MANILA, Philippines – Pacific Xtreme Combat (PXC) is moving to its new home in the Philippines as the Guam-based mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion has entered a partnership with Solaire Resort and Casino.

PXC signed a deal with Solaire that will see the 5-star hotel and casino host 4 fight cards in 2016 at its luxurious Grand Ballroom with a seating capacity of 1,258 including an elevated premium section.

“Our premium VIP experience will be a new concept in professional MMA and will extend a VIP fan experience beyond an action packed night of fights to include pre-fight access to Solaire's Macallan Whiskey and cigar bar and exclusive access to the PXC after-party," PXC chief operating officer John Paul Calvo said in a statement.'

Also included in the groundbreaking tie-up is the introduction of the Solaire Sportsbook, an in-venue betting stations that will allow fans to place bets on their favorite fighters during the affair.

“We feel that this is a great partnership between the Solaire Sportsbook and the PXC. We hope that this will be the start of a long-term synergistic partnership,” Solaire Sportsbook marketing director Marco Aventajado expressed.

PXC plans to announce 4 event dates to be staged at Solaire’s ballroom: January 16, April 2, July 6 and November 5.

Although PXC officials have yet to publicly confirm the fight booking, the organization will kick off 2016 with a flyweight championship clash between Crisanto Pitpitunge and Jenel Lausa according to a source within PXC.

PXC has staged 14 of its last 27 fight cards in Manila, and since its first Philippine venture in June 2011, it has been a staple of the local MMA scene, spawning talented Filipino contenders like Pitpitunge, Lausa, Mark Striegl, Ale Cali, Glen Ranillo and Rolando Gabriel Dy.

The company also served as the footstool for MMA competitors such as Roldan Sangcha-an, Jon Tuck, Hyun Gyu Lim, Dustin Kimura, Louis Smolka and Michinori Tanaka to be noticed by the Ultimate Fighting Championship. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Paddles Up Philippine Dragon Boat Tour will commence on Sunday, November 29, at the Manila Bay in Pasay City.

The competition will feature 5 different legs with more than 20 clubs (collegiate and elite crews) competing in 3 categories: 20-seater, women’s 10-seater, and mixed 10-seater.

Broadcasted by Solar Sports, who will air the tournament starting December, the Dragon Boat Tour will also take place in the following areas:

Sampalok Lake, San Pablo City, Laguna on January 9;

Taal Lake, Tanauan, Batangas on March 5;

Subic Bay, Pampanga on April 30

Manila Bay, Pasay City (a second time for the final leg) on June 4.

Solar Sports is also set to air the National Cheerleading Championship and Fit To Hit Beach Volleyball Circuits over the next few months.

The channel, along with Basketball TV, also shows different other sports like boxing events, URCC, and the NBA. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The UST Growling Tigers have been one of the most successful teams in the UAAP over the past few years, but after falling to the FEU Tamaraws in game one of the UAAP Finals on Wednesday, November 25, they’re now one step closer to losing in the title round for the third time in 4 years.

In 2012, UST fell to the 5-peat seeking Ateneo Blue Eagles in two games, and a year later, fell to the DLSU Green Archers in 3 games. On both occasions, Growling Tigers head coach Bong Dela Cruz (then an assistant), plus veterans Kevin Ferrer, Karim Abdul, and Ed Daquioag were already with UST.

“Syempre may konting motivation sa mga bata,” Dela Cruz told the media after game one.

(Of course, there’s some motivation in the kids.)

“Syempre kailagan ba, on the third time, mararanasan natin yung sakit? Ayan lang. Sabi ko lang sakanila, syempre, today medyo masama ang loob. Tomorrow kailangan happy na kami sa practice.”

(Of course, do we need to suffer the same misery a third time? I just told them, we may feel bad now, but tomorrow, we need to be happy in practice.)

History is both for and against UST in their current predicament. 

According to UAAP statistical Pong Ducanes:

Since the Final Four era started, 15 of the 21 (71%) teams who won game one of the best-of-3 finals went on to win the championship. 

But of the 6 times it hasn’t happened, UST has been responsible thrice: in Seasons 57, 58, and 69.

As a matter of fact, UST’s last title in 2006 was won after those Growling Tigers fell to the Ateneo Blue Eagles in game one (on a Doug Kramer game-winner).

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Coincidentally, the last team to blow a 1-0 lead in the finals are the same opponents UST faces this year in FEU, who dropped games two and 3 to National University last season.

(READ: Victorious FEU wants to avoid last year’s UAAP Finals mistake)

“We keep on fighting,” said Dela Cruz, whose team rallied from a 14-point deficit despite being out-rebounded, 56-22.

“Nanduon yun puso mag laro. Kahit down kami by [14], talagang lumaban parin yung mga bata. Lumaban kami para sa family.”

(The heart is there during the game. Even if we were down by 14, the boys kept on fighting. They kept fighting for the family.)

“Alam ko nga masyado kaming out-rebounded. Very aggressive sila today. Hindi namin agad nakarecover duon sa aggressiveness nila. Saturday (game two), dapat double namin aggressiveness.”

(I know we were too out-rebounded. Our aggressiveness needs to double in game two.)

Dela Cruz admitted it seemed like FEU wanted to win more in the first half of game one, resulting to their early lead, but he was happy to see his boys match the Tamaraws’ will in the second half, where they out-scored their opponents 30-28.

“Yes. Pinakita nila yan sa first half nung game, but in the third quarter and the fourth quarter, we showed them na nandito kami. We will fight.”

(They showed it in the first half of the game, but in the third and fourth quarters, we made our presence felt.)

Dela Cruz’s mentality to not give up was echoed by his team leader and Mythical 5 member Kevin Ferrer, who spoke to his teammates in the locker room after scoring 15 points on 6-of-16 shooting in game one.

“That’s Kevin Ferrer. Lagi naman. Sabi niya it’s not yet over, kailangan pa namin pakita yung willingness namin, yung puso, para makabalik.” 

(He always does that. He said it’s not over yet, we need to show our will to win, our heart, to bounce back.)

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Alaska Aces once again leaned on their “We not me” philosophy to win their third straight and snap the two-game winning streak of the NLEX Road Warriors, 89-81, on Friday, November 27, at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.

Despite seeing a 16-point lead entering the fourth period trimmed all the way down to 4, Alaska was able to make big shots late and get enough defensive stops to hold on for the victory.

Alaska’s lone loss remains their blunder to Barangay Ginebra in an out-of-town game on the second night of a back-to-back as they improved to 6-1, which tops the PBA league standings.

NLEX fell to 4-3.

“We talked about we needed a defensive mindset this game, and I think we had it,” said Alaska head coach Alex Compton, who did admit his team’s defensive tenacity in the fourth period regressed, allowing NLEX to come back.

But other than their 29-point fourth period, NLEX failed to score more than 21 points in any of the other 3 quarters.

“I really think we defended well until the fourth quarter,” said Compton.

Alaska had 4 guys in double figured led by veteran big man Sonny Thoss, who finished with 16 points and 10 rebounds while out-dueling Asi Taulava.

Second-year San Beda standout Rome Dela Rosa and Vic Manuel each had 11 points, while Calvin Abueva and Eric Menk accounted for 10 and 9, respectively.

The Aces shot only 43% from the floor, but did hold NLEX to 37% shooting and forced 16 turnovers.

Reigning PBA player of the week Sean Anthony continued his hot start to the season, recording a game-high 21 points with 9 rebounds and 5 assists. The veteran forward lived at the free throw line by going there 13 times, but converted just 7 charities.

As a team, the Road Warriors went 18-of-31 from the line.

“I don’t know how many free throws Sean Anthony had but I know he had a lot in the fourth. Kasalanan namin (it’s our fault),” said Compton.

Long-time bigs Enrico Villanueva and Taulava had 12 and 10 points, respectively, while Kevin Alas and Jonas Villanueva each registered 9.

NLEX used a 9-0 run capped off by 5 straight from Villanueva to pull within 4, 82-78, with 1:55 to go in the contest. 

On the next Alaska play, JVee Casio hit a huge 3-ball to give his team more breathing room. After Villanueva responded with a basket, Cyrus Baguio converted a looper to extend the lead back to 7, 87-80.

Anthony was then fouled but split his free throws, although Alaska failed to extend its lead as Manuel and Baguio missed shots. 

The Road Warriors had another opportunity to trim the lead, but a Garvo Lanete turnover off a time-out sealed their defeat with 20 seconds left.

The Aces will be back in action on Thursday, December 3, when they face the Meralco Bolts. NLEX will look to bounce back on Wednesday, December 2, against the GlobalPort Batang Pier.

Alaska (89): Thoss 16, Dela Rosa 11, Manuel 11, Abueva 10, Menk 9, Banchero 6, Casio 5, Hontiveros 5, Baguio 4, Dela Cruz 4, Exciminiano 3, Jazul 3, Racal 2, Baclao 0.

NLEX (81): Anthony 21, Villanueva E. 12, Taulava 10, Alas 9, Villanueva J. 9, Enciso 5, Reyes 5, Camson 4, Khobuntin 4, Cardona 2, Lanete 0, Arboleda 0, Apinan 0, Borboran 0.

Quarter scores: 23-15, 42-31, 68-51, 89-81 – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters maintained their stellar early in the PBA season despite the absence of superstar Paul Lee as they beat the Barako Bull Energy, 110-104, on Friday, November 27, at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.

With 5 guys scoring in double-figures, Rain or Shine was consistently impressive on offense throughout the game to improve their record to 5-1. 

Jewel Ponferada scored 18 and grabbed 13 boards in the win, while Jeff Chan was all over the floor with 18 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists.

Gabe Norwood finished with 13 points, while Jericho Cruz and Maverick Ahanmisi had 19 and 11 points, respectively, off the bench.

“We could have finished the game a little bit more intelligently. We had some bad or stupid decisions in the end game, but nonetheless it’s a won game,” said Elasto Painters head coach Yeng Guiao, whose team went 11-of-29 from downtown and had 29 assists.

Rain or Shine also dominated the boards, 70-55, and limited the Energy to 38% shooting.

RR Garcia led Barako with 23 points while William Wilson finished with 21 points and 19 boards. 

“We’re trying to keep our momentum going just in case we give ourselves a chance to make the top two,” said Guiao. 

Rain or Shine is currently tied with San Miguel for the second spot in the league standings and trail the league-leading Alaska Aces by just half a game.

Rain or Shine, who opened the fourth quarter on an 11-0 run to establish a 16-point lead that essentially sealed the game, will look to win their third straight game when they face Ginebra this Sunday.

“Our problem with Ginebra is they’re a lot bigger than they are,” said Guiao. 

Barako Bull fell below .500 to 3-4 and will aim to bounce back against the Talk ’N Text Tropang Texters on Thursday, November 3.

Scores:

Rain or Shine (110): Cruz 19, Chan 18, Ponferada 18, Norwood 13, Ahanmisi 11, Almazan 8, Belga 6, Quinahan 5, Teng 4, Tiu 4, Nimes 2, Trollano 2, Ibanes 0, Matias 0.

Barako Bull (104): Garcia 23, Wilson 21, Urbiztondo 16, Monfort 9, Pennisi 8, Intal 7, Lanete 7, Miranda 7, Fortuna 6, Baracael 0, Brondial 0, Sorongon 0.

Quarter scores: 24-20, 49-41, 76-71, 110-104– Rappler.com

With the number of sloping roads here in the city and in the vicinity, looking for the perfect longboarding spot isn't very hard. Learning how to do it doesn't have to be intimidating too. Gameplan host Julian Rodriguez met two professional longboarders who introduced him to this high-inducing sport.

Here's a lowdown on some longboarding basics: 

1. Identifying your riding stance. Determining your riding stance will help you balance on your board well. "Goofy is when your right foot is infront of your board, and regular is when your left foot is infront of your board," explained professional longboarder Joemarie Famanilla.

2. Pushing. Pushing simply means to propel the board with your feet. Practice doing this on paved, level roads first before trying the slopes.

3. Turning. Use your toes to turn right, and your heels to turn left.

4. Footbrakes. Drag the sole of your shoe to decrease speed.

"One thing I want to emphasize is the fact that anyone who's longboarding has to practice safety, and has to respect the road," said Julian. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – It’s official: champion NCAA head coach Aldin Ayo is set to take over head coaching duties for De La Salle University in the UAAP.

It was Ayo himself who made the news public during a celebration of Letran’s recently-won championship held inside the college on Friday, November 27.

(READ: Aldin Ayo to be named new DLSU coach - sources)

“Next year, I won’t be here. La Salle na ako,” Ayo, a graduate of Letran, told the public during the celebration, according to ABS-CBN sports.

Ayo, a native of Sorsagon, didn’t go into the specifics of the move, instead saying that it was “personal” and it wasn’t for the money.

“Yung (The) reason is very personal. After winning the championship, I gained everything pero naisip ko ring maraming importanteng nawala sa akin,” he said.

(I also realize that I lost a lot of important things.)

“Di namin napag-usapan detalye (We didn't talk about the details). I just said yes,” said Ayo, who admitted he was contacted by La Salle on Monday and drove to Manila from Sorsogon immediately to meet them. He said yes to them on Tuesday.

“Myself, I have enough,” he said about the money factor.

According to this report by Malaya, Ayo accepted a 3-year, 9-million peso deal with DLSU.

The head coach, who helped steer the Knights past the San Beda Red Lions in the finals, said that he still had 3 years left in his contract with Letran but was allowed to leave by the college's Dominican priests. 

Nonetheless, Ayo declared that “I will always be a Letranite. I will always make Letran proud.”

Ayo also said that his deputy Louie Gonzales will join him in Taft, as well as assistant coach Siot Tanquingcen, who was an assistant for now former head coach of La Salle, Juno Sauler.

Ayo also reportedly said during the celebration that he feels his assistant Glenn Capacio is best suited to take over for the Knights.

During the celebration on Friday, Letran reverend father Clarence Victor C. Marquez O.P told the crowd that the school has given Ayo the blessing to leave for La Salle.

“And with hearts, heavy but honorable still, we will let him go, wish him all the best, keep his name in holy and grateful memory,” Marquez said, according to Spin.ph. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Backed against the wall, there's no doubt that UST big man Karim Abdul will give everything he has left for Game 2 of the UAAP Season 78 Finals. 

(LIVE BLOG: UAAP 2015 Finals Game 2 – UST vs FEU)

The 6-foot-7 veteran center labored through Game 1 logging 36 minutes to finish with 19 points and 9 rebounds. He was visibly exhausted in some stretches, especially towards the end when FEU blasted UST with a game-sealing 12-0 run to take Game 1, 73-62. 

Though the graduating Abdul, knowing this is his last chance for a UAAP championship with the Tigers, is willing to play at the same level for Game 2 on Saturday, November 28. (READ: UST motivated to avoid same letdown from past two finals appearances)

“I don’t have a choice. When you’re a player, you just have to get over the tiredness and don’t think about it. Just think about winning and that’s all that matters,” said Abdul, who also took the blame for the loss with a critical turnover during the Tamaraws’ run.

“Whatever happens, whatever obstacle that comes in your way, you don’t look at it. Next game, I’m still prepared to play that kind of game.” 

UST needs to win Game 2 to force a winner-take-all Game 3 on Wednesday, December 2, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. 

Fortunately for them, a bit of history will be on their side. Despite 71% of Game 1 winners taking the UAAP crown, the Tigers own 3 of only 6 comebacks from a 0-1 finals series deficit in the Final Four era – including their last championship run in 2006 against Ateneo. 

The Tamaraws are also 0-6 in their last 8 finals games played at the Big Dome, per UAAP chief statistician Pong Ducanes. (READ: Victorious FEU wants to avoid last year’s UAAP Finals mistake)

If UST does not end up singing its school hymn first on Saturday, there will be no more tomorrow – only another heartbreak of a bridesmaid finish for the 3rd time in 4 years.

“Wala na dapat intindihin na pagod (We shouldn’t worry about exhaustion anymore),” graduating team captain Kevin Ferrer declared. “Mga beterano na kami. Wala nang pagod-pagod (We’re veterans. There's no such thing as exhaustion).” – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Last season, the FEU Tamaraws watched their championship dreams disappear in a flash at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, thanks to the NU Bulldogs.

On Saturday, November 28, Coach Nash Racela and his boys will have an opportunity to ease the pain of last year by beating the UST Growling Tigers in game 2 of their finals. (READ: Victorious FEU wants to avoid last year’s UAAP Finals mistake)

Spearheaded by superb rebounding and clutch shots by their players, FEU was able to avoid a collapse in game one and will need similar contributions to close the deal in game 2.

The Tamaraws are also hoping to erase all the heartbreak that transpired in their past 3 finals appearances since 2010, each one resulting in defeat

UST is hopeful of avoiding a loss in the finals for the third time in 4 years, and of extending the college careers of their main guys: Kevin Ferrer, Karim Abdul, and Ed Daquioag. (READ: UST motivated to avoid same letdown from past two finals appearances)

Who will win game 2?

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– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Former head coach Pido Jarencio has no doubt in his mind the UST Growling Tigers can win Game 2 of the UAAP Finals Saturday, November 28.

(LIVE BLOG: UAAP 2015 Finals Game 2 – UST vs FEU)

Jarencio, who gave UST its last UAAP men's basketball title in 2006, will be on hand to watch the game as UST tries to bounce back from a 73-62 Game 1 loss to the FEU Tamaraws. He may just be the Tigers' lucky charm. 

"Of course," he confidently told Rappler in Filipino when asked if he believes UST still has it in them to make a comeback. "It's not over yet, it's only 0-1." 

He then joked flashing his signature toothy grin: "Mananalo yan, manonood ako e (They'll win because I'll be watching)."

Jarencio, now head coach for Globalport in the PBA, also guided UST to consecutive UAAP Finals appearances in 2012 and 2013 – though lost in heartbreakers against Ateneo and La Salle. He moved to the PBA in 2014 after 8 seasons with UST.

The Tigers must win Game 2 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in order to force a winner-take-all Game 3 on Wednesday, December 2. 

Jarencio shared his thoughts about the series, saying veteran center Karim Abdul certainly needs a reliever and that UST can still dig deeper into its bench.

"I think, para sa akin, kailangan gumamit pa si coach Bong (Dela Cruz) ng other players aside from the 6 or 7 players natin. Kung hindi mauubos sila Karim, especially si Karim. I think kailangan natin gumamit ng one or two bigs na makaka-relieve kay Karim," explained Jarencio, noting third year center Jeepy Faundo can provide much-needed help.

(I think, for me, coach Bong needs to use other players aside from the 6 or 7 players used. If not they will all be used up, especially Karim. I think we need to use one or two bigs to relieve Karim.)

(READ: Karim Abdul ready for heavy load again in UAAP Finals Game 2)

Abdul huffed and puffed his way to 36 minutes of play in Game 1 with 19 points and 9 rebounds. He and MVP runner-up Kevin Ferrer were the only Tigers in double figures as UST struggled to match the deeper Tamaraws bench. 

Jarencio hopes to see a more relaxed Ed Daquioag in Game 2 instead of the stiff version of him in Game 1 where the athletic guard had just 4 points and a single field goal. 

"I think he's too tight," he said. "He needs to play his usual relaxed game, like he's enjoying the game, which he has been doing the whole eliminations."

The Tigers, which finished as the top seed this season, are searching for their 19th men's basketball title. UST was also down 0-1 in the 2006 series against Ateneo before climbing back to win. 

"Siyempre, championship yan e. Hindi naman ganoon kadali lahat yan (Of course it's the championship already. Nothing will come easy)," said Jarencio. "Hindi pa tapos (It's not over yet)." – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Kiefer Ravena claimed his second straight UAAP Most Valuable Player trophy Saturday, November 28 right before Game 2 of the UAAP Season 78 Finals at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

(LIVE BLOG: UAAP 2015 Finals Game 2 – UST vs FEU)

But in an unconventional move, Ravena, 22, did not raise his trophy alone.

The Ateneo Blue Eagles star thought it was best to share his award with friend and MVP runner-up Kevin Ferrer of the UST Growling Tigers.

"With Kevin, we're already one-all when it comes to the MVP," Ravena said chuckling in a mix of Filipino and English after accepting his award. "He beat me when I was in my fourth year in high school and I was able to go ahead of him now in our 5th year."

"But doing that is just more than the award, it's the companionship and friendship we shared all throughout being great competitors and just wanted to help our schools win. I shared it with him because he deserves it too," he added.

Ravena and Ferrer have long been rivals since their high school days but also became teammates during their time with the national team Sinag Pilipinas. Both players won the gold medal in the 2015 SEA Games.

Ravena barely edged his friend in the MVP race with 69.5 statistical points. Ferrer had 67.36.

Ravena, however, failed to make it to the finals in his last year after Ateneo got booted out by FEU in the Final Four.

Ferrer and UST look to extend the UAAP Finals to a winner-take-all game with a win over FEU in Game 2 Saturday.

"It's more than the statistics, it's how he represented his school very well this year," Ravena further praised Ferrer. "And I'm really proud of Kevin. Growing up watching his style of play, he really evolved into a leader."

{source}

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Wishing my boi <a href="https://twitter.com/Kevferrer">@Kevferrer</a> goodluck! Enjoy it! <a href="https://t.co/ToTX308PIQ">pic.twitter.com/ToTX308PIQ</a></p>&mdash; Kiefer Ravena (@kieferravena) <a href="https://twitter.com/kieferravena/status/670491441215373312">November 28, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

{/source} – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Prior to game 2 of the UAAP Season 78 finals on Saturday, November 28, the league handed out its individual awards for this season’s senior’s basketball tournament.

As expected, Ateneo’s Kiefer Ravena was named the UAAP MVP for a second straight season after he finished with 69.5 statistical points, edging out UST’s Kevin Ferrer, who came in second, with 67.36 statistical points.

Ravena asked Ferrer to join him in lifting the MVP trophy:

Jeron Teng of La Salle, Alfred Aroga of NU, and Ed Daquioag of UST joined the two in the league’s Mythical 5:

The Rookie of the Year award was handed out to DLSU’s Andrei Caracut, while Daquioag was also named the Most Improved Player.

Other awards handed out includes Ferrer winning the Bear Brand Level Up Player of the Season, Teng winning Jollibee Beeda ang Galing Player of the Season, Ravena winning Master Gwapo Player of the Season, and FEU’s Mac Belo winning PSBankable Player of the season.

Check out the photos below:

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Witness another night of Filipino wrestling on Saturday, November 28, as Philippine Wrestling Revolution presents PWR Live.

"The Social Media Sinister" Ken Warren defends his Philippine Hybrid X (PHX) Championship against Chris Panzer in their 4th-ever encounter.

Plus, Ralph Imabayasi battles John Sebastian to determine the #1 contender to the PWR Championship.

Then, the PWR Champion himself, "Classical" Bryan Leo, introduces the newest member (or the so-called "ace") of his stable The Royal Flush.

Follow Rappler's live blog below starting 6:30 pm for all the answers and all the action! The main show starts at 7 pm.

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Here is the announced card for PWR Live:

• Philippine Hybrid X Championship: Ken Warren (c) vs. Chris Panzer
• #1 Contender's Match: Ralph Imabayashi vs. John Sebastian
• SANDATA vs. Peter Versoza
• Vintendo in singles action
• Usapang Mahaba segment with Rederick Mahaba: The Royal Flush, led by PWR Champion "Classical" Bryan Leo, reveals their newest member
• The debut of The Network
• A special appearance by "The Senyorito" Jake de Leon

This is PWR's 7th show, and its first at the iAcademy Auditorium, after staging previous events at the Makati Square Arena. (READ: PWR caters new venue for wrestling fans) – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - The PLDT Home Ultera survived the Philippine Army Lady Troopers in a thrilling 5-set win, 16-25, 20-25, 26-24, 29-27, 18-16, to take on the first game of the best-of-3 finals in the Shakeys V- League Reinforced Conference, Saturday, November 28, at The Arena in San Juan. 

Ateneo De Manila University standout Alyssa Valdez led the way for PLDT with 25 markers built off 22 kills, two aces, and a block. Gretchel Soltones and Aiza Maizo-Pontillas contributed 12 and 11 points apiece. 

The Lady Troopers, who swept the eliminations round, dominated the first two sets but the Ultra Fast Hitters managed to snatch the momentum courtesy of Valdez and Pontillas.   

“Malaking tulong talaga si Alyssa. Iba talaga ‘yung lebel ng laro ng batang ‘yan,” said PLDT Coach Roger Gorayeb.

(Alyssa is a really big help. The kind of game the kid provides is really different.) 

“Maswerte ako sa akin siya naglalaro,” he added. 

(I’m lucky she plays for me.) 

The offensive efforts of Soltones also saved the day for PLDT as she exploded majority of her attacks in the last two sets. 

An all-Pinoy strategy worked for PLDT in the deciding set. The gelling of the team is definitely something they have to work on says Gorayeb.

Meanwhile, recently named Conference MVP Jovelyn Gonzaga scored 19 points for the Army as Honey Royse Tubino and Aby Marano added 16 and 15 markers respectively.

Game two of V-league’s finals series will be on December 6 at the San Juan Arena. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - The University of the Philippines Lady Maroons nabbed game one of their best-of-3 battle for bronze against the Philippine Navy Coastguards, 25-18, 19-25, 22-25, 10-25, in the Shakey’s V-League Reinforced Conference, Saturday, November 28, at the Arena in San Juan. 

Justine Dorog topped all scorers with 18 points, while Isa Molde and Katherine Bersola chipped in 17 and 13 markers respectively to seal the deal for UP. 

After dropping the first set, the Lady Maroons regained focus in the next three sets with the offensive efforts of Bersola and Molde. 

“Andiyan pa rin ‘yung jitters and takot. Work in progress parin,” said UP Coach Gerry Yee. 

(We are still a work in progress. We still have game jitters.) 

(READ: Valdez shines as PLDT draws first blood in Shakey’s V-League finals)

According to Yee, their main purpose for joining the Shakey’s V-League is to give exposure to the team, most especially to his rookies. 

It surely worked well for his squad as two of his players won individual awards. 

Katherine Bersola and Sheena Chopitea were awarded as best middle blockers of the Shakey’s V-League Season 12 Reinforced Conference. 

“Malaking bagay sa kumpiyansa ng bata every time they win an award,” said Coach Yee. 

(These awards serve as a confidence booster for them.) 

Paulina Soriano led the Coastguards with 14 points while Lilet Mabbayad and Florence Madulid combined for 23 markers. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - The San Miguel Beermen rolled to their fourth straight win in the 2015-16 PBA Philippine Cup with a 101-90 win over the Star Hotshots on Saturday, November 28 at Mall of Asia Arena.

Reigning MVP June Mar Fajardo scored 27 and grabbed 16 rebounds while Arwind Santos scored 22 points with 7 rebounds. James Yap scored 22 points in a losing effort, which saw Star drop to a dismal 2-5.

The win moved San Miguel to 6-1, which ties Alaska’s mark atop the standings.

At the other end of the league's standings, the Mahindra Enforcers snapped a 4-game losing streak with a 86-83 win over the Meralco Bolts. Mahindra is now 2-5 while Meralco dropped to 1-7. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – One free throw was all it took to ignite Kevin Ferrer's hands and spark the UST Growling Tigers to a 62-56 victory over the FEU Tamaraws in Game 2 of the UAAP Season 78 Finals Saturday, November 28.

The 22-year-old skipper played out of his mind and was virtually unstoppable on his way to a 24-point third quarter explosion that effectively sparked UST's waning offense. Ferrer burned the net with 6 triples in that period alone as he single-handedly turned a 21-30 halftime deficit into a 47-41 edge entering the payoff period. 

Almost everyone knew the Tigers were in for a second half run, but nobody expected a record-setting Ferrer blast – except Ferrer, who felt the surge through his veins. 

"I got my confidence when I made my free throws, I felt my hands catch fire," Ferrer explained in Filipino about what sparked his run. "My teammates gave me confidence, they kept looking for me. So I want to thank my teammates for trusting me." 

His 24-point third quarter is the most in a period since Imperium began handling UAAP stats in 2003, per league statistician Pong Ducanes.

By the second triple, Ferrer brought the Tigers to within a point and the UST gallery was in a frenzy. By the third it seemed Ferrer was due for a heat check. But by the 4th and 5th treys, it was clear the Ferrer inferno would not simply die down.

And when he buried his 6th and final 3-pointer late in the third, most of the 21,933-strong humans inside the Big Dome had lost their minds. 

"It was just my muscle memory. That's all I was doing," Ferrer tried to put into words how he felt during the stretch where he took in the electric atmosphere – arms wide as if to hug every person watching, mouth open, tongue wagging like he's done so through the years.

"I couldn't describe it. I was just shooting it and that was what I was practicing during training and it came out."

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<blockquote class="twitter-video" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kevin Ferrer tries to explain how he felt his hands catch fire in Game 2 <a href="https://twitter.com/rapplerdotcom">@rapplerdotcom</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAAPFinals?src=hash">#UAAPFinals</a> <a href="https://t.co/rVThGDiR3C">pic.twitter.com/rVThGDiR3C</a></p>&mdash; Jane Bracher (@janebracher) <a href="https://twitter.com/janebracher/status/670554333558149120">November 28, 2015</a></blockquote>
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Former UST coach Pido Jarencio's halftime pep talk might have helped motivate Ferrer and the rest of the Tigers, who now extended the series to a winner-take-all Game 3 on Wednesday, December 2.

"Of course he's our former coach, and you see him there and he's all out support," Ferrer said. "It gave us confidence." 

Ferrer tied his career-high 29 points to lead all scorers along with 10 rebounds and two assists. He had just one point in the payoff period but his teammates took it from there, overturning a 54-50 FEU edge with under 5 minutes left.

It also may have had something to do with friend and rival Kiefer Ravena sharing the MVP trophy with him before the game.

"I'm happy because we've been together since high school and were opponents since high school," said the national team cadet. "I was surprised too that he made me co-MVP." 

Either way, Ferrer's hot hands are responsible for one more game in the UAAP Finals – and a potential great comeback story to remember. – Rappler.com

LAPU-LAPU CITY, Philippines - Fresh off heartbreaking world title fights, Filipino contenders Arthur Villanueva and Milan Melindo returned to the win column on Saturday, November 28 - but barely. 

The two fighters co-headlined ALA Promotions’ Pinoy Pride 34 card at the Hoops Dome in Lapu-Lapu City, Philippines with the hope that they’d prove to be ready to return to the championship level. Instead, they had to survive tough brawls against determined Mexican upstarts. 

In the twelve round main event, Villanueva (28-1, 14 knockouts) earned a split decision nod over Victor Mendez (19-3-2, 15 KOs) of Hermosillo, Mexico to win the WBC International 115-pound title. 

Villanueva — who was coming off a 10-round technical decision loss in an IBF junior bantamweight title fight against McJoe Arroyo in July - fought more assertively than he had in at least two years.

"King" Arthur, a former chess prodigy from Bacolod City, employed a King’s Gambit in the early rounds, attacking with his often underutilized jab to set up right crosses and left uppercuts.

Villanueva pressed his advantage in round four as he caught Mendez, 22, coming in with a flush right counter towards the end of round five. Mendez never showed signs of being hurt, and instead continued to answer back with stiff right hands of his own which marked up Villanueva’s face. 

Two judges scored the fight 117-111 and 116-112, while the third scored it 115-113 for Mendez. 

Villanueva said afterwards that Mendez’s punches convinced him to play it safe later in the fight, but that he didn’t feel that one of the scorecards should’ve been in his opponent’s favor. 

“I need to improve myself first. Maybe 2-3 more fights so I will be ready for the next world championship,” Villanueva, The Ring magazine’s no. 9 junior bantamweight contender, said afterwards. 

In the co-featured bout, Melindo (33-2, 12 KOs) of Cagayan de Oro City snuck past Mexican Victor Olivo (9-1, 4 KOs) by a split-decision, winning by tallies 115-113 on two cards, while the third had the 19-year-old late replacement Olivo winning by the same score. 

Olivo hadn’t fought anyone the caliber of Melindo yet, but he didn’t come all the way from Mexico just for experience. Olivo proved dangerous in rounds two and 3, rocking Melindo with right hands whenever they stood at range, or whenever Melindo closed the gap without jabbing. 

Melindo found the distance he wanted in round 4, backing up Olivo and landing fast counters, but his lack of punching power meant that Olivo would remain dangerous throughout. 

Melindo landed his best punch of the fight in round 8, a right hand that caught Olivo reaching for his own right. Olivo stumbled back but quickly regained his footing and looked for counterpunch opportunities.  

Melindo seemed to outwork Olivo in rounds 9 and 10. After the final bell, Olivo’s face was barely marked while Melindo’s swollen eyes and bloodied nose told the story of a rough encounter. 

“I fight not for the victory, but for the people who support boxing. This is a gift for them for advanced Christmas,” said Melindo, who is rated no. 6 by The Ring magazine at junior flyweight.  

Melindo had been competitive in decision losses to WBO/WBA flyweight titleholder Juan Estrada in 2013 and a 6-round technical decision to IBF junior flyweight titleholder Javier Mendoza, but ALA Promotions’ president Michael Aldeguer didn’t seem certain about Melindo’s future.

“[Melindo] made the fight closer than it was, I think he could’ve executed more,” said Aldeguer. “But Milan has his own mind. I think we need to sit down with him and see what’s in his head. Right now it’s either he wants to move forward or he wants to fight entertaining fights.  

“He could’ve lost the fight.” 

Banal, Fuentes score KOs 

Former title challengers AJ Banal (34-2-1, 23 KOs) and Rocky Fuentes (36-8-2, 21 KOs) had early nights in their preliminary bouts as they scored knockouts against overmatched opponents. 

Banal fought through a shut left eye to finish Tanzania’s Emilio Norfat (25-7, 19 KOs) at 1:41 of round three. Banal, whose two world title opportunities ended in disappointing upset knockout losses, dropped the 26-year-old Norfat with the first punch of the fight, a lead left cross that landed right on Norfat’s chin. 

Norfat made it out of round one, and caught his biggest break of the night when an accidental headbutt made Banal virtually a one-eyed fighter. Banal came out for round three with a sense of urgency, and his efforts paid off when a right hook behind the ear sent Norfat to his hands and knees. Norfat rose up again but turned his back against a flurry from Banal to prompt the stoppage. 

{source}<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">AJ Banal finishes off Emilio Norfat in round 3 after scoring two knockdowns <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/boxing?src=hash">#boxing</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rstream?src=hash">#rstream</a> <a href="https://t.co/RgyteMz30e">pic.twitter.com/RgyteMz30e</a></p>&mdash; Ryan Songalia (@ryansongalia) <a href="https://twitter.com/ryansongalia/status/670587372271112192">November 28, 2015</a></blockquote>
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Banal has now won 6 straight since his ninth round TKO loss to Pungluang Sor Sinyu in a fight for the vacant WBO bantamweight title in 2012. His other defeat came in 2008, when he was stopped in ten by Rafael Concepcion for the interim WBA junior bantamweight title. 

Earlier in the night, two-time flyweight title challenger Rocky Fuentes (36-8-2, 21 KOs) dropped Indonesian Afrizal Tamboresi (11-4, 6 KOs) with an overhand right that followed a left uppercut to win by TKO at 1:01 of round two.  

Fuentes, 29, hadn’t fought in a year since losing a decision to Amnat Ruenroeng for the IBF flyweight title in January 2014, and being stopped in 6 rounds by Roman Gonzalez in a vie for the WBC flyweight title. 

“They’re far from what they should be right now,” said Aldeguer. “It’s a long process for them. AJ has had some so-so performances. We really don’t know where he’s at right now.” 

Cataraja avenges Sabillo’s loss

Filipino flyweight prospect KJ Cataraja earned a big boost of experience with a fourth round TKO win over durable Indonesian Ellias Nggenggo. The 20-year-old Cataraja (2-0, 2 KOs) had to figure out his 26-year-old Indonesian foe (10-9-3, 3 KOs), who despite being knocked down on a body shot in round one was able to elude his tormentor for much of the fight.

Nggenggo, who pulled off a major upset last year with a fourth round TKO of former WBO strawweight titleholder Merlito Sabillo, was beaten around the ring before a serious cut on his left eye ended the fight at the 2:43 mark. 

{source}<blockquote class="twitter-video" lang="en"><p lang="in" dir="ltr">KJ Cataraja (2-0) avenges Merlito Sabillo&#39;s loss to Ellias Nggenggo with a 4th round TKO beat down in Cebu <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/boxing?src=hash">#boxing</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZWtHmbeQ2g">pic.twitter.com/ZWtHmbeQ2g</a></p>&mdash; Ryan Songalia (@ryansongalia) <a href="https://twitter.com/ryansongalia/status/670688337238233088">November 28, 2015</a></blockquote>
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Cataraja will be back in action on ALA’s next show in February, which will highlight the stable’s younger fighters like Albert Pagara and Mark Magsayo. – Rappler.com

BERLIN, Germany (UPDATED) - Britain's Tyson Fury was crowned the new world heavyweight champion on Saturday, November 28 (Sunday Manila time) after a unanimous points win over Wladimir Klitschko, who suffered his first defeat in 11 years.

The 27-year-old Fury was awarded the fight in Duesseldorf 115-112, 115-112 and 116-111 by the judges to take Klitschko's WBA, IBF and WBO belts as the Ukrainian suffered his first defeat since 2004.

The new champion celebrate his victory by signing Aerosmith's "Don't Want to Miss a Thing" in the ring.

"I want to thank my lord and savior Jesus Christ for giving me this victory," said a tearful Fury who has now won all 25 of his professional fights.

"I have worked hard everyday for this moment - it's a dream come true."

Klitschko said there is a rematch clause in the fight contract, adding it was too soon to talk about retirement and admitted he was surprised by Fury's speed despite his towering 2.06m frame.

"I prepared well, but my speed was missing tonight and I didn't expect the speed from him," said Klitschko, who turns 40 in May.

"I knew I needed a knockout at the end," he added after his fourth professional defeat.

Fury will cash in on the victory regardless of the fight purse having bet £200,000 ($300,630) on himself.

He made good on his pre-fight predictions of dethroning Klitschko and even took to song last Wednesday to tell the champion how he would "be the one with all the belts" after the bout.

The fight took place at the second attempt as the original October date had to be scrapped after Klitschko suffered a calf injury.

After Fury had problems with ill-fitting gloves in the week leading up to the fight, there was plenty of tension in the build-up on Saturday.

Fury's management insisted the canvas was too soft and after much discussion and threats to call the fight off, Klitschko's camp relented and removed some of the foam padding from the ring floor.

Then Klitschko was reported to have had his fists wrapped without an observer being present, a no-no in boxing, and when Fury's camp complained, the champion's fists were re-strapped which briefly delayed the start of the fight.

This was a poor display by Klitschko who finished with cuts to both cheeks with Fury unmarked.

The Briton showed no sign of nerves in a confident start, lowering his guard and trying to lure Klitschko inside his huge reach.

There was little between the fighters in the opening four rounds, as Klitschko struggled to impose himself, while Fury opened up a small cut on the champions' left cheek in the fifth with a jab.

Fury kept skipping around Klitschko, teasing his man and made a point of starring out the champion at the end of the sixth round and was landing more punches than the Ukrainian.

The fight burst into life in the seventh round in a flurry of punches from Fury, who even put his fists behind his back at one stage, which left Klitschko's cheek showing more signs of punishment and in clear trouble.

A big left from Fury caught Klitschko flush in the face in the ninth round before the champion finally got his right-hand jab going as he went on the attack and landed a shot directly on Fury's chin.

Fury, who landed a good shot to the right eyebrow, had a point deducted in the 11th for punching the back of Klitschko's head despite several warnings.

Klitschko came out hard in the twelfth and looked for the knockout as Fury visibly tired, but both raised their fists in triumph at the final bell. – Rappler.com