MANILA, Philippines – Justin Brownlee will be forever etched in Barangay Ginebra's storied lore after helping the team notch its 3rd PBA championship in the last 6 conferences.

Brownlee again emerged as the brightest star as the Gin Kings dethroned the San Miguel Beermen to become the new Commissioner's Cup kings. 

The squad's legion of fans have grown fond of the American import, and if he would have it his way, he would be spending his entire playing career with the Barangay.

"Man, I wish forever," he told reporters when asked how long does he see himself playing for the league's crowd darlings. 

"I hope for a long time, you know, but I'm just going to see how it goes." 

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Justin Brownlee came in as a replacement import for Barangay Ginebra in 2016. He now has 3 PBA championships. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBAFinals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PBAFinals</a> <a href="https://t.co/oi33QCOXDg">pic.twitter.com/oi33QCOXDg</a></p>&mdash; Rappler Sports (@RapplerSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapplerSports/status/1027208284841766913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It's safe to say that Brownlee will be staying with the Gin Kings in the near future. 

In Ginebra's title-clinching 93-77 Game 6 win of the best-of-7 affair, the 30-year-old delivered a herculean effort of 31 points, 19 rebounds, 7 assists, 4 blocks and two steals. 

In those 6 finals games, Brownlee did not once have a bad game as he averaged a jaw-dropping statline of 31.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 2.3 blocks and 1.7 steals.

He has now won 3 titles in the 4 conferences he played in the PBA since 2016 and he has gone a perfect 3-of-3 in the finals – earning praise from fans as the greatest Ginebra import ever.

"Man, that's a great compliment. I definitely love the compliment. You know I don't like to think of myself like that. I just want to keep doing good, and just keep working hard, and whatever comes with that, you know I'll take it," he said. 

Work is not finished for Brownlee as he returns for the Gin Kings in their bid to defend the Governors' Cup title they have won the past two years. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Barangay Ginebra Tim Cone has probably ran out praises for Scottie Thompson following the countless times the do-it-all guard left him in awe. 

But if there is one thing that best describes Thompson for Cone, it is that he epitomizes the Gin Kings' prominent "Never Say Die" spirit.

Thompson was nothing short of spectacular as he bagged the Finals Most Valuable Player plum after Ginebra dethroned San Miguel for the 2018 PBA Commissioner's Cup title in 6 games of the best-of-7 affair. 

Poised beyond his years, the 3rd-year cog delivered 10.8 points, 7.7 rebounds, 5.2 assists for his first individual award in the PBA and his 3rd championship. (READ: Cone: Scottie Thompson 'reminds me of Westbrook')

"Everybody brings something and Scottie brings that intangible – of that just-never-quit-never-give-up. And he really exemplifies that Never Say Die attitude. His energy is always there," Cone said. 

"His will to win and his will to do whatever it takes... again, it's off the charts. I don't know anybody like him."

While the Davaoeño's finals numbers may not jump out of the stats sheet at first glance, he made sure to save the best for last. 

With the series in the balance, the 25-year-old delivered a team-high 20-points on top of 11 rebounds and 3 assists in a 87-83 Game 5 win that moved the Gin Kings a win closer to the title.

He followed that up with a stellar 12-point, 13-rebound and 5-assist performance in Ginebra's title-clinching 93-77 Game 6 triumph on Wednesday, August 8, before a jampacked crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena. 

In all of Ginebra's victories in the finals series, the 6-foot-1 stalwart normed close to a double-double with 11.5 points, 9.0 rebounds and 5.8 assists. 

By the pace he is going, Thompson could be on track of becoming one of the league's greatests, Cone said.

"I can talk about him for hours but he’s a real special kid. And I just think, again, he's just scratching the surface of how good he's going to eventually be. He might go down as one of the true greats in the PBA." 

Thompson and Co. will go on a well-deserved break before they return to the drawing board to gear up for their title-retention bid in the Governors' Cup. – Rappler.com

SYDNEY, Australia – Australian golfer Jarrod Lyle has lost his battle with cancer, dying aged 36 after halting treatment for leukaemia last week, sparking an outpouring of grief from fellow players Thursday, August 9.

"It breaks my heart to tell everyone that Jarrod is no longer with us," his wife Briony said in a statement. 

The former US PGA Tour player, who had children aged 6 and 2, passed away on Wednesday evening at his home outside Melbourne surrounded by family and friends.

"Lusi, Jemma and I are filled with grief and now must confront our lives without the greatest husband and father we could ever have wished for," added his wife.

Lyle moved into palliative care on August 1 to see out his final days, saying his body could not "take anymore" after acute myeloid leukaemia returned for a third time.

His plight touched people around the world and his wife said the messages of support comforted him as his life drew to a close. 

"Jarrod was able to take in many of the unbelievably kind and generous acts and words in his final few days and was overwhelmed by the emotional outpouring," she said.

"He asked that I provide a simple message: 'Thanks for your support, it meant the world. My time was short, but if I've helped people think and act on behalf of those families who suffer through cancer, hopefully it wasn't wasted'."

Lyle, who joined the PGA Tour in 2007 and managed a handful of top 10 finishes, overcame leukaemia as a 17-year-old before suffering a recurrence in 2012. 

He won that battle and made his return to professional golf at the Australian Masters in November 2013. But his health deteriorated again in recent months.

Pure joy 

In an emotional audio message late last week, he said he felt like "the luckiest golfer going around because so many people took an interest in me and took an interest in, I guess, my fight".

He thanked his many "friends around the world, whether they're spectators, whether they're golfers, whether they're marshals".

"It's going to be hard to leave that behind, but they know that I love them," he said, breathing heavily. "They know that all the fighting that I did do was to get back out and play golf again."

The European Tour was among many to pay tribute on Thursday.

"Full of joy and determination, on and off the course. This is how we'll remember Jarrod," it said.

World number three Justin Rose added: "Such a sad day, we will all miss you so much Jarrod. Thinking of his family at this time."

Fellow Australian golfer Greg Chalmers was emotional.

"It is through a river of tears I say goodbye to my friend Jarrod Lyle. A wonderful father, friend and golfer. Quick with a joke, didn't mind a beer, and just a pure joy to be around every day. Miss you mate. RIP," he said.

Another Australian, the 2013 US Masters champion Adam Scott, last week hailed Lyle as "one of the best blokes there is."

"He played such good golf while battling illness; he has been through it all," he said.

"His positivity and general demeanour has been so good and so infectious on others. It's a good way to think of how I should live my life."

Many of Lyle's friends and competitors from his playing days are getting ready for the year's final major tournament, the PGA Championship, which begins Thursday at Bellerive Golf Course in Missouri.

The winner of the traditional pre-tournament long drive competition, American golfer Bryson de Chambeau, pledged to donate his $25,000 charity winnings to Lyle's family. – Rappler.com

LONDON, United Kingdom – Spain's Kepa Arrizabalaga became the most expensive goalkeeper in history on Wednesday, August 8, after Chelsea confirmed his 80 million euro (£71.6 million, $92 million) move from Athletic Bilbao.

Kepa's arrival at Stamford Bridge came shortly after Chelsea had agreed to sell Belgian international 'keeper Thibaut Courtois to Real Madrid for a reported fee of 35 million euros.

The 23-year-old has signed a 7-year contract with the English giants.

"It's a very important decision for me, for my career, and also for my personal life," Kepa told Chelsea's website.

"So many things attracted me to the club, all the titles the club has won, the other players, the city, the English Premier League. It's an accumulation of things, and I am very glad Chelsea has decided to trust me and to take me in as well."

Chelsea were forced to look for a replacement for Courtois ahead of Thursday's transfer deadline for Premier League clubs after he failed to report back to training following his fine World Cup performances on Monday.

Courtois had just one year left on his contract and made clear his desire to return to Madrid, where he spent 3 seasons on loan with Atletico, to be closer to his two children.

Chelsea's lack of forward planning for the new season has been much criticized as Antonio Conte's departure as manager and the appointment of Maurizio Sarri as his successor was delayed until just a month before the new campaign.

Just 7 months ago, Kepa's buyout clause was just 20 million euros and it was he who looked set to join Real Madrid in January.

However, after that move collapsed due to former Real boss Zinedine Zidane's wishes not to make mid-season changes, Kepa signed a new 7-year deal with the Basque side that dramatically increased his release clause and has cost Chelsea dear. 

"Kepa is a talent we have admired for a long time and we are extremely excited about his arrival," insisted Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia.

"He has already demonstrated fantastic quality and consistency and will be a big part of any success Chelsea have in the coming years.

"His long-term contract reflects the belief we have in him and we look ahead to the coming seasons with an enormous sense of optimism."

As part of the deal taking Courtois to Madrid, Croatian midfielder Matteo Kovacic will join Chelsea on a season-long loan deal from Real.

Just weeks after Liverpool broke the record transfer fee for a goalkeeper in a deal worth up to 72.5 million euros for Brazilian international Alisson Becker, the inexperienced Kepa, 23, now inherits the title of the world's most expensive goalkeeper.

Earlier on Wednesday, Bilbao confirmed that Kepa had paid his buyout clause at the league's headquarters in Madrid to free him from his contract with Athletic.

He has played 53 times in La Liga for Bilbao over the last two seasons, and made his international debut in a 5-0 friendly win over Costa Rica in November 2017.

He was also in the Spain squad for the World Cup in Russia as back-up to David De Gea, but has yet to make his competitive debut for Spain or play in the Champions League.– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Filipino-American NBA player Jordan Clarkson is now one step clear of joining Gilas Pillipinas in the 2018 Asian Games after reportedly getting clearance from the Cleveland Cavaliers. 

"We are trying to move heaven and earth to make it happen but stars have to align. Hope he gets eligibility, NBA clearance and we agree on a deal," said Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Al Panlilio.

Although this creates another disruption for Yeng Guiao – who's already finalizing the final 12-man Asian Games lineup – the firebrand coach said he doesn't mind if the Cavs guard joins the team even in the last minute.  (LOOK: Gilas Pilipinas lineup for 2018 Asian Games)

"Siyempre [I'm in favor]," said Guiao. (Of course I'm in favor.)

Clarkson, though, will also have to secure clearance from the NBA and the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) in a week's time.

Guiao had named Christian Standhardinger, Stanley Pringle, Maverick Ahanmisi, Chris Tiu, Gabe Norwood, James Yap, Beau Belga, Raymond Almazan, Poy Erram, and Paul Lee as shoo-ins, leaving Don Trollano, Asi Taulava, Kobe Paras and Ricci Rivero to battle for the last two spots in the final roster. (READ: No time left: Guiao banks on old reliables in Asian Games)

The Philippines – pressed for time after reversing its decision to withdraw from the Asian Games– will begin its Asiad campaign on Thursday, August 16 against Kazakhstan.  – with reports from Delfin Dioquino/Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Losing once in a while wouldn't hurt. 

Arwind Santos found a silver lining after the San Miguel Beermen absorbed their first finals loss in 5 years as they surrendered their PBA Commissioner's Cup throne to Barangay Ginebra in 6 games of a best-of-7 affair. 

"Maganda rin nangyayari sa amin kasi minsan nagkakaron kami kasi [na] parang isip namin kayang kaya namin lahat eh," Santos told reporters after San Miguel's 77-93 Game 6 loss on Wednesday, August 8. 

(This is still a good thing because we sometimes feel that we can win can take on anyone.) 

"Maganda na rin 'yan alam namin na may mga better team na kayang tumalo sa amin kagaya ng Ginebra."

(This is a good thing because we realize that there are better teams who can beat us, just like Ginebra.) 

It has been so long since the Beermen lost a finals series that they still had a different name when it happened. 

After the bowing out to San Miguel Coffee (now the Magnolia Hotshots) in 7 games for the 2013 Governors' Cup crown as the Petron Blaze Boosters, San Miguel had gone a perfect 6-of-6 in championship clashes. 

But San Miguel saw its finals streak broken by the inspired Gin Kings, who have transformed year in and year out as the biggest threats to the Beermen's title aspirations. 

To borrow from the famous Howie Day song: Even the best fall down sometimes. 

"Maganda 'to sa mga champion – sa mga taong nagtatagumpay – na hindi lahat nagtatagumpay, hindi lagi success," the former league Most Valuable Player said. 

(This is a good thing for champions – for people who always win  – because you realize that there are times that you fall short.) 

"Kailangan alam mo 'di lahat para sayo. 'Pag sa 'yo, sa 'yo. 'Pag 'di sa 'yo, 'wag mong pilitin. Ang importante ipagdasal mo na lang."

(You need to know that not everything is for you. If it's for you, then it's for you. If it's not for you, don't force it. The important thing is just pray for it.) 

But the season's not over for the Beermen.

The best revenge, in fact, is to return the favor against Ginebra, which will defend the Governors' Cup title it won for the past two years. 

"Kailangan naming bumalik saan kami nagsimula dati para maging maayos at maganda ang team namin next conference at paghahandaan namin, susubok uli kami at targetin ang finals." 

(We need to go back to where we started so we can prepare the team next conference and we will try again to reach the finals.) – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – (UPDATED) Batang Gilas turned back Bahrain, 67-52, to punch home a ticket to the FIBA Under-19 World Cup on Thursday, August 9, at Nonthaburi, Thailand.

AJ Edu was stellar as usual, finishing with a full line of 16 points, 17 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks. His frontcourt star partner Kai Sotto added a game-high 21 points, 10 boards and 3 rejections.

The victory in the knockout quarterfinal match secured the Philippines a spot in the last 4 of the FIBA U18 Asian Championship, as well as the right to represent Asia in the world stage next year. 

It's the first time the Philippines reached the U19 World Cup since 1979.

Just last month, Batang Gilas saw action in the U17 World Cup where they finished 13th overall, the country's all-time best record in the tournament. (READ: Batang Gilas nabs record-high World Cup finish)

With 8 minutes left in the final frame, NU Bullpups stalwart Joshua Ramirez created a comfortable 8-point cushion, 53-45, off a triple from a Dalph Panopio dish. The Fil-Italian hotshot followed this up with a beautiful alley-oop dime for a soaring Sotto slam, 55-45, with 5:20 left.

Sotto crushed home one more dunk for good measure, 61-47, as a final nail in Bahrain’s coffin.

But the young Filipinos, still unbeaten in 4 games, will face their toughest opponent yet in the knockout semifinal on Friday, August 10. 

Title-favorite Australia arranged a last-4 showdown against the Philippines after drubbing Japan, 88-52, in their own quarterfinal duel.

Baqer Ali paced the Bahraini side with 13 points and 3 rebounds with 3-of-5 (60%) shots from downtown.

The Philippine youth team made up for a forgettable second quarter by opening the 3rd with a 15-2 attack, 41-36, highlighted by a go-ahead, two-hand flush from Sotto, and ending with a corner triple from Oczon. However, Bahrain inched back to within one possession at the end of the 3rd, 45-48.

After a stellar 20-11 first-quarter run, Batang Gilas got absolutely wrecked in the second by Bahrain’s press defense and perimeter shooting. The underdog squad jumped to a 34-26 lead at the half after manhandling the Philippine side, 23-6, for the entire second period. 

The Scores

Batang Gilas (67) – Sotto 21, Edu 16, Oczon 10, Ildefonso 6, Panopio 4, Abadiano 3, Ramirez 3, Amsali 2, Cortez 2, Chiu 0, Lina 0 

Bahrain (52) – Ali, B. 13, Awadh 13, Rashed, M. 11, Rashed, A. 7, Dindayneh 2, Hamoda 2, Aboukuora 2, Kadhem 2, Ali, A. 0, Alrowaila 0, Al Koohiji 0, Nawaf 0

Quarter scores: 20-11, 26-34, 48-45, 67-52

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Perpetual Help Altas sent their home crowd happy after a thrilling 78-76 win against the San Sebastian Stags in the NCAA men's basketball tournament at the Perpetual Gym on Thursday, August 9.

With the game locked up at 76-all with 3.3 seconds left in regulation, the ball was inbounded to AJ Coronel, who flung the ball up from the corner, straight to a game-winning Prince Eze tip-in.

With 0.5 seconds left, there was just not enough time for the Stags to make a full-court pass and heave as the Altas completed their incredible comeback from 19 points down in the second half. 

Eze, the reigning league Defensive Player of the Year, finished with a game-high line of 22 points on an 8-of-11 (73%) shooting on top of 18 rebounds and 6 blocks.

Rising star guard Edgar Charcos added 18 points – all but one coming in the second half – along with 5 boards, 3 steals and 2 assists to help the Altas improve their record to 3-2.

Meanwhile, Allyn Bulanadi’s 22-point, 12-rebound double-double was merely wasted as the Stags crumbled in the clutch.

Alvin Capobres followed up his 21-point outing against Mapua with 19 points off the bench.

The Stags actually charged out to a 19-point lead at the half, 46-27, but was unable to match the Altas’ energy boost in the second half.

The Scores 

Perpetual (78) – Eze 22, Charcos 18, Peralta 11, Coronel 9, Mangalino 5, Aurin 4, Razon 3, Gallardo 2, Cuevas 2, Sese 2, Tamayo 0, Pasia 0

SSC-R (76) – Bulanadi 21, Capobres 19, Dela Cruz 11, Calma 8, Are 6, Calisaan 5, Desoyo 2, Isidro 2, Villapando 2, Valdez 0, Sumoda 0

Quarter scores: 12-20, 27-46, 51-57, 78-76

STANDINGS 

LPU 7-0

SBU 4-0

CSJL 4-1

UPHSD 3-2

SSC-R 3-5

AU 2-3

CSB 2-4

MU 2-4

EAC 1-4

JRU 0-5

MANILA, Philippines – The Che’lu Bar and Grill Revellers overcame a double-digit deficit to steal Game 1 from the favored Go for Gold Scratchers, 100-96, in the best-of-5 PBA D-League finals at the Ynares Sports Arena on Thursday, August 9.

Jeff Viernes filled the highlight reel with a spinning and-one layup, a stepback triple off the ankle-breaker and finally, a fallaway mid-range dagger to seal a 15-4 run in the last two minutes.

Che’lu fought from 12 points down, 73-85, entering the 4th quarter and still trailed by 8 points, 84-92, in the final 3:38 of regulation before Viernes took over. 

Viernes finished with a monstrous 34 points – 27 in the second half alone – 8 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals.

Chris Bitoon chipped in 22 points, including the game-sealing free throw with 4.4 seconds left.

Gab Banal led the Scratchers with a 24-point, 13-board double-double on top of 7 assists and 3 steals.

Point guard Jai Reyes and former Ateneo big man Kris Porter added 11 apiece in the stunning loss.

Head coach Stevenson Tiu was all praises for his players after the game.

“Our team’s transformation started in the 3rd quarter,” he said. “They simply don’t want to lose. It’s as simple as that.” 

The Scratchers will try to bounce back in Game 2 on Tuesday, August 14, still at the Ynares Sports Arena.

The Scores

Che’lu (100) – Viernes 34, Bitoon 22, Collado 13, Taganas 9, Hernandez 7, Siruma 7, Melano 4, Ruaya 4, De Joya 0, Sta. Ana 0

Go For Gold (96) – Banal 24, Porter 11, Reyes 11, Tolentino 10, Canada 8, Gaco 8, Salem 7, Publico 6, Wong 5, Dennison 3, Desiderio 3

Quarter scores: 21-33, 46-59, 73-85, 100-96 

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Sportsmanship does not end on the pitch for Home United FC as some of the team members made an effort to visit Ceres-Negros FC winger Patrick Reichelt, who fell unconscious after a nasty collision during the 2018 AFC Cup ASEAN Zonal final leg 2 in Singapore last Wednesday, August 8. 

In an Instagram story, Reichelt said he sustained a head injury. 

"I have a skull fracture and mild brain bleedings. I won't be able to fly home yet. But i'll be ok. Thanks for all the prayers and messages," wrote Reichelt. 

Blogger Cheyser Pedregosa, Reichelt's wife, also shared on her Instagram story that her husband will not be able to fly back to the Philippines due to the "air pressure that might affect his bleeding." She also noted that he remains under observation. 

In the 36th minute of the game, Reichelt attempted to connect a long ball from Martin Steuble but got into a mid-air collision with Home United keeper Rudy Khairullah. The hosts quickly ran to Reichelt's side after seeing him go down hard.

Medics tended to Reichelt for around 8 minutes before he was stretchered off the field.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">36&#39; <br><br>MASSIVE COLLISION as Reichelt and Khairullah go for the ball in the box!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HMUvCRN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HMUvCRN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFCCup2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFCCup2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/aAcnkTzHQF">pic.twitter.com/aAcnkTzHQF</a></p>&mdash; FOX Sports LIVE! (@FSAsiaLive) <a href="https://twitter.com/FSAsiaLive/status/1027164710678884352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">42&#39; Looks like Reichelt is going to be stretchered off following the collision with Khairullah.<br><br>He will be replaced by Ingreso. We hope he&#39;ll be okay. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HMUvCRN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HMUvCRN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFCCup2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFCCup2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/4sj6vXjp76">pic.twitter.com/4sj6vXjp76</a></p>&mdash; FOX Sports LIVE! (@FSAsiaLive) <a href="https://twitter.com/FSAsiaLive/status/1027167014555512832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Due to Reichelt's injury, Ceres-Negros' lineup further got depleted as brothers Manny and Mike Ott missed the game due to disciplinary reasons while Bienve Marañon remains suspended from the red card he picked up during the group stage.– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – One just cannot be at the top forever.

That's how San Miguel coach Leo Austria simply put it after his Beermen saw their finals streak snapped at the hands of Barangay Ginebra.

After an impressive 6-of-6 in the last 10 PBA conference finals, the Beermen tasted their first championship defeat in 5 years as they bowed out to the Gin Kings in 6 games of the best-of-7 Commissioner's Cup finals.

"It's hard to maintain being on top of the mountain. Sooner or later, babagyuhin ka, babagsak ka rin. Now, it's happening,” Austria told reporters after San Miguel's 77-93 Game 6 loss on Wednesday, August 8.

(It's hard to maintain being on top of the mountain. Sooner or later, you will experience storm and you will fall. Now, it's happening.) 

Considering the Beermen were the defending champions and the Gin Kings last won the mid-season tourney 21 years ago, the idea of Ginebra winning the crown was far-fetched to some.

But boy does time fly. (READ: For Arwind, there's silver lining in San Miguel's finals loss)

Not only did the series fail to go the distance, Ginebra beat San Miguel by a whopping average of 19.5 points per game.

The Gin Kings' 87-83 Game 5 triumph was the only close call in the series and the rest were decided by 28, 30 and 16 points in Games 1, 4 and 6, respectively. 

"I know that we're a little bit complacent – not only the players [but] everybody from the ball boys to the coaching staff. Sometimes, you're so lenient with them because they give us a lot of championships," Austria said. 

"You give it back to them na. Kung tatay e, 'Sige, medyo pagbibigyan kita ng konting layaw.' Pero hindi pala maganda e."

(You give it back to them. Like a father, I gave them a little bit of leeway. But I found out that it's not good.) 

"You have to be consistent because this is a sport that you have to keep striving hard because in a competition, consistency is something we have to have." 

In order to revive to their winning ways, the reigning three-time Coach of the Year suggests the Beermen return to square one. 

"First of all, alisin namin 'yung anim na championship namin. Alisin namin 'yung paniniwala na nababasa't naririnig namin na we're a superteam, 'yung hype going into the Finals na we're too much for our opponent," Austria said. 

(First of all, we need to forget the 6 championships we won. We need to remove the belief that we are a superteam and we should not get carried away by the hype that we're too much for our opponent in the Finals.) 

"We have to go back to the basics – the fundamentals of basketball." – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – After the Philippines and Australia arranged a semifinal showdown in the FIBA Under-18 Asian Championship, memories of the infamous brawl between the countries’ senior teams soon came flooding. 

The embarrassing incident – which led to Gilas absorbing most of the hefty fines and suspensions  handed by FIBA – happened just last month so it’s no surprise that jokes like these hit Twitter:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bolt all the chairs down for this one!</p>&mdash; Roy Crossley PT (@exerciseroy) <a href="https://twitter.com/exerciseroy/status/1027509872206610432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2018</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="tl" dir="ltr">good job Batang Gilas pasok na kayo sa U19 World Cup. wow.<br><br>Semis vs Australia haha sana talunin niyo sila.  walang sapakan ah.</p>&mdash; Jiorell (@iamjiorell) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamjiorell/status/1027513989322821632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2018</a></blockquote>

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But everything's said in jest, of course, as many basketball fans have been imploring that there should be no repeat when the two youth teams clash on Friday, August 10, at 6:45 pm at Nonthaburi, Thailand.

Some said the game will definitely be scrutinized, so they reminded the Batang Gilas players not to imitate their senior counterparts. 

Others noted that we should “move on” and let the game help “build a new brand of relationship between the two countries.”

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="tl" dir="ltr">Batang Gilas vs Australia sa semis haha! Sana hindi nila gayahin yung ginawa ng mga nakatatanda sa kanila. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LabanPilipinas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LabanPilipinas</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIBAAsiaU18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIBAAsiaU18</a></p>&mdash; Prison Mike (@mikesaulo) <a href="https://twitter.com/mikesaulo/status/1027530750919303168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2018</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Since it is Batang gilas vs australia game tomorrow  it will be  closely scrutinize by lots of viewers. Just saying</p>&mdash; Oreolalalaa (@oreolalalaa) <a href="https://twitter.com/oreolalalaa/status/1027570779985084416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2018</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Forget and move on. Let&#39;s build a new brand of relationship between the two countries.</p>&mdash; d L  N (@dLanSH_) <a href="https://twitter.com/dLanSH_/status/1027514315388018688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2018</a></blockquote>

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Troy Rike, the Gilas Pilpinas pool player who helped break up the ugly July 2 fight, said Batang Gilas’ run seems like stuff for movies.

So to avoid kiddie punches, veteran sportswriter Ed Tolentino joked that the parents should be given ringside tickets to keep the young players at their best behavior.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"> This Batang Gilas tournament run is slowly turning into a Hollywood movie <a href="https://t.co/QhmkZxNbpC">https://t.co/QhmkZxNbpC</a></p>&mdash; Troy Rike (@troyrike) <a href="https://twitter.com/troyrike/status/1027499484559945729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2018</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Batang Gilas vs. Australia in FIBA Asia U-18. Hmm, in a worst-case scenario, kiddie punches will be exchanged. On second thought, give ringside tickets to the players&#39; parents to ensure that the kids will behave.</p>&mdash; ed tolentino (@edtolentino) <a href="https://twitter.com/edtolentino/status/1027520867075481601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2018</a></blockquote>

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In the end, though, many just want some good, clean hoops action between the tournament's only unbeaten teams.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">This is it! Batang Gilas vs. Australia U18.<br><br>The boys are slight underdogs, but anything can happen. The Aussies have been dominant so far in this tournament, but if anybody can beat them, then it is Batang Gilas. <br><br>Pray. Support. Believe.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/labanpilipinas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#labanpilipinas</a> <a href="https://t.co/IDn5HVObA9">pic.twitter.com/IDn5HVObA9</a></p>&mdash; Gilas Army (@gilas_army) <a href="https://twitter.com/gilas_army/status/1027553224373415936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2018</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Aside from the obvious situation between the respective senior teams of these two countries, both U18 teams have been balling in this tournament. It’ll be a solid matchup.</p>&mdash; Olgun Uluc (@OlgunUluc) <a href="https://twitter.com/OlgunUluc/status/1027500430526361601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2018</a></blockquote>

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– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Trades are complicated. They could sometimes have a hand in the rise or decline of a player's career. 

In Jeff Chan's case, his recent trade to Barangay Ginebra led to achieving success earlier than he initially expected.

Less than two months after he was shipped by the Phoenix Fuel Masters, the veteran sharpshooter won his 3rd PBA championship after the Gin Kings dethroned the San Miguel Beermen as Commissioner's Cup kings.

"Hindi ko akalain na ngayong conference," Chan told reporters when asked if he imagined winning a title in his short time with Ginebra. 

(I didn't imagine it would happen this conference.) 

Not that he is complaining. 

The 35-year-old, who last bagged a championship with the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in 2016, was bound to miss the playoffs for the 3rd straight conference with the Fuel Masters.

But last June 18, Phoenix dealt him to Ginebra for a 2018 first round pick and like the old adage says: The rest is history. 

"Sarap syempre. First of all, parang ilang conference din na early exit ako. Ngayon lang ulit ako nakaabot ng finals so sobrang saya tapos nag-champion pa," he said. 

(Of course it feels good. First of all, I had consecutive early exits in the past conferences. This is the first time I reached the finals again and we won the championship so I'm very happy.) 

Chan can add another championship to his name with the Gin Kings looking to defend their Governors' Cup title they won the past two years. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The San Beda Red Lions got the better of the Letran Knights, 80-76, in a thrilling overtime finish to their rivalry game in the NCAA men's basketball tournament at the FilOil Flying V Centre on Friday, August 10. 

Robert Bolick flirted with a triple-double of 20 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists to power the unbeaten Red Lions, who streaked to their fifth straight victory.

San Beda reserve AC Soberano opened the extra period with two straight threes to answer Jerrick Balanza's own long bomb, 75-73. But Letran answered this with an inside lay-in from Christian Fajarito and the go-ahead stepback jumper from JP Calvo, 76-75. 

Bolick blew a chance to take the lead after splitting his charities, but reigning Finals MVP Donald Tankoua was there for the post layup, 78-76, with 41.8 seconds left. 

The defending champs kept this lead until Bolick finally sealed the deal with two free throws off the penalty foul, 80-76, with 14.3 seconds left.

Tankoua added 11 points and 13 rebounds for the double-double for the Red Lions.

Letran went on a tear in the clutch in regulation, scoring 5 straight off a Jeo Ambohot corner triple and a Jerrick Balanza tip off a Calvo miss to take the 69-67 lead with 3.8 seconds left.

However, off the timeout, Tankoua sent the game to overtime with the nifty reverse for the 69-all tie.

Bong Quinto had a double-double of his own with 21 points and 11 boards with 4 assists to pace Letran. Calvo chipped in 14 points, 6 assists, 4 boards and 3 steals in the losing effort.

EAC scores back-to-back triumphs

In the first game, the EAC Generals added on the woes of freefalling Mapua Cardinals, 89-85. 

For the second straight game – and win – coach Ariel Sison found heroes at the end of his bench in the form of Jan Natividad and CJ Cadua.

Natividad scored 10 points in the 3rd quarter alone for a total of 12 while Cadua dropped 8 in the final frame, totaling at 10.

JP Maguliano unfortunately bottomed out scoreless in 12 minutes after going 30 points and 17 rebounds in their last win against San Sebastian. 

Hamadou Laminou, meanwhile, was his usual reliable self, dropping a near triple-double with 17 points, 12 rebounds and 6 big blocks.

On the other end, lead guard Noah Lugo tallied 24 points and 2 boards. Star rookie Warren Bonifacio flirted with a triple-double of his own, with 15 points, 11 boards and a team-high 6 assists.

Arellano keeps JRU winless

The Arellano Chiefs kept the JRU Heavy Bombers winless in 6 tries with a 79-70 blowout. 

Michael Canete clinched a double-digit lead for the Chiefs, 66-52, midway through the final frame. The Heavy Bombers were unable to make stops down the stretch as the Chiefs charged towards the win.

Canete finished with 15 points and 9 rebounds with 2 blocks, while Maui Sera Josef came off the bench for a team-high 17 points, 9 boards, a steal and a block as Arellano improved to 3-3.

Third-year gunner Jed Mendoza dropped a season-high 23 points in the loss. Returning point guard MJ Dela Virgen chipped in 6 points, 9 boards and 5 assists off the bench.

The Bombers remained winless in six outings.

The Scores

First Game: 

EAC (89) – Laminou 17, Garcia 14, Bautista 13, Natividad 12, Cadua 10, Tampoc 7, Neri 5, Gonzales 4, Diego 3, Mendoza 2, Robin 2, Maguliano 0, Bugarin 0

Mapua (85) – Lugo 24, Bonifacio 15, Victoria 11, Pelayo 11, Gamboa 8, Jabel 8, Biteng 4, Aguirre 2, Bunag 2, Serrano 0, Garcia 0

Quarter scores: 18-16, 33-39, 60-63, 89-85

Second Game:

Arellano (79) – Sera Josef 17, Canete 15, Alban 14, Dela Cruz 14, Segura 10, Concepcion 6, Alcoriza 3, Bayla 0, Codinera 0, Dela Torre 0, Ongolo Ongolo 0, Sacramento 0, Santos 0, Villoria 0

JRU (70) – Mendoza 23, David 9, Estrella 7, Bordon 6, Dela Virgen 6, Mallari 6, Esguerra 5, Silvarez 4, Miranda 2, Santos 2, Ramos 0

Quarter scores: 12-16, 34-36, 54-50, 79-70

Third Game

San Beda (80) – Bolick 20, Doliguez 11, Tankoua 11, Mocon 7, Oftana 6, Soberano 6, Canlas 4, Nelle 4, Presbitero 4, Tongco 3, Abuda 2, Carino 2, Cuntapay 0

Letran (76) –  Quinto 21, Calvo 14, Ambohot 13, Balanza 11, Fajarito 10, Muyang 5, Taladua 2, Agbong 0, Balagasay 0, Batiller 0, Mandreza 0, Yu 0

Quarter scores: 17-14, 35-29, 53-44, 69-69, 80-76

STANDINGS 

LPU 7-0

SBU 5-0

CSJL 4-2

UPHSD 3-2

AU 3-3

CSB 2-4

SSC-R 3-5

MU 2-5

EAC 2-4

JRU 0-6

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Australia flexed its muscles and eliminated Batang Gilas, 77-43, from title contention in the FIBA Under-18 Asian Championship in Nonthaburi, Thailand on Friday, August 10.

Batang Gilas – already assured of an U19 World Cup berth after landing in the top four – will head to a rematch with China in the battle for third place at 2:30 pm on Saturday, August 11. (READ: Batang Gilas nails World Cup berth)

Australia, the only unbeaten team in the tournament, will advance to the final match against its Oceania neighbor New Zealand tomorrow at 4:45 pm.

AJ Edu dragged Batang Gilas to the finish line with 9 points, 10 rebounds and 3 blocks. Dave Ildefonso mustered 5 points, 2 boards and 2 assists on a 2-of-12 (17%) shooting.

After a neck-and-neck 1st quarter, 14-12, Australia left the Filipino side in the dust with a mighty 30-8 run for a 44-20 advantage at the half. And from there, Batang Gilas couldn't climb out of the double-digit hole.

Samson Froling led Australia's impressive balanced attack with 12 points and 7 boards, 3 blocks and 2 steals. 

The Aussied led by as many as 41 points, 70-29, after a 10-1 run to begin the 4th quarter.

Even if Batang Gilas loses tomorrow, this is already the country's best finish in 28 years, since its bronze-medal finish in China at the 1992 tournament.

The Philippines was a wrecking ball in the tournament's early years, collecting five straight gold-medal finishes from the 1970 inaugural until the 1978 edition of the biennial meet. They would not exit the podium until 1990, where they finished fourth.

The Scores

Australia 77 – Froling 12, Dalton 10, Stattman 10, Bowen 8, Gatbel 7, Lee 7, Robertson 7, Wigness 7, Leaupepe 6, Krause 3, Armstrong 0.

Philippines 43 – Edu 9, Abadiano 8, Cortez 6, Torres 6, Ildefonso 5, Panopio 4, Oczon 3, Sotto 2, Amsali 0, Chiu 0, Lina 0, Ramirez 0.

Quarters: 14-12, 44-20, 60-28, 77-43.

 – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine men's basketball team will hold on the slim chance that Filipino-American NBA player Jordan Clarkson will be allowed to play in the 2018 Asian Games.

National team head coach Yeng Guiao bared that they have reserved a spot for Clarkson in the final 12-man Asiad lineup despite the uncertainty of him actually suiting up. 

"We're still working on the procedures," Guiao told reporters about Clarkson's status after unveiling the lineup on Friday, August 10, at the Meralco Gym. 

"So far, wala pang maliwanag (nothing is clear) but we put him in the lineup just to make sure if all of those requirements are complied with, he has a slot in the team." 

Clarkson will join Rain or Shine players James Yap, Chris Tiu, Gabe Norwood, Maverick Ahanmisi, Beau Belga and Raymond Almazan, who will form half of the team.

Magnolia's Paul Lee, GlobalPort's Stanley Pringle, Blackwater's JP Erram and San Miguel's Christian Standhardinger – who were all named in Guiao's wishlist – were all shoo-ins in the final roster. 

Asi Taulava, a member of Guiao's 2009 Powerade Pilipinas, completes the Asiad squad.

TNT's Don Trollano, who was supposed to occupy Clarkson's slot, and Gilas cadets Ricci Rivero and Kobe Paras failed to make the cut. 

The Nationals will fly to Jakarta on Sunday, August 12, and only have a few days to gear up for Kazakhstan in their opening game on August 16. (LOOK: 2018 Asian Games Gilas Pilipinas schedule)– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine men's basketball team has put premium on familiarity in its buildup for the Asian Games, but it won't let the chance of having Filipino-American NBA player Jordan Clarkson play slip away.

National team head coach Yeng Guiao sees a "good problem" in incorporating the Cleveland Cavalier – who completed the final 12-man squad– in his system with less than a week to gear up for their maiden Asiad game. 

"Eh kung 'sing galing naman ni Clarkson makakasama mo, siguro that's a good problem blending him in," Guiao told reporters after unveiling the lineup on Friday, August 10, at the Meralco Gym.

(If it's someone as good as Clarkson who you would be working with, it's probably a good problem blending him in.) 

With limited time to prepare, the team was built primarily around the players' knowledge of Guiao's system.

Of the 12 players, 8 have been under the firebrand coach's tutelage. Meanwhile, the other 3 cogs – Stanley Pringle, JP Erram and Christian Standhardinger – have slowly integrated themselves with the team during the past week.

But given Clarkson's caliber, Guiao is taking a chance on him. 

"I'm sure with his experience, his IQ, madali niyang makukuha sistema. Napakasimple lang naman ng sistema natin." 

(I'm sure with his experience, his IQ, he will easily get the system. Our system is very simple.) 

Familiarity is not the only issue with Clarkson. 

Although he was included in the lineup, it is still uncertain whether the 26-year-old will be allowed to play in the quadrennial meet due to eligibility issues in the past. 

If the Olympic Council of Asia or the NBA do not give Clarkson the go signal, the Philippine team could end up with only 11 players.

That's a risk Guiao is willing to take. 

"Kung makakahabol, kung papayagan ng organizers, ihahabol natin para maging 12 tayo," Guiao said when asked if there will be a replacement in case Clarkson will not be allowed to play. 

(If time will permit and the organizers will agree, then we will add another player to make it 12.) 

"Kung hindi naman, okay lang na 11. Okay lang." 

(If not, then it's okay if there will be only 11 players.)  

The Philippine team will fly to Jakarta, Indonesia on August 12, just four days before it opens its campaign against Kazakhstan on August 16. (LOOK: 2018 Asian Games Gilas Pilipinas schedule) – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Even though he got bumped off from the 2018 Asian Games lineup, Ricci Rivero earned huge praise from national team head coach Yeng Guiao. 

"I’m very impressed, I think he (Rivero) can dominate college basketball with his talent and with his skills. He actually almost made it to this team. Konting konti na lang (He came really close)," said Guiao. 

According to Rivero, Guiao personally told him his postive impression and the Gilas cadet was flattered to receive a compliment from a coach well known for developing players. 

"Sabi niya na: 'I'm impressed' something like that. Actually for me, as a college player [tapos] sabihan ka ni coach Yeng Guiao ng ganoon, [it feels great]," said Rivero.

(He told me: 'I'm impressed' something like that. It actually feels great for a college player to receive a compliment like that from coach Yeng Guiao.) 

The University of the Philippines standout did not forget to thank the fiery NLEX coach for the opportunity to train at a high level with PBA players in the national pool. 

"Sobrang thankful din ako na nabigyan ako ng chance to participate in this kind of training, [to be part of] this kind of pool. Sobrang taas ng level na ‘to," added Rivero. 

(I'm so thankful that I was given the chance to participate in this kind of training, to be part of this kind of pool. The level is so high here.) 

The Green Archer-turned-Fighting Maroon was committed to the national team from the moment he got named to the original TNT-reinforced Asian Games pool. The 20-year-old consistently attended practices as Guiao kept him in the 14-man pool after SBP backtracked  on its decision to withdraw from the Asiad. 

As Rivero serves his UAAP residency following his transfer from La Salle to UP, Guiao extended an invite for the young player to train with his PBA team, the NLEX Road Warriors. 

"I know he’s not playing this year, but I know he’s practicing, but if he wants to practice at a different level, NLEX practice is open to him," said Guiao. 

On Friday night, August 10, Filipino-American NBA player Jordan Clarkson took the last spot in Guiao's 12-man Asian Games lineup. The head coach said he would take a risk on the Cleveland Cavaliers guard, who's hoping to secure clearance from the NBA before the Philippines opens it campaign versus Kazakhstan on Thursday, August 16. – Rappler.com 

MANILA, Philippines – Don Trollano doesn't see any problem missing the cut for the final Asian Games lineup if it would mean the Philippine men's basketball team  would have a higher chance of winning. 

Trollano said he has no hard feelings after his assured spot in the 12-man Asiad squad was reserved for Filipino-American NBA player Jordan Clarkson. (READ: Worth the risk: Jordan Clarkson takes final PH spot)

"Alangan namang piliin pa ako kaysa kay Clarkson 'di ba?" the TNT KaTropa said after national team head coach Yeng Guiao revealed the final lineup on Friday, August 10, at the Meralco Gym. 

(It's not as if I would be chosen over Clarkson, right?)

"Iniisip ko lang at least nakatulong ako. Mas malaking maitutulong ni Clarkson para sa akin. Galing siyang NBA, tapos ako... Syempre mas magiging competitive sa team."

(I just think that at least, I helped the team prepare. For me, Clarkson can help the team better. He comes from the NBA. Of course, he will make the team more competitive.) 

Two months ago, Trollano was poised to make his national team debut with Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas' (SBP) initial plan to send the core of the KaTropa to the quadrennial meet.

That plan was quashed following FIBA's suspensions on TNT players Jayson Castro, Terrence Romeo, Roger Pogoy and Troy Rosario for their involvement in the Gilas Pilipinas-Australia brawl in a World Cup qualifier last July 2. 

Although the suspended players were still eligible to play in the Asian Games, the SBP and the PBA decided to send the core of the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters instead. 

Still, Trollano was included in Guiao's 14-man pool and was groomed to make the final 12 lineup – having been coached by the firebrand tactician when they were both with Rain or Shine. 

It was until the news of the SBP "trying to move heaven and earth" to get Clarkson to play for the Philippines that Trollano's chances of suiting up in the Asiad was shrouded in uncertainty. 

And as Guiao unveiled his lineup, Trollano was left out. (READ: Guiao: Jordan Clarkson poses 'good problem' for Asiad team)

"Okay lang ako doon. Ang galing galing noon eh. Anong laban ko doon? No hard feelings," the 26-year-old added. 

(I'm okay with it. Clarkson is a very good player. How can I match that? No hard feelings.) 

If Clarkson doesn't get the green light, Trollano might still see action in Indonesia if the Asian Games organizers allow his late inclusion. 

"Kung 'di maayos, pwede ako pumunta sa tune-ups or hahabol ako." 

(If it falls through, I can still join tune-ups or I can be included in the lineup) – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – China made up for its loss to Batang Gilas in the group phase with a convincing 76-57 victory in the battle for bronze in the FIBA Under-18 Asian Championship in Nonthaburi, Thailand on Saturday, August 11.

Although the Filipino side started the game up 4-0, the sharpshooting Chinese responded with a 12-0 run and Batang Gilas never recovered.

Kai Sotto led the charge one last time with a team-high 16 points, 8 rebounds and a block. AJ Edu also delivered 14 points, 8 boards and a swat for Batang Gilas.

Quanze Wang was at the helm of China’s charge with a game-high 27 points and 14 rebounds along with 4 assists, 2 steals and a block. Jie Xu chipped in 18 points, 7 assists and 5 boards to help clinch the bronze medal.

They went toe-to-toe in scoring in the middle quarters, but Batang Gilas was unable to make crucial stops to trim down the lead.

Haowen Guo put the game to bed early in the 4th with a dagger triple to secure the 22-point lead, 67-45.

Although Batang Gilas missed the podium, it's the country's best finish in 28 years since their bronze-medal finish in China at the 1992 tournament.

Landing in the top four had also secured the Philippines a spot in the 2019 World Cup Under-19 tournament. (READ: Batang Gilas nails World Cup berth).

Batang Gilas closed out the tournament with back-to-back losses after a 4-0 start. 

Before bowing to China, the young Filipino crew also absorbed a semifinal whipping from Australia.

The Philippines kicked off its campaign with a 3-0 sweep of the group phase then advanced to the quarterfinals where they won over Bahrain.

The Scores 

China 76 – Wang QZ 27, Xu 18, Li 9, Guo 8, Jiang HR 7, Wang YZ 7, Chen 0, Shi 0.

Philippines 57 – Sotto 16, Edu 14, Ildefonso 9, Oczon 7, Panopio 5, Abadiano 2, Amsali 2, Cortez 2, Lina 0, Ramirez 0, Torres 0.

Quarters: 27-14, 43-26, 59-43, 76-57.

– Rappler.com