MANILA, Philippines – It sounded so unlikely that even Asi Taulava himself thought he got pranked.

At 45 years old, Taulava couldn't quite believe that he got lined up in the 14-man pool for the Asian Games in Indonesia. 

"I thought I was seeing things!" a giddy Taulava told reporters after the team wrapped up its first practice at the Meralco Gym on Monday, August 6. 

"Somebody messaged me to check social media. I haven't been active on social media and they said, 'Check it, there's a surprise for you.' I thought somebody ran a prank or something."

"And when I saw my name, I was like, 'Oh my God!' I started calling my wife, 'We made it back!' At 45! Wow."

Taulava – the oldest player in the PBA this season – will don the national colors again since helping Gilas Pilipinas land a silver in the 2015 FIBA Asia Championship. 

If he makes the final 12-man cut, it will also be his 3rd Asian Games following stints in the 2002 and 2010 editions. (LOOK: Gilas Pilipinas lineup for 2018 Asian Games)

But even if he's no longer as strong as he was in his previous national tours of duty, "Ageless Asi" remains thirsty for competition. 

"Playing in the PBA, I'm a different Asi. But playing for Team Pilipinas, I'm a different animal. I don't have any friends in the other teams," he said. 

"My objective is to take their head off and try to win the ball game."

{source}<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BmJHeL8FgNz/?utm_source=ig_embed" data-instgrm-version="9" 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:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50.0462962962963% 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/BmJHeL8FgNz/?utm_source=ig_embed" 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">First day of Team PILIPINAS practice in the books. I’m excited to represent our Country just like my first tour in 2002! #AgelessOne #Stretch5 #TeamPilipinas </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/agelessasi88/?utm_source=ig_embed" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Asi Taulava</a> (@agelessasi88) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2018-08-06T15:27:41+00:00">Aug 6, 2018 at 8:27am PDT</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async defer src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>{/source}

Not settling

Taulava and the rest of coach Yeng Guiao's crew have only two weeks to prepare for the Asiad, yet Philippine basketball officials expect the team to improve on the country's 7th-place finish in the 2014 edition. (READ: Guiao’s cramming PH team starts Asian Games prep)

Philippine Olympic Committe president Ricky Vargas attended the team's first training along with several basketball officials led by Samahang Basketbol Pilipinas president Al Panlilio. (READ: SBP backtracks: PH sending team to 2018 Asian Games)

"You cannot let the public down and you cannot let your fellow athletes down," Vargas told the team. "Our objective is to improve on our last performance in the Asian Games."

"So you cannot be 8th or worse. Neither can you be 7th, because that will not be an improvement. We expect you to do better, perhaps get us a medal. If that happens, we will truly have reason to celebrate."

Taulava believes it's a feasible goal even if some think that placing higher than 7th should be considered a victory in itself, given that the team has less than two weeks to prepare.

"Ultimate goal is the gold medal," said Taulava. "If we fall short, at least we continue to go for our goal, but we are not settling for the 7th place."

Known as a bruising big man, the former PBA Most Valuable Player will take on a new role for the Nationals as a stretch 5. 

In NLEX's 114-125 loss to San Miguel last June 23, Taulava displayed his outside touch by drilling in 5 triples en route to 18 points on top of 9 rebounds. 

"Me knocking down a couple threes is going to be fun. I'm looking forward to that. I love the new me now – just running around the perimeter, shooting threes. It's a lot easier for my body." – Rappler.com

LOS ANGELES, USA – Serena Williams says she is suffering from "postpartum emotions" as the 23-time Grand Slam winner struggles to deal with juggling family life and tennis.

The 36-year-old American is seeking to regain her top form after missing most of the 2017 WTA season due to a pregnancy.

"I read several articles that said postpartum emotions can last up to 3 years if not dealt with," Williams said on Monday, August 6.

Williams' disclosure comes a week after she suffered the worst loss of her career in San Jose, losing the final 12 games in a shocking 6-1, 6-0 first-round upset to unseeded Johanna Konta.

On Monday, she described her mindset at the time as being in a "funk".

{source} <blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BmJ3KMzFRZw/?utm_source=ig_embed" data-instgrm-version="9" 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:540px; min-width:326px; 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:37.4537037037037% 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/BmJ3KMzFRZw/?utm_source=ig_embed" 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">Last week was not easy for me. Not only was I accepting some tough personal stuff, but I just was in a funk. Mostly, I felt like I was not a good mom. I read several articles that said postpartum emotions can last up to 3 years if not dealt with. I like communication best. Talking things through with my mom, my sisters, my friends let me know that my feelings are totally normal. It’s totally normal to feel like I’m not doing enough for my baby. We have all been there. I work a lot, I train, and I’m trying to be the best athlete I can be. However, that means although I have been with her every day of her life, I’m not around as much as I would like to be. Most of you moms deal with the same thing. Whether stay-at-home or working, finding that balance with kids is a true art. You are the true heroes. I’m here to say: if you are having a rough day or week--it’s ok--I am, too!!! There’s always tomm!</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/serenawilliams/?utm_source=ig_embed" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Serena Williams</a> (@serenawilliams) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2018-08-06T22:24:23+00:00">Aug 6, 2018 at 3:24pm PDT</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async defer src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script> {/source}

"Last week was not easy for me. Not only was I accepting some tough personal stuff, but I just was in a funk. Mostly, I felt like I was not a good mom," Williams wrote on her social media Instagram account.

Williams said she is trying to work through her despair by sharing her feelings with family and friends.

"Talking things through with my mom, my sisters, my friends let me know that my feelings are totally normal. It’s totally normal to feel like I’m not doing enough for my baby .... Whether stay-at-home or working, finding that balance with kids is a true art," she said.

Organizers announced on Saturday that Williams was withdrawing from this week's WTA Montreal tournament citing "personal reasons".

Williams battled back from life-saving surgery after giving birth to daughter Olympia in September, reaching the final at Wimbledon, where she was beaten by Germany's Angelique Kerber.

Williams had a tough draw in Montreal. Her opening match would have been against Frenchwoman Alize Cornet who has defeated Williams four out of the six times they have faced each other.

If she advanced past Cornet, her next opponent would have been Kerber. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – After 6 years, the Alaska Aces and Calvin Abueva are parting ways.

The Aces have decided to trade the enigmatic forward to the Phoenix Fuel Masters.

According to Spin.ph's Gerry Ramos, in exchange, the Fuel Masters gave a 2019 first-round pick and guard Karl Dehesa. 

"We would like to thank Calvin for his 6 years of service with Alaska and the good memories," Alaska head coach Alex Compton said in a statement. 

"We felt as a franchise it was best for both Alaska and Calvin to have a fresh start at this time."

The Kapampangan was previously suspended indefinitely by the organization for his habitual absences in practices and in a game. He missed half of the elimination round games of the Commissioner's Cup and the entire playoffs.

With Alaska, Abueva won a PBA championship and a Best Player of the Conference award and was included in two Mythical First Teams and six All-Star teams. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Chris Tiu's Asian Games inclusion couldn't have come at a better time. 

At 33 years old, the Gilas Pilipinas program pioneer knows his body can only take so much, and playing in the quadrennial meet in Indonesia would probably his last shot at donning the Philippine colors again.

"This could be my last international tournament. I don't plan to play basketball forever," Tiu told reporters after the national squad started their preparations at the Meralco Gym on Monday, August 7.

"I think the timing of this can't be better, at least for me personally."

The Rain or Shine guard last played for the flag in 2012 as a member of Gilas 1.0 – a group composed of collegiate standouts who postponed joining the PBA draft to focus on their committment with the national team. 

After a storied career with the Ateneo Blue Eagles that saw him win a UAAP championship and two Mythical Team selections, Tiu spent 3 years with the Gilas program. 

It was only in 2012 – 4 years after his UAAP career – that Tiu was drafted in the PBA by the Elasto Painters. And since then, he never saw action again in international competitions. 

So when he found out that the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas would be pushing through with its plan to send the core of Rain or Shine after reversing its withdrawl from the Asiad, Tiu immediately headed to work.

Tiu, who was coming off a two-week layoff after the Elasto Painters crashed out of the Commissioner's Cup semifinals, hit the gym right after seeing the news of his inclusion in the 14-man pool last Sunday, August 5. 

"I didn't want to waste any minute or hour so I hit the gym right away just to avoid injury also. I don't want to overpush myself, I'm not 23 years old anymore," he said. (READ: Asi Taulava thought Asian Games call-up just a prank)

Probably not as fast and agile as he was when he was with Gilas, Tiu will be offering much more, especially since he had already went up against some of the players from other countries the Philippines will face. 

"Now that I'm older, [I'm] a little bit wiser I guess than some of the young guys. I've been around," he said. "I guess I want to be able to share some of my experiences before, like what I said, on the court and even off the court." 

The Philippines will face Kazakhstan in its first game on August 16. (LOOK: 2018 Asian Games Gilas Pilipinas schedule) – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – San Sebastian College suspended Golden Stags guard RK Ilagan for the remainder of the NCAA Season 94 first round, said team head coach Egay Macaraya on Tuesday, August 7.

Ilagan was under investigation by the NCAA for allegedly playing in a ligang labas (unsanctioned league). School management, however, went ahead and clamped down on its own player.

"Ang bigay na namin kay RK because of his kasalanan – management ng San Sebastian said RK will be out of the [first] elimination round," he said after his team routed the Mapua Cardinals, 94-70. "Even if 3 games lang ang [NCAA] suspension doon sa pagkakamali."

(What we gave RK for his mistake – management of San Sebastian said RK will be out of the 1^st elimination round, even if the league suspension is only for 3 games.)

This means that Ilagan will be out of the team for the next two contests regardless of whether or not the league hands down its own suspension order.

San Sebastian faces Perpetual on Thursday, August 9 and wraps up its first round against defending champion San Beda on Thursday, August 16.

Aside from a league suspension for Ilagan, the Stags risk forefeiting their two wins in the 5 games that he saw action.

They won against the JRU Heavy Bombers and against the CSB Blazers. In the event of forfeitures, a win would be added to each team. 

Nonetheless, the team remains in full support of Ilagan, who has averaged 13.8 points, 3.6 assists and 2.8 rebounds in the Stags' first 5 contests.

"Kung ano man ang mangyayari, RK is still our player, and we support him," Macaraya said. "Nagkamali sya, and that is why I told my players na i-accept na natin yung pagkakamali ni RK then let’s move on. Kahit anong mangyari, susuporta naman kami kay RK."

(Whatever happens, RK is still our player and we support him. He made a mistake and that is why I told my players that we should accept his mistake and let’s move on. Whatever happens, we will give him our support.)

Ilagan is expected to return in the second round after the team suspension has been lifted and if the league ban does not exceed 3 games. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The winning streak has come full circle for the LPU Pirates, who nabbed their 25th straight elimination round win over the CSB Blazers, 77-65, at the FilOil Flying V Centre on Tuesday, August 7.

The Pirates nailed the quarter-century mark over the same team they last lost against, back in the final elims game of Season 92, two years ago.

They did so thanks to the bruising drive of Mike Nzeusseu, who clinched the double-digit lead, 66-56, at the 6:08 mark of the 4th quarter. Marcelino magic took over next as twins Jaycee and Jayvee facilitated their deadly fastbreaks to stretch out CSB's deficit all the way to the final buzzer.

Reigning MVP CJ Perez flaunted his MVP skillset anew, finishing with 22 points, 12 rebounds and 5 big steals. Nzeusseu wasn't far behind with his own double-double of 16 points and 13 boards.

Despite the historic mark and context of the contest, head coach Topex Robinson downplayed everything and kept his focus towards the future.

"It's always been nice to win, but again, winning has a lot of flaws," he said. "As much as you wanna celebrate this win – whatever number we're getting right now - what's important is what's in front of us."

And they, quite literally, have a big challenge ahead, as their winning streak will be put on the line against the big man-heavy Letran Knights on Friday, August 17, before setting up the finals rematch against San Beda on Tuesday, August 21.

The Scores

 LPU (77) – Perez 22, Nzeusseu 16, Marcelino JC 14, Ayaay 11, Caduyac 6, Marcelino JV 5, Pretta 3, Tansingco 0, Serrano 0, Ibanez 0, Cinco 0, Santos 0, Valdez 0, Yong 0.

CSB (65) – Gutang 13, Dixon 13, Haruna 12, Leutcheu 8, Pasturan 8, Young 7, Carlos 4, Naboa 0, Velasco 0, Domingo 0, Belgica 0. 

Quarter Scores: 20-21, 34-31, 56-51, 77-65. 

STANDINGS

LPU 7-0
SBU 4-0
CSJL 3-1
SSC-R 3-4
UPHSD 2-2
AU 2-3
CSB 2-4
MU 2-4
EAC 1-4
JRU 0-5

– Rappler.com 

MANILA, Philippines – The Che’Lu Bar and Grill Revellers rolled past the Centro Escolar University (CEU) Scorpions, 86-73, for the finals slot in Game 3 of the PBA D-League Foundation Cup on Tuesday, August 7 at the Ynares Sports Arena. 

Jeff Viernes led the overall board with 26 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Jesse Collado followed with a double-double of 19 points and 12 rebounds. 

Coach Steve Tiu hailed Viernes as deserving of the MVP award in this conference.

“Definitely (he should be MVP). Siya ang magccarry sa team namin kaya siya yung most experienced player namin," said Tiu. (He definitely should be MVP. He's carrying our team, and that's why he's the most experienced player.) 

“Ngayon, napatunayan namin na well-focused kami," added Tiu about the team's performance. 

(Today, we proved that we're well-focused.) 

The Revellers' onslaught began as early as the first quarter where they went on a 11-2 run to bring it to an 8-point lead, 14-6. 

Viernes capitalized on the second frame as he scored 10 points in the quarter. This helped the Revellers go up by 10, 47-37, despite the combined efforts of Jan Roxas and Keanu Caballero from CEU. 

Che'Lu torched the Scorpions in the 3rd as Collado went on a personal 7-0 run, punctuated by a Viernes layup to stack Che’Lu's 17-point lead, 67-50. 

CEU captain Orlan Wamar and John Roxas attempted to close the deficit, but eventually surrendered Game 3 to the Revellers. 

Scorpions Wamar, Roxas and Judel Fuentes chipped in 11 points points apiece. 

With this victory, Che’Lu will face the Go For Gold Scratchers in the Foundation Cup finals.

“It boils down siyempre to the preparation and the players kung gaano silang determined na kunin yung title (how determined the players are in taking the title)," said Viernes. 

The Scores:

Che’Lu (86): Viernes 26, Collado 19, Hernandez 12, Taganas 9, Siruma 7, Melano 7, Bitoon 4, De Joya 2, Flores 0, Ruaya 0.

CEU (73): Wamar 11, Roxas 11, Fuentes 11, Chan 9, Oloume 8, caballero 7, Guinitaran 7, Formento 5, Uri 2, Intic 2. 

Quarter Scores: 12-22, 37-47, 56-69, 86-73. 

– with reports from Tonichi Regalado/Rappler.com 

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine national youth weightlifting team dominated the Indonesia Weightlifting Championships 2018 podium as they brought home a total of 12 medals from Bali, Indonesia. 

14-year-old Vanessa Sarno led the pack with 3 gold medals from her 78kg lift in the snatch event, 98kg in the clean and jerk, and a combined lift of 178kg in the women's dvision 69-kg category. 

The young Bohol native even defeated the world weightlifting powerhouse Thailand.

"Nagthathank you po ako sa Lord kasi ngayon po ako nakanalo ng gold and hindi ko na-expected na makakuha nito," said Sarno. 

(I'm thanking the Lord because I was able to win a gold this time and I didn't expect to get this.) 

Rosegie Ramos also won the gold when she lifted 69kg in the snatch, and two silver medals from her 84kg clean and jerk, and a combined lift of 153kg in the 48-kg category. 

Jane Linete Hipolito collected 3 silver medals after lifting 71kg in the snatch, 85kg in the clean and jerk and tallied a combined lift of 156kg in the 58-kg category. 

John Paolo Rivera Jr bagged 3 bronze medals in the men's division 56kg from his 96kg lift in the snatch, 123 kg in the clean and jerk and a total of 219kg. 

The young team admitted that they were scared of the magnitutude 6.9 earthquake that hit Bali. However, the nationals were able to arrive safely in Manila on Tuesday, August 7. 

"Thank you po sa Lord kasi nagiging safe po kami second ko lang nakaranas ng lindol kaya po medyo kabado po," said Rivera. 

(Thank you Lord that we're safe because this is actually my second time to experience ane earthquake so I was really scared.) 

{source} 

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The national youth weighlifting team arrives safely in Manila from Bali which was hit by a 6.9 magnitude earthquake. <br><br>The team brought home 4 golds, 5 silvers and 3 bronze medals from the Indonesia Weightlifting Championships 2018 | via <a href="https://twitter.com/beebeego09?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@beebeego09</a> <a href="https://t.co/j8o91dZFDV">pic.twitter.com/j8o91dZFDV</a></p>&mdash; Rappler Sports (@RapplerSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapplerSports/status/1026746034641199104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> {/source} 

– Rappler.com 

MANILA, Philippines – Batang Gilas delivered a masterful performance to stun China, 73-63, sweeping the FIBA U18 Asian Championship group stage at Nonthaburi, Thailand on Tuesday, August 7.

They are now guaranteed a quarterfinals spot and await the winner of the qualifying match between Bahrain and Chinese Taipei.

Dave Ildefonso spelled the beginning of the end with a big triple off a Dalph Panopio assist for an 18-point lead, 51-33. After two close quarters, Batang Gilas widened the gap against China in the 3rd after outscoring them, 23-12.

Although China got within 6, 59-65, in the last two minutes, Panopio stopped and popped for a mid-range jumper with 1:37 left, bringing the score to 67-59. Panopio and Migz Oczon dropped their penalty shots to formally seal the deal.

Ildefonso led the way with 18 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists. AJ Edu chipped in a 12-point, 14-rebound double-double while Kai Sotto added 11 points, 10 boards and 4 blocks.

Haowen Guo paced China with 24 points and 6 boards.

The Scores

Batang Gilas (73) – Ildefonso 18, Edu 13, Panopio 12, Sotto 11, Oczon 11, Torres 5, Abadiano 2, Cortez 1, Ramirez 0, Amsali 0, Lina 0, Chiu 0.

China (63) – Guo 24, Jiang Q 14, Wang Q 13, Xu 7, Jiang W 5, Shi 0, Li 0, Chen 0, Wang Y 0.

Quarter Scores: 18-15, 31-27, 54-39, 73-63. 

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine national women's volleyball team was welcomed with open arms by the Okayama prefecture on Monday, August 6, as the nationals began their training camp for the upcoming Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia. 

Okayama mayor Masao Omori hosted a courtesy call before they started their training with the Okayama Seagulls, headed by Akiyoshi Kawamoto. 

On their first day of training camp, the nationals defeated the Okayama Seagulls once again in straight sets. In preparation for the 2017 Southeast Asian Games, the Jaja Santiago-led team nipped the Seagulls in 4 sets.

"You can see the rapport, masaya sila mag-eensayo, unlike before, seryosong-seryoso silang nag-eensayo," newly-elected Larong Volleyball Pilipinas Inc president Peter Cayco during the Philippine Sportswriters Association forum on Tuesday, August 7. 

(You can see the rapport, they're having fun during the practices unlike before where they were too serious during training.) 

Seagulls head coach Kawamoto already had initial thoughts with the Philippine team's performance, saying that the players need to pick up on their floor defense. 

"They are saying that we have to improve on floor defense. This time they have to gel and get tips from the Japanese coach," added Cayco. 

The nationals will be training with the Okayama Seagulls unti August 14, 2018. Instead of ending the training on the 15th of August, the team will be given time to relax and enjoy themselves in Osaka before leaving for Jakarta. – Rappler.com

MANILA Philippines – The future of Philippine basketball sure looks good.

Batang Gilas moved within a win of a FIBA Under-19 World Cup berth after a hot start in the FIBA U18 Asian Championship at Nonthaburi, Thailand. 

The Philippine basketball youth team – which completed a surprise sweep of the group stage – will face Chinese Taipei or Bahrain next in a quarterfinal match where a semifinal slot and a World Cup berth are up for grabs.

The top 4 in the 16-team field will represent Asia in the 2019 FIBA U19 World Cup.

Chinese Taipei and Bahrain will clash on Wednesday, August 8, where the winner will advance against the Philippines in a knockout battle on Thursday, August 9.

Led by AJ Edu, Dalph Panopio, Kai Sotto and Dave Ildefonso, Batang Gilas completed a 3-0 sweep of Group B capped by a stunning victory over traditional powerhouse China.

Behind Ildefonso, Batang Gilas shocked China, 73-63, to top Group B and secure an outright quarterfinal slot last Tuesday, August 7.

The young Nationals previously lost to China by an average of 33.7 points in 3 previous meetings. 

Batang Gilas also routed Lebanon by 22 points, 75-53, then drubbed United Arab Emirates by 43 points, 92-49. 

If Batang Gilas wound up securing a FIBA U19 world berth,  it would be another successful run for the young Filipino crew, who also clinched a berth in the FIBA Under-17 World Cup where they nabbed a record-high world finish at 13th overall last July. – Rappler.com 

MANILA, Philippines – History beckons for Cardiff City's Neil Etheridge as he becomes the first Southeast Asian to step into one of the biggest stages of world football – the English Premier League (EPL). 

Although admittedly excited, the Azkals goalkeeper says he wants to keep his "head down" as he gets ready to compete against global football icons like Mo Salah, Sergio Aguero, and even World Cup champions Paul Pogba and Oliver Giroud starting Saturday, August 11. (READ: An underdog all his life, Neil Etheridge proves worth among elite)

"I create history, which is nice. But it’s just to continue the job that I did last season," Etheridge told Rappler via a phone interview. 

"To be honest, I’m just trying to keep my head down, and work as hard as I can, and play as many games in the season to help the team out."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Great to be back at the Cardiff City Stadium yesterday! Last preseason game and next week it all begins! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cardiffcityfc?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cardiffcityfc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cardiff?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cardiff</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/goalkeeper?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#goalkeeper</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/premierleague?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#premierleague</a> <a href="https://t.co/KUTqMbQg5g">pic.twitter.com/KUTqMbQg5g</a></p>&mdash; Neil Etheridge (@Neil38Etheridge) <a href="https://twitter.com/Neil38Etheridge/status/1026045200668549123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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But of course, the challenge remains for his newly promoted team to stay in the EPL as they are dubbed as the "favorites" to be relegated back to the Championship League. 

"It’s just about staying in the league first. The first season going up into the Premier League is always tough for the boys coming up so that’s the main objective this season," explained Etheridge. 

Throughout the summer, Cardiff manager Neil Warnock shelled out plenty to retool the lineup with crucial signees. Midfielder Josh Murphy, striker Bobby Reid and defender Greg Cunningham will be among the players to watch as well. 

With the new signing of Queens Park Rangers keeper Alex Smithies, it remains uncertain whether Etheridge gets to start as they will be contesting for the number 1 spot throughout the season. (READ: Neil Etheridge signs contract extension with Cardiff City until 2021)

But on the one side, there's a positive takeaway – especially for Filipinos: Cardiff's stacked goalkeeper selection may pave the way for Etheridge to represent the Philippines in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup  in the United Arab Emirates. 

But the Filipino-British who led the Bluebirds to a Championship 2nd place with 19 clean sheets has been working day in and day out to achieve his dream of actually playing in the EPL. 

"My personal goal is to play as many games as I can because this is the biggest stage in world football, to play as many games in the highest level is always a great achievement." 

{source} <blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bk5FpfkA_Cg/?utm_source=ig_embed" data-instgrm-version="9" 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:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50.0% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,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/Bk5FpfkA_Cg/?utm_source=ig_embed" 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">Another day in the bank  pre season hard work getting back to full fitness! #hardwork #football #running</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/neil38etheridge/?utm_source=ig_embed" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Neil Etheridge</a> (@neil38etheridge) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2018-07-06T13:32:30+00:00">Jul 6, 2018 at 6:32am PDT</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async defer src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script> {/source}

As the Bluebirds kick off their Premier League campaign against the AFC Bournemouth, Etheridge puts emphasis on the team's "togetherness" which will continue to play a big factor in their bid to upset some of the best teams in the world. 

"Our team togetherness is massive and our team togetherness has gotten us through a lot last season," said Etheridge. 

"We got promoted last season because we were the best over the duration of the season so we just need to build on those performances and we know that the Premier League is another step up, but we’re all looking forward to the challenge."

Although the team continues to scramble for strikers and midfielders before the transfer window closes on Thursday, August 9, Etheridge and the rest of the Bluebirds will be ready to prove that they deserve to stay in the Premier League for a long time. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Barangay Ginebra slammed the door shut on San Miguel's hopes of a Grand Slam by taking home the 2018 PBA Commissioner's Cup title.

Inspired by a mammoth crowd of 20,490, the Gin Kings used a fiery second-half assault to dethrone the Beermen in 6 games of the best-of-7 affair with a 93-77 decision at the Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday, August 8.

Justin Brownlee delivered a herculean effort of 31 points, 19 rebounds, 7 assists, 4 blocks and two steals as the Gin Kings, who trailed 1-2 in the series, won the next 3 contests for their 3rd championship in the last 6 conferences.

Brownlee, limited to 11 points in the first half, erupted for 10 points in the 3rd quarter alone and Ginebra swung a 35-38 halftime deficit to a 62-46 lead heading into the final quarter.

The Beermen failed to recover after seeing the Gin Kings' lead swell to as large as 22 points off back-to-back layups from Joe Devance and Jeff Chan, 85-63. 

It was not just all Brownlee, though.

Scottie Thompson submitted a double-double 12 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists to win Finals Most Valuable Player, Greg Slaughter chipped in 13 points and 9 boards and LA Tenorio added 11 points, 3 rebounds and two steals. 

The Scores: 

Ginebra (93): Brownlee 31, Slaughter 13, Thompson 12, Tenorio 11, Chan 10, Mercado 6, Ferrer 5, Devance 4, J. Aguilar 1 

San Miguel (77): Fajardo 29, Balkman 24, Heruela 11, Cabagnot 6, Santos 5, Pessumal 2, Ross 0, Lassiter 0, Rosser 0, Vigil 0, Standhardinger 0 

Quarter scores: 14-17, 35-38, 62-46, 93-77

– Rappler.com

LONDON, United Kingdom – France World Cup star Paul Pogba is determined to end his fractious relationship with Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho and move to Barcelona, according to British media reports on Wednesday, August 8.

The 25-year-old – who scored in the 4-2 World Cup final win over Croatia – has agreed terms with Barcelona for a deal worth £89.5 million ($115 million, 100 million euros) over 5 years, according to the Daily Mail.

The reported agreement would see him pick up £346,000 a week, almost double what he earns at United.

The Sun claims the former Juventus star – who joined United for a then world-record fee of £89 million in 2016 – has demanded the Premier League side increase his wages from £180,000 to £380,000 a week so he is paid almost on a par with Chilean star Alexis Sanchez, otherwise he will leave.

United, though, would be most reluctant to sell him, with the Daily Mail reporting they have already rejected a bid by Barcelona of £44.5 million plus Colombian central defender Yerry Mina and Portuguese midfielder Andre Gomes.

Mourinho has expressed his frustration over the club's transfer policy, and Pogba's departure would leave little time for executive chairman Ed Woodward to find a suitable replacement with the Premier League transfer window due to close on Thursday.

The club has had to deny the claim that Pogba sent a text message to Woodward demanding he be allowed to leave.

The Frenchman is keen to move to Barcelona – the Spanish transfer window does not shut till the end of the month – to play with Argentina superstar Lionel Messi, while his close friend and former Juventus team-mate Arturo Vidal also recently moved to the Catalan giants.

'Pogba needs to play his part' 

Essentially, though, Pogba's unhappiness stems from the deterioration in his relationship with      Mourinho, who not only does he blame for his muted performances for United since his move but also for his qualified praise of his performances for France at the World Cup.

"Paul was like the (France) team. He started average and ended top," Mourinho told beIN Sports on United's unhappy tour of the United States last week.

Pogba, though, is believed to have been more upset by what followed in the interview as Mourinho implied being in an enclosed environment over 6 weeks ensured he focused just on football and not on outside matters such as commercial contracts.

Pogba's super agent Mino Raiola – who was also instrumental in bringing Romelu Lukaku to United last summer – has remained out of the fray, refusing to comment on links with Barcelona.

"I will never make declarations about Paul," said the Dutch-Italian agent, who is reported to have earned just over £40 million when Pogba moved to United.

"You have to speak to Manchester United," added Raiola.

Former United star Rio Ferdinand told Wednesday's edition of the Daily Mail that Mourinho needed to fit the team around Pogba's sublime talent, but accepted the player needed to adapt too.

"It's down to the manager to get the best out of him, setting the team up and setting Pogba up in the right way to achieve the best," said the former England central defender.

"But Pogba needs to play his part in that.

"It's a case of the player and manager getting an understanding for each other and getting the best out of the player."– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Marikina City was in for a treat as their Shoemasters team slipped past the winless but unyielding Pasig Pirates, 71-67, in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) at the Marist School Gym on Tuesday night, August 7.

Not only did the Shoemasters orchestrate a comeback win from 14 points down, 19-33, late in the second quarter, but they also treated their fans to the home debut of celebrity baller Gerald Anderson.

And boy, Marikina City was more than ready to welcome its main attraction.

Fair warning: turn your volume down.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gerald Anderson making his home debut for the Marikina Shoemasters at the Marist School Gym! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MPBL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MPBL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RapplerSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RapplerSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/TTN6CARk8W">pic.twitter.com/TTN6CARk8W</a></p>&mdash; JR Isaga (@JRnalistic) <a href="https://twitter.com/JRnalistic/status/1026817253914734592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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A jittery Anderson had a pair of airballs to start the game, but quickly shifted his focus on the defensive end, clamping down on former PBA players like ex-Coca Cola rotation man Ronjay Enrile quite impressively.

He finally made his first MPBL point early in the second quarter via a free throw, 17-21, at the 7:22 mark after getting fouled on the drive. That would be his only mark for the night.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gerald Anderson records his first MPBL point off a free-throw! <a href="https://twitter.com/RapplerSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RapplerSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/msNQC8Q0nC">pic.twitter.com/msNQC8Q0nC</a></p>&mdash; JR Isaga (@JRnalistic) <a href="https://twitter.com/JRnalistic/status/1026820483969310720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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But as mentioned, Anderson’s game was all about defense. He checked in with 5 minutes left in the 3rd and helped turn a 41-41 deadlock to a 58-44 romp – a 17-3 run highlighted with two of his 3 steals.

Pasig made a 19-3 run of its own in the 4th, but terrible shot selection in the clutch drove the nails into their own coffin.

After the game, Anderson was overjoyed that he gave his team a huge lift to seal the victory.

“Ang importante yung panalo eh,” Anderson, who plays point guard, said post-game. “Ang importante panalo at ginawa ng lahat yung best nila para mag-contribute sa team. Kanina [nakagawa] ako ng konting stops so yun yung importante.”

(What’s important is the win and that everyone did their best to contribute to the team. I made some stops, so that’s what’s important.)

“Everybody had a good game at nag-enjoy yung home crowd na nagbigay kami ng panalo,” he continued.

(Everybody had a good game and the home crowd enjoyed that we gave them a win.)

Don’t be so quick to dismiss his offensive game though. He has a lot of offense going for him, too.

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<iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FOfficialMPBLTambayan%2Fvideos%2F1809142195775444%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe>

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Clearly, Anderson is hungry for more.

“Abangan niyo yung next game (Wait for the next game),” he simply said. 

Anderson is not the only actor in the huge MPBL roster as Xian Lim is also balling for the powerhouse Mandaluyong El Tigre.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Xian Lim enters the game for the MPBL&#39;s Mandaluyong El Tigre! He splits his free-throws for a huge 36-14 Manda lead. <a href="https://twitter.com/RapplerSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RapplerSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/t9s1pZY9dk">pic.twitter.com/t9s1pZY9dk</a></p>&mdash; JR Isaga (@JRnalistic) <a href="https://twitter.com/JRnalistic/status/1014837032789598208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Although Mandaluyong vs Marikina is not yet scheduled in the 11-month-long tournament, a Gerald Anderson vs Xian Lim matchup will certainly be a duel for the ages (and fangirl screams).

Maybe an appearance from Kim Chiu can also help. Maybe. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Phiippines – University of the Philippines waylaid a hapless San Sebastian side, pouncing on its sloppy reception and token defense to fashion out a 25-15, 25-13, 25-16 romp in the lone women’s match in the Premier Volleyball League Season 2 Collegiate Conference at the Filoil Flying V Center on Wednesday, August 8.

Isa Molde struggled while playing under the weather but Marian Buitre, rookie Lorielyn Bernardo and outside hitter-turned-libero Mary Bautista stepped up and dominated the Lady Stags all throughout to complete the rout that hiked their record to 2-1.

Buitre fired 7 attacks, scored two aces and made one block while Bernardo also produced a 10-hit game, including 9 attacks, as the Lady Maroons bounced back strong from a 4-set setback to the unbeaten UST Tigresses the last time out to stay at 4th.

“We worked on the passing so we had to introduce a different libero to help Rem (Altomea),” said UP coach Godfrey Okamu.

Bautista suited up as libero and came up with 10 excellent receptions while Molde finished with 7 points.

“I think she (Bautista) held up pretty nicely and she is loud on court so that is what is needed for a libero,” said Okumu.

Playmaker Ayel Estrañero also outplayed the entire SSC side with 23 excellent sets, more than the Lady Stags’ 9. She also made 5 aces and came through with drop shots to finish with 8 points.

It was SSC’s 4th straight loss, virtually eliminating the Lady Stags from the semis race in the mid-season conference of the league organized by Sports Vision and backed by Mikasa and Asics.

In men’s play, National University survived a tough UP side, carving out a 25-13, 25-20, 23-25, 26-24 victory to join idle UST at the helm at 4-0.

Bryan Bagunas took charge in the 4th set, firing 4 of the team’s last 5 points. He ended up with 22 hits, including 18 attack points, for the Bulldogs, who overpowered the Fighting Maroons, 56-38, in attacks.

In other results, Far Eastern University outlasted Adamson, 15-25, 25-19, 21-25, 25-23, 17-15, to improve to 2-0 while dealing the Falcons their first setback after four straight wins.

San Beda, meanwhile, subdued winless Arellano U, 25-23, 22-25, 25-23, 25-16, to even its card at 2-2. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Two young players relived the glory days of Philippine chess when it was winning all regional titles.  

Thanks to two woodpushers from Dasmariñas, Cavite, the Philippines won the open and girls divisions of the Eastern Asia Juniors Chess Championship on Wednesday, August 8, in South Korea. 

Daniel Quizon, the 14-year-old son of a motorcycle mechanic, won by tiebreak after defeating Kang Tae-hyung of South Korea while the erstwhile leader only drew with compatriot Anh Hong-jin  and Erdene Baansuren of Mongolia.  

The 15-year-old Kylen Mordido, whose parents run an eatery in Las Piñas, captured the girls title. Mordido overcame Indonesian  Diajeng Singgih in a long battle that stretched into the endgame.

Quizon and Mordido became International Masters and got one Grandmaster norm each, according to Ignatius Leong, Asian Chess Federation technical delegate. 

"At only 14, he will not just be the next Wesley So but will make a name for himself within the next years," added Leong. 

Roel Abelgas, who has helmed the Dasmariñas chess program that produced Quizon and Mordido as their first International Masters, said he will map out Quizon's quest to be Grandmaster after he comes home from South Korea,

"I have to do research. But playing Black, there are lot of things we should do," said Abelgas in a private Facebook message. 

Mordido's patient positional style placed her a notch above her foes in the tournament but Singgih was ready for her rival. "The Indonesian was a little better but the game became complicated and it went to the endgame," said Abelgas. 

Before Quizon and Mordido, Antoinette San Diego was Dasmariñas' first Woman International Master. And with the way Dasmariñas is going with its chess development, Philippine chess could expect more from their stable of young players. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Ceres-Negros FC failed to defend its ASEAN title after losing to rivals Home United, 0-2 (1-3 aggregate), in the 2018 AFC Cup zonal final on Wednesday night, August 8, at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore. 

Goals from Shakir Hamzah (62') and Song Ui Young (74') iced the win for the Singaporean Club that scored one away goal in Bacolod in the first leg. 

Pressure was on Stephan Schock and company as they scrambled to find the back of the net. In the 79th minute, Schrock attempted to curl one from out of the box towards the far post.

The Fil-German had another chance in the 82nd minute when Blake Powell connected his header for the goal but it was ruled offside. 

The Busmen were heavily undermanned as head coach Risto Vidakovic decided not to suit up Manny and Mike Ott for the game due to disciplinary action while Bienve Marañon remained suspended due to the red card he picked up during the group stage. 

Home United will now advance to the inter-zone playoff semifinals which eluded them in 2017 when Ceres made it via away goals. 

As the first half was held to a scoreless draw, the Bacolod-based squad was reduced again after winger Patrick Reichelt collided with Home United keeper Rudy Khairullah in the 35th minute. Reichelt fell unconscious and was tended to by the medics for 8 minutes until he was stretchered off the pitch. 

Kevin Ingreso came in as substitute for Reicheilt to play the 7 minutes of added time in the first half.

{source} 

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">35’- Reichelt and the Home United keeper get into a heavy collision. Home United players come to aid Reichelt.</p>&mdash; Bee Go (@beebeego09) <a href="https://twitter.com/beebeego09/status/1027164338031812608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none" data-lang="en"><p lang="da" dir="ltr">Reichelt being given medical attention <a href="https://t.co/pBXIBUoBP7">pic.twitter.com/pBXIBUoBP7</a></p>&mdash; Bee Go (@beebeego09) <a href="https://twitter.com/beebeego09/status/1027164956095959041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Reichelt starting to regain consciousness and his now being stretchered off the pitch <a href="https://t.co/VbrU4hGCC0">pic.twitter.com/VbrU4hGCC0</a></p>&mdash; Bee Go (@beebeego09) <a href="https://twitter.com/beebeego09/status/1027166360009207808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Scottie Thompson played beyond his size as he nabbed the Finals Most Valuable Player award after Barangay Ginebra dethroned San Miguel for the 2018 PBA Commissioner's Cup title.

The 6-foot-1 guard played the perfect backup for Justin Brownlee in the Gin Kings' championship-clinching 93-77 Game 6 win by delivering a double-double of 12 points, 13 rebounds, 5 assists and a blocks.

He followed up his stellar 20-point, 11-rebound and 3-rebound performance in their 87-83 Game 5 triumph that moved Ginebra at the cusp of winning their 3rd title in the last 6 conferences. 

"Hindi ko alam kung deserve ko ito, basta deserve namin mag-champion," Thompson told the mammoth crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena.

(I don't know if I deserve this, but we deserve to be champions.)

The Finals MVP plum was a first for the 3rd-year cog. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The crown is back with the Kings.

Over 20,000 basketball fans were cheering at the Mall of Asia Arena but social media users who were not able to score tickets to the game were just as loud as Barangay Ginebra dethroned defending champions San Miguel Beermen for the 2018 PBA Commissioner's Cup title. (READ: Ginebra finishes off San Miguel for PBA Commissioner's Cup crown)

On Wednesday, August 8, Barangay Ginebra San Miguel won their first PBA second conference title in 21 years. 

{source}<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">BREAKING NEWS <br><br>After 6 games in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBAFinals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PBAFinals</a>, Barangay Ginebra is your 2018 PBA Commissioner&#39;s Cup CHAMPIONS! <br><br>Congratulations, Barangay Never Say Die! <a href="https://t.co/SaqqdoAMJl">https://t.co/SaqqdoAMJl</a> <a href="https://t.co/Vq77YOmYby">pic.twitter.com/Vq77YOmYby</a></p>&mdash; Rappler Sports (@RapplerSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapplerSports/status/1027179549186879488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>

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Team Bahay? No problem

Halfway through Game 6, some PBA fans were tweeting photos of where they're watching – from Team Bahay to Team Office to Team Traffic. 

{source}<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="tl" dir="ltr">team Livestream! Wala na akong aabutan sa bahay! Ang layo ko pa! Basta manalo lang Ginebra! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NSD?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NSD</a> <a href="https://t.co/UbHZZ3gKUw">pic.twitter.com/UbHZZ3gKUw</a></p>&mdash; Berna Liza (@ohitsmeberna) <a href="https://twitter.com/ohitsmeberna/status/1027165287949324288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Team office lol! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BuoAngTiwalaGINEBRA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BuoAngTiwalaGINEBRA</a> <a href="https://t.co/GZcoC4FCG1">pic.twitter.com/GZcoC4FCG1</a></p>&mdash; CHAMPSGINEBRATANGA (@TheRealJoy13) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealJoy13/status/1027165375341846531?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none" data-lang="en"><p lang="tl" dir="ltr">Team Bahay! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NSD?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NSD</a> <a href="https://t.co/8XBzSPRHdx">pic.twitter.com/8XBzSPRHdx</a></p>&mdash;  (@JMuncada) <a href="https://twitter.com/JMuncada/status/1027166733545525248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none" data-lang="en"><p lang="tl" dir="ltr">SOLD OUT PO YUNG TICKET. TEAM BUS KAMI HAHAHAHAHAHAHHAA <a href="https://t.co/firg5N7ilE">pic.twitter.com/firg5N7ilE</a></p>&mdash; ℱ. (@_fntxo) <a href="https://twitter.com/_fntxo/status/1027163593282707456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Champions once again

Shortly after Ginebra's Game 6 victory, #BuoAngTiwalaGINEBRA became the top Twitter trending topic in the Philippines. Other keywords about the game were also among the Top 10.

{source}<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BuoAngTiwalaGINEBRA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BuoAngTiwalaGINEBRA</a> is the number one trending topic in the Philippines! <a href="https://t.co/BlOPqh5BkD">pic.twitter.com/BlOPqh5BkD</a></p>&mdash; Barangay Ginebra (@barangayginebra) <a href="https://twitter.com/barangayginebra/status/1027189885084479490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>

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Sports fans were quick to tweet their thoughts about the championship series, and congratulated the new champions for dethroning San Miguel Beermen. Twitter users were also all praises for Ginebra guard Scottie Thompson after winning the Finals Most Valuable Player award.

{source}<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="tl" dir="ltr">&quot;Hindi ko alam kung deserve ko to, pero deserve namin mag-champion.&quot; – Scottie Thompson, 2018 Commissioner&#39;s Cup Finals MVP</p>&mdash; Rodneil M. Quiteles (@rodneilquiteles) <a href="https://twitter.com/rodneilquiteles/status/1027184456619053057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">SCOTTIE &quot;THE DIFFERENCE&quot; THOMPSON. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BuoAngTiwalaGINEBRA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BuoAngTiwalaGINEBRA</a> <a href="https://t.co/bTiYoy6ckZ">pic.twitter.com/bTiYoy6ckZ</a></p>&mdash; #RIPiPhoneX #BAEnatiNiThirdy (@iPhoneXngTB) <a href="https://twitter.com/iPhoneXngTB/status/1027184880206008320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Scottie Thompson is one of the best two-way player right now.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BuoAngTiwalaGINEBRA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BuoAngTiwalaGINEBRA</a></p>&mdash; Apo Jukay (@sw33ttoothlover) <a href="https://twitter.com/sw33ttoothlover/status/1027178913024303106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Here are more tweets about the game tonight:

{source}<a class="twitter-timeline" data-width="100%" data-height="1500" data-partner="tweetdeck" data-link-color="#E95F28" href="https://twitter.com/RapplerSports/timelines/1027186064656486401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">Congrats Ginebra! - Curated tweets by RapplerSports</a> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>{/source}

What are your thoughts about Barangay Ginebra's victory? Let us know in the comments! – Rappler.com