder, is the next who must trod that path. On Saturday Minegishi spurned two opportunities to make the obvious pass to a teammate in a better position, one in either half. The Global mid has plenty of potential and should develop well. 

With Stephan Schrock and Phil Younghusband grappling for fitness, Misagh seems to be the Alpha guy for the Azkals right now, especially in the attack. 

The contest hinged on a refereeing error that illustrates our issues with officiating. Early in the second half, with Global up 2-0, Daisuke Sato clearly blocks a shot that was going in with his left arm. The arm was outstretched and everybody saw the infringement except main referee Clifford Daypuyat and the assistant ref. No penalty. The Ceres players complained loudly but to no avail. Minutes later Global were 3-0 up after Bahadoran skated around and finished against a dazed Ceres back four. Game over. Two-goal swing.

Ceres remonstrated bitterly after the goal and the match was held up for a few minutes. The coach of the Busmen, Ali Go, was banished to the stands along with team manager James Dinsay. 

At the final whistle Daypuyat was accosted by the players and had to be escorted off the pitch by a phalanx of match officials and ballboys. It was rather unseemly. 

Daypuyat is a very good referee. I have never seen him make a mistake this big. He is one of three FIFA referees in the Philippines, the other two being Linjun Talaver and Steve Supresencia. The Dipolognon has been a fixture in UFL matches for the past couple of seasons and I have always found him competent. Unfortunately, he blew a big decision in a huge game. One Global player said he also failed to call a handball on Ceres defender Juani Guirado in the first half, so the player called it even.

I spoke to league officials after the game. The pool of refs is tiny, so Talaver and Daypuyat get the brunt of the assignments for the big matches. This Cup I haven't noticed any NCRFA refs in the Cup games, mostly just Daypuyat and Talaver from PFF. Supresencia lives in Iloilo where he works as a teacher and cannot come often.

But the error in the refereeing on Saturday could have been a reflection of the structural weakness of our refereeing systems. One league official says he feels their referees get burned out from too many games. Naturally, the work suffers.

Talaver is from Negros Occidental, so he is never assigned to Ceres games. Daypuyat apparently gets most of the games involving the Bacolod-based teams. That is far from ideal. The team will likely not want to see Daypuyat on the whistle in the upcoming league, but they may have no choice.

We need to have a bigger pool of refs. But the work environment these fine men must endure is oftentimes so toxic. That surely dissuades many would-be match officials from making refereeing a career choice.

So once again, we have a systemic problem that needs the collective efforts of all stakeholders. That is always a tough ask in the Philippines. No doubt, a referee blew a big call on Saturday, but these godforsaken fellows are victims in all of this as well. 

Ceres were, as expected, a wee bit run-down. This was their third game in two different cities in a span of eight days. That is not easy to overcome. Juani Guirado, who has been battling fitness issues for a while, had a rough night and was sacrificed at the half, with Jason Sabio moving over to central defense. Bienve Marañon got hurt and was replaced by Orman Okunaiya, another one seeking 100% fitness. (The Ulsterman was actually quite good in his shift.) 

Stephan Schrock was introduced late but couldn't make much of an impact. He too, has been hobbled. 

One gets the feeling now that it was always going to be difficult for Ceres to thrive in both the UFL Cup and the AFC Cup. Injuries will always pile up. Fortunately although they fell short on Saturday, they still are in great shape in the AFC Cup, which resumes in two weeks. 

In contrast Global seemed to have that little bit more energy, especially the midfield that transitioned back and forth from offense to defense all night. 

Global's resurgence is good for the league. The 2014 League champs had recently been hampered by controversy, underachievement, and their share of injuries. But they got it all together for another piece of silverware. 

In some countries like Germany, (Bayern Munich), France, (PSG), and Scotland, (Celtic), one very dominant and resource-rich club is head-and-shoulders above the rest. That is not the best, because the title race is so predictable. We have been in danger of being in the same situation with Ceres, who ran away with the UFL League last year with plenty of games to spare. But the reemergence of Global means we could likely have two very strong teams in Ceres and Global, plus four sides in Kaya, GAU, Loyola and Stallion who can hang with them. That makes for plenty of competition, and thus an interesting and unpredictable league.

Omid Nazari is a mouthwatering prospect for the Azkals. The Swedish-Iranian-Pinoy didn't score on Saturday but he came close. Nazari combines speed, size, and a lethal finishing touch. I am hoping he gets the a-okay from FIFA to represent the Philippines in the Suzuki Cup in November. He would be a good complement to Phil Younghusband or Javi Patiño up top.

My take on the lack of a live telecast. There has been no shortage of teeth-gnashing about the telecast of the game, which is a day delayed. Many Pinoy fans complain loudly that the match deserves a live broadcast. 

Of course they are right, a live broadcast would be great. But as I see it, we should be grateful that TV5, (and its affiliate AksyonTV), even bother to show club football at all. There were no full club football matches on TV 6 years ago, live or delayed. Now we demand live matches and complain when we don't get them. 

Truth is, the community of football fans in the Philippines is still relatively small. If we want live telecasts all the time, we have to prove to networks that it's worth it. We must do our part to increase our tribe. That, once again, necessitates an effort from everyone, not just the networks. 

Meanwhile, I am simply grateful for TV5's tremendous service to Philippine football with their coverage of the UFL for the past 5 years. My understanding is their contract with the league will be up soon, and they can take a well-deserved bow.

The Cup is over, now the focus is on the other competitions. The UAAP is hurtling towards its final four phase. The AFC Cup, where Kaya and Ceres are doing well, is nearing the end of its group stage. Philippine football is percolating nicely. And in a week or two, the UFL League begins as well. It's a great time to be a Pinoy football fan. – Rappler.com 

Follow Bob on Twitter @PassionateFanPH.

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – The curtains have fallen on the 2016 Palarong Pambansa hosted by Albay.

National Capital Region emerged victorious once again with its 12th straight overall championship while Calabarzon and Western Visayas maintained their places at the podium.

Albay put on a radiant closing ceremony that was at par with the colorful opening program as this year's Palaro ended with what was dubbed a "Unity Dance" where all the delegates led by teachers from Albay dances in unison as a sign of camaraderie.

Take a look at the scenes from the 2016 Palarong Pambansa closing ceremony below.

– with a report from Cynthia Babagay- Llacer/Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - The ball bounced Ian Lariba's way on Saturday, April 17 as the table tennis standout from De La Salle University earned a spot in the 2016 Olympics after topping the women's singles event at the ITTF-Asian Olympic Qualification Tournament in Hong Kong.

The 22-year-old Lariba, a native of Cagayan de Oro, defeated Lilis Indriani of Indonesia to book the 11th and final ticket to Rio De Janeiro in her event. Lariba, who was named UAAP co-Athlete of the Year in Season 77 and is a two-time reigning UAAP women's table tennis MVP, is the first Filipino to qualify for the Olympics in this event since it was first included at the 1988 Games.

 Lariba won the classification phase over Maha Faramarzi of Qatar, 11-5, 11-1, 11-7, 11-4, before outplaying Mahjobeh Omran of Iran, 11-6, 15-13, 11-8, 7-11, 10-12, 11-8. She was then stopped by her Thai opponent before winning against her Indonesian foe, according to a press statement from the Table Tennis Association of the Philippines (TATAP).

Lariba joins boxers Charly Suarez and Rogen Ladon, weight lifter Hidlyn Diaz, taekwondo jin Kirstie Elaine Alora and athlete Eric Cray as Philippine athletes who have qualified for the Rio Olympics. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The future is already delivering in the present for Coach Jong Uichico’s team.

Led by the career-high 31 points and 7 3-pointers by rookie Troy Rosario, Tropang TNT survived a close battle with the Alaska Aces and came away with a Game 1 victory, 106-99, on Sunday, April 17, at the Cuneta Astrodome.

Rosario, who scored 12 of his 31 in the final period, also hit big clutch shots down the stretch to put Alaska on the brink of elimination in the 3-game quarterfinal series.

Scores:

Tropang TNT (106): Rosario 31, Simon 34, Castro 17, De Ocampo 13, Ababou 6, Williams 5, Ganuelas-Rosser 4, Tautuaa 4, Carey 2, Fonacier 0, R Reyes 0, J Reyes 0

Alaska (99): Dozier 22, Abueva 18, Eximiniano 11, Banchero 10, Thoss 8, Jazul 7, Manuel 6, Baclao 4, Hontiveros 4, Dela Cruz 3, Menk 3, Dela Rosa 2, Baguio 1

Quarter scores: 27-27; 57-44; 81-72; 106-99 – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws put up an impressive comeback to edge the De La Salle Lady Spikers in a thrilling 5-set victory, 15-25, 23-25, 25-23, 25-21,16-14, during the UAAP season 78 women’s volleyball Final Four, Sunday, April 17, at the Mall of Asia Arena. 

After dropping the first two sets, FEU came back to life in the third canto courtesy of Bernadeth Pons to force a fourth set and extend the season for the Morayta-based squad.

A slew of errors in the crucial moments of the deciding set killed La Salle and gave game one of the Final Four series to the Lady Tamaraws

FEU will have to face La Salle on Wednesday due to the latter’s twice-to-beat advantage in order to gain a shot at a finals matchup with two-time defending champion Ateneo. 

More details to follow. – Rappler.com

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – A disability is never a hindrance for people who use it as an inspiration.

Take for instance Arnold B. Asis, a 17-year-old swimming gold medalist with mild intellectual disability from Mimaropa, who is juggling a 3-part role as a student, an athlete, and his family's breadwinner.

Asis is a student of M. Adriatico SPED Center inside Adriatico Memorial Elementary School. He was discovered as a potential athlete by his 36-year-old coach, Hermarie O. Salazar, who was impressed with his swimming skills.

Asis, who lives in the seaside area of Tibag, Calapan City, won two gold medals and one silver at last year's Palarong Pambansa, competing in the 50-meter backstroke, freestyle and breaststroke events.

But more than being a student-athlete, Asis is also supporting his family.

Born the 5th child in a brood of 13, Asis is counted on to work hard to help his family's everyday needs. His parents are in between jobs while his other siblings either already have families of their own or have stopped school. Two of his siblings have already passed away.

Asis attends school like any other teenager, but he also takes on a variety of jobs such as re-painting and cleaning tombs every All Souls' Day in November, helping carry packages to the market, and cleaning jobs.

“Masasabi ko din na breadwinner, kasi bukod sa nag aaral siya nagtatrabaho pa siya,” Salazar emphasized. (I can say that he's a breadwinner, because aside from studying he is also working.)

Even as he tries to balance every aspect of his life, Asis never forgets to strive for excellence.

“Lagi po mag training, at galingan po, at wag pong kabahan (Always train, and do your best, and don’t get nervous),” Asis shared his advice to fellow young athletes like himself.

He also never forgets to dedicate everything to his family.

“Para po sa family ko, sa mga kapatid ko po at sa akin din po.” (For my family, my siblings and also for myself.) – with reports from MJ Gelit/Rappler.com

Mary Joy Gelit is a Rappler intern for the 2016 Palarong Pambansa and is studying at Bicol University.

MANILA, Philippines – Jeff Chan hit a tough one-dribble pull-up jumper with 3.1 seconds left to seal the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters’ 88-84 victory over Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in Game 1 of their PBA Commissioner’s Cup quaterfinal series on Sunday, April 17, at the Cuneta Astrodome.

Chan, who came off the bench, had 15 points overall and shot 5-of-12 from the field while JR Quinahan scored 17 points also as a reserve in the win.

Ginebra was led by the 20 points of LA Tenorio. Import Othyus Jeffers recorded 12 points and 10 boards while Japeth Aguilar had 13 points and 12 rebounds.

The clinching basket by Chan came after Jeffers missed a turnaround in the post that could have tied the match at 86. After securing a rebound, Rain or Shine handed the ball to Chan who nailed the tough J as the shot clock expired.

Scores:

Rain or Shine (88): Quinahan 17, Chan 15, Henderson-Niles 12, Ponferada 8, Tiu 8, Ahanmisi 6, Norwood 6, Lee 3, Almazan 2, Trollano 2, Belga 0, Ibanes 0

Barangay Ginebra (84): Tenorio 20, Aguilar 13, Jeffers 12, Caguioa 10, Slaughter 10, Devance 7, Mercado 5, Ellis 4, Mercado 3, Thompson 0

Quarter scores: 12-27; 40-41; 70-70; 88-84 – Rappler.com

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – A number of sports at the 2016 Palarong Pambansa remain unfamiliar despite being around for years.

Through this series of photos, Rappler takes a closer look at the sport of bocce.

Bocce, sometimes called bocce ball, is an official para games sport for this year's Palaro.

According to coach Joylili Babasa of the Zamboanga Peninsula, bocce is exclusively for children with disabilities to enhance their eye and body coordination. Bocce helps coaches track the progression and improvement of an athlete's mind.

The common players of this game are athletes with intellectual disabilities. Only the those with an IQ of 70 below can join participate.

The rules

The game is played in singles, doubles, and team categories.

The technical director will call on to the teams for a toss coin to determine who will throw the lead ball first. Each player or team are given 4 balls – green and red. They are to decide which color they want.

The winner of the coin toss will throw a small white ball called the lead ball. Then the player or team which manages to bowl the 4 balls closest to the lead ball wins. The game does not require a specific time frame, but technical directors and delegations can utlimately decide.

Rotation violation occurs when the athlete mistakenly throws the ball below his waist line. Then the serving of the lead ball will go to the opponent.

At Palaro this year, Western Visayas won gold for the singles category, while Central Visayas and CAR won the silver and bronze, respectively.

Host Bicol Region triumphed in the double competition followed by Negros Island and Western Visayas.

Finally, 12-time Palaro overall champion NCR took home the gold in the team event as Calabarzon and Bicol came away with the silver and bronze.

 – reports from Mary Joy Gelit/Rappler.com