MANILA, Philippines – Kiefer Ravena dismissed rumors that the NLEX Road Warriors gifted away a win the TNT KaTropa badly needed to stay in playoff hunt.

Following NLEX' 75-101 loss to the KaTropa, Ravena said that losing to TNT was the last thing on their minds knowing that it would allow people to draw conclusions that they lent a hand to their sister team to avoid early vacation. TNT and NLEX are under the MVP group. 

"That was one thing that we were really avoiding to hear, na marinig namin sa ibang tao na binigay namin kasi Talk N Text badly needs a win. Siguro that was you know, ganoon talaga, sa sobrang sama ng pinakita namin, ganoon talaga 'yung lumabas. We can't blame anybody for that," said Ravena.

(That was one thing that we were really avoiding to hear from people, that we allowed Talk N Text to come away with a win they badly needed. I guess it is just the way it is, we played terribly that people are thinking that way. We can't blame anybody for that.)

The Road Warriors, who saw their win streak cut to 4 games, trailed by just 9 points after the first quarter before the KaTropa broke away in the second period, heading into halftime with a comfortable 30-point cushion. 

Ravena said, coach Yeng Guiao told his boys: "We could have lost this game but not this way. It's a terrible way to lose especially coming into the playoffs." 

The loss was also Ravena's worst game as a professional basketball player. The 24-year-old, who averaged 16.9 points, 5.7 assists and 3.7 rebounds in his first 10 games, finished with one point, two assists, one rebound against two turnovers in only 12 minutes of action. 

Although he was coming off a hectic week that saw him don the national colors with Gilas Pilipinas against Australia last February 22 and against Japan last February 25, Ravena is not making excuses for his dismal showing. 

The 24-year-old played the whole duration of the second quarter before being benched for the rest of the second half. 

"I guess I didn't deserve to play and you know, I'll learn from this. Hindi naman pwedeng may excuses na dahil galing sa Gilas, dahil ganito, pagod, dahil ganiyan, wala namang ganoon." 

(I don't want to make any excuses because I played with Gilas and I was tired. That is not true.) 

"I personally just played bad and you know, we just have to bounce back and stay positive going into the second round or the playoffs," added Ravena.

The Road Warriors, who secured a spot in the quarterfinals behind a 6-5 record, are now playing the waiting game as the last few elimination games will determine the placing for the playoffs. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Ateneo rookie Dani Ravena will miss the first matchup of archrivals Ateneo Lady Eagles and De La Salle University (DLSU) Lady Spikers on Saturday, March 3 due to appendicitis. 

The libero suffered a stomach pain on Tuesday morning, February 27 and was rushed to the hospital. Ravena underwent surgery as well. 

The youngest of the Ravena family posted on a photo of herself on the hospital bed with dextrose strapped onto her arm. 

{source} 

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Thank you for all you prayers!!!  love you all  <a href="https://t.co/ZWOnrWkrzi">pic.twitter.com/ZWOnrWkrzi</a></p>&mdash; Dani Ravena (@ravenadani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ravenadani/status/968496258938675200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source} 

Ravena tallied a total of 42 excellent receptions with an efficiency rating of 26.27%. Despite being the top libero of Ateneo, she will have to leave her duties to Ria Lo, Vanessa Baguiwet and Sydney Eleazar. – Rappler.com

TOKYO, Japan – Tokyo Wednesday, February 28, unveiled its long-awaited mascot for the 2020 Olympic Games: a futuristic blue-checked, doe-eyed character with pointy ears and "special powers" that was picked by schoolchildren across mascot-mad Japan.

{source} <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We’re pleased to introduce the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> Games Mascots! The Olympic Mascot is inspired by a fusion of tradition with modern innovation, the Paralympic Mascot by nature and the supernatural powers that make Japan distinct. They’d like to say hello! <a href="https://t.co/0FYIsGPzjF">https://t.co/0FYIsGPzjF</a> <a href="https://t.co/hn7qhe0AXM">pic.twitter.com/hn7qhe0AXM</a></p>&mdash; Tokyo 2020 (@Tokyo2020) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tokyo2020/status/968705212667056128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>{/source}

The mascot, which has yet to be named, was selected by elementary school kids from a shortlist of three competitors instantly recognizable as "made in Japan".

The students picked option "A", which, according to the Tokyo 2020 organizers, has a "strong sense of justice and is very athletic".

Helpfully, it also has a magical power that enables it "to move anywhere instantaneously".

Its Paralympic counterpart sports pink checks derived from Japan's famous cherry blossom and is "usually calm, however, it gets very powerful when needed".

Its magic power: "It can talk with stones and the wind. It can also move things by just looking at them".

The pair, which have "opposite personalities" but are "very good friends", received over 100,000 votes -- more than the other two design sets combined.

Mascots are massive in Japan, the land of Hello Kitty and Pokemon, and there are literally thousands representing everything from small communities to prisons.

Known locally as "yuru-kyara" or "laid-back characters", mascots can also be major money-spinners.

The pot-bellied, red-cheeked bear known as Kumamon – created in 2010 to promote Japan's southern Kumamoto region – raked in $8.8 million last year for local businesses selling branded products.

Big business 

Twelve-year-old Miyu Kawa from the school where the winner was unveiled on Wednesday pronounced the mascots "unique" and "very cool".

"I am excited to imagine these characters on display everywhere and moving around," she said.

But social media reaction was mixed with some saying they wanted something "more round" and more "huggable".

Several users said the futuristic-looking mascot chosen appealed more to children whereas adults preferred the softer and more traditional options.

Welcoming the "adorable" characters to the Tokyo 2020 team, the city's governor Yuriko Koike said she hoped the selection would continue to build "momentum" and "excitement" with less than 900 days to go until the opening ceremony.

The Tokyo 2020 mascot will hope to replicate the success of Soohorang, the cuddly stuffed tiger from the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang handed out to athletes on the podium.

More than 100,000 stuffed dolls (Soohorang and Paralympic mascot Banbdabi) were sold over the past year, Pyeongchang organizers said.

Soohorang sparked an inadvertent social media frenzy after a volunteer dressed up as the tiger got stuck in a doorway, needing a helper to push him through.

The 2016 Rio Olympics had a yellow feline animal representing Brazil's rich fauna and wildlife named Vinicius after music great Vinicius de Moraes.

The Paralympic mascot, a predominantly blue and green figure whose head was covered with leaves to represent Brazil's rich vegetation, was named Tom after musician Tom Jobim.

Brazil netted $300 million in profits from licensing intellectual property from the 2016 Games, according to the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Hit and miss

But Wenlock and Mandeville, the widely mocked mascots of the 2012 London Games, proved far from Olympic gold.

The one-eyed characters were dubbed "bizarre" and "creepy" by some, reportedly sending shares in their manufacturer down by more than a third.

The Rugby World Cup, which takes place in Japan next year, has already unveiled a pair of pot-bellied lions as its mascots.

With luxurious manes, short horns and faces that appear to be shaped like rugby balls, mascots "Ren" and "G" are inspired by "shishi," the mythical lion-like figure that features in Japan's new year celebrations and kabuki theatre.

Organizers turned to children to select the 2020 mascot, hoping to avoid a repeat of the bungled roll-out of the official Olympic logo, which ended up having to be scrapped following accusations of plagiarism.

Designer Ryo Taniguchi seemed overwhelmed at the decision.

"Thank you. My mind is going absolutely blank. I don't know what to say, " he said when the decision was announced at the ceremony.

"I want to tell this to my beloved wife." – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Athletes of the Year Krizziah Tabora, Jerwin Ancajas and Carlo Biado bannered the 2018 Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Annual Awards held on Tuesday, February 27 at the Manila Hotel. 

As our national athletes and sportswriters bedazzled everyone in their formal coats and gowns instead of their usual sports attires, a few were called up to be recognized on stage for the main and major awards. 

Main Awards

PSA-Tapa King Athlete of Year: Krizziah Tabora (Bowling), Jerwin Ancajas (Boxing) and Carlo Biado (Billiards) 

(READ: Krizziah Lyn Tabora wins Bowling World Cup after 14-year title drought)

(READ: Before becoming champion, Jerwin Ancajas fought poverty and hunger)

(READ: Carlo Biado defeats Roland Garcia in all-Filipino final, wins 2017 World 9-Ball Championship)

President's Award: Manuel V. Pangilinan

Chooks-to-Go Mr. Fan Favorite: Terrence Romeo

{source} 

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="tl" dir="ltr">Manila ng Bayan Fan Favorite <a href="https://twitter.com/tbvromeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tbvromeo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSAAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSAAwards</a> <a href="https://t.co/fMBbZn6KPV">pic.twitter.com/fMBbZn6KPV</a></p>&mdash; INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/INQUIRERSports/status/968482995328831488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Executive of the Year: Ramon S. Ang and Ernesto Echauz

NSA of the Year: Triathlon Association of the Philippines 

Mighty Sports Mr. Basketball: Junemar Fajardo

(READ: June Mar Fajardo wins historic 4th straight MVP award)

Ms. Volleyball: Dawn Macandili 

(READ: Dawn Macandili named second best libero in Asian Seniors tilt)

Mr. Volleyball: Marck Espejo

Major Awards 

Major award for Pro Basketball: Leo Austria

{source} 

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Major award for Pro Basketball: <a href="https://twitter.com/austrialeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@austrialeo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PBA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SanMiguel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SanMiguel</a> <a href="https://t.co/J3vX2MuZHa">pic.twitter.com/J3vX2MuZHa</a></p>&mdash; INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/INQUIRERSports/status/968483320546828288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source} 

Jockey of the Year: John Alvin Guce

Horse of the Year: "Sepfourteen" 

Marathon: Mary Joy Tabal

(READ: Full profile of Mary Joy Tabal)

Motorcycle racing: Masato Fernando 

Softball: Team Manila Softball

Collegiate Basketball: Thirdy Ravena

(WATCH: Rappler Talk Sports: UAAP S80 men's basketball champions Ateneo Blue Eagles)

Augusto "Gus" Villanueva was not present to receive his Lifetime Achievement Award which is part of the main awards. He was awarded for being the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal Group of Publications and was notably the former PSA President. 

SEA Games Athletics gold medalists Eric Cray and Trenten Beram were also not present in the awards night. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Injuries to key players cast a shadow on Rain or Shine's playoff chances but its unheralded players stepped up to the plate and the Elasto Painters secured a quarterfinal berth at the expense of no less than the San Miguel Beermen. 

Days before heading into the homestretch of its elimination round campaign, injuries sidelined Rain or Shine starters Chris Tiu (strained hamstring) and James Yap (pulled calf). 

To make matters worse, Raymond Almazan, who had a hand injury prior to the San Miguel Beer match, was reduced to a mere spectator when he aggravated the injury in a collision with Alex Cabagnot early in the first quarter. 

Fortunately, that did not prevent the Elasto Painters from becoming the 5th team to clinch one of the 8 quarterfinal spots thanks largely to Jewel Ponferada, Mike Borboran and Don Trollano.

Ponferada exploded for 17 points to go with 3 rebounds in only 15 minutes of action, Mark Borboran finished with 11 points and 5 rebounds while Don Trollano had an all-around outing of 8 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists in Rain or Shine's 95-80 triumph over the Beermen on Wednesday, February 28. 

For Beau Belga, who led the Elasto Painters' charge with 19 points, 7 rebounds, 5 steals and 4 assists, having others fill up the void left by their injury-stricken teammates was just what the doctored ordered for them. 

"'Yun 'yung kailangan namin e. We need somebody to step up sa absence ni Chris and James kasi mga injuries naman hindi namin kontrolado 'yun, nangyayari na lang nang bigla," said Belga.

"Kumbaga mga injuries talaga, traydor, traydorsa buhay ng players 'yun. Hindi namin control 'yun and the good thing, all of us stepped up today." 

(It was what we needed. We needed somebody to step up in the absence of Chris and James since we could not control injuries, they just happen in a snap. Injuries betray players. We cannot control them but the good thing is all of us stepped up today.) 

Now at 6-4 and with a game left against Barangay Ginebra, Rain or Shine has a chance to avoid sliding to as low as 7th place. Bottom ranked teams will face either of the top two squads, San Miguel and Magnolia Hotshots,  both carrying twice-to-beat incentives in the playoffs. 

And the E-Painters' most important weapon against the towering Ginebra side? Their 3-point sniping.

Against the Beermen, Rain or Shine buried 17 triples, with 10 surprisingly coming from its big men. Ponferada had 5, Belga had 3 and Borboran had two treys. 

"Kailangan 'yungmga bigs makashoot sa labas kasi ang advantage nila is depensa sa loob. I don't think hahabulin kami ni Greg (Slaughter) kapag nasa labas kami so we just need to do our thing," Belga said.

(We need the bigs to make their outside shots because Ginebra's advantage is their inside defense. I don't think Greg Slaughter will close out on us from long range so we just need to do our thing.) 

Rain or Shine and Ginebra lock horns for the last elimination round game of the Philippine Cup on Friday, March 2, at the Araneta Coliseum. 

"As of now, nabunutan ng isang tinik. Let's see on Friday kung 'yung dalawang tinik na 'yun matatanggal talaga," Belga concluded. 

(As of now, we've pulled out had one thorn . Let's see on Friday if it will be two thorns that will be removed.) – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The inaugural UAAP 3x3 basketball will tip off on Sunday, March 4 at the Mall of Asia Music Hall. 

3x3 basketball will make its debut this Season 80 as a demonstration sport that will incude both men's and women's divisions. 

The favorites to watch out for in the men's division are the University of the Philippines team composed of the GDL brothers, Jun Manzo and Gelo Vito and the De La Salle University team fortified by Season 79 Rookie of the Year (ROY) Aljun Melecio, Batang Gilas members Santi Santillan and Andrei Caracut and Justine Baltazar. 

Season 80 champions Ateneo de Manila University will be deployings its members from Team Glory Be, including JBL 3-point shootout champion Dan Wong. 

Only University of Santo Tomas did not field a men's team. 

Season 80 ROY Juan Gomez de Liaño also donned the colors of the Philippines in the FIBA 3x3 U-18 World Cup in Chengdu, China. 

In the women's division, the 4-peat champions National University Lady Bulldogs will be led by MVPs Jack Danielle Animam (Season 80) and Afril Bernardino (Season 78). 

Here are the official rosters: 

– Rappler.com

PARIS, France – Brazilian superstar Neymar will undergo surgery on his fractured foot in Brazil as early as Thursday, March 1 ruling the world's most expensive footballer out of Paris Saint-Germain's do-or-die Champions League clash with Real Madrid.

{source} <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Neymar injury: Paris Saint-Germain confirm Brazil star set for surgery <a href="https://t.co/30phjq6Nxz">https://t.co/30phjq6Nxz</a> <a href="https://t.co/RjPM60L7un">pic.twitter.com/RjPM60L7un</a></p>&mdash; The Fastest (@thefastest11) <a href="https://twitter.com/thefastest11/status/969060390037581824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source}

The 26-year-old suffered a hairline fracture of the fifth metatarsal in his right foot as well as a twisted ankle late in PSG's 3-0 win over Marseille in Ligue 1 on Sunday, February 25.

PSG said Wednesday, February 28, that Rodrigo Lasmar, the surgeon with the Brazilian national squad, will carry out the operation with several Brazilian media outlets reporting that the surgery would take place as early as Thursday.

Radio Tupi said Neymar, his father and surgeon Lasmar left Paris Wednesday night for Belo Horizonte's Mater Dei Hospital where the operation is set for Thursday according to O Globo newspaper, one of Brazil's leading dailies.

Website UoL also reported the surgery would take place in the southeastern Brazil city but said it was scheduled for Sunday.

On Tuesday, the Brazilian's father had claimed the player would be out for "at least six weeks".

Speaking to ESPN in Brazil before PSG's announcement, Neymar Senior said: "PSG know that they will not be able to count on Neymar for the upcoming matches. His treatment will last six to eight weeks, whether there is an operation or not."

PSG coach Unai Emery had said earlier that "no decision" had been taken on whether Neymar would require surgery and that there remained a "small chance" of getting him back in time to face Real next Tuesday, March 6.

PSG lost 3-1 in the first leg in Spain two weeks ago and are in danger of being knocked out of the competition in the last 16 for the second season running.

Neymar appeared to be in tears as he was stretchered off the field at the Parc des Princes on Sunday.

{source} <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Neymar stretchered off in tears, after this nasty injury <br><br>Let&#39;s hope it&#39;s not too serious and doesn&#39;t keep him out of the 2nd leg vs Real Madrid or even the World Cup <br> <a href="https://t.co/o5WKiAG1qQ">pic.twitter.com/o5WKiAG1qQ</a></p>&mdash; Premier League Panel (@PremLeaguePanel) <a href="https://twitter.com/PremLeaguePanel/status/967879219349946368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source}

Brazilian newspaper Globo Esporte claimed the former Barcelona player would be sidelined until May while, if his father's estimate was correct, Neymar would not return before the semi-final stage of the Champions League in late April.

World Cup fears

However, Neymar should be fit to play for Brazil at the World Cup in Russia in June and July.

In the meantime, PSG had to do without Neymar for Wednesday's French Cup quarter-final at home to Marseille, the second meeting of the clubs in four days.

Argentine star Angel Di Maria replaced the Brazilian at the Parc des Princesand scored twice in a 3-0 win as PSG stayed on course to win the French Cup for the fourth season in a row.

But Emery was then confronted with another injury worry when striker Kylian Mbappe picked up an ankle injury in the game.

"Kylian Mbappe injured his ankle. He asked not to play the second half. I hope that it's not too serious," said Emery.

Neymar has scored 28 goals in 30 appearances in all competitions for PSG since his $264 million move from Barcelona last August.

Meanwhile, in Brazil, Neymar's foot injury has unleashed sharp emotions and concern, rumours and speculation about the player upon whom so many hopes rest for World Cup victory.

"We just might have lost the World Cup last Sunday," one radio commentator, Milton Neves of Bandnews FM, said early Wednesday.

Brazilians care little about the impact on PSG. Their attention is entirely trained on the World Cup, where they have ambitions of walking away with a sixth championship.

Images of Sunday's fateful duel between Neymar and Marseille player Bouna Sarr were being shown incessantly on TV, often in slo-mo, before he was stretchered off.

Newspapers featured close-up illustrations detailing Neymar's foot and ankle.

"I don't think we can really talk about fears of him not being at the World Cup. But there is a noticeable haste to find a solution so that Neymar will have recovered in time," an ESPN Brasil sports commentator, Mauro Cezar Pereira, told AFP. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Rain or Shine guard Chris Tiu shares the birth of his second daughter, Mari Diana Tiu, on his Instagram on Wednesday, February 27. 

Chris Tiu's wife Clarisse gave birth to Mari Diana on Sunday, February 25 at 7.2 lbs. The couple had their first child Amanda Claire in 2016. 

"Words cannot express the overwhelming joy we are feeling right now with the arrival of this newest addition to our growing family," said Tiu in his post. 

{source} <blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bfsk66jhLAd/" data-instgrm-version="8" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:53.075916230366495% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bfsk66jhLAd/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Words cannot express the overwhelming joy we are feeling right now with the arrival of this newest addition to our growing family. To our Almighty God who is so amazing and infinitely good, thank you for this wonderful blessing of life and love!! You remind us of what truly matters in life, and that it is the simplicity of a united and nurturing family that brings us authentic happiness :) Thank you everyone for your prayers!! Say hello to Mari Diana Tiu born Feb. 25, 2018. 7.2 lbs.</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chris_tiu17/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Chris Tiu</a> (@chris_tiu17) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2018-02-27T10:18:40+00:00">Feb 27, 2018 at 2:18am PST</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async defer src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script> {/source} 

"To our Almighty God who is so amazing and infinitely good, thank you for this wonderful blessing of life and love!! You remind us of what truly matters in life, and that it is the simplicity of a united and nurturing family that brings us authentic happiness :)." 

Tiu currently averages 13.29 points, 4.43 assists and 3.43 rebounds in the PBA Philippine Cup conference. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Fresh from ending Peping Cojuangco's 13-year reign as Philippine Olympic Committe (POC) president last February 23, Ricky Vargas is already implementing his plan to unite the National Sports Associations of the Philippines. 

Vargas, together with his running mate for POC chairman Bambol Tolentino, will be recognized in their first board meeting on Monday, March 5, where the turnover rights will also take place. 

With the 2018 Asian Games and the Philippines' hosting of the 2019 Southeast Asian Games drawing near, Vargas has already a lot of ideas in his mind that will pave the way for his tackling existing issues in Philippine sports. 

First things first

"You know I’d get very scared when I'm told that," says Vargas when everyone expects him to be the beacon of hope in uniting the NSAs. 

Despite handling the tremendous pressure, Vargas' first plan of action is creating an arbitration and dispute committee that will be able to reconcile the disputing parties of each NSA. 

"I'd like to create an arbitration and dispute committee because there is a lot of dispute among the NSAs that we would need to be able to settle and I would like to do that right away and we're moving towards that," said Vargas. 

"I'd like to get a baseline of what we have in the POC in terms of the financials in terms of the records and what we need to do to move forward." 

Vargas traces the Philippines' poor SEA Games performance to NSAs' disputes as the country has skidded to it worst performance since 1999. (READ: Philippines crashes to its worst SEA Games finish since 1999)

The disunity of the NSAs hinders the POC and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) from finding the best athletes and supporting them in their international careers. 

"Ang masakit lang (What's hurting) is the dispute in the NSAs. When there are disputes in the NSAs we cannot find the best athletes we need to go beyond the disputes and look for the best athletes that can actually represent our country and fight for our country," said Vargas. 

In line with his call for unity, Vargas believes that the empowerment of the NSAs could also be achieved by working together with the government, the POC officials and the athletes themselves. 

Athlete empowerment

Vargas has 6 months left before the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta and around a year left before the Philippines will host the 2019 SEA Games. 

As the hosts, Philippines is expected to finish on top place of the team standibngs, putting pressure on the athletes to improve in a year's time. 

Vargas plans to be more hands on with the athletes by being able to talk to each and everyone of them in order to motivate them to do well and believe in the "healing" of Philippine sports. 

"I would also like to meet each and every athlete. I'd like to be able to motivate them to fight for our country hindi lang puso, buong puso! Yan ang sinsabi ko: ‘Ilagay na natin ang buong puso natin sa paglaban para sa bansa'," said Vargas. 

(It's not only heart, but the whole heart! That's what I have been saying: 'let us put our whole heart in the fight for our country.') 

Vargas will be initiating talks with PSC chairman Butch Ramirez and Manila SEA Games organizing committe chairman Alan Peter Cayetano in order to understand the existing plans and programs for the Asian Games and 2019 SEA Games. 

"I will only be as confident (in our Asian Games and SEA Games performances) as the NSAs say that they have athletes that can compete.  I have not seen the programs, but I have confidence that if we allow the NSAs to do what they have to do in training and support them. We will have a good harvest." 

Hope for accreditation

In the recent years, many unaccredited sport organizations in the Philippines have excelled in international competitions without the government support. At the start of his term, Vargas has already took notice of these sports such as powerlifting, obstacle course and jiu-jitsu to name a few. 

"I just met the sport called powerlifting. I'm so amazed at the awardee, the lady (Veronica Ompod) and she's an Asian champion. I'd like to get to know more about powerlifting. I met the sport called obstacle course and the athletes, they're excellent!," said Vargas. 

"I understand that jiu-jitsu also has a very good chance for medals and we do have a very good jiu-jitsu mentor (Stephen Kamphuis) who trains not only here but overseas. In jiu-jitsu, he is a very recognized sensei." 

With more medal sports coming to Vargas' attention, he intends to hone the talents of these athletes by accrediting their respective national organizations. 

"So these are the types of things that we should take a look at and see where these talents are coming from and hopefully possible gold medals." – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippine – The UAAP, through the initiative of Season 80 host Far Eastern University, officially launched the first-ever UAAP 3X3 basketball tournament in a press conference at the Capitol Commons in Pasig, Thursday, March 1.

The men’s and women’s tournaments will both be held on Saturday, March 4, in the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

With top league officials in attendance such as Commissioner and Executive Director Rene “Rebo” Saguisag, Jr. and FEU athletics head Mark Molina, the league welcomed the launch of the new 3-on-3 variation which was recently added as an Olympic sport.

Seven schools in the league fielded 4 representatives each for the men’s and women’s tournaments, with the exception of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) which only elected to send a women’s team.

In his opening remarks, Saguisag likened the 3-on-3 game to the larong kanto (local pickups) that can be found in almost every corner of the country wherever a basketball ring can be found.

“Even before I played 5-on-5 basketball, tatluhan lang naman talaga 'yung laban namin ‘eh,” he said. (“…3-on-3 was really how we played.”) “It was a rite of passage. Manhood was measured by how good you were on the basketball court.”

Molina likewise added, “When 3-on-3 was announced to be an Olympic sport [for] 2020, it was something we wanted to push by FEU this year and eventually, hopefully, by the entire UAAP.”

A few schools have already been penciled in as early favorites after the 3X3 rosters were released. These include the University of the Philippines who fielded the Gomez de Liano brothers and Jun Manzo along with Gelo Vito and De La Salle University who will be represented by Aljun Melecio, Andrei Caracut, Santi Santillan and Justine Baltazar. Gilas 2023 pool member Juan GDL was also the country’s representative in the FIBA 3X3 Under-18 World Cup in Chengdu, China.

Meanwhile, the outcome of the women’s tournament will likely mirror the original 5-on-5 tournament, with powerhouse National University set to field Season 78 MVP Afril Bernardino and Season 80 MVP Jack Animam in its team.

As for UST, both Saguisag and Molina were not given a reason as to why there were no men’s representatives. Despite that, the league commissioner respected their decision and hoped UST would join the Season 81 tournament.

“We respect naman kung talagang hindi sila ready,” he said. (...they may not be ready.)

Rappler Sports has reached out to newly-appointed UST head coach Aldin Ayo for comment, but has received no reply as of press time. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Go for Gold-CSB continued its newfound winning ways in the 2018 PBA D-League Aspirants Cup, as it downed the bottom-dwelling yet scrappy Batangas EAC Generals, 106-95, at the Ynares Sports Arena, Thursday, March 1.

The Generals showed why no team should underestimate them, as they fought tooth-and-nail with the talented Go for Gold squad for the entire first half. After a tied first quarter at 22-all, Cedrick Ablaza led the Generals to a small two-point deficit by intermission, 46-48.

EAC continued to show their heart early in the second half, as they bust out to an 11-point lead, 64-53, with key defensive stops leading to alley-oop layups and easy fastbreak points. However, Go for Gold’s talent caught up in no time, as Yankee Haruna showcased a breakaway dunk to go along with a steal and score in the very next possession. Edward Dixon punctuated the CSB run with a game-tying triple, 72-all. Tempers, however, would flare up at the very end of the quarter, as EAC’s Jeric Diego was assessed a technical foul after throwing the ball to Unique Naboa after a brief scramble for the ball.

This would screw up the Generals’ groove heading into the fourth, which Go for Gold capitalized with a 10-3 run, ending with a Justin Gutang and-one bucket. However, EAC would slowly come back and sent CSB clinging to a 3-point lead, 94-91, in the last two minutes. Unfortunately for the Generals, former National University team captain Jayjay Alejandro once again came up big in the clutch, sinking a corner triple that put his team up 6, 97-91, in the game’s waning moments. Haruna and Gutang piled on more buckets in the final seconds for good measure.

Aside from being a walking highlight reel, Haruna topscored for Go for Gold as well, scoring 23 points including 8 in the final frame. PBA vet Jerwin Gaco added 21 points and 10 rebounds for the double-double while Gutang and Alejandro netted 15 and 13, respectively. For the Generals, it was Ablaza who filled up the statsheet with 21 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals and a block – all team-highs for the day. Top General Cedric de Joya added 18 points as well in the losing effort.

In the previous game, Wangs-Letran continued rolling with a key win over the University of Perpetual Help Altas.

The Scores

Go for Gold-CSB (106) – Haruna 23, Gaco 21, Gutang 15, Alejandro 13, Leutcheu 8, Dixon 7, Casino 7, Naboa 6, Salem 3, Domingo 2, Pasturan 1, Young 0, Ocampo 0

Batangas-EAC (95) – Ablaza 21, De Joya 18, Maguilano 11, Altamirano 10, Mendoza 8, Garcia 7, Dela Pena 6, Diego 6, Bautista 4, Tampoc 4, Mendoza 0

Quarter Scores: 22-22, 48-46, 75-75, 106-95

STANDINGS (as of Mar. 1, 2018)

CEU 4-1

Gamboa-St. Clare 3-1

Akari-AdU 4-2

Marinerong Pilipino 4-2

Wangs-Letran 4-2

Go For Gold-CSB 5-3

Zark’s-LPU 4-3

Che’Lu-SSC 4-4

Perpetual 2-5

AMA 1-3

JRU 1-4

EAC 1-6

– Rappler.com

Games March 3 at Filoil Flying V Center 

4 pm – Foton vs Cocolife
6 pm – F2 Logistics vs Petron

 MANILA, Philippines – A very strong Petron showed up and made short work of rookie team Smart, 25-12, 25-14, 25-17, Thursday, March 1, to remain immaculate in the Chooks to Go-Philippine Superliga (PSL) Grand Prix at the Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.

The tandem of Hillary Hurley and Lindsay Stalzer fueled the Blaze Spikers' offense in tabbing its third consecutive win in this prestigious club tourney bankrolled by Isuzu and UCPB Gen with ESPN5 as official broadcast partner.

Hurley nailed 12 kills and two aces for 15 points while Stalzer chipped in 11 kills and two blocks for 14 points for the Blaze Spikers, who maintained the lead with their third consecutive victory in this battle that also has Senoh, Mueller, Mikasa, Asics, Grand Sport and LGR as technical partners.

Petron coach Shaq Delos Santos lauded his wards’ effort, saying that it will serve as morale-booster for their blockbuster battle against reigning champion F2 Logistics on Saturday, March 3.

“This win is a good morale-booster for our match against F2 Logistics this Saturday,” said Delos Santos, who is looking to avenge their sorry setback to the Cargo Movers in their best-of-three finals showdown last year.

“While we’re hopeful that we can maintain our good form, we also want to level up our game and work on our weaknesses because we’re facing a champion team in F2 Logistics. We’ll treat the match as if it is a championship game.”

Against the Giga Hitters, the Blaze Spikers were simply at their best.

Their brightest moment came in the second set when Mika Reyes, Frances Molina and Stalzer erected a defensive fortress at the net, leaving Smart’s high-flying import Gyselle Silva of Cuba bleeding at the attack zone.

Silva, who erupted for 33 points in their previous match against Cocolife, was held to only 23 points as she failed to draw enough support from the locals.

Smart’s other import, Serbian Sanja Trivunovic, was set to arrive later in the day and will formally see action when the Giga Hitters collide with Foton on Tuesday, March 6 at the Malolos Sports and Convention Center in Malolos City. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines is one of the 22 countries with guaranteed slots in the second round of the FIBA World Cup 2019 Qualifiersas as of Thursday, March 1. 

Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Dominican Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Iran, Italy, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Lithuania, New Zealand, Serbia, Spainand, Uruguay, USA and Venezuela will also be advancing to the second window.

After slipping past Japan in their last match of the second window, Gilas Pilipinas now stands on a 3-1 win-lloss record together with Iran and Kazakhstan in the Asian Qualifiers. Australia is the only country in the Asian Qualifiers that boasts a perfect 4-0 record heading into the 3rd window of the first round. 

(LOOK: HIGHLIGHTS: Philippines vs Japan – 2019 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers)

The second round will be composed of 3 windows in September and November 2018 and February 2019. 

Only 7 teams from the Asian Qualifiers excluding China will advance to the 2019 FIBA World Cup.

Chinese-Taipei hosts the Philippines in the 3rd window of the Asian Qualifers on June 29.

It will be the Philippines' turn to host Australia on July 2 to conclude the first round of the Asian Qualifiers. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – From golf caddie to world champion, Carlo Biado's name is now etched in the history books after he clinched the 2017 World 9-Ball Championship title. 

Biado is the first Filipino to win the World 9-Ball Championship since Francisco 'Django' Bustamante in 2010, defeating compatriot Rolando Garcia 13-5 in an all-Filipino finals. 

Being the 5th Filipino to have held a world championship title, Biado was awarded the 2017 Athlete of the Year by the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA), sharing the honor with Krizziah Tabora  and Jerwin Ancajas. 

(IN PHOTOS: Meet the 2018 Philippine Sportswriters Association awardees)

"Para sa akin, ito po ay isang magandang alaala sa buhay ko. Itong pagiging Athlete of the Year, hindi ko po ine-expect ito," said Biado. 

(For me, this is a good remembrance in my life. I didn't expect to become the Athlete of the Year.)

"Ang pangarap ko lang po ay magkaroon ng maayos na pamilya, maging world champion tapos eto, naging Athlete of the Year ako kaya sobrang saya ko po."

(My only dream was to have a good family, to be world champion and then I became Athlete of the Year that's why I'm so happy.) 

Many of his competitors doubted Biado and his potential. After hearing discouraging words like "wala, mahina yan" (he's weak) and "hindi yan mananalo" (he won't win) during the tournament, it sparked a fire within Biado to prove himself to the world that he deserved the title. 

"Mas gusto ko ng ginaganun nila ako kasi na-challenge ako. Kaya nung nanalo ako noong 2017, sunod-sunod ipinakita ko sa kanila na kaya ko rin," explained Biado. 

(I like it better that they do that to me because I get challenged. That is why when I won in 2017, I continously showed them that I could to it too.) 

After this experience, Biado hopes that this will uplift the image of Filipinos in the international scene of billiards as the Philippines returns to world title contention after 7 years. 

"Sana masundan ulit yung pagkapanalo ko sa World 9-ball Championship para tumaas ulit ang tingin nila sa atin, mga Pilipino," said Biado. 

(I hope that my victory in the World 9-ball Championship will be followed so that people will look up to us Filipinos again.) 

This year, Biado will aim for a back-to-back titles to continue his legacy in Philippine billiards. – Rappler.com

CEBU CITY, Philippines - Hours arriving from a long-haul flight from the US, Donnie “Ahas” Nietes, the longest reigning Filipino world boxing champion, decided to give up sleep to meet Cebu media and other supporters in a press conference and thanksgiving dinner held in his honor.

“Duka pa kaayo pero gusto nako hatagan ni ug oras,” Nietes told the crowd gathered at the Susan Elizabeth Function Hall of St. Mark Hotel, Wednesday night, February 28.

(I am still very sleepy but I would like to spare time for this.)

It was the first victory party of Nietes in the Philippines after his stunning defense of his International Boxing Federation (IBF) world flyweight title with a 7th round technical knockout of Juan Carlos Reveco of Argentina last February 25.

Nietes, along with his coach, Edmund Villamor, and trainer Edito Villamor, was profuse with gratitude to all those who gathered for believing and supporting him.

“Siempre lipay jud kaayo ko nga ing-ato na performance ang napakita ko sa usa ka big event sama sa HBO Boxing. Nalipay ko kay daghan ko napabilib na mga promoter, manager ug fans,” said Nietes, when asked of his reaction to the praises heaped on him by the HBO broadcasters.

(Of course, I am very happy that I was able to show them that kind of performance especially in a big event like HBO Boxing. I am happy because I was able to wow many promoters, managers and fans.)

“Nidako sad akong atay,” Nietes quipped about HBO broadcaster Max Kellerman calling him a master and not merely an expert with the technical skills that he had shown in his fight against Reveco which elicited laughter from those present.

(My liver ballooned [A Visayan expression to being praised].)

As to being compared to undefeated American boxer Andre Ward, Nietes agrees saying that he idolizes the guy as well.

Edito Villamor was happy that American commentators were finally able to see the talent of his ward and especially appreciative of likening him to a master and not just an expert.

Edito said that most commentators, even here in the Philippines, are used to Manny Pacquiao’s style and overlook the style of other Filipino boxers.

He said that Nietes had given his all in that fight against Reveco. He said Nietes perfectly executed the gameplan.  For that performance Nietes truly deserved to be the Philippine’s longest reigning boxing champion.

Nietes admitted that he had difficulty in the first 3 rounds against Reveco because the Argentinian was able to parry his punches.

According to Edmund, he and Edito conferred with Freddie Roach who warned them to watch out for Reveco’s upperhand and hook. Nietes had sparred at Roach’s boxing gym in the US in preparation for the fight.

Moving up

Nietes said he was considering moving up from the 112-pound flyweight class to the 115-pound super flyweight where the big names of boxing were. 

“Kung ako papili-on mas maayo na musaka nako kay wa nay challenge sa 112-pound, ang mga big names naa na sa super fly sama nilang Estrada (Juan Francisco) ug Chocolatito (Roman Gonzalez), so mas maayo na musaka nasad ko, tutal di mana problema ang timbang,” said Nietes, who is the longest reigning Filipino boxing champion.

(if I were to choose, it is better if I go up because there is no longer a challenge in the 112-pound. The big names are already in the super fly like Estrada (Juan Francisco) and Chocolatito (Roman Gonzalez), so it is better if I go up too, anyways, the weight will not be a problem.)

Edmund said he had no problem whatever was the decision of Nietes. He was confident the world champion would continue to train hard regardless of his weight class. Edmund added that it would also depend on his promoter.

 Edito, for his part, said the decision would probably depend on Nietes’ weight and condition. Edito said Nietes training weight is 125 pounds. Should he go up to 130 pounds after a month of training then he could moved up to the super flyweight class, but if he stays at 125 pounds, then he should remain in the flyweight class, said Edito Villamor.

At 35 years old, Nietes said his fighting years in boxing will depend on the condition of his body.  He added that if at 40 he will still be in top condition, then he will still be fighting.

Unification

Nietes said he was eager to go up against Srisaket Sor Rungvisai of Thailand, saying that it will be a good match as they are both Asians and that he has a good chance against the Thailander. 

However, Edito said there was still no discussion about a unification.  – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Danny “The King” Kingad may have stumbled in his first opportunity to capture the ONE Flyweight World Championship against division kingpin Adriano Moraes this past November, but now he is looking to rebuild some momentum and get another shot at the flyweight crown. 

The 22-year-old Baguio City native is scheduled to make his return on March 9 as he is slated to duke it out with short-notice opponent Sotir Kichukov on the undercard of ONE: Visions of Victory, set at the Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Kingad was originally scheduled to lock horns with Malaysia’s Gianni Subba, but the latter was called up to the main event to face Reece McLaren after Moraes withdrew from his defense of his flyweight crown against the Filipino-Australian dynamo. 

It was a sigh of relief for Kingad that Kichukov accepted the offer to face him inside the ONE Championship cage.

"It happened a little less than two weeks before the bout, so it was certainly nerve-wracking," he admitted. “I am happy that he stepped up to take this bout. My preparations for my return to action will not be futile.”

Despite the last-minute change in opponent, Kingad admitted that he made necessary adjustments in his game plan as he seeks to walk out of the newly-renovated Axiata Arena triumphant.

"It's a different opponent, so there are definitely some things you have to change. But anything can happen in a bout and that's always my outlook on it. You go into a match, [and] you have to adapt inside the cage. Surely, I will exert a great effort to win this bout," he said.

A former Max Fight bantamweight titleholder, Kichukov owns 20 pro matches and has competed in 3 bouts under the ONE Championship banner.

Moreover, the 27-year-old Bulgarian journeyman has a penchant for spectacular submission finishes as 8 of his 13 victories have come by way of tap out.

Kingad guarantees a better version of himself as he crosses paths with a hungry competitor like Kichukov, who aims to break his 5-bout losing skid and notch his first win on Asia’s premier martial arts stage.

“There shouldn’t be room even for a single mistake in this bout. Expect that I will be a better competitor inside the cage. My team has prepared a good strength and conditioning program to level up my cardio. I made sure to sharpen my striking. I also invested time in my ground game,” he said.

Kingad admitted that his first-round submission setback to Moraes almost 4 months ago acted as a reasonable opportunity to patch the loopholes in his skillset and mature as an athlete.

“It’s not a defeat. I think of it as a lesson. It has served as an inspiration and a reminder to work hard and push myself to the limit in training,” he stated. “I am still young, and there are a lot to learn in this sport. I believe great things are ahead of me.”

The young Team Lakay flyweight talent pointed out the he seeks to open his 2018 calendar on a high note through a convincing victory over Kichukov. 

“The end of my 2017 left a bad taste in my mouth. My desire is to redeem myself and start my 2018 by winning my match against my Bulgarian opponent. I don’t want to sit here and be relaxed. I don’t want him to take my winning moment away from me. My mind is focused on getting that victory,” said the Filipino fighter. – Rappler.com​

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil – Brazilian superstar Neymar will be sidelined for up to three months – perilously close to the eve of the World Cup – after undergoing surgery on his broken foot, his doctor says.

The worse than previously announced prognosis came as the chamstriker, 26, arrived in Rio de Janeiro from Paris for his operation Saturday, March 3.

"The (recovery) period will be around two and a half to three months," national team surgeon Rodrigo Lasmar, who flew with Neymar, said Thursday, March 1.

{source}<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Neymar&#39;s Season is Over <a href="https://t.co/9PEY0ZHMia">pic.twitter.com/9PEY0ZHMia</a></p>&mdash; FC BARCELONA NEWS (@StanleyMwani) <a href="https://twitter.com/StanleyMwani/status/969489217461026821?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The injury has not only ruled the world's most expensive player out of PSG's make-or-break Champions League clash with Real Madrid on March 6, but more worryingly for the football-mad public in Brazil, also threatens the much-fancied national side's build-up to the World Cup, starting in Russia on June 14.

Lasmar, who will lead the surgery at a hospital in Belo Horizonte, said there is no quick fix for the striker.

"It's not a simple fracture, but a fracture in an important bone in the middle of the foot," Lasmar said.

Dressed in a black hoodie, a black baseball cap and wearing sunglasses, Neymar left the plane in a wheelchair. He smiled and took selfies with other passengers before leaving on a private jet to an undisclosed destination.

Neymar could arrive at the hospital on Friday, March 1, by helicopter for maximum privacy, according to local press reports. From the airport he may have headed straight for his villa in the Rio area, the reports said.

At the Mater Dei de Belo Horizonte hospital, an entire wing has been reserved for Neymar and his entourage, and staff have been warned to uphold the facility's policy regarding confidentiality, said GloboEsporte.

Serious fracture

The initial assessment did not appear as serious on Sunday, when Neymar was reported to have suffered a hairline fracture of the fifth metatarsal, as well as a twisted ankle late in PSG's 3-0 win over Marseille in Ligue 1.

Neymar's father had predicted "at least six weeks" out, while PSG coach Unai Emery even said there remained a "small chance" of getting him back in time to face Real Madrid.

But Lasmar's assessment painted a graver picture.

"Yesterday we went back to the hospital (in Paris) and made new exams that left the seriousness of the fracture very clear," he told journalists in Rio.

"There was no doubt left regarding the treatment. We were unanimous in agreeing that it would have to be surgical treatment. More conservative treatment, without surgery, would present a far greater risk for refracture. We can't run that risk."

The drama is a big personal setback for Neymar, who has been at the center of the world's footballing attention since his $264 million move from Barcelona last August.

He has scored 28 goals in 30 appearances in all competitions for PSG since arriving. But on Sunday he looked to be in tears as he was stretchered off the field at the Parc des Princes.

PSG lost 3-1 to Real Madrid in the first leg of their European tie in Spain two weeks ago and are in danger of being knocked out of the competition in the last 16 for the second season running.

Neymar misses friendlies 

Brazilians' attention is entirely trained on the World Cup, where they have ambitions of walking away with a sixth title after the humiliation of crashing out 7-1 to Germany in the 2014 semi-finals on home soil – a match Neymar missed after picking up an injury in the last eight against Colombia.

Even if Neymar gets back in time, he appears sure to miss two warm-up friendlies against Russia and Germany in March.

"Brazilians have high hopes for the World Cup with him and many are afraid he won't be able to take part," said one fan, kiosk owner Gabriel Tavares Barreto in Rio de Janeiro.

"I think he'll recover in time... but that's what Brazilians are worrying about," the 21-year-old said.

Images of Sunday's fateful duel between Neymar and Marseille player Bouna Sarr have been replayed incessantly on television, often in slo-mo.

Lasmar said he was aware of the pressure.

"It's clear there are goals to reach in terms of timing and we will do our best to meet the deadlines," he said.

The UOL sports website reported that Neymar may recuperate at his residence in Mangaratiba, on the coast of Rio state. The luxury residence has the facilities that would allow the star's medical team to run a full physiotherapy program, the report said. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) Blue Eaglets nullified its Game 2 loss with a thrilling win in the do-or-die Game 3 over the Nazareth School of National University (NU) Bullpups, 63-58, to claim the UAAP junior baksetball title at the FilOil Flying V Centre in San Juan, Friday, March 2.

Both employing highly defense-oriented plays in the first quarter, no team cracked double-digits score for at least 8 minutes. However, the Eaglets soared until the end, with Jason Credo and Angelo David completing a 9-0 run for the period, 15-6.

Early in the second, Ateneo finally had full control after multiple defensive stops with a 10-point, 22-12 lead. However, RJ Minerva led the gap-closing 9-2 charge, punctuated with a Miguel Oczon midrange that put them within 3, 21-24. In the midst of this, Ateneo star SJ Belangel had a repeat of his Game 2 foul troubles, with his third foul coming 4 minutes before halftime. The Eaglets also had a couple of injury scares to starters Joaqui Manuel and Matt Escalona heading into intermission. Despite this, they still led by 5 at the half, 28-23.

The arena’s energy reached an early fever pitch in the third quarter when the Eaglets were called for 3 quick fouls, including a technical on Ildefonso for faking a foul. In response, Paul Manalang drained huge back-to-back triples to put his team back within striking distance, 29-32. Immediately afterwards, Kai Sotto was called for consecutive offensive and defensive fouls, prompting the Ateneo fans to start chanting “luto” (game-cooking). One fan even threw a small object in the direction of a referee. With the Ateneo groove in shambles, Minerva got deep in the paint to complete the 8-0 run, but the Eaglets still recovered to take a 44-43 lead after three periods.

In the final frame, Terrence Fortea came up huge with a crafty spin move and pull-up triple to boost the lead up to 6, 54-48. However, Belangel and Sotto each nailed crucial and-ones and hit their bonus free-throws to tie the game with two minutes remaining in regulation. Another Sotto tip and Manuel drive later, Ateneo is suddenly up 4 off the 10-2 run with 40 seconds remaining.

Yet still, Oczon refused to give in as he nailed a pull-up trey to close the gap to one, 57-58. Pao Javillonar then split his charities to once again tie the game. But Sotto was too much for the Bullpups as he sank one final putback for the 60-58 lead. NU then blew up their play off the timeout and immediately hacked Belangel, who walked to the line and calmly sank the dagger freebies for the 62-58 separation. For good measure, Ildefonso sank one last free-throw and intentionally missed the second as the Ateneo community erupted in celebration.

Sotto was named the Finals MVP after a double-double performance of 19 points, 13 rebounds and 3 blocks – all team-highs. Belangel closed the final curtain on his Juniors career with 16 points and 8 rebounds including the clutch free-throws that effectively sealed the game. Ildefonso added 13 in what is also his final performance for the Eaglets. On the other end, Fortea paced the Bullpups’ efforts with a team-high 14 points. Minerva added 13 markers and 9 boards while Rhayyan Amsali was held to 6 points on 3/12 shooting.

The Eaglets are now winners of their first Juniors basketball championship since 2015, when they also defeated the Bullpups in a 3-game series.

The Scores

ADMU (63) – Sotto 19, Belangel 16, Ildefonso 13, Credo 4, Manuel 4, Chiu 4, David 3, Escalona 0, Jaymalin 0, Santos 0

NU (58) – Fortea 14, Minerva 13, Manalang 8, Oczon 7, Amsali 6, Javillonar 5, Pangilinan 3, Malonzo 2, Coyoca 0

Quarter Scores: 15-6, 28-23, 44-43, 63-58

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – The Phoenix Fuel Masters rolled on to a hot start and withstood a late fightback from the GlobalPort Batang Pier, 104-100, to remain alive in playoff hunt of the 2018 PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum Friday, March 2. 

Phoenix almost blew a 31-point lead but held on in the final seconds of the game to improve to 5-6. The Fuel Masters will either end up at 7th place or battle in a playoff for the last quarterfinals slot depending on the result of the Rain or Shine-Ginebra clash. 

Matthew Wright finished with 32 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds for the Fuel Masters, who ended a two-game skid. Jeff Chan added 18 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists in the win.

Wright and Chan, who poured in 22 and 15 points, respectively, in the first half, outscored the Batang Pier by their twosome and propelled Phoenix to a 63-35 lead heading into the 3rd quarter.

The Fuel Masters held an 86-67 lead going into the final frame before the Batang Pier threatened a comeback. 

"Good thing we had a huge lead because we don't know how to finish until now," said Phoenix head coach Louie Alas. "But sabi nga ng mga idol kong coaches (But like what my idol coaches said), 'a win is a win.' But we have to learn from it." 

RJ Jazul chipped in 10 points, 7 assists and 3 rebounds and Gelo Alolino also chalked up 10 markers for the Fuel Masters. 

Despite the loss, GlobalPort, which dropped to 5-6, will still advance to the playoffs and will only have to wait for the result of the last elimination round game to determine its placing in the quarterfinals. 

Terrence Romeo, who returned to the PBA hardcourt for the first time since the Governors' Cup last year, paced the Batang Pier with 20 points. 

Sean Anthony had 17 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 blocks and two steals while Stanley Pringle finished with 16 points, 10 assists, 6 rebounds and 3 steals in the loss.

The Scores:

Phoenix (104): Wright 32, Chan 18, Alolino 10, Jazul 10, Wilson 9, Kramer 8, Perkins 7, Eriobu 4, Mendoza 4, Intal 2, Cortes 0, Guevarra 0

GlobalPort (100): Romeo 20, Anthony 17, Pringle 16, Taha 12, Elorde 12, Grey 9, Gabayni 7, Guinto 6, Flores 1, Sargent 0, Juico 0, Teng 0, Nabong 0

Quarter scores: 32-16, 63-45, 86-67, 104-100

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines –  While the Ateneo Blue Eaglets are on top of the world right now after clinching the UAAP Juniors basketball championship over the NU Bullpups, they soon have to face the crashing reality that they have now lost the services of graduating Mythical 5 members SJ Belangel and Dave Ildefonso.

And while there have been rumors flying around on where the young studs would write their next basketball chapter of their lives, both have decided to remain tight-lipped for the time being.

Before reporters in the press room could even field questions for the newly-crowned champions, head coach Joe Silva got the ball rolling.

“Unang tanong, saan ka magka-college?” he jokingly said to a surprised Belangel. (“First question, where will you attend college?”)

“Graduation muna! Lapit na,” Belangel replied. (“Graduation first! It’s near.”)

Ildefonso was similarly just all smiles in response to the million-dollar question.

“Few days muna! Few days,” said the son of PBA legend Danny Ildefonso. “Basta by the end of March, may decision na ako.” (“[Give it] a few days first! By the end of March, I’ll have a decision.”)

Pressed on further for an answer, Ildefonso shared a few scenarios he has imagined based off real life. “Minsan iniisip ko 'yung Teng brothers (Jeron and Jeric) na magkalaban (DLSU and UST),” he added. “At minsan iniisip ko rin ‘yung tatlong Ildefonso sa isang team (NU). So I’m weighing that out. I’m almost there to a decision.”

(“Sometimes, I think about the Teng brothers who were rivals, and sometimes, I also think about three Ildefonsos in one team.”)

In the meantime, both Belangel and Ildefonso are just thankful that they eventually emerged as champions after a massive roadblock created by the Game 2 finals loss.

Belangel summed up the euphoria in one word: “Masarap.” (“Feels good.”)

“Sabi nga nina Kuya Mike (Nieto), once na nanalo na, doon niyo na malalaman [yung feeling],” he added. (“Like what brother Mike said, once you win, that’s where you’ll know the feeling.”)

Ildefonso was likewise a happy man. “’Yung mga past Eaglets na nakasama ko for the past three years, I think this is a fitting ending for them and for us.” he said. (“For the past Eaglets whom I have been for the past three years, I think this is a fitting ending for them and for us.”)

Belangel closed the curtain on his Juniors career with 16 points and 8 rebounds in the 63-58 win and was responsible for the game-sealing free-throws in the crucial endgame. Ildefonso added 13 points and 9 boards including the final free-throw to clinch the championship.

Along with Finals MVP Kai Sotto, the two young guns rounded up the Ateneo Eaglets trio in the Season 80 Mythical 5 with Belangel in the top 3 race for the Season MVP until the final game of eliminations. – Rappler.com