iPh sport | The Daily Sport Newspaper

Watch EUFA champions league this season

2012-04-17T18:24:00.004+08:00

04/17

Bayern

Real Madrid

‎-2:45 PM (ET)

04/18

Chelsea

Barcelona

‎-2:45 PM (ET)

04/24

Barcelona

Chelsea

‎-2:45 PM (ET)

04/25

Real Madrid

Bayern

‎-2:45 PM (ET)

The Ring hails Donaire as world's best 1-punch KO artist

2012-03-31T09:06:00.001+08:00

source: abs-cbnnews.com

Reigning WBO super bantamweight champ Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire Jr. has been hailed by The Ring Magazine as today’s top one-punch knockout artist in boxing.

Donaire, a 4-division world champion, topped the list that includes Marcos Maidana, Juan Manuel Lopez, Wladimir Klitschko, and Sergio Martinez.

“Does his best work with a masterful left hook … Has KO’d nine of his last 12 opponents … Is so confident in his punch that he occasionally dabbles as a southpaw, switching his stance during fights … Scored 10 of his 18 career knockouts in the first three rounds,” said The Ring’s Don Stradley.

Donaire is The Ring's No. 4 pound-for-pound best boxer in the world.

Stradley pointed out Donaire’s stoppages over Vic Darchinyan and Fernando Montiel as the best examples of The Filipino Flash’s knockout prowess.

Donaire won the IBF flyweight title by knocking out cold then-undefeated Darchinyan in 2007. The victory was awarded by The Ring as 2007 "Knockout of the Year" and "Upset of the Year."

In 2011, Donaire won the WBC and WBO bantamweight titles by taking out Montiel in just two rounds. It was awarded as The Ring’s 2011 Knockout of the Year.

The Filipino Flash last fought against Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. in February when he won the WBO super bantamweight title.

He is planning to climb the featherweight ranks in a year’s time.

Meanwhile, 8-division champion Manny Pacquiao was included in The Ring's honorable mention list.

Pacquiao, The Ring's top pound-for-pound boxer, is more known for his volume punching rather than his one-punch knockout power.

Bundesliga - Schröck to join Hoffenheim

2012-03-29T15:56:00.001+08:00

1899 Hoffenheim have announced their first new signing ahead of next season. Stephan Schröck, who currently plays for Bundesliga 2 leaders SpVgg Greuther Fürth, will move to Sinsheim on a free transfer this summer after the defender put pen-to-paper on a contract lasting until 30th June 2015 with the Kraichgau outfit.

"I'm very much looking forward to the challenge at 1899, who have made a name for themselves on their way to becoming an established side in the Bundesliga," stated Schröck of his move. "I can take the next step in my career here."

Hoffenheim's head coach Markus Babbel had this to say about his first summer signing: "Stephan Schröck was a prime transfer target of mine. He has all the qualities that a modern day defender needs to have. In signing him we have gained the necessary substance and will have more alternatives in our defensive department for the future."

Philippine international on the books

The son of a Philippine mother and German father, Schröck played for DJK Schweinfurt during his early years before moving to SpVgg Greuther Fürth in 2001 as a teenager. In 2004/05 he made the leap into the first team and also represented Germany at both the U-18 and U-20 level.

However last year Schröck announced his intention to play for the Philippines and promptly went on to make his international debut on 29th June 2011 against Sri Lanka. A month later he scored his first goal during a World Cup qualifier versus Kuwait which ended in a 2-1 loss for the Philippines.

Brian Viloria can't wait to avenge loss

2012-03-24T17:18:00.000+08:00

WBO flyweight champion Brian (The Hawaiian Punch) Viloria will wait a little longer before exacting payback on Mexican nemesis Omar Niño Romero as their 12-round title fight has been reset from April 1 to April 21 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

Viloria’s manager Gary Gittelsohn predicted the third bout between the two warriors will be conclusive. “Brian is so hungry to get Niño in the ring,” he said. “We all agreed to afford Niño additional time to deal with his issues.”

Romero was fined close to $12,000 for failing a drug test after battling Viloria to a majority draw in Las Vegas in November 2006. Three months earlier, the Mexican had dethroned Viloria as WBC lightflyweight champion via a unanimous decision, also in Las Vegas. Romero never settled his obligation with the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC).

When NSAC executive director Keith Kizer learned of Viloria’s coming defense against Romero, an appeal was made to WBO president Paco Valcarcel to withhold the Mexican’s clearance as challenger until the fine is paid.

Technically, the WBO is not obliged to withhold sanction because it was not involved in the 2006 fight. But it’s holding back because of Kizer’s appeal since the WBO is actively involved in sanctioning fights in Nevada, explained Solar TV CEO Peter Chanliong who is coordinating the event with Mexico’s Zanfer Promotions, Gittelsohn and the WBO.

Gittelsohn said he was assured that Romero will pay the fine. The speculation is the fine will be deducted from his purse by Zanfer. “We’re informed that Niño will pay his delinquent fine to the NSAC and as soon as the payment is acknowledged, the WBO will sanction the fight,” he said. “We agreed to postpone the fight after receiving assurances that the fine will be paid.”

Solar Sports’ Paolo Diaz said preparations for the Ynares show are proceeding smoothly. “We’re not sure if this issue of paying the fine popped up when Niño fought (Rodel) Mayol for the WBC title and won,” he said. “In the undercard, we’re working on the IBF title eliminator between Al Sabaupan and Marvin Quintero and possibly, a defense by WBO Asia Pacific youth superflyweight champion Mark Anthony Geraldo.”

Sabaupan, 23, is ranked No. 4 and Quintero, 25, No. 6 by the IBF in the lightweight division. The top two slots are vacant and John Molina is ranked No. 3. The winner of the Sabaupan-Quintero fight will move up to No. 1. Sabaupan of Sipocot, Camarines Sur, has an 18-0-1 record, with 13 KOs, while Quintero of Tijuana, Mexico, totes a 24-3 mark, with 20 KOs. Geraldo, 20, scored a majority 12-round decision over previously unbeaten Jerwin Ancajas to wrest the WBO Asia Pacific youth crown in Cebu last week and has a 25-4-3 record, including 10 KOs.

Chanliong said because of the postponement, Zanfer may bid to stage the Sabaupan-Quintero fight in Mexico instead. “If Zanfer doesn’t push it for Mexico, we’ll make the fight our main supporting bout,” he said.

Sabaupan and Quintero are both hard-hitting 5-7 southpaws. The bout is expected to finish inside the distance as the fighters are equally heavy-handed. Sabaupan has scored three first round knockouts, including a disposal of Thai Wopichit Twins Gym for the IBF Pan Pacific lightweight title in 2010. Quintero has won his last four outings, all by KO, and his three losses came by KO.

A possible addition to the card is WBA female superbantamweight queen Jackie Nava of Tijuana. Last January, she beat Chanttall Martinez on points for the WBA crown in Tijuana. Nava, 31, has a 26-4-3 record, with 11 KOs, and is daring Fil-Am Ana (The Hurricane) Julaton to a face-off.

“Jackie is tentative,” said Diaz. “Her hand swelled up last week after training. We’ll find out her availability in a few days. We tried to make the fight against Julaton. We’ll try again.” Julaton, 31, recently lost her WBO superbantamweight title to Yesica Marcos in Argentina. If the Nava-Julaton fight can’t be arranged for the April 21 show, it will remain a possibility in a future Manila event.

The plan is for the Viloria-Romero winner to meet the survivor of tomorrow’s WBA flyweight title bout between defending champion Hernan (Tyson) Marquez of Mexico and Filipino challenger Mayol in Sonora. The unification showdown will likely be held in July, maybe in the undercard of a major promotion headlined by Juan Manuel Marquez, said Chanliong.

Donaire dominates Vazquez, gets his 4th belt

2012-02-05T13:00:00.001+08:00

source: http://espn.go.com

SAN ANTONIO -- Nonito Donaire, who has already won titles at flyweight and bantamweight, plus an interim title at junior bantamweight, won yet another piece of hardware.

"The Filipino Flash," despite a damaged left hand that was soaked in blood when his glove was removed after the fight, won a split decision against Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. to claim a vacant junior featherweight title on Saturday night at the Alamodome in the co-featured bout on the card headlined by Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.'s middleweight title defense against Marco Antonio Rubio.

"Vazquez was tougher than I expected," said Donaire, who thought the hand was broken. "I couldn't find my rhythm and I hurt my hand somewhere between the second and fourth rounds. I could only move it a little bit."

Donaire, making his debut in the 122-pound weight class, looked frustrated at times but took it to Vazquez and certainly did enough to win despite a disagreement among the judges. Levi Martinez and Don Trella both had it 117-110 for Donaire while Ruben Garcia had it 115-112 for Puerto Rico's Vazquez, the son of former three-division titlist Wilfredo Vazquez Sr. ESPN.com also had it for Donaire, 117-110.
Donaire, 29, had a big third round, sending Vazquez reeling into a corner with a combination and then rocking him with several shots while he was pinned in the corner. But Vazquez was able to punch out of the dangerous spot as they engaged in an action-packed sequence that ended when Vazquez threw a wild shot, missed and fell to the mat from his own momentum.

Although Donaire (28-1, 18 KOs) seemed in control, he also seemed to be getting frustrated that he couldn't really do much damage to Vazquez even though he was landing shots.

He was warned for a low blow in the seventh round and was clowning around in the eighth, as if to try to draw Vazquez (21-2-1, 18 KOs) into him.

Donaire finally broke through in the ninth round when he caught Vazquez, 27, with a left uppercut followed by a hard left hand that dropped Vazquez. He was up quickly, however, and Donaire wasn't able to do any more damage in the final 30 seconds of the round.

"When I knocked him down in the ninth round, that was the end of the hand," Donaire said. "I was in agony."

There is a lot of potential business for Donaire at 122 pounds and he intends to deal with it, which means potential fights with Jorge Arce, Toshiaki Nishioka and Guillermo Rigondeaux.

"I'm definitely staying at 122 for awhile," Donaire said. "There are things [trainer] Robert [Garcia] asked me to do that I couldn't do so well, so we will go back to the drawing board."

Top Rank promoter Bob Arum said the next fight for Donaire probably will be Arce, who vacated the title Donaire won to move down and claim one of the bantamweight belts Donaire had relinquished. Arce would move back up to 122 to challenge Donaire.

"Let's see what happens with his hand first," Arum said of Donaire. "That will determine everything, but depending on the timing, we want him to face Arce next."

Vazquez was bidding to regain the title he lost last May to Arce, but he had trouble with Donaire's speed.

"He's real quick," Vazquez said. "He caught me with some good punches. He surprised me by hitting me when I was off-balance. I thought I did pretty well. I was patient, but he is a great fighter."

Powerade trips Rain or Shine to earn Finals berth in PBA Philippine Cup

2012-01-18T19:38:00.000+08:00

by gmanetwork.com
update:
Powerade scored a 107-98 win over Rain or Shine to clinch the first Finals berth in the 37th PBA Philippine Cup on Wednesday at the Astrodome.

from: abscbn news

MANILA, Philippines -- Powerade's top gun Gary David said he is in peak form and ready for all defenders when his squad begins its semi-finals series against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters on Wednesday at the Cuneta Astrodome.

David, the PBA's leading scorer with 22.5 points per game, told PBA.ph that he has prepared himself for the Elasto Painters and their defensive plans against him.

"It's going to be a physical game, and I'll be ready. I anticipate what they're saying, that they'll put taller, quicker and physical defenders on me," David said.

Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao admitted that stopping David is among their top concerns, especially after he torched top-seeded B-Meg for over 30 points per game in their quarterfinals match-up.

The Elasto Painters are likely to give former Defensive Player of the Year Gabe Norwood the assignment of stopping David, with Jireh Ibanes and Ryan Arana also getting minutes.

Although he and his team have already made history with their stunning upset of B-Meg, David remains motivated and is eyeing a return to the PBA Finals, a trip he has made only once in his career.

"I made the Finals with Air21 (versus Barangay Ginebra) in 2008. It felt great, and I want to experience that again," he said.

Other players

David is Powerade's No. 1 scoring option, but he said Rain or Shine should not focus their preparations on him alone.

"I don't think it's just me against Rain or Shine. Marcio Lassiter, JV Casio and my other teammates are now also in peak form," he said.

According to David, Powerade head coach Bo Perasol has challenged the two rookies, Lassiter and Casio, to perform at a high level in order to help out their leading scorer.

"(Coach Perasol) said Rain or Shine's defense on me will open up if they do their thing," David said.

Both Lassiter and Casio have made an impact on Powerade's campaign. Lassiter is currently second among all rookies in scoring, with 16.3 points per game; he also averages 5.6 rebounds and 4.7 assists per contest.

Meanwhile, Casio has been a steady floor general, averaging 11.2 points and 6.2 assists per game.

"We're confident Marcio and Casio will rise up to the challenge," David said. "They play like grizzled veterans."

Texters look to complete comeback vs Petron

2012-01-18T19:32:00.001+08:00

by abs-cbnNEWS.com

update: tnt wins game 7 against petron score 92-91

MANILA, Philippines -- The Talk N Text Tropang Texters aim to complete a historic comeback when they face off against the Petron Blaze Boosters in Game 7 of their PBA Philippine Cup semi-finals match-up Wednesday night at the Cuneta Astrodome.

Facing a 1-3 series deficit, the Texters have roared back behind the inspired play of last season's most valuable player Jimmy Alapag, winning the next two games to tie the series at 3-all.

If they win against Petron tonight, the Texters would become only the third team in PBA history to complete a comeback from a 1-3 series deficit and win a best-of-seven series. Barangay Ginebra and Purefoods also completed that feat in 1991 and 2006, according to PBA.ph.

Alapag said the Texters will continue to defend their PBA Philippine Cup title until the final buzzer sounds.

"This is still our championship and it's ours until somebody takes it away," he said.

Meanwhile, TNT head coach Chot Reyes hopes momentum will be on the side of his squad.

"We've gotten ourselves in this position. We have to come out with the same energy and intensity to get the job done," said Reyes.

The Boosters are not giving up without a fight, however.

"We lost the last two games, pero three-all pa lang," said Petron head coach Ato Agustin. "We still have the chance. We'll work to correct our mistakes and lapses."

Hatton: Floyd will beat Pac-Man

2012-01-18T19:30:00.000+08:00

By MARK GILBERT
today from thesun.co.uk

Well this is just his prediction, lets who will win. What do you think??

RICKY HATTON has backed Floyd Mayweather to KO Manny Pacquiao — if the pair can agree terms on their proposed May showdown.

Former IBF light-welterweight champion Hatton lost to both men prior to calling time on his boxing career.

The Hitman went 10 rounds with Mayweather in 2007 before he was stopped, while Pacquiao knocked him out in the second session three years ago.

But Hatton reckons Mayweather will emerge victorious from their bout — assuming terms can be agreed for the mega showdown in Las Vegas.

He said: "I'm hearing real progress is being made making Pac-Man and Mayweather — great news!

"I fancy Mayweather. Pac nailed me as I was reckless — again!

"But Floyd was technically exceptional. I couldn't hit the f***** with a handful of confetti!"

Hatton's last appearance in the ring saw him suffer a brutal knockout at the hands of Filippino sensation Pacquiao.

He officially hung up his gloves in July last year with a career record of 45 wins and two losses.

And he confirmed has no plans to make a comeback, instead preferring to train up-and-coming fighters.

He added: "A few people have asked but no, I won't be fighting again.

"I want to get my enjoyment now from bringing someone else through.

"I won four titles at two weights, the only thing I would want to achieve is to become the No1 pound-for-pound fighter and that clearly isn't going to happen, is it?

"I gave it a go twice but that's that now."

Philippine-born NFL star to set up hospital-AFP News

2012-01-14T12:58:00.000+08:00

source AFP news

PROUDLY PINOY

Tim Tebow, one of America's hottest new sports heroes, will help pay for a children's hospital in the poverty-stricken Philippines where he was born, his charity partners said Friday.

The $3 million, 30-bed facility will open in the southern city of Davao in mid-2013, the US-based charity CURE said in a statement on its website where a video message from the Denver Broncos quarterback was also posted.

"I've always had a a special place in my heart for the country in which I was born and I'm very excited about this project," Tebow said in the message as he appealed for the public to join him in donating to the hospital's fund.

"This hospital will change the lives of thousands of children in the Philippines."

The Tebow CURE Hospital will specialise in bone disease and injuries for children, with about of a third of the young patients expected to be charity cases.

The hospital will house a "Timmyâs Playroom" to be used by children who undergo surgery.

The Tim Tebow Foundation, established in 2010, plans to build playrooms in children's hospitals around the world, and the Davao one will be the first.

CURE spokesman Matt Shandera told AFP on Friday that preparatory work was under way to build the hospital this year.

"We have people working on this project there," he said in a telephone interview from the United States.

Tebow, a devout Christian dubbed by some in the press as "God's quarterback", is known for late-game heroics leading to seemingly miraculous, come-from-behind victories for the Broncos in the National Football League.

Tebow was born in 1987 in Manila, the Philippine capital, where his Baptist parents were then serving as missionaries.

CURE, based in Philadelphia, is a faith-based charity that runs hospitals in health programmes in 20 countries for patients who are unable to afford medical care.

Azkals vs Galaxy to boost PH interest in football

2011-11-27T19:09:00.000+08:00

source abs-cbnNEWS.com

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) is gearing up for the Philippine Azkals vs LA Galaxy match on December 3.

The PFF also held its elections where Mariano “Nonong” Araneta retained the presidency.

According to Araneta, he is euphoric about the Filipinos' support for the sport.

He said the LA Galaxy versus Azkals match will boost interest in the sport, especially since football superstar David Beckham will be playing.

"There is no pressure for both teams, especially the Azkals. The team will learn a lot from LA Galaxy," said Araneta.

The Azkals are now training and preparing for the match.

The president of the Asian Football Confederation, Mr. Zhang Jilong was also present at the PFF congress.

Jilong said the Azkals have improved a lot these past few years, and he is happy the whole country is now supporting football.

FINAL RESULT: Manny Pacquiao def. Juan Manuel Marquez via Majority decision

2011-11-13T14:15:00.001+08:00

Manny Pacquiao 115-113, Manny Pacquiao 116-112, 114-114

DRAW: 114-114
Manny Pacquiao: 115-113
Manny Pacquiao: 116-112

Pacquiao v Marquez Round by Round Update:

PRE-FIGHT: Great tribute to the late great Joe Frazier before the fight. Now the singing of the National Anthems as both fighters wamr up in their locker rooms. Wow. HBO reveals that Marquez weighs more than Pacquiao tonight, coming in at 150 while Pacquiao tips the unofficial scales at 148. Juan Manuel Marquez enters the ring accompanied by a mariachi band. A smiling Manny Pacquiao again walks to the ring to Survivor's Eye of the Tiger, with the band's singer.

Round 1: This fight is underway. It's a raucous atmosphere in Las Vegas with the fans supporting Marquez, and Pacquiao lands an early left hand to Marquez's nose that causes the fans to ooh and ah. A good flurry of punches they both connect with and and then more from Pacquiao.

Round 2: After a fast-paced first round both men are a little slower early in the second, perhaps trying to avoid making the first mistake in the fight. Marquez is trying to go to Pacquiao's body, but Pacquiao doesn't seem to be feeling anything. Pacquiao is moving quickly and punching crisply. Now Marquez lands a body shot and an uppercut. Pacquiao connects with a right hook. It's a close second round.

Round 3: Marquez lands a short uppercut. Pacquiao's movement seems to be frustrating Marquez, but Pacquiao isn't landing a lot of punches -- he's more active with his footwork than he is with his hands. A hard right hook from Pacquiao connects to Marquez's temple.

Round 4: Pacquiao lands a good left hook and then backs away and makes Marquez miss. Pacquiao comes in wildly and gets off balance but Marquez can't take advantage. Marquez lands two to the body effectively. Pacquiao lands a left and Marquez lands a right, and it's another close round.

Round 5: Marquez is continuing to go to the body, but Pacquiao is mostly blocking those punches. Now Marquez lands a big right to Pacquiao's head, and that one has Pacquiao reeling. Marquez with a good left hand now. Marquez is starting to get through and hurting Pacquiao. By far the best round of the fight for Marquez.

Round 6: Pacquiao charges inside, Marquez makes him pay with a right hand counter, but then Pacquiao comes right back with a hard left of his own. A great exchange. Pacquiao lands a right hook and Marquez with a left hook.

Round 7: Marquez lands a very big right hand that backs Pacquiao up. Now another hard shot from Marquez. Pacquiao appears to have some blood around his mouth. Now Pacquiao knocks Marquez back with a shot to the head. Marquez lands a left and then Pacquiao swings and misses.

Round 8: Marquez is countering very effectively and lands a good right cross. A good right hand to the head from Marquez. Pacquiao may be a little frustrated right now because he hasn't been tested the way Marquez is testing him in a long time.

Round 9: Marquez throws a 1-2 that Pacquiao blocks, then Marquez lands one to the back of Pacquiao's head. Marquez lands a couple of good combinations. Now they're back-and-forth brawling with Marquez appearing to get the better of some exchanges, only to have Pacquiao swarm and knock Marquez off balance. Pacquiao explodes in the final seconds of the round and that may have been enough to give the round for Pacquiao.

Round 10: Both guys came out of their corners looking a little bit worn out after that incredible flurry to end the ninth round. A couple of furious exchanges now which have Pacquiao backing up and gesturing that Marquez hit him with a head butt. Pacquiao has a cut over his right eye that he seems to think came from a head butt, but the referee hasn't ruled on that. Pacquiao appears to be frustrated and Marquez has been the aggressor in this round.

Round 11: The Nevada State Athletic Commission has confirmed between rounds that Pacquiao's cut came from an accidental clash of heads. Pacquiao lands a big left to Marquez's head. Marquez looked hurt by that one. They exchange hard rights, then Marquez lands a left as well. I think Pacquiao has connected on a few more punches than Marquez has in this crucial round.

Round 12: Marquez's corner is telling him that he's winning the fight, and Freddie Roach seems to think Marquez is winning, too, because he told Pacquiao he needs to knock Marquez down in this round. I'm not so sure. Good left hand from Pacquiao. Marquez seems to be playing it safe, which is no surprise considering that his corner told him he's winning. Pacquiao's mouthpiece falls out of his mouth which causes a brief respite. Marquez has a big overhand right. Pacquiao goes to the body. Pacquiao with a big left. The fight ends with them toe to toe.

Azkals boast of full roster vs S'poreans

2011-10-07T18:31:00.000+08:00

by Olmin Leyba | philstar.com

(OCT 7) PHL-AZKALS vs. SINGAPORE | Live on Studio 23 | 6:30pm Pre-game analysis | 7:30pm KICK-OFF

The Azkals go full-strength in an international friendly tonight against host Singapore, a higher-ranked opponent whom the Filipinos’ battled to a “shocking” 1-1 draw in a star-making performance in last year’s AFF Suzuki Cup.

Ranked 165th in the world, the Azkals are taking advantage of the Fifa international days to bring in Europe-based pros for the 7:30 p.m. match at the Jalan Besar Stadium with No. 136 Singapore.

Neil Etheridge, Dennis Cagara, Jerry Lucena, Paul Mulders, Stephan Schrock, and Ray Jonsson, players unavailable in previous tournaments due to club commitments, will all be around to join regulars Aly Borromeo, Long Teng Cup Golden Boot winner Chieffy Caligdong, Phil and James Younghusband, Ian Araneta, Angel Guirado, and Jason de Jong against the Lions.

Team manager Dan Palami said the away game with Singapore – as well as the next home match with Nepal on Tuesday – will be a showcase of the true potential of the Azkals, assembling probably their best roster.

“It’s really a rare opportunity to have the guys come together and show fans what the team is really capable of,” said Palami.

Ed Sacapano, Misagh Bahadoran, Roel Gener and Nate Burkey, new recruit Lexton Moy, and Under-23 players Matt Hartmann, Raymark Fernandez, and Neckson Leonora complete the Azkals’ 21-man roster for the Singapore friendly.

Striker Aleksandar Duric, goal scorer against the Azkals in the 2010 Suzuki Cup, will be back to settle the score with Phl XI, along with returnees Lionel Lewis, Izwan Mahbud, Safuwan Baharudin, Juma’at Jantan,Daniel Bennett, Noh Rahman, Hariss Harun, Shi Jiayi,Shahril Ishak, and Fazrul Nawaz.

The Azkals and the Lions fought to a 1-1 standoff in the Suzuki group stage, with Duric drawing first blood in the 65th minute and Fil-British Chris Greatwich hitting the equalizer on injury time.

This draw gave the Azkals the confidence and momentum to beat powerhouse Vietnam, 2-0, and draw with Myanmar (0-0) in the next fixtures to earn a breakthrough semifinal stint in the Suzuki Cup, a feat that started their rise to prominence.

Apple co-founder Steve Jobs dies aged 56 [RIP]

2011-10-06T14:28:00.001+08:00

Apple Inc has announced that the company's co-founder Steve Jobs has died. He was 56 years old.
In a statement, the company said: "We are deeply saddened to announce that Steve Jobs passed away today.

"Steve's brilliance, passion and energy were the source of countless innovations that enrich and improve all of our lives. The world is immeasurably better because of Steve.

"His greatest love was for his wife, Laurene, and his family. Our hearts go out to them and to all who were touched by his extraordinary gifts."

The homepage of Apple's website now displays a full-page image of Jobs with the text: "Steve Jobs 1955-2011."
www.apple.com/stevejobs

May his soul rest in peace.

Sparring partner says Manny too good for Marquez

2011-10-05T17:13:00.001+08:00

by abs-cbnnews.com

Pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao's primary sparring partner, Jorge Linares, says the Filipino champion will be too much to deal with for Juan Manuel Marquez.

Pacquiao and Marquez will be meeting for the 3rd time on November 12, and Linares, a native of Venezuela, was chosen to help prepare Pacquiao for the bout.

"Manny will be too powerful, too fast and too good when he and Marquez meet on November 12," Linares told PhilBoxing.com. "There's no way Marquez can win over Manny."

Linares says Pacquiao is not yet in tip-top shape, but the Filipino boxing icon is not showing much ring rust even after 4 months of inactivity.

The two boxers have engaged in 20 rounds of sparring since Pacquiao started histraining camp in Baguio City.

Last week, Pacquiao bloodied Linares with a powerful left hook that caught the latter's right eyebrow.

"No harm done. There was not even a single stitch applied to the wound. But indeed, Manny is very powerful," Linares said. "Thank God we're wearing head gear."

Linares is thankful for the chance to spar with Pacquiao, as he says it will help him when he battles Tony de Marco on October 15 for the vacant WBC lightweight championship.

"I've really learned a lot and still learning. The experience gave me many things, especially in my coming fight," Linares said.

McGrady to join Douthit in China?

2011-10-05T17:10:00.001+08:00

by Joaquin Henson The Philippine Star

MANILA, Philippines - Smart Gilas center Marcus Douthit is all set to play for the Foshan Dralions in the Chinese league this season and his import partner could be 14-year NBA veteran Tracy McGrady.
The 6-11, 230-pound Douthit has come to terms on a five-month contract to play for Foshan whose head coach is former NBA guard Jay Humphries. Douthit, 31, said he was told that Foshan officials were trying to sign up McGrady and the deal is “in the works.” A source said Douthit will receive $60,000 a month with the Dralions.

Douthit powered the Philippines to a fourth place finish at the FIBA-Asia Championships in Wuhan last month. He led the tournament in scoring and rebounding. His Gilas contract expires in December and Douthit is scheduled to meet with SBP president Manny Pangilinan today. Douthit will leave for the US on Monday and keep his appointment at the altar with long-time girlfriend Nina on Oct. 21. He expects to be in China by Nov. 1. Nina and her six-year-old daughter Amaree will stay in Manila while Douthit plays in China.
“Foshan is just a two to three hour flight from Manila and maybe, Nina and Amaree can visit on weekends or I could,” said Douthit. “Amaree goes to school in Manila. My contract in China is for a little less than five months so it should be over in time for me to play in the PBA second conference if I’m asked.”

Douthit isn’t eligible to play in the PBA Philippine Cup because he has no Filipino lineage although he is a naturalized citizen. But in the second conference, he could play as an import. The PBA will allow imports with no height limit in the Commissioner’s Cup.

Douthit said he hopes to play for the Philippines in the next FIBA-Asia Championships in 2013, the qualifying tournament for the World Championships in Spain a year later. “I’ll be 33 by then but luckily, I’ve never suffered any major injuries so I hope I’ll be okay,” he said. Douthit was reminded that centers usually enjoy long basketball careers like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Robert Parish and Kevin Willis who played into their 40s. Douthit mentioned that guard Jason Kidd, who’s 38, continues to play at a high level.

“It’s been a wonderful experience playing for the Philippines,” said Douthit, the Los Angeles Lakers second round draft pick in 2004 from Providence College. “In the beginning, I’m not sure how the fans thought of me, especially when we were playing in the PBA. But now, everywhere I go, fans come up to me. It’s never happened to me before. I really think Gilas earned the respect and recognition from the fans. I appreciate the fans’ support and I want to thank them for it.”

McGrady, 32, recently went on a 10-day, four-city “Feeling Love” tour of China to reconnect with his Chinese fans, visit cancer patients and raise awareness for an environmental program. Last season, he played with the Detroit Pistons. McGrady hasn’t averaged in double figure points the last two campaigns but led the league in scoring with a 32.1 clip in 2002-03. He has played for Toronto, Orlando, Houston, New York and Detroit. Because of the lockout, NBA players are looking for contracts overseas with opt-out clauses to return when the new collective bargaining agreement is inked. The Chinese league has disallowed the recruitment of NBA players with opt-out clauses but McGrady is a free agent and may agree to sign without an opt-out clause.

Humphries played with Phoenix, Milwaukee, Utah and Boston in the NBA from 1984 to 1995. The former University of Colorado point guard has coached in Korea and China so he’s familiar with the Asian style. In 1998, Humphries joined an NBA legends team, including Oscar Robertson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Adrian Dantley, on a tour of China. In 2001, he began his coaching career in Asia.

Dennis Orcollo barely survives national pool foe

2011-10-05T17:07:00.001+08:00

by inquirer.net

Dennis Orcollo and Carlo Biado, two of the favored bets in the 2011 BSCP National Pool Championships, walked the tightrope before pulling off hard-earned wins at the Star Billiards Center in Quezon City late Monday night.

Renemar David, a former national junior standout, scored the biggest upset of the day by stunning Roberto Gomez, 8-7.

Jeff de Luna, a perennial contender and the strongest powerbreaker in pool, showed up in tip-top condition by taking three straight matches.

Orcollo, the reigning World 8-Ball champion and currently ranked World No.1, outlasted veteran campaigner Edgar Acaba, 8-7.

Acaba, who led for most part of the match, tied the score at 7-all and had a golden opportunity of completing an upset by breaking in the final rack.

Unfortunately, Acaba scratched the cue ball while going for the break, allowing Orcollo to run out the table.

“I got lucky he scratched in the final rack. I was struggling the whole game, and was lucky to pull this one off,” said Orcollo, who trailed, 3-5, before nailing four of the next five racks to take control.

De Luna dominated Mario Tolentino, 8-3, to cap his three-game run. Biado nipped John Salazar, 8-7.

Also keeping a perfect record were Johann Chua, Ricky Zerna, Allan Cuartero and Rene Cruz.

Caligdong's two goals lift PHL Azkals past Macau in 2011 Long Teng Cup (video)

2011-10-05T17:05:00.000+08:00

by ROY MOORE

Chieffy Caligdong scored twice in the game to lead the Philippine Azkals to a 2-0 win over Macau Tuesday in the 2011 Long Teng Cup at the Kaohsiung National Stadium in Taiwan.

Caligdong scored in the 56th minute to break a scoreless tie and added the insurance goal in the 87th minute for the Azkals, who finished with five points behind one win and two draws.

Caligdong, rested due to injury, came on as a substitute after the goalless draw at halftime and inspired the Azkals to the two-goal victory.

The Azkals needed his creativity to break the deadlock and the man from Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo did not disappoint and quickly went to work two minutes into the second half with his shot attempt, after a trademark dribble and cutting from the wing, hitting the post.

Caligdong, left unmarked, opened the scoring in the 58th minute. Mark Hartmann delivered a quality free-kick which the 29-year-old Philippine Air Force FC member tried to convert into the Azkals' first goal.

Caligdong's first attempt hit the goalkeeper before scoring on the rebound.

It took until the 87th minute for him to double his tally and the Azkals' lead with Hartmann again the origin of the play. Caligdong took Hartman's pass off his chest before drilling past the despairing goalkeeper.

He could have had a hat-trick in injury time when Phil Younghusband played in the left winger who blazed over from only a few yards out with the ball bouncing up cruelly. Caligdong's two goals took him clear at the top of the leading scorers in the Long Teng Cup.

Starting strong but failing to break the deadlock

The Azkals dominated the first half and Ian Araneta had the best chance of scoring. The shot attempt of last year's Long Teng Cup top goal scorer looked destined to for the bottom corner until Macau's Ho Man Fai dived to tip the ball round the post.

In the first half, Araneta looked isolated up front and while Phil Younghusband did well to drift wide, beat his man and put the cross in only the 29-year-old forward was in the box to get on the end of it.

Araneta, battling both center-backs, rarely threatened to score in the air. Macau, meanwhile, only had 29 percent of the first half possession but their best chance came when Leong Ka Hang was sent through on the counter and shot first time against the bar.

With Hong Kong beating Macau 5-1 and Taiwan winning 3-0 the Philippines came into the half-time break goalless and looking more and more anxious.

Second half

The clear story of the second half, though, was Caligdong's inspirational impact. Played in twice by Hartmann he drilled past the goalkeeper to score both goals in the 2-0 win. Hitting the post immediately after coming on the Air Force winger went on to score twice and become the top scorer of the Long Teng Cup with only the Hong Kong-Taiwan game left to play.

He was both disappointed and amused, however, by his injury time miss; though he can blame the pitch for the cruel bounce from three yards out and with an empty net it would have been fitting for Caligdong to get a hat-trick.

Frustrated in the first half, after wasting several chances, the Azkals played higher and made five substitutions in all, something unprecedented in coach Michael Weiss' management. The team played well together and fashioned 10 shots on target out of 27 attempts, a large number of shots in any competition.

Long Teng Cup standings

The result means the Philippines remain unbeaten in the Long Teng Cup this year with two draws and a win. Designed for teams to pick up FIFA ranking points and prepare for the major competitions, the Long Teng Cup has provided excitement and controversy throughout.

Whether the Philippines finish second or third will depend on the Hong Kong-Taiwan result.
Should the hosts and reigning champions draw Taiwan, the Philippines will finish third on goal difference (goals scored-goals conceded). Should Hong Kong win, however, the hosts will retain the Long Teng Cup while the loser will drop to third and the Philippines finish in second.

What's Next for the Azkals?

Though the Philippines have had a grueling schedule with three games in five days they won't have much time to rest as they fly to Singapore for a friendly on October 7.

Singapore, a Southeast Asian heavyweight, will be a real test for the Azkals, who managed a last minute equalizer to shock the Singaporeans in the 2010 Suzuki Cup. With Stephan Schrock, Dennis Cagara, Jerry Lucena, Ray Jonsson and Manny Ott returning to action the Philippines will have its strongest squad ever in the friendly. — JVP, GMA News

Team Pacquiao bars Baguio media: report

2011-09-23T22:25:00.001+08:00

by abs-cbnNEWS.com

MANILA, Philippines – Journalists from Baguio City are slamming the members of Filipino boxing champion Manny Pacquiao's team, claiming they are being barred from covering the boxer's training camp.

The Philippine Star reported last Wednesday that local mediamen are not allowed to enter the Shape Up Gym at Cooyeesan Hotel, as coach Freddie Roach prefers to train Pacquiao behind closed doors.

But the Baguio reporters are complaining of discrimination, claiming that national and international media are being allowed to cover Pacquiao’s training.

"Why are national and international media given preference over us?" asked Pigeon Lobien in an article in Sun Star Baguio.

Lobien, the chairman of the Cordillera Sportswriters Association, adds they are only asking for equal treatment.
"We are not asking for preferential treatment since we are from here... Media is media, whether you are with national or international outfits," Lobien added.

It is the 4th time that Pacquiao has held a training camp in Baguio.

"These are guys who have been covering him since he started training here. Baguio media are even the most disciplined journalists. It’'s unfair, really, really unfair," Lobien said.

Philippines books semis slot, crushes Chinese Taipei

2011-09-23T22:23:00.001+08:00

WUHAN, China—Smart Gilas Pilipinas is two huge steps away from doing the improbable in the Fiba Asia Championship.

Tentative at the onset, Smart Gilas Pilipinas went into high gear in the second half and trounced ChineseTaipei, 95-78, Saturday night to gatecrash into the semifinals of the Olympic qualifier at the Wuhan Gymnasium.

Marcus Douthit fired a game-high 37 points—he tossed in a rare three-pointer when business was wrapped up—and Ranidel De Ocampo added 18 as the Filipinos made a breakthrough entry into the medal round of the Asian championship for the first time since 1987.

Smart Gilas thus arranged a semifinal showdown against Jordan, which ended Iran’s proud dominance in the continent with an 88-84 upset of the two-time Fiba Asia champions.

Iran’s fall from grace eased the path somewhat for the Philippines, which had already beaten Jordan earlier in the preliminary phase of the tournament.

The winner of that semifinal matchup advances to the championship. South korea booked a semifinal slot in the other half of the draw and will face the winner of the China-Lebanon quarterfinal showdown being played at presstime.

From a slim 45-42 halftime edge, the Filipinos ran roughshod over the Taiwanese, scoring 20 points under six minutes for a 13-point cushion entering the fourth.

Three-pointers by Lu Cheng-Ju and jumpers by Lin Chih-Chieh brought Chinese Taipei back to life, 78-85, but Smart Gilas quickly doused the fire with fantastic plays in the end.

Skipper Chris Tiu calmly made his freethrows and De Ocampo found himself free inside, putting the Nationals on top by double-digits again with 1:33 to play and ultimately silencing the pro-Taiwanese crowd.

Douthit’s three from the corner with five ticks remaining sealed history for Smart Gilas.

The last time the PH five made it into the semifinals of the Asian championship was in 1987 Bangkok where the country finished fourth after winning it all the year before.

This year’s Asian championship stakes a single continental ticket to next year’s London Olympics.
Naturalized forward Moon Taejong fired five three-pointers and finished with 17 points as South Korea booked a semifinal ticket with an 86-67 whipping of Japan.

The Jordanians dashed the hopes of an Iranian hat-trick in the Asian championship. Iran had previously won the crown in 2007 in Tokushima, Japan and 2009 in Tianjin. Iran’s Tokushima victory allowed it to represent the continent in the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Chinese Taipei had a couple of casualties before going out.

Guard Hsueh-Lin Lee’s was taken out on a stretcher with 6:52 in the third after his bloodied elbow hit Casio’s head while center Wu Tai Hao was accidentally hit in the crotch on his way to the hole near the end of the same period.

Another potential upset wafted in the air as Smart Gilas kicked it off miserably, allowing the Taiwanese to zoom away with a 23-14 cushion on incursions by forward Chen Hsin-An, a Tseng Wen Ting tip-in and Wu Tai Hao’s open three.

Marcio Lassiter found Ranidel De Ocampo underneath and Douthit dropped it in to cut the deficit to four. Guard Hsueh-Lin Lee’s heave at midcourt had a good line but bounced off the rim at the buzzer.

Alapag’s three and his feed inside to Douthit provided temporary relief, 26-27, but Mao Chia En’s triple and layup again pushed Chinese Taipei comfortably ahead.

A Casio three-pointer followed by a De Ocampo drive and Lassiter’s runner knotted the count at 42 before Asi Taulava scored on a putback and Casio hit another triple, bringing the Filipinos back to life, 45-42, at the break.

Jordan upsets two-time defending FIBA-Asia titlist Iran, 88-84

2011-09-23T22:21:00.000+08:00

by RENEE FOPALAN, GMA News

Previously unbeaten Iran lost when it mattered most, absorbing a crushing 88-84 loss to Jordan in the quarterfinals of the 26th FIBA-Asia Olympic Qualifiers in Wuhan, China. The upset win now sets up the Jordanians against the winner of the match between Smart Gilas-Pilipinas and Chinese Taipei on Friday, 6 p.m. Manila time.

The game was tight from the opening tip with Iran posting a slim 36-35 advantage at the turn. The two-time defending FIBA Asia champions hiked their lead to five, 62-57, entering the fourth quarter.

But a 31-22 scoring in the final quarter propelled Jordan, who previously had a 2-3 record coming into the game, to victory.

Hamed Hadadi, Iran's 7-foot-2 center who plays for the Memphis Grizzlies, shot 10-of-21 from the field to finish with 27 points.

The two-time MVP of the tournament also had 14 rebounds, seven assists and three block shots for the Iranians, who played minus the injured Samad Nikkhah Bahrami in the first half.

The versatile-forward shook off his ankle injury and played the entire second half to finish with eight points and four rebounds.

Arsalan Kazemi had 13 points and 16 rebounds also for Iran

Sam Daghles paced Jordan with 23 points behind a 7-of-16 shooting clip. He also had four rebounds, five assists and three steals.

Zaid Alkhas buried a three-pointer to put Jordan up, 80-78, with one minute and 45 seconds left in the game clock.

The 6-foot-5 Daghles took over then and scored all of Jordan's last eight points from thefree throw line, including two charities off a Haddadi unsportsmanlike foul with 65 seconds left for an 82-79 spread.

"We played like a baby. We played very bad," said Iran guard Mohammed Hussein.

Jordan's win heavily Gilas, provided that they get past Chinese Taipei. Gilas previously beat Jordan, 72-64. It was a controversial match with Jordan putting the game under protest.

A miscommunication between FIBA Headquarters and FIBA Asia officials led to Marcio Lassiter and Chris Lutz being barred from playing, although FIBA secretary-general Patrick Bauman had allowed both Filipino-American guards to suit up for Gilas.

The winner of the tournament earns an outright berth in the 2012 London Olympics. The second and third placers will join the runners up from Europe, Americas, Africa and Oceania for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The top three teams from this tournament will earn the final three spots for the Olympics. — JVP, GMA News

NCAA 87: JRU moves ahead in race for last Final 4 berth

2011-09-23T22:19:00.002+08:00

by GMA news

Jose Rizal University downed University of Perpetual Help, 64-57, in overtime for its fourth straight win in the 87th NCAA men's basketball tournament on Thursday at The Arena in San Juan City.

The win avenged the Heavy Bombers' 79-77 triple overtime loss to the Altas in the first round as they improved to a 7-9 win-loss card to move ahead of Mapua and Lyceum in the race for the last Final Four ticket.

The Cardinals and the Pirates share fifth to sixth spots with similar 6-9 slates.

Earl Thompson's two free throws and George Allen's undergoal stab tied the count at 52-all in the final seconds of the contest.

The Altas had the chance to win the game in regulation but failed to launch a shot as time expired.

Rookie Byron Villarias stepped up for JRU in overtime hitting a three-pointer to shatter a 54-all deadlock with two minutes and 31 seconds left in the game.

John Lopez's back-to-back baskets sealed the win for the Heavy Bombers for a 61-54 spread with still a minute left in the clock.

"As soon as Byron buried that three-pointer, I knew that we're going to win. That is how Perpetual defeated us in the first round, on (Jet) Vidal's shot," said JRU coach Vergel Meneses.

Villarias and Raycon Kabigting scored 11 each for JRU while Lopez added 10 points.

Thompson finished with 15 points and 10 rebounds for Perpetual Help. — JVP, GMA News

Douthit, Alapag shine as Smart Gilas scores crucial win over Japan

2011-09-20T21:07:00.000+08:00

MANILA, Philippines—Smart Gilas Pilipinas banked on a blistering third quarter to turn back Japan, 83-76 Tuesday in the 2011 Fiba Asia championship.

Marcus Douthit banged in 25 points and 18 rebounds while reigning PBA MVP Jimmy Alapag added 15 points for the Philippines, which boosted its bid for a second place finish at the end of the second round.

The fleet-footed Alapag, who came off the bench, scored the Philippines last six points to ice the game.

A win by Smart Gilas on Wednesday against Syria puts the Nationals in a better position to advance further in the tournament.

Philippines trailed by as much as eight in the second quarter before outscoring the hot-shooting Japanese 26-12 in the ensuing period.

Smart Gilas powers past Jordan in Fiba Asia

2011-09-19T21:47:00.001+08:00

by June Navarro
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Macio Lassiter, Marcus Douthit key Philippine victory

WUHAN, China—Marcio Lassiter provided the spark in his belated appearance at the Fiba Asia championship as Smart Gilas Pilipinas squeezed past Jordan, 72-64, Monday night at the Wuhan Gymnasium.

Lassiter, cleared by Fiba to rejoin the Nationals along with fellow Fil-Am Chris Lutz before the game, fired four three-pointers and did a splendid job defending the wings against a strong-starting Jordan that built an early 18-point lead.

Marcus Douthit also came away with a prolific performance of 19 points and 15 rebounds as the Nationals clinched their first win in the second round for an overall 3-1 record.
It was not only on the court where the Filipinos endured uneasy moments.

Fifteen minutes before tipoff, tournament officials refused to give the go-signal for Lassiter and Lutz to play despite getting a clearance on their citizenship eligibility from the International Basketball Federation (Fiba) in Switzerland.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Manny V. Pangilinan then appealed the case to Fiba Asia deputy secretary general Hagop Khajarian, who made the tycoon wait in his office until the opening minutes of the first period.

Philippine Olympic Committee chair Monico Puentevella said Fiba secretary general Patrick Baumann called up Khajarian from Geneva before the Lebanese finally allowed Lutz and Lassiter to play.

Down by 18 early in the second quarter, the Filipinos regrouped and slowly worked their way up behind Lassiter, Douthit, Chris Tiu, JV Casio and Asi Taulava.

Ranidel De Ocampo’s layup off a nifty feed by Tiu finally gave Smart Gilas the lead, 37-35, halfway through the third period.

“I have won the Asian championship with Iran but this is probably the biggest win of my life,” said Smart Gilas coach Rajko Toroman.

“A win in this kind of circumstance is just amazing.”

In other games, naturalized forward Moon Tae-jong fired 21 points in the first half to spearhead South Korea’s 106-57 rout of Uzbekistan, defending champion Iran also remained unbeaten following a 121-36 manhandling of Malaysia, and Chinese Taipei squeezed a 60-58 win over Lebanon.

Toroman earlier filed an official protest when technical officials at first prevented Lutz and Lassiter fromplaying.

Seven minutes into the game, Toroman was finally given the go-signal and fielded in Lutz with Smart Gilas already down by 13.

Then it was Jordan coach Thomas Baldwin’s turn to protest.

“I’m extremely disappointed with the organizers and with my team, it’s generally how I feel,” said Baldwin, who put the game under protest. “Absolute travesty was done in the sport of basketball today.

The scores:
PHILIPPINES 72—Douthit 19, Lassiter 14, Alapag 11, Tiu 9, Williams 6, Lutz 4, de Ocampo 4, Casio 3, Taulava 2, Barroca 0, Aguilar 0, Baracael 0.
JORDAN 64—Daghles 18, Wright 16, Abbas Z. 10, Abuqoura 7, Abbas I. 6, Al-Sous 5, Jamal 2, Soobzokov 0.
Quarters: 11-20; 26-31; 47-47; 72-64

Ortiz: Mayweather blindsided me

2011-09-18T17:26:00.000+08:00

by Yahoo Sport

Victor Ortiz turned his WBC welterweight title bout against Floyd Mayweather Jr into a "street fight" on Saturday but paid a heavy price when he woke up on the canvas after being controversially knocked out.

In a tumultuous fourth round, champion Ortiz head-butted the challenger and referee Joe Cortez immediately called time and deducted a point.

Acknowledging the foul, Ortiz hugged Mayweather apologetically before kissing him on the cheek and the two fighters touched gloves. Ortiz had his hands down when Mayweather landed a left hook followed by a straight right that put Ortiz out for the count.

Ortiz said it had all been part and parcel of boxing.

"I was called to break by the referee and I obeyed exactly as I was told," Ortiz said after losing his title. "And then, boom, he blindsided me"

Ortiz slipped to 29-3-2 with the loss.

"The ref said something. I looked up and he just caught me. I was like: 'Wow', and I woke up after. It happens. It's part of the game."

Ortiz admitted the head-butt was a big mistake and conceded the controversial ending was deserved.

"I apologised to him after the fight as well," said Ortiz. "It was in the heat of the moment. In a sense, it was a payback."

Mayweather, who extended his perfect professional record to 42-0 with 26 knockouts, said he had done nothing illegal and it was Ortiz who had been guilty of dirty tactics.

"We came together, we touched and it's fight time from what I know," the 34-year-old said. "He wanted to do me dirty and then two minutes later he wanted to be friends."

Former light welterweight champion Paulie Malignaggi, who lost title bouts to Britons Ricky Hatton and Amir Khan, agreed.

"Victor's the one who turned it into a street fight with (head) butts," Malignaggi told Reuters. "You can't take it up there and then expect the other guy to take it back down. Besides, you protect yourself at all times."

Reuters

FIBA-Asia: Lutz and Lassiter confident they can join Gilas for 2nd round

2011-09-18T17:22:00.001+08:00

by GMA News

For Chris Lutz and Marcio Lassiter, hope springs eternal.

While time slowly runs out for Smart Gilas-Pilipinas, the two Fil-Ams are still confident they’ll be able to join the team as the second round of the 26th FIBA-Asia Championship For Men unwraps Monday in Wuhan, China.
“Obviously, it’s really upsetting," said Lutz, 26, and picked third overall by San Miguel in the last PBA Rookie Draft. “We put a lot of work on this team. And the basic reason why we’re brought in is to help the team, help to come here to this exact tournament and help out in any way possible."

Both got the shock of their lives when FIBA-Asia officials declared them ineligible to play an hour before the Nationals’ opening day game against United Arab Emirates.

A technicality in their Filipino citizenship documentation prevented them from suiting up for the team, although Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Manny V. Pangilinan already assured Lutz and Lassiter over dinner Saturday that the federation is doing everything it can to get the two of them to play.

The business tycoon said the matter had already been elevated to the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), which Pangilinan hopes would come out with a decision in time for the team’s game against Jordan Monday.

“I can’t wait to have my chance on the court," added Lassiter, who signed up with Powerade as the Draft’s no. 4 overall selection. “Frustrating? Yes, of course. We worked hard for this, we trained for a year. To have this, something thrown to your face, it hurts."

But like the true warriors that they are, both wingmen expressed readiness to suit up for Smart Gilas once finally given the go-signal to play.

“We’re just patiently waiting and see what happens," said Lassiter, out of Cal State Fullerton. “I have no control over it. I just hope things can get resolved so that we can play."

“It’s not really in our hands," acknowledged Lutz, a product of Marshall University. “We can’t do too much it. We’re hoping before the end of the tournament maybe things will change." - OMG, GMA News