MANILA, Philippines – Barangay Ginebra arrested a massive meltdown to escape with a 104-98 win over NorthPort and remain unscathed in the 2018 PBA Governors' Cup at the Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, September 5.

Japeth Aguilar hit timely buckets down the stretch to finish with 23 points and 9 rebounds as the Gin Kings clinched their third straight win and kept the Batang Pier winless in four outings. 

Leading by as much as 19 points, Ginebra saw NorthPort narrow the gap to three points with a little over a minute left, 97-100, before Aguilar played the hero with two clutch shots en route to the triumph. 

Import Justin Brownlee was his usual self with 27 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists and 2 blocks as he helped the Gin Kings build a comfortable 60-41 cushion early in the third frame.

But Batang Pier, who had stars Stanley Pringle and Sean Anthony playing in their first game back, slowly stormed their way back into the game and trimmed their deficit to as close as one point, 89-90, midway through the fourth period. 

Pringle, who returned from the Asian Games, finished with 34 points – including 19 in the third – to go with 7 assists and 5 rebounds and 3 steals but those weren't enough for NorthPort to crack the winning column. 

LA Tenorio chalked up 18 points and 5 steals, Greg Slaughter chipped in 18 points, 9 rebounds and 3 blocks while Scottie Thompson added a game-high 14 rebounds on top of 6 assists, 4 points and 2 steals in the win. 

Batang Pier reinforcement Rashaw Wood had 28 points, 11 rebounds, 6 assists and 2 steals while Anthony churned out 9 points, 5 assists and 3 steals in his return from an injury. 

The Scores

Ginebra 104 - Brownlee 27, Aguilar J 23, Slaughter 18, Tenorio 18, Ferrer 6, Mariano 4, Thompson 4, Chan 2, Caguioa 2. 

NorthPort 98 - Pringle 34, Woods 28, Tautuaa 11, Anthony 9, Taha 6, Fortuna 5, Guinto 3, Grey 2, Arana 0, Espinas 0, Gabayni 0.

Quarters: 33-15, 57-41, 79-73, 104-98.

– Rappler.com 

MANILA, Philippines – The Centro Escolar University Scorpions will try to live up to the hype when they tackle the Olivarez College Sea Lions in the Universities and Colleges Basketball League (UCBL) inaugurals on Thursday, September 6, at the Olivarez Gym in Sucat, Paranaque.

The Scorpions, to be handled by multititled coach Derrick Pumaren, have been installed as the team to beat with a roster good enough to compete in the PBA D-League. They will tangle with the Sea Lions, to be mentored by Myk Saguiguit, at 1 pm following the opening rites starting at noon.

Newcomer Philippine Christian University-Dasmariñas battles Lyceum of the Philippines University-Batangas at 3 pm as the UCBL starts its third season.

The PCU-Dasmariñas Dolphins will be coached by Gual Garcia while LPU Batangas Pirates will be handled by Gie Ludovice.

On Monday, Diliman College, to be handled by many time champion coach Rensy Bajas, meets another newcomer, St. Joseph College of Bulacan, to be steered by Noel Leguin, at noon.

The Dolphins collide with the Technological Insitute of the Philippines Engineers, mentored by Potit de Vera, at 2 pm. Key players of TIP were included in the Marinerong Pilipino lineup in the PBA D-league.

The Diliman Blue Dragons defended their crown in the UiTM basketball tournament in Selangor, Malaysia, this year and are slight picks over the SJCB Taurus of Sta. Maria, Bulacan.

This year's UCBL sponsors are Hapee toothpaste, MaxSell Power Tools, Gerry's Grill, Cafe France and Tanduay Athletics.

UCBL games will be telecast on Aksyon TV every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 8 pm to 10 pm and Fridays from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm.

According to Patricia Bermudez-Hizon, head of TV5 sports, members of their Jakarta Asia Games coverage team will also handle the UCBL coverage.

All the coaches and some of their players were present in Monday's press conference presided by UCBL president Franklin Evidente.

Also around were tournament director Horacio Lim, UCBL director Bernard Yang and marketing manager Carmelo Navarro.

Pumaren, boasting over 30 years coaching experience, said he still has the fire to coach and will step on the plate and face the challenge of competing against younger coaches.

Defending champion Colegio de San Lorenzo took a break this season along with University of Batangas and Bulacan State University. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Greg Slaughter's FIBA eligibility still hangs in the balance but he believes there is a high chance the decision could go in his favor. 

The Filipino-American center is hoping to play as a local – and not as a naturalized player – when Gilas Pilipinas sees action in the fourth window of the 2019 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers this month. 

"So far, it's pretty positive from what the management is telling me," Slaughter told reporters after Barangay Ginebra's 104-98 Governors' Cup win over NorthPort on September 5. 

If Slaughter is cleared by FIBA to suit up for Gilas as a local, it would give national team head coach Yeng Guiao the luxury to only choose between Christian Standhardinger and Stanley Pringle as the naturalized player. 

But if not, the 7-footer needs to fight for his spot with Standhardinger and Pringle as FIBA only allows one naturalized player for each country. (READ: No final Gilas lineup yet with Slaughter's FIBA eligibility unclear)

"We're just getting all the documents to FIBA and we're just waiting on their decision," he said. 

Slaughter drew gasps when he twisted his ankle late in the fourth quarter against the Batang Pier after a bad fall and did not return on the court. 

But Gin Kings head coach Tim Cone bared his prized cog didn't suffer major injuries. 

"They told me [Greg] could've come back into the game, so that's a good indication that it wasn't as bad as it might have looked. But I didn't want him hobbling down last two minutes of the game. So I decided to just let him sit," he said. 

"I hope he'll be fine for the national team." – Rappler.com 

MANILA, Philippines – When La Salle Green Archers team captain Kib Montalbo speaks, his teammates listen. And for good reason.

Montalbo, a star in high school in Bacolod, has been at La Salle since 2013. In UAAP Season 81, which commences in a few days, he'll enter his final season of playing eligibility, which will also mark the starting point of his final months with La Salle.

"It's kinda mixed emotions. I'm happy to be here in my last year then it's kinda sad for me, cause it's my last playing year at La Salle," he told Rappler.

"Syempre (of course) every year I want to play my heart out, I'm giving it my best, everything that I can for the school."

Montalbo won a UAAP title in his rookie season (2013) but played minimal minutes. After getting more action in his second year, his third season was delayed due to a torn ACL injury he suffered in the offseason.

The guy who's now known as "Man of Steal" returned a better player in 2016, helping the Green Archers win a title against Ateneo while establishing himself as a premier defender in the collegiate league.

But a year later, the Eagles exacted revenge against the Archers in Montalbo's first year as captain.

"We got beaten last year by heartbreak. Syempre (of course), we feel motivated to bounce back this season and we're approaching the games one game at a time," he said.

"Our goal is to win the championship pa rin kahit ano mangyari (no matter what happens)," he later added.

Montalbo admits that as the guiding voice of La Salle, there is expectations to deal with which can become challenging. 

"Syempre (Of course) the pressure is always there. You may be the leader or not, the pressure will always be there," he said. "Maybe it's how I handle pressure. I just keep calm, doing my usual stuff, my routine, and just pray to God that he'll guide me on the way."

Another interesting fact about Montalbo's time at La Salle is that he's been under four coaches: Gee Abanilla, Juno Sauler, Aldin Ayo, and now, Louie Gonzales. He says all of them have similar traits, but when asked how his latest head coach differs from the rest, he had this to say:

"Coach Louie 'yung strength talaga (his strength) is the discipline he instills in us, not just on the court but also off the court," said Montalbo.

"We're one team, we're one family here."

Like his teammates, Montalbo has heard talks of La Salle possibly struggling this season due to the losses the team has suffered.

Aside from the departure of Ayo, La Salle also lost reigning MVP Ben Mbala and the Rivero brothers.

Some have gone to say that the Green Archers might miss the Final Four, but Montalbo doesn't buy into that.

"People are doubting us. Like okay, they doubt us. We'll give you the benefit of the doubt. We'll just go out there and prove them wrong." – Rappler.com

NEW YORK, United States – Kei Nishikori and Naomi Osaka made history at the US Open on Wednesday, September 5, when they became the first Japanese man and woman to reach the semifinals at the same Grand Slam.

Nishikori reached the last four of the men's singles with a 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7/5), 4-6, 6-4 victory over Marin Cilic – the man who beat him in the 2014 final.

Earlier, Osaka defeated Lesia Tsurenko 6-1, 6-1 in the last eight, admitting she was "freaking out" inside.

"The quarters was sort of my mental goal, every time I played a Grand Slam," said Osaka.

"And after I went into the quarters, I kind of want to keep going, so I feel like I have to be focused again and keep trying really hard."

Nishikori will be playing in his third US Open semifinal after similar runs in 2014 and 2016.

The 29-year-old has also reached the quarterfinals of the three other Slams including Wimbledon this year, the first Japanese man to do so in 23 years.

"It's great to see," said Nishikori who missed the 2017 US Open due to injury.

"Naomi's doing well, because she has won a Masters (Indian Wells). I think she can win a title now.

"It's a big chance for her."

Freaking out

Osaka wasn't born when compatriot Kimiko Date made the Wimbledon semifinals in 1996, but now the 20-year-old has the opportunity to go one better by reaching a maiden Grand Slam final.

"It really means a lot to get to the semis," said Osaka whose post-match, on-court interview endeared her further to a growing legion of fans.

Osaka had reached the Australian Open last 16 in January in her previous best run at the majors.

She had also captured the prestigious Indian Wells title in March and defeated Serena Williams in Miami.

Osaka celebrated her win calmly and cooly unlike the floods of tears which greeted her last-16 victory over Aryna Sabalenka.

"I cried a lot last time and there were lots of people making fun of me. So this time I went straight to the net.

"I was freaking out inside and my whole body was shaking but overall I am most proud of not breaking a racket." 

Osaka, the daughter of a Japanese mother and Haitian father, said she enjoyed playing in the blistering heat of New York which has been such a talking point of the tournament.

"I really don't think it's that hot, sorry. I'm used to Florida heat. I like sweating."

Born in Japan

Before Nishikori, only Shuzo Matsuoka had made the last eight in men's singles in a major at Wimbledon in 1995.

Date also made the women's last eight the same year in Wimbledon and the semifinals the following year.

Date was also a semifinalist at Roland Garros in 1995.

Until Osaka's run this year, the best New York performance by a Japanese woman was 2004 when Shinobu Asagoe reached the quarterfinals.

"Well, it definitely means a lot for me, and I always thought if I were to win a Grand Slam, the first one I'd want to win is the US Open, because I have grown up here," said Osaka, who was born in Japan but has lived most of her life in the United States.

"Then my grandparents can come and watch. I think it would be really cool."

Next up for Nishikori is a clash against either two-time champion and former world number one Novak Djokovic or John Millman, the Australian who stunned Roger Federer in the fourth round.

Osaka faces either US 14th seed Madison Keys, the runner-up in 2017 or Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro. – Rappler.com 

MANILA, Philippines – There’s no denying the talent that FEU Tamaraws veteran Arvin Tolentino has. After all, it’s not every day you see a big man in the UAAP who can bang inside, stretch the floor, create plays out of scratch, and pull down rebounds.

But there have been times where observers have pointed out that Tolentino has the habit of going through the motions instead of aggressively making his presence known in the game.

That’s something he wants to change entering Season 81.

“Sa laro, feeling ko kulang ako sa intensity. Yun yung kind of person ako – masayahin – but I think now yung Mamba mentality, Westbrook mentality, gusto ko i-apply ngayon,” Tolentino told Rappler.

(During games, I feel like I lack intensity. That’s the kind of person I am, happy, but I think now I want to apply the Mamba and Westbrook mentality.)

Mamba mentality, of course, is in reference to NBA legend Kobe Bryant, while Russell Westbrook is an NBA MVP. Both players are known for their intense and relentless approach to the game.

After spending the first two season of his career with Ateneo, Tolentino shifted to FEU and played his first season with the Tamaraws in 2017 after completing his mandated one-year residency for transferring. 

Tolentino showed glimpses of eventually becoming a leading man for a team, but in order to get to that point, he first has to improve on his individual tendencies.

That’s exactly what he’s done.

“I worked on my conditioning. Trying really, really hard ngayon magpalakas nang katawan, and then feeling ko I have to change myself,” he said. 

(I’m trying really hard to strengthen my body.)

Tolentino is part of a veteran-laden FEU team that’s expected to contend for a UAAP championship. With only two rookies in their roster, the Tamaraws have as good a chance as anyone – if not the best – to usurp Ateneo from the UAAP throne.

The Tams even pushed the Blue Eagles to the limit in last season’s Final Four by forcing a do-or-die match where they led late in the fourth period and came one stop away from making the finals.

Unfortunately for them, Ateneo pulled through in crunch time.

“Lahat naman kami nag e-expect kami na makapasok kami sa finals ngayon, kasi it’s been three years now nung last nag championship ang FEU and after nun, laging Final Four, laging semis, laging nasasayang yun,” said Tolentino.

(We’re all expecting to make the finals because it’s been three years since FEU last won a title. Since then, it’s just been the Final Four.)

He also shared that he’s willing to do whatever it takes for FEU to reach its goal, even if that means asking for the ball late in tight situations.

“Yung self-confidence naman, laging nasa akin. Hindi naman mawawala sa akin, diba? I can’t say naman na if kung crucial yung game, I have to get the ball every time. Depends pa rin sino maganda yung laro, kung sino maganda yung dinedeliver,” he said. 

“Kung nangyari yun na ako yung ganon, I feel like makakapag deliver din ako. I’m going to do my best.”

(I always have self-confidence. That won’t go away, right? I can’t say that if the game is crucial, I have to get the ball every time. It depends who’s playing well, who’s delivering. If it happens to be me, I feel like I’ll be able to deliver.)

That thought should have FEU fans excited for what’s to come over the next few months.

The Tamaraws open their Season 81 campaign against La Salle on Sunday, September 9. – Rappler.com

NEW YORK, United States – Two-time champion Novak Djokovic ended John Millman's fairytale US Open run on Wednesday, September 5, beating the 55th-ranked Australian in straight sets to book a semifinal clash with Kei Nishikori.

The Serbian star, who ended a 54-week title drought with his 13th Grand Slam title at Wimbledon, defeated the tenacious Aussie 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 to reach his 11th US Open semifinal in his last 11 appearances.

He lifted the trophy in 2011 and 2015.

Nishikori, the 21st seed, advanced with a 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7/5), 4-6, 6-4 victory over Marin Cilic – the man who beat him in the 2014 final.

Millman, who stunned five-time champion Roger Federer in the fourth round, kept Djokovic running – and was kept running himself – for 2 hours 49 minutes on another hot, humid night on Arthur Ashe Stadium.

"You survive on the court then thrive with a win," said Djokovic, who converted just four of his 20 break points and made 53 unforced errors before he was finally able to accomplish what Federer couldn't in seeing off Millman.

"Very tested," said Djokovic, who admitted that like many he was surprised to find himself facing Millman, not Federer, across the net.

"But Millman is the kind of a player that makes you miss the balls, makes you win the point, earn the point.

"He doesn't miss a lot himself, so he just runs left, right, gets a lot of balls. Tactically, you've got to find the right balance between being patient but constructive in the point, but at the same time, be aggressive and take the chance when you have a shorter ball. It's easier said than done."

It was clear that it could be a long night when the players battled for more than 15 minutes in the sixth game of the opening set, Millman saving four break points.

The Aussie saved another four in the opening game of the second set and as the duel continued both players were clearly feeling the effects of long, entertaining rallies.

Millman, his clothes soaked, made the unorthodox request to go change after the fourth game of the second set – Djokovic agreeing.

"He was apologizing he felt very sorry that he has to leave the court and change. I said, 'Man, go ahead.'

"I needed that rest," said Djokovic, who finally gained the decisive break in the penultimate game of the final set then served it out at love.

"I gave it a crack," said the 29-year-old Millman, who has battled a litany of injuries in his career.

"I definitely left it all out there today and pulled up a bit short. Novak's a champion. He's played a lot of Grand Slams and he knows how to win them."

Japan's Nishikori, who missed last year's US Open after a season-ending wrist injury, joined compatriot Naomi Osaka in reaching the semis – the first time that a Japanese man and woman have reached the last four in the same Grand Slam. (READ: US Open 2018: Japanese Nishikori, Osaka make history)

Nishikori goes the distance 

Nishikori stunned then-world number one Djokovic in the semifinals in 2014 to become the first man from an Asian country to reach the championship match of a major.

But he hasn't returned to a Grand Slam final since, falling in the US Open semis in 2016.

Against Cilic he labored for 4 hours and 8 minutes.

"I don't know why but it's always a battle with Marin," said Nishikori, who stretched his career record over the seventh-seeded Croatian to 9-6.

Nishikori appeared to be in control of the fifth set with a break for a 3-1 lead.

He had two game points for a 5-2 lead but a double fault and a backhand wide opened the door for Cilic, who stormed through, shouting "Got it!" when he secured the break to narrow the gap to 4-3.

But Nishikori broke Cilic in the final game, capturing the match with a blistering service return.

"I try to fight every point," said Nishikori, who boasts an impressive record in decisive sets.

"Especially in the end I really focus on every point," he said but added: "I wish I don't go to five sets every time." – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Just one defensive stop. That was all the FEU Tamaraws needed to make it back to the UAAP Finals. That was all the proud basketball team needed to send its rival, Ateneo, to an early and disappointing exit from the UAAP men’s basketball tournament.

One stop.

But sometimes, the game is cruel.

Ahead by 3, 75-72, with 11 seconds remaining in the do-or-die contest against the Blue Eagles in their Final Four series last season, the Tamaraws allowed Ateneo big Isaac Go to drill a 3-pointer that eventually sent the game to overtime.

It was in the extra period where Ateneo, highlighted by Go’s clutch shot as he fell to the floor, put an end to FEU’s title aspirations.

Entering Season 81 this week, the veteran-laden Tamaraws know they have unfinished business to attend to. Their mission begins with a matchup against another rival, La Salle, on the Sunday of opening weekend.

Familiar names

FEU has only two new faces in LJ Gonzales and Clifford Jopia. The departure of steady players Ron Dennison and Jojo Trinidad will hurt, but coach Olsen Racela’s team has more than enough to contend for a UAAP championship.

Returning are key players Arvin Tolentino, Ken Tuffin, Hubert Cani, Jasper Parker, Prinze Orizu, Achie Iñigo and Richard Escoto.

With a lineup consisting of guys who know what it takes to compete at the highest level of college hoops, the Tams are eager to use last season’s defeat as motivation for retribution.

Find out more in the video above. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Even before the UAAP Season 81 has tipped off, the drummers of the UP Pep Squad have already started to make some noise.

Using a new UAAP drum rule – which has recently been revised – as a launching point, the Nowhere To Go But UP (NTGBUP) Foundation posted a video encouraging people to speak up on current issues. The video has since gained traction, garnering over 98,000 views as of writing.

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“This time around, we veered away from the usual hype videos to kick off the UAAP season,” Victor Reyes, one of the video’s directors, explained on a Facebook post.

“An exchange of text messages last Thursday with our director Joyce Torrecampo set the wheels in motion. We wanted to communicate something more relevant and urgent. With the UAAP drummers’ plight as a handle, the message to speak up for your rights and principles was hatched.”

“Many issues hound our student athletes, especially those that are hidden from public scrutiny,” he continued. "Keeping silent will not solve them. Take a stand.”

Indeed, students took a stand, at least in the initially proposed UAAP drum rule, which limits cheering squads to two bass drums and one snare drum in game venues – down from the usual five basses and two snares.

Fans of the member universities took to social media to support the drummers and protest the new rule.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">During live UAAP games, we&#39;ve always got you, but in a situation like this, YOU&#39;VE GOT US. That&#39;s for sure. <a href="https://twitter.com/WeAreUERD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WeAreUERD</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AS_Drummers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AS_Drummers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/audyo_official?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@audyo_official</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/feudrummers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@feudrummers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NUPD_official?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NUPD_official</a><a href="https://twitter.com/TheUSTYJ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheUSTYJ</a> UP Pep Squad Drummers, Ateneo Blue Babble Battalion<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithTheUAAPDrummers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithTheUAAPDrummers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAAPSeason81?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAAPSeason81</a> <a href="https://t.co/VWyXpFRWXf">pic.twitter.com/VWyXpFRWXf</a></p>&mdash; Denver Lachica (@denverthegr8) <a href="https://twitter.com/denverthegr8/status/1034422150491303939?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The University Student Council is one with the UAAP Drummers, especially our UE Red Drummers, in their fight against the movement to minimize the drummers present during games. <a href="https://t.co/q1uviX8Wev">pic.twitter.com/q1uviX8Wev</a></p>&mdash; University of the East - Manila (USC) (@UEUSC) <a href="https://twitter.com/UEUSC/status/1034321272207863808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">UAAP Culture is rooting for your school with so much pride and honor by shouting your loudest cheers along with the crowd, pep, and drummers. UAAP hype wont be the same if you’ll take away the excitement of every game brought by the drums and cheers. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StandWithTheUAAPDrummers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StandWithTheUAAPDrummers</a></p>&mdash; Jeff C-137 (@jeffjerardcanda) <a href="https://twitter.com/jeffjerardcanda/status/1033576400215654400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Hours before the NTGBUP Foundation posted its video, the UAAP did listen by tweaking the initial rule and allowing four basses and two snares per school in each game. Goes to show that it does pay to make noise and speak up.  – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines –  The Letran Knights got off to an emotional start to their second-round campaign but still managed to rout the Arellano Chiefs, 99-82, in the NCAA Season 94 men’s basketball tournament at the FilOil Flying V Centre on Thursday, September 6.

The Knights came into the game with heavy hearts as key cog Jerrick Balanza was recently diagnosed with a brain tumor. The squad will miss him for the rest of the season as the forward is scheduled for immediate surgery. 

But still, the Knights pressed on in his absence with Bong Quinto, Larry Muyang and JP Calvo taking charge. 

Letran clinched a 10-point lead, 85-75, with 4:30 minutes left in the 4th off a triple from reserve guard Bonbon Batiller.

The Chiefs tried to make a run, but triple-double man Quinto’s post game and facilitating were too good down the stretch as the Knights charged away for good.

Quinto was 2 rebounds shy of a third straight triple-double, but still tallied an impressive 26-point, 12-assist,  8-rebound output.

Fellow big man Muyang dropped 23 points and 7 boards while graduating guard Calvo chipped in 20 points with 5 assists.

The Chiefs were led by Michael Canete and Archie Concepcion, who scored 17 apiece. Rence Alcoriza and Ian Alban added 12 apiece in the losing effort.

Blazers down Altas 

In the first game, the playoff-hunting St. Benilde Blazers turned back the Perpetual Help Altas, 91-87.

Yankie Haruna led the Blazer charge anew with 19 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals and a block off the bench.

James Pasturan, Unique Naboa and Justin Gutang all scored in double digits and combined for 44 points in the balanced effort.

Gutang was left open in the corner off the inbound pass and promptly drained his third long bomb of the day for the 87-83 separation with 36.2 seconds left in regulation.

Perpetual managed to score 4 points from there but lead guard Naboa calmly sank his free throws off the penalty foul to regain the two-possession separation.

On the other end, AJ Coronel flung a well-defended desperation triple, which clanked off as time expired.

Meanwhile the Altas lost their third straight game as hotshot guard Edgar Charcos sat out for the second time due to injury.

Prince Eze had to carry an even heavier load and finished with a game-high 36 points, 17 boards and 5 blocks in 39 out of 40 minutes played. Rookie Jielo Razon chipped in 18 markers and 8 boards.

The Scores

First Game

CSB 91 – Haruna 19, Pasturan 17, Naboa 14, Gutang 13, Nayve 7, Young 7, Leutcheu 5, Belgica 4, Carlos 3, Velasco 2, Pagulayan 0.

Perpetual 87 – Eze 36, Razon 18, Peralta 8, Aurin 7, Cuevas 7, Coronel 6, Tamayo 3, Mangalino 2, Pasia 0.

Quarters: 17-20, 49-43, 68-62, 91-87.

Second Game

Letran 99 – Quinto 26, Muyang 23, Calvo 20, Batiller 11, Fajarito 9, Ambohot 5, Taladua 4, Agbong 1, Banez 0, Celis 0, Mandreza 0, Pambid 0, Yu 0. 

Arellano 82 – Canete 17, Concepcion 17, Alban 12, Alcoriza 12, Villoria 10, Dela Cruz 8, Segura 4, Sera Josef 2, Bayla 0, Codinera 0, Ongolo Ongolo 0, Sacramento 0, Santos 0. 

Quarters: 22-17, 44-44, 65-58, 99-82.

STANDINGS 

Lyceum 10-0

San Beda 9-1

CSB 7-3

Letran 7-3

Perpetual 5-5

Arellano 4-6

Mapua 2-7

EAC 2-7

JRU 2-8

San Sebastian 1-9

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Basketball fans' best wish has been granted as UAAP Season 81 host National University confirmed that Golden State Warriors star Steph Curry will grace the opening ceremony on Saturday, September 8 at Mall of Asia Arena. 

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Curry will be joined by a star-studded UAAP opening lineup which includes Korean pop star Minzy of the now defunct 2NE1. Local celebrities James Reid and Sponge Cola will also be entertaining the crowd in the grand opening starting at 12 noon. 

The two-time NBA MVP returns to Manila for the first time since 2015 in an Under Armour tour to promote his Curry 5 signature basketball shoe.

We wonder if the three-time NBA champion would stay on to watch the University of the Philippines and University of East kick off the men's basketball action at 2pm. Now that would be a sure treat for some of the country's top collegiate players. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Letran Knights had everything going great for them in the first round of the NCAA Season 94.

They held a 6-3 record, tied with the St. Benilde Blazers for third place. Team captain Bong Quinto ended the round on fire with not one, but two straight triple-doubles. Prior to Quinto’s eruption, they gave a legitimate scare to the defending champion and bitter rival San Beda Red Lions, which ultimately ended in a 76-80 overtime loss.

But before their second-round opener against the Arellano Chiefs, the Knights received terrible news seemingly out of nowhere.

Key rotation man Jerrick Balanza was ruled out for the entire season after getting diagnosed with a brain tumor that required immediate surgery. Just like that, their string of good fortune was over.

However, the Knights fought back in a big way, drubbing the playoff-hunting Arellano Chiefs, 99-82, for Balanza, who is also celebrating his 22nd birthday on Thursday, September 6.

After the game, the do-it-all big man Quinto – who wore Balanza’s jersey during the warmups – shared that the ailing forward's absence only motivated them more to push for their first playoff appearance since their championship win in 2015.

“Para sa akin, mabigat yung pagpasok namin ng second round kasi unang-una wala si Jerrick,” he told reporters. “Pero ang importante dito yung kalusugan niya eh. Di na namin iniisip yung wala siya sa court. Naging dagdag encouragement, motivation para maglaro kami as a team.”

(For me, our entry to the second round was heavy because first of all, we don’t have Jerrick. But what’s important here is his health. We’re not even thinking that he’s not on the court. It just added encouragement and motivation for us to play as a team.)

Head coach Jeff Napa likewise focused on the task at hand, but still kept Balanza in his thoughts.

“Yung panalong to siyempre, malaking bagay para sa amin,” he said. “At least, maso-solidify namin yung ranking namin. Di kami maiiwan nung dalawang nasa taas (Lyceum and San Beda). Yun talaga yung main purpose namin dito.”

“Yung game na ‘to siyempre, dine-dedicate namin kay Jerrick na birthday niya ngayon,” he continued.

(This win is big for us. At least, we solidified our rankings and we won’t be left out by the teams on top. That’s really our main purpose here. Of course, we dedicate this game to Jerrick, who’s celebrating his birthday today.)

Indeed, Balanza made up for his absence on the court by being the team’s biggest cheerleader off it.

{source}

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Let&#39;s go boys! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArribaLetran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArribaLetran</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NCAASeason94?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NCAASeason94</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GalingNCAA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GalingNCAA</a></p>&mdash; Jerrick Balanza (@Iamjerrick07) <a href="https://twitter.com/Iamjerrick07/status/1037615095101026304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

{/source}

He also penned a letter explaining his situation and thanking the school and his supporters:

Arriba to my fellow Letranites and to all our friends and supporters!

It is with a heavy heart that I share with you this news: Recently, I have been diagnosed with a brain tumor and will have to undergo surgery as soon as possible.

This doubly saddens me because I will no longer be able to continue playing for the Knights, this NCAA Season 94.

I am very thankful for the support of my school – the Dominican priests, the lay officials, and the people who have showed love and care, including those on social media. It motivates me to keep faith, to be brave, to overcome this current challenge in my life.

I am filled with the Arriba Spirit: raising my prayers to God, asking Him to raise my body and soul in healing, and lifting the morale of our Letran community. As our coaches always say: Never give up! Never give in!

I am grateful for those who are helping me, spiritually, financially, morally. My only request is for everyone – especially my fellow Letranites – to pray for me, to pray with me, for my healing and recovery and return to active play.

I am very happy, despite the challenges, especially to have my Alma Mater, Letran, the school whose name I have carried since high school, backing me up, encouraging me to get well, to have a speedy recovery. I will always remember this moment.

Salamat po, mahal kong Letran! Sobrang sarap maging Letranista! Siempre Arriba!

JERRICK BALANZA

#7

Forward

Letran Knights

Balanza’s surgery originally cost P800,000, but Letran found a doctor and alumnus who cut the price to P500,000. Still, this is a massive amount. For those who want to donate for his operation costs, here are the details:

Bank: BDO

Branch: BDO Intramuros

Account Name: Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Inc.

Account Number: ‎4500003129

Balanza finished Season 94 with averages of 7.4 points, 2.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists. If ever he returns to playing collegiate basketball, he will suit up for his final season as a Knight next year.

Hopefully, this will all be but a minor setback and he’ll be back on his feet in no time. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – For a four-time PBA MVP, days passing by without playing basketball must feel like years.

And gentle giant June Mar Fajardo is feeling exactly that.

That’s why the injured star made an unannounced visit to the Meralco Gym on Thursday, September 6, to watch his Gilas Pilipinas teammates practice for the fourth window of the 2019 FIBA World Cup qualifiers.

Even interim head coach Yeng Guiao got surprised, but was nonetheless appreciative of the gesture.

“We appreciate it very much,” he told reporters after practice. “He wants to play, but due to circumstances beyond his control, he cannot. But he showed his support and his desire to be with the team by just showing up. Di ko alam kung sinong nag-imbita sa kanya, di ko naman siya inimbita pero dumating siya.”

(I don’t know who invited him, I didn’t even invite him but he dropped by.)

“But that is very much appreciated,” he added. “It’s just a way of him showing he’s concerned and he would’ve loved to play for this team.”

While there is still no final lineup as the entire 16-man roster flies to Iran for their September 13 game, Guiao shared that Fajardo would have been a shoo-in. 

Meanwhile, the soft-spoken six-time Best Player of the Conference shared that he’s just itching to return to play and represent the country, which will most likely happen in the fifth window in November.

“First time kong manood ng practice,” said Fajardo, who was wearing a boot cast on his right leg. “[Pero] siyempre suporta, suporta. Part pa rin naman ako ng team na ‘to, so buo yung suporta ko.”

“Sana gumaling agad [yung injury] para makabalik na,” he added. “Nakakainis eh, pag wala kang ginagawa. Nasa bahay ka lang, nakahiga ka lang."

(It’s my first time being a spectator in practice. But of course, I’m here to support. I’m still part of this team, so they have my full support. I hope my injury heals quickly. It’s irritating when you have nothing to do. You’re just at home, laying in bed.) 

For now, until Greg Slaughter’s status as a local is finalized, Guiao and his staff are looking to bring in either San Miguel big man Christian Standhardinger or NorthPort guard Stanley Pringle as Gilas’ naturalized player.

But had Fajardo been available, then Iran’s Hamed Haddadi would have already met his match. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Manny Pacquiao is certain to fight in December, followed by a megabuck bout either late April or early May.

Against whom and where, the eight-division world champion refused to divulge Wednesday afternoon, September 5, at his office in the Philippine Senate.

“My next fight will be in December, then superfight,” Pacquiao told sportswriters.

Among those being mentioned as potential foes for Pacquiao in December are British rivals Amir Khan and Kell Brook in the United Kingdom.

Granting, of course, that Khan, a former sparring partner of Pacquiao, gets past Samuel Vargas at Birmingham Arena on Saturday, September 8.

Money-wise, a return bout with Floyd Mayweather Jr – who beat Pacquiao on May 2, 2015 in the highest grossing ($410 million) fight of all-time – would be the most lucrative.

Also considered in the superstar category are Vasyl Lomachenko and Terrence Crawford, both of whom are under Top Rank of Bob Arum.

Other venues being mentioned for Pacquiao's next fight are Dubai, Macau, and the USA.

The unbeaten Crawford (33-0 with 24 knockouts) stopped Australian Jeff Horn in nine rounds on March 14 to become the World Boxing Organization welterweight champion.

Horn gained instant fame when he roughed up and wrested the WBO title from Pacquiao in Melbourne in 2017.

A major hitch in Lomachenko fighting Pacquiao is the weight, with the Ukrainian holding court in the super lightweight division.

Although Pacquiao claims he can still make 135 pounds, Pacquiao-Lomachenko, if ever, is most likely to be fought at a catchweight of a little over 140 lbs

The ring stock of Pacquiao, who earlier said he'll begin training in October, rose again after he stopped, and eventually retired Argentine Wold Boxing Council champion Lucas Matthysse in seven rounds in Kuala Lumpur on July 14.

It was Pacquiao's first knockout in nine years, erasing notions that he's fight career is over. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Azkals settled for a draw against familiar foe Bahrain, 1-1, in a FIFA international friendly match on Friday, September 7 at the Bahrain National Stadium in Riffa. 

Phil Younghusband opened the scoreline by doing damage from the spot again in the 49th minute for his 51st international goal for the Philippines. 

Momentum slightly shifted when defender Carlos de Murga went down in the 77th minute. Bahrain had a chance in the 86th minute when goalkeeper Neil Etheridge went out of line but fumbled with the save, but De Murga was there on the spot to clear the header.

Bahrain made a last ditch attack at death, capitalizing on an open goal to level the match right before the final whistle blew. This still betters the result of their last friendly meeting in 2016 where the Philippines lost 1-3 to the host country. 

This is the start to the Philippine national men's football team's preparations for their major tournaments – the 2018 Suzuki Cup and the 2019 Asian Cup in United Arab Emirates. 

Scott Cooper made his debut as the Azkals head coach, while midfielder Stephan Schrock, Amani Aguinaldo and Luke Woodland made their return to the team. 

In the scoreless first half, the Nationals had an early chance in the 16th minute thanks to Manny Ott's free kick which was punched out for a corner, paving the way for him to almost score with a corner kick. 

Bahrain also gave a slight scare in the 37th minute with a counterattack that led to host team creating a chance for Rashid Jamal to fire at the edge of the box, but it sailed just wide. – Rappler.com

LOS ANGELES, United States – Donnie Nietes, who hasn't lost a fight in 14 years, tries to become a world champion in his fourth different weight class Saturday, September 8, when he faces fellow Filipino Aston Palicte.

Nietes will risk his 33-fight unbeaten streak against hard-hitting 27-year-old Palicte for the vacant World Boxing Organization super flyweight title at The Forum in Inglewood, California.

Nietes, 41-1 with 4 draws and 23 knockouts, has 30 wins and 3 draws since suffering his only loss, a split-decision defeat to Indonesia's Angky Angkotta in Jakarta in September 2004.

The 36-year-old right-hander became the WBO world minimumweight champion in 2007, the WBO world light flyweight champion in 2011 and the International Boxing Federation world flyweight champion in April 2017.

Now he moves up to give the larger Palicte, 24-2 with 20 knockouts, his first world title chance with hope of joining the greatest legends in Filipino boxing, Manny Pacquiao and Nonito Donaire.

"This fight represents a lot to me as I will be seeking my fourth world championship in a fourth different weight division," Nietes said. "Winning the world title will put me at the level of Manny Pacquiao and Nonito Donaire and will add worldwide recognition to my career."

Pacquiao is the only man to win world titles in eight weight categories in boxing history. Donaire won titles in four weight classes starting at flyweight in 2007 through featherweight in 2014. – Rappler.com

NEW YORK, United States – Six-time champion Serena Williams roared into her ninth US Open final on Thursday, September 6, with an emphatic 6-3, 6-0 victory over Anastasija Sevastova.

Williams, seeded 17th as she seeks to add to her 23 Grand Slam titles for the first time since the birth of her daughter Olympia on September 1 last year, needed just 66 minutes to dispatch the 19th-seeded Latvian, who was playing in her first Grand Slam semi-final.

"It's honestly really incredible," she said of reaching a second Grand Slam final of the year, after a runner-up finish at Wimbledon.

"A year ago I was fighting for my life in the hospital after I had the baby," added Williams, who battled life threatening blood clots after a difficult delivery. 

"Every time I step out on this court I'm so grateful that I have the opportunity to play this sport.

"To come this far so fast .... I'm really looking forward to the possibilities.

Williams will vie for the crown on Saturday versus Japan's Naomi Osaka, who grabbed a slice of tennis history after beating Madison Keys 6-2, 6-4 in their own semifinal duel to become the first Japanese woman to reach a Grand Slam final.

The 20-year-old Osaka,  the 20th seed based in Florida, was also in a first Slam semifinal – part of a history-making Japanese double along with men's semifinalist Kei Nishikori.

'Don't double fault' 

Osaka admitted she was driven by the idea of facing Williams.

Asked how she managed to save all 13 break points she faced, Osaka said: "I was just thinking I really want to play Serena." 

Asked to elaborate, Osaka seemed stunned.

"Because she's Serena – what do you mean!" said Osaka.

"It still feels really weird because I've never beaten Madison before," she said. "I'm just glad I was able to get through this match." 

Her overriding aim as she served for the match: "Don't double fault".

Osaka won her only prior meeting with Williams, in the first round at Miami in March – the American star's second tournament since giving birth.

Aggressive game plan

As in her semifinal win over Karolina Pliskova, Williams took a while to warm up, dropping her serve in the opening game.

But she was back on terms after a break for 2-2, giving herself a chance with a stinging passing shot and getting the break when Sevastova's attempt at a drop shot from deep in the court failed to make it over the net.

From there Williams was on the attack, winning 24 of 28 points at the net. After breaking again for a 4-2 lead she produced a convincing hold that featured the first of her four aces.

Serving for the first set she opened with a 120 mph (193 km/h) ace and Sevastova was out of answers.

"I've been working hard on my volleys," Williams said of her aggressive game plan. "I have won a few doubles championships so I know how to volley.

"I just usually come in to shake hands," she quipped. "I wanted to try something different today and it worked in my favor."

Sevastova, who beat defending champion Sloane Stephens to reach the last four, was left regretting "some stupid games from me that I lost."

"How the first set went it affected me in the second a little bit," she said. "I shouldn't have gotten broken twice in the first set – I had game points in both games."

Once Williams was in front, Sevastova said, there was no stopping her.

"When she's in front it's tough to play," she said. "I tried on her games, but she served well – when somebody serves 123 miles per hour ace there's not much you can do." – Rappler.com

MUNICH, Germany –  Filipino-French goalkeeper Alphonse Areola spared his side’s blushes with a string of fine second-half saves as France battled to a scoreless draw with Germany in their UEFA Nations League opener on Thursday, September 6.

While France took to the field for the first time as newly-crowned world champions, Germany was looking to rebuild after a disastrous World Cup campaign.

"It was a good first step today. It was about showing people that we aren’t just pulling on the national team shirt as if it were a training bib," Thomas Mueller told ZDF.

"It was about regaining the values and the credit that we have earned over the last ten years, and which we lost at the World Cup."

After a conservative first-half performance, Germany upped the ante in the final 30 minutes of the game, but were repeatedly denied by Areola, France’s third-choice goalkeeper standing in for the injured Hugo Lloris and Steve Mandanda.

"We had three or four good chances which Areola saved really well," Germany defender Mats Hummels said.

"We wanted to focus more on defensive stability, and we had a good balance today between defence and attack."

After a painful World Cup post-mortem, Joachim Loew had promised a greater focus on defensive stability, and the Germany coach would have been happy after 20 minutes as his side kept France away from goal at the Allianz Arena.

"Today was about staying stable at the back and waiting for the chances to come at the other end," Loew told ZDF. "I think that worked out well."

Germany, though, initially enjoyed little success at the other end. Timo Werner, who looked dangerous switching between the left and right flanks early on, was the first player from either side to unleash a shot, as he tested Areola on 17 minutes.

Yet it was France who had the best chance of the first half, ten minutes before half-time, as an Olivier Giroud header sent Manuel Neuer scrambling across his goal to beat the ball away.

France continued to threaten after the break, Antoine Griezmann forcing one save from Neuer in the 49th minute, and another in the 64th.

As the rain began to fall heavily on Munich, the final half hour belonged to Germany, who, urged on by the home crowd, created several chances but were repeatedly denied by the Paris Saint-Germain and France goalkeeper.

First, Thomas Mueller linked up elegantly with Marco Reus, whose curling shot was pushed away by a flying Areola.

The French goalkeeper was called into action again moments later, denying a ferocious shot from Mats Hummels as Germany swept forward on the break.

There was no time for Areola to catch his breath, however. Having turned Mueller’s looping ball over the bar, the PSG number one then pulled off a marvelous, one-handed stop from the resulting corner to deny Matthias Ginter. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – When the UST Growling Tigers open their first season under head coach Aldin Ayo against National U on Saturday, September 8, it will also mark the return of spitfire guard Renzo Subido.

A former La Salle Zobel standout, Subido sat out last year’s UAAP season in order to improve his game by joining the PBA D-League, where he starred for Marinerong Pilipino. 

But Subido returns to a Tigers team far different from the one he left. With 9 rookies lined up, UST will need the fourth-year Subido to act as leader to the young recruits, just like the way  Kevin Ferrer, Ed Daquioag, and Louie Vigil did for him in the past.

“I’m always up for the challenge. I’ve gone through a lot of experiences. I’ve played against veteran players. I’ve played with veteran players. With all the experience I had, I think I’m ready to lead this team. Also at the same time, [I’m] also learning from the rookies,” he told Rappler.

Subido also said skipping the UAAP in 2017 helped him become a better player, but not just in terms of his abilities on the basketball court.

“I think it’s more of the experience I had that one year that I sat out last season. That was really a big thing for me, especially honing my skills. Aside from [that], it was more of the experiences of the mental part – how to look at the game, how to prepare for every game.”

UST’s coaching staff raves about Subido’s work ethic and his ability to lead his teammates. 

“Iba yung leadership ni Renzo,” said assistant coach Bonnie Garcia. "Yung time and score, when the game is on the line, siya yun eh – yung stabilizer on the court, directing traffic on the court, si Renzo ang binibigay sa amin.”

(Renzo’s leadership is different. When the game is on the line, he’s the man – the stabilizer on the court, directing traffic on the court.)

After showing glimpses of his skills in his first two seasons, Subido stood out in his junior campaign in 2016 with a 26-point outburst against UE. Although UST was one the worst team in the UAAP that year, Subido’s potential gave fans hope for the future.  

Under Ayo, who’s known for getting the best out of his combo guards, Subido should shine and take his game to another level.

“Coach Aldin is a great coach. I also had good coaches, but coach Aldin is the only one who I think gave me the chance to showcase my skills. Not only me. He gives everyone the chance to play their game,” he said.

When asked about the difference in UST’s culture between Ayo’s regime and his past coaches, Subido talked about equality within the ranks.

“I think it’s more of everyone having equal chances. I appreciate coach Aldin because he gives everyone an equal chance, even if you’re a veteran or rookie. For him, he sees everyone as equal.”

Although the Tigers would love to make it back to the Final Four this season, they know it will be a tough process. Aside from being young, UST has to deal with much improved UAAP opponents. 

That’s part of the reason why the team’s slogan this year is “Hail Mary.”

“We don’t look at the results yet. For us, we just want to play our best every game. We want to play hard every game and we just want to compete,” said Subido.

“Our goal is to get back on top, but we all know that it’s not going to be that easy, that’s why we’ve been practicing 4-5 hours every day. During the break we’ve been practicing twice a day, so we all know it’s not going to be easy but that’s our goal – to get back on top.” – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – PBA veteran PJ Simon can tell his future children and grandchildren that he once beat an NBA superstar.

Simon capitalized on a chance of a lifetime as he bested Steph Curry in the obstacle challenge finals of the two-time NBA Most Valuable Player's Under Armour Asia Tour at the Mall of Asia Arena on Friday, September 7. 

Edging teammate Mark Barroca and Singapore national team player Lavin Raj in the the elimination round, the Magnolia guard went perfect in the final round as Curry misfired on his two passes. 

{source}<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">PBA’s PJ Simon beats Steph Curry in the finals of the obstacle challenge. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SC30AsiaTour?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SC30AsiaTour</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WiredDifferent?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WiredDifferent</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/dioquinodelfin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dioquinodelfin</a> <a href="https://t.co/YOxg3WsFPx">pic.twitter.com/YOxg3WsFPx</a></p>&mdash; Rappler Sports (@RapplerSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapplerSports/status/1037976174427656192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2018</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>{/source}

Despite the win, the 38-year-old believes Curry let him win. 

"Once in a lifetime experience na makasama si Steph but pinagbigyan lang ako ni Steph," Simon said with a big grin. 

(It's a once in a lifetime experience to be with Steph, but he just allowed me to win.) 

"Actually, hindi ko na inisip na manalo basta 'yung makasama ko lang siya sa finals at sa court, makapagpa-picture, makapag-selfie, panalo na. Bonus na lang 'yun." 

(I didn't really think about winning. The fact that I was with him in the finals and in the court and I got to take a selfie with him, it was already a win for me. Actually winning is just a bonus for me.) – Rappler.com