MANILA, Philippines – After closing out last Saturday’s 2nd round opening day with a 76-58 blowout loss, the University of the Philippines Integrated School (UPIS) Junior Fighting Maroons started Wednesday’s games with a strong 91-87 upset over the 3rd-placer University of Santo Tomas (UST) Tiger Cubs in the FilOil Flying V Centre, Thursday, January 17.

While the Maroons already led by as many as 9 points over the squad of frontrunner MVP candidate CJ Cansino, the Cubs still closed out the first half with a 48-42 comeback lead. Turnovers to open the second half didn’t help out UP at all as they saw their deficit climb to as high as 15. At the end of the 3rd, UST was still up 11, 68-57.

Although UST committed less TOs than UP at the second half, they tossed 3 giveaways in a row to kick off the 4th quarter, which was enough to swing the momentum hard towards the Maroons. A one-man show by Cansino was not enough to stop the bleeding. With 27 seconds left in regulation, Rafael Labao pulled up his only trey – a dagger at that – to put the Maroons up for good and stun the contending Cubs.

Led by Labao’s 17 points, 6 out of 9 players fielded by UP scored in double-figures, including Joelo Tupaz’ 14-point, 11-rebound double-double and King Vergeire’s 13 points (4/6 triples, 1/2 free-throws) off the bench. Cansino meanwhile, had his customary double-double of 29 points and 18 boards for the Cubs, who have now lost 2 in a row to open the 2nd round.

Next up was an outright mismatch between defending champion Far Eastern University-Diliman (FEU-D) Baby Tamaraws and the University of the East (UE) Junior Warriors, where the champs decimated the (technically*) winless Warriors by 28, 91-63. UE actually led, 41-38, at the half but a 15-1 attack by FEU to open the 3rd quarter was the early nail in the coffin for UE. In a show of force, the Baby Tams outscored the Junior Warriors 53-22 in the second half and vastly outrebounded them, 72-31.

Reigning Finals Most Valuable Player L-Jay Gonzales paced the team as usual with 21 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists and 3 steals in just 26 minutes of action. Agem Miranda topscored for UE with a 19-point, 12-board double-double.

The 2nd-placer National University (NU) Bullpups welcomed the afternoon with an easy 85-67 victory over the slumping De La Salle Zobel (DLSZ) Junior Archers. The game was close only until the early part of the 2^nd quarter, where DLSZ launched a 12-0 attack after being down 29-15. However, Season 79 finalist NU responded with a 13-4 run of their own to regain control by halftime, 42-33.

The Bullpups kept the pressure up all throughout the second half through patient and precise passes for open threes, led by Terrence Fortea who finished with 20 points off 5/9 shots from rainbow range. Rogil Carlos started out hot for the Archers with 12 markers at halftime, but only went 1/6 in the second half and ended with 15 points – still a team-high.

To close out the day, the undefeated Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) Blue Eaglets maintained the status quo for their campaign as they routed the Adamson University (AdU) Baby Falcons, 64-47.

For the entire game, the Eaglets led by 7-foot-1 unicorn Kai Sotto relentlessly trapped the Falcons on defense, sending the listless team to a horrible 20% shooting clip (15/74) and only 18% from three (6/32). Sotto tallied 5 of the team’s 8 blocks to go along with 9 points and 12 rebounds. Dave Ildefonso topscored for the Eaglets with 12 points and 8 boards.

Adamson starters Adrian Manlapaz, Andrey Doria, Joseph Prodigo and Jose Sabandal were held to a combined 3/38 clip from the field and 1/15 from downtown. Only Andrey’s brother Adam fared well against the stifling Ateneo defense, leading the Falcons with 12 points on 6/8 shooting.

The 2nd round will resume on Saturday, January 20, still at the FilOil Flying V Centre.

The Scores:

UPIS (91) – Labao, Raf. 17, Santiago 14, Tupaz 14, Vergeire 13, Labao, Ral. 13, Gregorio 10, Estrera 8, Villa-Real 2, Lopez 0.

UST (87) ­– Cansino 29, Dolendo 15, Palencia 12, Villapando 12, Lina 8, Manabat 4. Baquial 3, Relucio 2, Narvasa 2, Biag 0, Esplana 0, Anunciacion 0, Benzonan 0, Dela Cruz 0. 

--

FEU (91) – Gonzales 21, Sajonia 17, Alforque 12, Tolentino 10, Celso 9, Abarrientos 7, Boc 4, Mariano 4, Torres 3, Ona 2, Armendez 2, Bautista 0.

UE (63) – Miranda 19, Vinte 12, Dichoso 8, Dulalia 7, Policarpio 6, Angeles 3, Villarta 3, Lopez 3, Almacen 2, Tajonera 0.

--

NU (85) – Fortea 20, Pangilinan 11, Oczon 10, Amsali 10, Manalang 9, Pradella 6, Gonzales 4, Malonzo 4, Minerva 4, Javillonar 3, Felisida 2, Dayrit 2, Coyoca 0, Vinoya 0.

DLSZ (67) – Carlos 15, Cortez 12, Calimag 9, Escandor 7, Santos 5, Consejo 5, Bonalos 5, Chavez 3, Buncayo 3, Udal 3, Terrado 0, Pascual 0, Barcuma 0, Vesagas 0, Favis 0.

--

ADMU (64) – Ildefonso 12, Credo 11, Manuel 10, Sotto 9, Belangel 7, Chiu 5, Escalona 4, Jaymalin 3, Lopa 2, David 1, Santos 0, Tanedo 0, Diaz 0, Gusi 0.

AdU (47) – Doria, Ad. 12, Baculio 11, Manlapaz 5, Perez 4, Doria, An. 3, Canoy 3, Engbino 3, Hanapi 3, Prodigo 2, Sabandal 1, Santos P. 0, Sevilla 0, Padilla, O. 0, Santos R. 0, Padilla A. 0.

Season 80 Standings (as of Jan. 17, 2018)

School                  Win-Loss Record

ADMU                 9-0

NU                         7-2*

UST                       5-4

FEU-D                  5-4

AdU                      4-5

DLSZ                    3-6

UPIS                     2-7

UE                          1-8*

*Note: NU’s first-round win over UE was forfeited due to a player ineligibility violation.

MANILA, Philippines – Bicolano fans would have to wait a little longer before they see their favorite PBA players in action as the league was forced to transfer the venue of the February 3 game from Legazpi City in Albay to the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.

Barangay Ginebra and the NLEX Road Warriors were supposed to clash in Legazpi City for the league's first out-of-town game of February. But due to the worsening condition of the Mayon Volcano in Albay, the PBA had to change the venue for the game.

However, the PBA, on its official Facebook page, assured fans that it will set another playdate in Legazpi City "as soon as its playing schedule permits." 

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The Mayon Volcano has been under Alert Level 3 since Sunday evening, January 14, meaning a "hazardous eruption is possible within weeks or even days."

The entire province of Albay was placed under a state of calamity on Tuesday, January 16. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Rain or Shine Elastopainters finally got their offense going after back-to-back poor shooting nights with a 21-point demoliton of the Phoenix Fuel Masters, 120-99 at the Araneta Coliseum Wednesday, January 17. 

Rain or Shine held a 39-13 lead after the first quarter before the Fuel Masters found their groove in the second period to cut their deficit to 16, 43-59.

That, however, was not enough to douse the E-Painters' fiery offensive exploits as they opened the second half with a 29-7 spurt, sparked by Ed Daquioag's 9 points and capped by back-to-back Chris Tiu triples, for a 39-point advantage, 86-47, their biggest of the game.

Phoenix made runs here and there but Rain or Shine's lead was too big to overcome.

Daquioag poured in a game-high 21 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists in less than 22 minutes of action while James Yap bucked a string of off nights with 20 markers, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for the E-Painters. 

Tiu had an all-around game with 17 points, 7 assists, 4 rebounds and 2 steals. 

Matthew Wright and Jayson Perkins finished with 17 points apiece for Phoenix.

Both teams are tied with 2-2 cards with the Fuel Masters seeing its two-game winning streak come to an end. 

The Scores: 

Rain or Shine (120): Daquioag 21, Yap 20, Maiquez 18, Tiu 17, Nambatac 11, Ponferada 10, Borboran 4, Norwood 4, Trollano 3, Belga 2, Matias 0.

Phoenix (99): Wright 17, Perkins 17, Alolino 12, Chan 11, Dehesa 11, Intal 10, Eriobu 7, Kramer 5, Jazul 5, Mendoza 2, Wilson 2, Chua 0, Revilla 0.

Quarter scores: 39-13, 57-40, 98-67, 120-99.

– Rappler.com

MELBOURNE, Australia – Rafael Nadal looked on point as he powered into the Australian Open 3rd round with a straight sets victory on Wednesday, January 17, a workout he deemed "very important" on his return from a knee injury.

Spain's world No.1 only dropped serve once in a dominant performance as he reeled off a 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) victory over 52nd-ranked Argentine Leonardo Mayer in 2hr 38 min on Rod Laver Arena.

Nadal, a losing finalist to Roger Federer last year in Melbourne, will face Bosnia-Herzegovina's 28th seed Damir Dzumhur in the 3rd round.

It was a masterly performance from the 16-time Grand Slam champion, who conceded only 10 unforced errors, stacked up against his 40 winners.

"It was an important victory for me, he's a tough opponent," Nadal said.

"Leonardo is a player with big potential, he hits the ball so strong and you could see in the last couple of games how tough [he was]."

"I had to hit some great shots in the tie-break, he's a very dangerous opponent."

"I am happy to be in the 3rd round after being out of competition for a while, a second victory in a row is very important to me."

He now faces Dzumhur in the next round on Friday, January 19, when temperatures are forecast to hit 40°C (104°F), with Nadal urging organizers to shut the roof on the stadium he plays on.

"The only thing that I hope, if it is extreme conditions, I hope the organizers shut the roof. I think is a health issue," he said. 

"Even I like sometimes to play when it's hot. When it's too much, it becomes dangerous for the health."

Dzumhur was a tough opponent, he added. 

"He's a tricky one. The only way to win is play in a high rhythm than him and try to play aggressive, try to put the highest intensity possible out there. That's what I going to try."

Mayer played well and stuck to his guns, hitting 48 winners offset by 33 unforced errors and breaking serve for the only time in the match as Nadal was serving out to win, forcing the third set into a tiebreaker.

"He played a great game, all the returns in, very long, playing so aggressive, hitting all the balls super strong, and having success," Nadal said of Mayer.

The win took the 31-year-old Spaniard's Australian Open record to 53-11 as he chases his second Australian title after beating Federer in the 2009 final.

Nadal, who is gunning for a 17th major title, was hampered by a knee injury at the tail-end of the 2017 season.

It forced him to skip the lead-up Brisbane International this month, and he only had a one-match workout at the exhibition Kooyong Classic in Melbourne ahead of the Open.

Nadal needs to reach the quarter-finals to be certain of retaining his world number one ranking after the Australian Open, with Federer breathing down his neck. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The UAAP board has nullified a victory by the National University (NU) Bullpups over the University of the East (UE) Junior Warriors in the 1st round of the UAAP Season 80 Juniors basketball tournament due to an ineligible player fielded by NU.

In a letter dated January 12, 2018 and passed on by email on the 17th, UAAP Commissioner Rene “Rebo” Saguisag, Jr formally rescinded the win by the Bullpups over the Warriors on November 11, 2017, because they “fielded a player who was not able to satisfy the eligibility requirements of the UAAP.” While the player was not named in the letter, Spin.ph reported that it was Jayson Puray who was declared ineligible. He only played one game this season – the November 11 game against UE.

With the decision in place, NU (now 5-2) dropped to a tie with 3rd-placer University of Santo Tomas (UST) Tiger Cubs after the end of the first round while UE (1-6) avoided a winless round by virtue of technicality.

However, the landscape of the season’s Final 4 contendership remains unchanged so far after NU (7-2) won two straight games to gain firm control of 2nd place. Meanwhile, UST (5-4) dropped two straight to tie defending champion Far Eastern University-Diliman (FEU) Baby Tamaraws in 4th place. UE (1-8) still remains at the cellar while the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) Blue Eaglets (9-0) remain the undisputed top threats for Season 80. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Men’s National Team will host Tajikistan in the final match of the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 Qualifiers on Tuesday, March 27, 2018, at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium in Manila.

The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) formally received the confirmation from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) on the venue.

{source} 

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-cards="hidden" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The OFFICIAL venue for our March 27 clash with Tajikistan is out!! Block off that date and make plans with your squad! Ticket details soon.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OneBlood?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OneBlood</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BangisNgAzkals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BangisNgAzkals</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FightAsOne?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FightAsOne</a> <br><br><a href="https://t.co/4eOsU0BqGk">pic.twitter.com/4eOsU0BqGk</a></p>&mdash; The Azkals (@TheAzkalsPH) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheAzkalsPH/status/953552519875108864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source} 

After the Azkals kicked off their campaign in the Asian Cup Qualifiers with a 4-1 win against Nepal at the Rizal Memorial Stadium, the next match played on Philippine soil was held at Pana-ad Park and Football Stadium instead. The match ended with a 2-2 draw against Yemen last September 5, 2017. 

The Pana-ad Park and Football Stadium in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental was earlier nominated to host the final Group F home match between the Philippines and Tajikistan. However, due to difficulties in securing fully-equipped training venues, the venue was moved to the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

“We announce that the AFC has approved the PFF’s request to move the final match of the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers back to Manila,” said PFF president Mariano V. Araneta Jr. “This match will be a crucial match as it will decide the Philippine Men’s National Team’s chances of qualifying for the AFC Asian Cup.”

Philippines leads Group F with 9 points while Tajikistan are in 3rd with 7 points going to the final match of the qualifiers. The Azkals need a win or at least a draw to qualify for the Asian Cup. In case of a loss, however, the Philippines will only be able to qualify if Yemen loses to Nepal. 

{source} 

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here are the possible scenarios heading up to our clash with Tajikistan on March 27th!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OneBlood?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OneBlood</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BangisNgAzkals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BangisNgAzkals</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FightAsOne?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FightAsOne</a> <br><br> <a href="https://t.co/Uu7ggAa2zQ">pic.twitter.com/Uu7ggAa2zQ</a></p>&mdash; The Azkals (@TheAzkalsPH) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheAzkalsPH/status/949511770137247745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source} 

“We hope all football stakeholders and supporters rally behind the Men’s National Team,” added Araneta. “Qualifying for the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 will be a historic moment in Philippine football.”

Ticket details for the match have not yet been announced.  – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Raymond Almazan was reduced to a spectator in the Rain or Shine Elastopainters’ 120-99 victory over the Phoenix Fuel Masters, Wednesday, January 17, but he is neither injured nor feeling unwell.

Rain or Shine head coach Caloy Garcia admitted in the post-game presser that he decided not to field Almazan in against the Fuel Masters after the lanky big man failed to attend the team’s last two practices.

Garcia said that Almazan’s absence might have stemmed from their argument after the E-Painters lost to the Globalport Batang Pier last January 12 when the 28-year-old had an off night after finishing with two points, 4 rebounds, two assists and 3 turnovers in more than 22 minutes of play.

“Hindi kasi nakapagpractice the last two days so sabi namin pahinga na lang muna. Actually, after the loss against Global, medyo nagkaanuhan lang kami,” Garcia added.

(He did not practice the last two days so I told him that he should rest first. Actually, after the loss against Global, we got into something.)

Garcia bared that he initially planned to make Almazan a double-double threat heading into the season but after the dismal outing against the Batang Pier, he could not help but scold the former NCAA MVP.

“The way he played against Global, I felt that it wasn't Raymond. So ayun, medyo napagalitan, nagkatampuhan but that's it. I think kasama naman sa trabaho namin yun eh,” Garcia said. “But I think everything is good right now.”

(The way he played against Global, I felt that it wasn't Raymond. I kind of scolded him and we got into a misunderstanding but that's it. I think it is a part of the job. But I think everything is good right now.)

Chris Tiu, who had a hand in Rain or Shine’s romp of the Fuel Masters after tallying 17 points, 7 assists and 4 rebounds, was glad that the team ended with their two-game losing streak thanks to other guys stepping up in Almazan’s shoe.

“I'm positive that would be resolved and we just have to hold the fort. I think we'll be okay. Today, the other guys stepped up. Dexter Maiquez, Mark Borboran, Jewel Ponferrada played well also even Ronnie Matias. Hopefully, the guys can step up and when Raymond's back we'll be even stronger.”

Almazan is expected to be back on the hardcourt when Rain or Shine lock horns against the Kia Picanto on Saturday, January 20. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – TNT averted a late-game collapse against Blackwater as the KaTropa ended their two-game losing streak with a 92-83 win over the Elite at the Araneta Coliseum Wednesday, January 17.

Leading by 17 points early in the 4th period after 3 straight triples from Norbert Torres, Anthony Semerad and RR Garcia, 76-59, the KaTropa looked like it was in for an easy triumph before the Elite regained their bearings.

Blackwater cut the lead to just 6 points with 1:50 minutes left in the game following back-to-back buckets by Poy Erram and Mike Cortez, 79-85. 

However, the Elite's comeback threat was ultimately cut short with only a little over a minute remaining after Jayson Castro came up clutch for the KaTropa with a 3-point play conversion, 88-79. 

Roger Pogoy starred for TNT with 24 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals while Castro chipped in 17 markers, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals and 2 blocks.

Erram paced the Elite with 20 points and 8 rebounds.

Both teams are tied with identical 2-2 records, tying NLEX, Rain or Shine, Alaska and Phoenix. 

The Scores: 

TNT (92): Pogoy 24, Castro 17, Garcia 12, Semerad 11, Rosario 9, Williams 6, Tautuaa 6, Reyes 2, Golla 0, Onwubere 0, Carey 0.

Blackwater (83): Erram 20, Cortez 14, Digregorio 9, Belo 9, Maliksi 9, Jose 7, Sumang 5, Marcelo 4, Sena 4, Pinto 2, Cruz 0. 

Quarter scores: 15-16, 36-43, 65-57, 92-83. 

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - It was supposed to be a normal Wednesday night for Kelly Williams.

The TNT KaTropa were looking to end their two-game skid against the streaking Blackwater Elite and as usual, Williams was a pivotal piece in doing so. 

But January 17 was not an ordinary day for the former league MVP as he had to take an Angkas motorcycle to get to the Araneta Coliseum after getting stuck in traffic in Taguig due to the fire that hit the residential area along C5 road. 

“Coming from the South, I got to Taguig in about two and a half hours and I heard there was a fire on C5 and I was like, 'Oh my God, what am I going to do?' My driver said 'check Angkas, an Uber for motorcycles,'” said Williams while laughing about his unusual situation. 

“Quickly got out of the car in the middle of the C5, the middle of traffic, found this guy under the overpass, he was surprised to see me. I got my helmet on, jumped on the bicycle and we got here for about 40 minutes.” 

During the ride, the 35-year-old shared that ordinary commuters were surprised to see him riding a motorcycle and admitted that while it was a first for him in his 12-year PBA career, it was still a “good experience for me.” 

“You get to see Manila in a different light,” said Williams. 

While the thought of riding a motorcycle through the gridlocked streets of Metro Manila frightened him, especially after his driver was “swerving pretty well,” Williams said that he cared more about how his coaches would react if he did not get to the game at all.

“I considered running, I considered jogging. Whatever you got to do, crawl, walk or run. It was a good experience though. Thank you to the cyclist, I think his name is Richard or something like that, he’s a lifesaver.” 

Williams arrived at around 7:15 pm with the first quarter nearing to an end. However, he was only fielded in the second half, when the KaTropa were trailing 36-43.

Williams’ arrival proved to be a crucial moment for TNT as it erased a 10-point Blackwater lead in the third quarter en route to a 92-83 win. The Filipino-American put up 6 points, 6 rebounds and 4 steals and had a plus-minus of plus-8 in just less than 18 minutes of action. 

“You got to come out there with extra effort after coming in late like that. But it’s always my intention to come out and do whatever I have to do.” 

Williams shared that arriving late for a PBA game is one of his worst nightmares, and against the Elite, it came true. That’s probably why he did not mind giving more than what he was supposed to pay for the Angkas driver.

“I tipped him very handsomely. It was about a hundred but I’m sure I paid with whatever was in my pocket because I was very grateful.”

The experience, he said, was a fun one for him but Williams is sure to mind what coaches cautioned him afterwards

“I told coach I won’t do it again. Let’s pray that it doesn’t happen again.” – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Eight years of heartbreak are finally over for the CSB Blazers.

Benilde defeated Arellano 1-1 AET, 3-2 PSO in the deciding match of their best-of-3 finals series to claim the Season 93 crown in front of a noisy crowd at Rizal Memorial on the night of Wednesday, January 17. 

Blazer Miguel Artillera scored in the 38th minute from the right flank which was negated by Chief Papuh Corsame 4 minutes into the second half. The Arellano goal came immediately on a counterattack after Benilde withdrew centerback Julito Asparen for Earl Laguerta. 

Artillera had two chances in the second half and Corsame was close on a late header but regulation finished 1-1. 

In extra time, Corsame had a great chance for a winner off a fumble from Benilde keeper Jake Vicen but he yanked his shot wide. 

Arellano missed the goal frame on two attempts in the shootout, with both Angelo Guengon and Evander Alquileta putting their kicks inches high. 

Vicen sealed the title when he batted away Corsame's try in the bottom of the 5th inning. 

In the first game last Friday Arellano prevailed in extra time 3-2 thanks to a late strike from Jumbel Guinabang. Benilde leveled on Monday, January 15, in game 2, winning 3-1 in a shoot out after 120 minutes of football ended 1-1. 

Blazers skipper Renz Tulayba won the best midfielder and league MVP award. 

In the Juniors division San Beda won the title, sweeping De La Salle Greenhills in two games on Friday and Monday, with JR Suba scoring a hat trick in game two as the Red Cubs won 3-3 AET and 3-1 in a shootout. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Filipina-American Coryn Rivera is well on her way to becoming one of the top world tour cyclists of today. 

At 25 years old, Coryn has amassed 71 US National titles and earned a gold medal in the 2017 Tour of Flanders – the most prestigious spring classic in world tour cycling. 

Since turning pro at 16 years old, Coryn's journey in the sport has led her to an opportunity of cycling within the European circuit – the standard of world cycling. She currently trains with Netherlands Pro Cycling club Team Sunweb. 

"If you want to make it to the top level of cycling you have to be in Europe," said Rivera. "I made the move for the first time last year and it was hard it was the hardest racing that I have ever done in my life but I always love the challenge and I like the race being really difficult." 

Born for cycling

It was not a surprise to many that Rivera would be drawn into the world of cycling. Coryn's parents, Wally and Lina Rivera, enjoyed outdoor activies such as cycling with their friends. But it was Wally's love for anything on two wheels that created a big impact on Coryn.

Coryn started riding at the back of Wally's tandem bike and the family would join group rides with their friends in weekends around Orange County in California. 

"I wanted to join [them] so I got on the back of a tandem and eventually I got big enough to ride my own bike," recalled Coryn. "The rest is kind of history. Everything just evolved from there and that's how I kind of found the sport." 

But group rides weren't enough to satisfy Coryn's hunger for adventure and her athletic nature. Coryn was yearning for more than regular casual rides around Orange County, as if something was drawing her towards the more exciting experiences that await her.

She wanted competition. 

"It was always something that I wanted to do. [Being] competitive too, I really like it. Always having a challenge," said Coryn. 

When Coryn got her racing license, it allowed her to meet kids her age who shared the same passion for cycling. In her first few races, Coryn was forced to race with the boys because there weren't enough girls her age to make up a category. 

"At her first race, she was crying because she finished second place racing against the boys," recalled Wally. 

Coryn started winning race after race, beating boys and girls alike and eventually catching the attention of people who advised the Rivera family to enter her into the nationals. 

Since she was a teenager, Coryn was already fueled with the determination to succeed. She breezed through her first year of cycling in the junior nationals, bagging gold medals in two disciplines. 

But two wasn't enough. "She wanted to win all!," exclaimed Wally. "But I just told her: 'then you just gotta train harder." 

The bump on the road

Ever since she stepped foot into the nationals, each year had been a routine of kicking off the cycling season, regular training then going back to the off-season again. 

After the long day's worth of training, the young Coryn would still be bursting with energy at home and she would spend the night watching the Tour de France on TV. This all the more inspired her in becoming a world tour cyclist in Europe. 

"I remember just staying up late at night watching the reruns of the race and thinking 'Oh how cool would it be to race in Europe.' So that's kind of where the dream was born of racing full time in Europe," said Coryn. 

In 2011, however, Coryn suffered a concussion from a crash in the Tour of Qatar, causing her to stop cycling for 8 months.

"I suffered a really bad concussion, I was knocked out for like two minutes and I don't remember the next 4 hours so it was a really really bad crash," recaled Coryn. 

This brought Coryn's career to a crossroad and she chose the path of going to college. The injury that could have halted her career eventually became a blessing for Coryn, as it opened her to a life outside of cycling. Coryn took up a business degree in Marian University all the way in Indianapolis, where she had to juggle living on her own while recovering from her injury. 

"I think that let me to a decision to go to college. [because] I knew with any incident you know, the career could be over and I could have nothing. So I made sure to go to university, get an education just in case anything would happen and from there I learned that there's a lot more to life than cycling." 

During the 8-month period, Coryn was at peace with her thoughts. She had been in the sport for 10 years at that point and finally, she could go through college just like anyone else. But as the months passed, Coryn still knew that thought of getting on your bike, going on high speed while feeling the cool breeze on your face was still lingering within her. 

"I had already raced for 10 years when I was a junior, so it was really nice to take a break, kind of refresh and and realize how much the sport really means to me and opportunities that it has given to me and then I started racing again," explained Coryn. 

"I guess you could say that I fell in love with a sport again and now this is where I am at. So I made my dreams come true." 

Coryn graduated with a degree from Marian University in 2015, but also with a renewed passion for cycling. 

Tokyo 2020

From harnessing a talent to overcoming a devastating accident, Coryn has proved to the world that her accolades are more than just a product of the everyday grind of a cyclist. It was her self-motivated dream that pushed her to join the ranks of the world's top cyclists. 

"If you really wanted something, it has to come from you. No one else is going to do it for you, so that's how I kind of have been brought up by my parents," explained Rivera.

"I found my own path. Everyone has a different path to be professional in the world tour. I mean, I knew that I wanted to finish college so I went ahead and did that and then I found my way to the world tour."

With the 2020 Summer Olympics fast approaching in two years, Coryn hopes to be cycling here way to Tokyo. – Rappler.com

MELBOURNE, Australia - Unseeded Maria Sharapova showed she is a serious contender for this year's Australian Open as she destroyed 14th seed Anastasija Sevastova 6-1, 7-6 (7/4) on Thursday, January 18.

Against an opponent who had thwarted the Russian's Grand Slam comeback in the last 16 of the US Open last year, Sharapova sped through a scintillating first set in 23 power-packed minutes.

She wobbled when serving for the match but came through a tiebreak to set up a potential third-round clash against in-form 2016 Australian Open champion Angelique Kerber, who plays Donna Vekic later.

"When she broke back I thought: 'Oh, it's going to be 3 sets again," said Sharapova, who added. "At the US Open she was fresher."

Sharapova, back in the top 50 after a 15-month ban for taking the performance-enhancing substance meldonium in Australia in 2016, demonstrated all the shot-making that made her a 5-time major winner.

In a hopelessly one-sided first set, the world number 48 powered home 12 winners, was successful on all 6 occasions she approached the net, smashed down two aces and lost just 9 points.

"I knew I had to get a good start and I'm happy to get through on a day like this," she said after the 1hr 20min match.

As temperatures soared towards 40 Celsius (104 Farenheit) on the hottest day of the tournament so far, it was a sizzling demolition of an opponent who had taken the Russian to three sets in both their previous meetings.

Sharapova needed more than 3 hours to avenge her US Open defeat to Sevastova when the pair last met in Beijing 4 months ago and was in no mood to take her time again as the mercury rose.

When she broke Sevastova to open the second set it looked like an early ice bath was in order.

But the Latvian, who reached back-to-back quarter-finals at the US Open in 2016 and 2017, suddenly woke up against the 2008 Australian Open winner and broke back immediately.

The jolt to the Sharapova juggernaut was evident and she began to make unforced errors as service holds and breaks were exchanged.

At 4-4 a backhand winner got Sharapova to break point and when a second screamer followed it was greeted by a double-fist pump from the Russian. 

But still Sevastova was not done and broke back again to force a tiebreak.

Sharapova regathered and was not to be denied as she hit a scarcely believable forehand crosscourt winner on the run to get to 5-2.

She still managed to squander a pair of match points before getting over the line.

Sharapova, one of the highest earners in women's sport, suffered a string of early defeats after her comeback but has been working her way back up the rankings since.

She broke through to win the Tianjin Open in October - her first title since 2015 - and enjoyed a run to the semi-final in Shenzhen to start the year. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The manager of Vasyl Lomachenko shot down the possibility of a fight against Manny Pacquiao, saying they are not interested in fighting someone they regard to be past his prime.

“He's an old man and Lomachenko beating him takes him nowhere,” Egis Klimas told ESPN about the 39-year-old Pacquiao. “If the fight happened, they'll all say Lomachenko beat an old man and made him come down [in weight]. Even if he beat Pacquiao, they'd say he beat an old guy who was basically retired. We want to fight active champions dominating their weight classes."

Talks of the fight were sparked Wednesday, January 17 when Pacquiao, an 8-division champion, told ABS-CBN “there are negotiations” to match him with Lomachenko, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and the current WBO titleholder at junior lightweight, 17 pounds and 3 divisions below where Pacquiao has fought since 2009.

Pacquiao (59-7-2, 38 knockouts) has not fought since losing a controversial decision to Jeff Horn in Australia in July last year, while the 29-year-old Lomachenko (10-1, 8 KOs) last fought in December, stopping Guillermo Rigondeaux after 6 rounds.

Pacquiao had said there were discussions about what weight they would compete at, but Klimas feels the fight would be “insane” given their size difference.

“Manny Pacquiao is calling out Lomachenko, who is 3 weight classes down the scale from him. Manny Pacquiao is 147 pounds and he's calling out Lomachenko, who is 130 pounds. That's insane,” said Klimas.

“Look, we have our own agenda, our own road and our own plans. That's where we're going," Klimas said. "There's a lot of champions and good guys at 130 or 135 pounds. That's where we're going. Why isn't Pacquiao calling out [Terence] Crawford? Crawford is moving into Pacquiao's weight class. Why doesn't he call out [Mikey] Garcia, who is at 140?"

Lomachenko had said last year he had no interest in facing Pacquiao, saying: "I’m not going to go in there and beat an old guy. It’s complete nonsense for me to chase him."

Bob Arum, who promotes both under the Top Rank banner, told the Las Vegas Review-Journal that Pacquiao could return to the ring in April on a card featuring Crawford’s welterweight debut against Horn.

Asked about the possibility of a Pacquiao-Lomachenko fight, a Top Rank executive tells Rappler there’s “nothing to comment on.” – Rappler.com

LONDON, United Kingdom - Manchester United are set to land Alexis Sanchez from Arsenal by making him the Premier League's highest paid player, according to several reports on Thursday, January 18.

The Chilean striker would earn between 400,000 and 500,000 pounds ($555,000 and $690,000) a week before tax by moving to Old Trafford, according to The Sun, the Daily Telegraph and other newspapers.

The 29-year-old's wage demands are said to have scared off Manchester City and Chelsea, leaving United as his main suitors.

The Daily Telegraph reported that United have offered Sanchez a 4-and-a-half-year contract and he would move for a £30 million transfer fee - it is relatively low because he could leave for free at the end of the summer.

The deal for the former Barcelona player would also likely involve a £20 million signing-on fee and a £10 million agent's fee.

The Sun reports however that Arsenal could still refuse to allow Sanchez to leave if they do not find a replacement.

The agent for United's unsettled midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan said this week a deal for Sanchez hinged on Mkhitaryan moving to Arsenal, but The Sun said such an agreement had yet to reached.

United manager Jose Mourinho left 28-year-old Mkhitaryan out of his squad to face Stoke last Monday due to "doubts about his future".

Mourinho said this week it would be "great" if Sanchez joined although he remained non-committal.

United are second in the Premier League, 12 points behind runaway leaders Manchester City, and Sanchez's capture would be seen as a statement of intent from a team already paying huge wages to French international midfielder Paul Pogba and Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku.

Arsenal, struggling to compete for the Champions League places and knocked out of the FA Cup, have been linked with Borussia Dortmund's wantaway forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bordeaux's 20-year-old Brazilian striker Malcom. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - After winning the bid to co-host the 2023 FIBA World Cup with Japan and Indonesia, the Philippines is now also set to host the 2018 FIBA 3X3 World Cup at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan from June 8 to 12 this year.

In a press conference held Thursday, January 18 in Bonifacio Global City, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) President Al Panlilio officially launched the hosting of the tournament along with the unveiling of its official logo.

“We’re excited about it because 40 countries – 20 men’s [teams], 20 women’s [teams] are coming over to the Philippines to play these games,” he said. “3X3 is an Olympic sport, so it’s something that maybe the Philippines can also qualify for in Tokyo in 2020.”

SBP Executive Director Sonny Barrios added that they have yet to pick a roster of players and that Gilas head coach Chot Reyes and prospect 3X3 coach Eric Altamirano are currently in talks regarding the selection process.

Senators Sonny Angara and Joel Villanueva were also present in the presscon to show their support for the upcoming event.

“We’re just so excited to a part of this FIBA 3X3,” said Villanueva. “When we found out about that news na nakuha po natin [‘yung hosting for 2023], talagang party all over. Even political enemies became friends – drinking together and celebrating that glorious moment. We’re very excited, we’re very happy because Philippine Arena is in my hometown in Bocaue.” (“When we found out about that news that we got hosting duties for 2023, it was a party all over.”)

This change in the tournament’s preferred venue is a huge leap from the 3X3’s former shopping mall stages, which prompted questions from the media asking why such a move was made. According to Ronald Mascarinas, President of Chooks-to-Go and primary sponsor of Gilas Pilipinas, the goal was to break attendance records and allow more people to see the games.

“We look at 3X3 really as our best hope to get a medal in the Olympics,” he added. “We were just talking earlier if we’re going to break the record in attendance. I think the question there is not “when,” but “how many times.”

FIBA Managing Director Alex Sanchez, who flew from Switzerland to attend the presscon and inspect the Philippine Arena, tells Rappler he's not concerned about about the possibility of attendance issues due to the venue being far away from the concentration of people in Metro Manila.

“Yes, it is true that it’s not downtown Manila, but SBP and the [city government] are very much convinced that they will be able to fill it,” he said. “I have big confidence in SBP’s management and if they believe they will fill it, I’m sure they will fill it.”

The Philippine national team finished 11^th in FIBA 3X3 last year in Nantes, France and 9^th in the 2016 Guangzhou tournament. They failed to qualify both in the 2012 Athens and 2014 Moscow tournaments. However, as the host country this year, the team automatically qualifies for the event, as confirmed by Sanchez. – Rappler.com

Editor's note: A previous version of this story said incorrectly that the 2023 World Cup will be co-hosted by the Philippines with Japan and Malaysia. It has been corrected to say that Indonesia will be a co-host, not Malaysia.

MANILA, Philippines - Having won two PBA MVP awards and making a name for himself as one of the deadliest scorers the league has ever seen, James Yap, more often than not, puts up big numbers.

But with Father Time creeping up on him at age 35, Yap could not help but have a string of off-nights. 

In his first 3 games this season, the 14-time PBA All-Star chalked up a combined 10 points, burying only 4 of his 26 shot attempts for an atrocious 15.4 percent shooting.

He was a non-factor in back-to-back losses to the Globalport Batang Pier and the Blackwater Elite. 

But against the streaking Phoenix Fuel Masters on Wednesday, January 17, Yap proved that he still personifies the “Big Game” moniker he has carried throughout his career as he helped the Elastopainters get back on the winning track.

Yap registered 20 points on 8-of-10 shooting on top of 6 rebounds in Rain or Shine’s 120-99 romp of the Fuel Masters.

“Malaking bagay ‘to [sa kumpiyansa ko]. Sa lahat ng kumbaga, pinaghirapan mo sa papakundisyon, at least nagbubunga. So pagpapatuloy ko pa rin ‘yung ginagawa ko or higitan ko pa para kahit papano masustain or tuloy tuloy na,” said Yap, relieved that his personal slump had ended.

(This is big for my confidence. For everything I worked hard for, at least I’m getting something out of it. I will just continue or exceed what I do so I can sustain this kind of play.)

As one of the league’s elder statesman, Yap knows he has to work with the double the effort when facing against the PBA’s young guns.

And with a bevy of up-and-coming guards in Kiefer Ravena and Jeron Teng showing they can go toe-to-toe with the best, the 7-time PBA champion is well aware that he can’t just relax.

“Kaya nga nagpapa kundisyon lagi. Walang relax. I’m 35, 36 na next month, wala, keep working hard pa rin. Doon ka lang naman mapag-iwanan pag hindi ka nag hardwork.”

(That is the reason why I want to be well-conditioned during games. There is no relaxing for me. I’m 35 and going 36 next month and I will just keep working hard. You will only get left out if you do not put the hardwork in.) – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - Ilocos United FC announced on Thursday, January 18, it will not compete in the 2018 Philippines Football League, becoming the second team in the past two weeks to withdraw.

The announcement comes 10 days after Meralco FC said it would fold up operations, dropping the number of teams remaining for the league's second season to 6. 

Ilocos United CEO Tony Lazaro cited a number of problems, including the lack of a sponsorship and broadcasting exposure for the reasoning in a post on the team's Facebook page.

"Unfortunately, after months of negotiation, efforts to attract a new naming sponsor for the Team were unsuccessful. Consequently, it has become financially prohibitive to continue participation in the PFL. Primarily, the lack of broadcasting exposure in 2017 created an apprehension in the corporate community, cascading into a series of afflictions that has ultimately led to our withdrawal from the competition," Lazaro wrote.

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Lazaro said he was "cautiously optimistic of a potential return to the PFL for the 2019 season" if the league can secure a broadcasting deal that would help attract sponsors. While the senior team will not be competing in the PFL this coming season, Lazaro assures that other programs initiated by the club will continue.

"In the meantime, the foundation of football development we helped to build in Ilocos will continue, including grassroots initiatives at local schools, women’s futsal, Special Olympics, and, of course, the IUFC Academy," said Lazaro.  

Ilocos United, which plays home games at Quirino Stadium in Bantay, Ilocos Sur, was one of two teams which debuted in 2017. They finished last in the 2017 League, finishing with a 1-21-6 record, with their lone victory coming against JPV Marikina on September 23, 2017.

After Meralco folded, football patron Dan Palami urged fans on Twitter to do their part to support the league financially through ticket and merchandise sales or sponsorship to prevent more teams from following suit.

“If the 2nd season is run the same way, it's almost a guarantee that more clubs will opt out,” wrote Palami. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - The Marinerong Pilipino Skippers proved steadier in the endgame as they hacked out a 94-92 win over the Zark’s Jawbreakers-Lyceum in the opening game of the 2018 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City Thursday, January 18. 

Leading by 80-69 early in the payoff period, the Skippers slowly saw their advantage cut to just two points after a 14-5 salvo by the Jawbreakers, highlighted by back-to-back buckets by CJ Perez, 83-85. 

Zark’s-Lyceum couldn’t complete the comeback after Perez bricked his 3-point attempt with less than 30 seconds left in the game as Renzo Subido sank all of his 4 free throws to secure the win for Marinerong Pilipino.

Subido starred for the Skippers with 20 points, 15 coming in the second half, to go with 5 assists and 3 rebounds while Rian Ayonayon and Philip Paredes added 15 and 14 markers, respectively. 

Gab Banal made his presence felt for the Marinerong Pilipino with 14 points, 14 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals against 10 turnovers while Billy Ray Robles chipped in 10 markers, 10 boards, 4 assists and 3 steals. 

“We all know that this team (Lyceum) will fight until the end. ‘Yung grind nila until the end, especially down the stretch, that’s what we’ve been reminding the players. Good thing the players stepped up,” said Marinerong Pilipino head coach Koy Banal. 

Both teams were virtually tied in field goal shooting but what cost the Jawbreakers the game is their 10 missed free throws.  

Jaycee Marcelino paced Zark’s-Lyceum with 20 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals while Perez added 19 points and 5 rebounds.

Mike Nzeusseu has 18 points and 8 boards in the loss.  

Scores:

Marinerong Pilipino (94): Subido 20, Ayonayon 15, Paredes 14, Banal 14, Robles 10, Tolentino 4, Tratter 4, Pasaol 4, Terso 3, Lopez 2, Inigo 2, Babilonia 2, Toth 0 

Zark’s-Lyceum (92): Marcelino JC 20, Perez 19, Nzeusseu 18, Ayaay 11, Ibanez 6, Marcelino JV 6, Cinco 5, Tansingco 3, Santos 2, Pretta 2, Marata 0, Liwag 0

Quarter scores: 17-19, 47-34, 69-58, 94-92. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - Donnie Nietes will make the first defense of his IBF flyweight title on February 24 when he meets mandatory challenger Juan Carlos Reveco at The Forum in Los Angeles, his promoter Michael Aldeguer said.

“Yes, it’s confirmed,” the ALA Promotions president said in a text message, adding that Nietes-Reveco will open the HBO "Boxing After Dark" tripleheader titled "Superfly 2".

“The ultimate goal for Nietes was to fight on huge events in the US after he broke the record [for longest consecutive time as a world champion] of Flash Elorde and now that he is a 3-division world champion makes it even more special but we all know it would be a tough fight against Reveco.”

The exposure will be the biggest to date for Nietes (40-1-4, 22 knockouts) of Murcia, Negros Occidental, Philippines, who is in his third title reign after holding titles at strawweight and junior flyweight. Despite multiple title reigns since 2007, the 35-year-old Nietes has been a relatively low-key sports figure, fighting primarily in his home country away from international audiences.

“Fighting in Los Angeles for the third time in front of the great Filipino fans along with fighting on HBO is a great honor for me,” Nietes was quoted in a press release from 360 Boxing Promotions, the show’s lead promoter. “I know how tough Reveco is but I’ll be well prepared to defend my title on Saturday, February 24.”

Nietes will leave Saturday, January 20 with trainers Edito and Edmundo Villamor to finish preparations in Los Angeles at the Wild Card Gym, and in Redondo Beach for conditioning work.

The 34-year-old Reveco (39-3, 19 KOs) of Las Heras, Argentina is a two-time WBA flyweight titleholder and became the number one contender in September by handily defeating Komgrich Nantapech, whom Nietes outpointed earlier last year for the vacant belt.

The card will also feature Filipino-American Brian Viloria challenging Artem Dalakian for the vacant WBA flyweight in an off-TV bout. The broadcast will also feature Carlos Cuadras vs McWilliams Arroyo, and will be headlined by the Srisaket Sor Rungvisai vs Juan Francisco Estrada WBC junior bantamweight title fight. – Rappler.com

MADRID, Spain - Andres Iniesta has insisted that nobody at Barcelona is panicking after the runaway leaders of La Liga saw their long unbeaten run come to an end.

Lionel Messi missed a penalty as the Catalans lost 1-0 away to local rivals Espanyol in the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, although the holders can still turn the tie around in the second leg next week.

"What nobody was expecting was that we would not lose a game until now," Iniesta told reporters while visiting a Barcelona hospital on Thursday.

It was a first defeat in 30 games in all competitions for Ernesto Valverde's side, who have still not lost in La Liga.

"It is football, it is sport, and you always have to play in very intense matches," added Iniesta, with Sunday's trip to Betis to come before the return against Espanyol.

"It is not a one-off tie and in the second leg we will try to change things. For the defeat to plant doubts would be to see it from a very negative viewpoint after so many matches without losing."

Iniesta said that he hoped to be back soon from an injury that he described as "only a strain", while Barca are also without their two record signings Philippe Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele due to thigh problems.

Dembele is out for three to four weeks after hurting himself in last week's 4-2 victory at Real Sociedad.

Betis are the great entertainers in La Liga -- their last two games have seen them win 5-3 and 3-2 -- and coach Quique Setien has urged his players to attack the leaders at the Benito Villamarin.

"Barcelona are very difficult (to play against). We will be brave, I'm sure," Setien told Cadena Ser. "It is our destiny to play, to win the ball back in the opposition half and go after them to try to pose them problems."

Faltering Real host Depor

With Real Madrid mired in crisis, Atletico Madrid are Barcelona's nearest challengers, sitting nine points back in second place.

Diego Simeone's side entertain Girona as they seek to bounce back from a 2-1 home loss to Sevilla in the Copa del Rey.

Centre-back Diego Godin is banned but Diego Costa can return after suspension.

Valencia, a further two points back in third, will be confident of beating a Las Palmas side in wretched form -- the bottom-of-the-table side from the Canary Islands have lost their last two matches by an aggregate score of 10-0.

Meanwhile, at the Bernabeu, Zinedine Zidane's faltering reigning champions host Deportivo on Sunday.

A 1-0 home defeat to Villarreal last weekend made it the first time Real had suffered back-to-back home league defeats in more than eight years.

They have taken just one point from their last three La Liga outings while doubts are being raised about Cristiano Ronaldo's future at the club beyond this season.

Zidane has said that he "can't imagine a Madrid without Cristiano", but the Portuguese superstar will be 33 next month and he has just four league goals this season.

Ronaldo was left out of the squad for Thursday's 1-0 Copa del Rey victory at Leganes along with Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale. They should all return against Deportivo.

"Real Madrid are Real Madrid. I don't think they are in crisis. The demand is always on them to win and so when they don't, it seems that everything is going badly. But they can beat you at any moment," warned Depor's Adrian Lopez. – Rappler.com