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ONE Friday Fights 65: Puengluang Baanramba faces Jaosuayai Mor Krungthepthonburi in Bangkok Sky SportsView Full Coverage on Google NewsWatch the Celtics pull off a pair of impressive comebacks to advance to the NBA Finals.
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Here’s who our TNT Sports experts are picking to win the 2024 NBA Finals.
Celtics in six. This is the sixth time in eight years the Celtics have reached at least the conference finals and their second Finals in three years. Star wings Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown have achieved almost everything short of a ring. Coach Joe Mazzulla’s job status was shaky in 2023 and Horford can’t wait to get off that “most playoff games without a title” list. Urgency alone doesn’t win championships, but urgency + talent + roster depth + experience + continuity + home court should be enough. – Steve Aschburner
Mavericks in seven. Boston hasn’t been truly tested this postseason. No Jimmy Butler in the first round. Donovan Mitchell and Tyrese Haliburton missed games in the subsequent rounds. Not only is this Dallas team mostly whole, but it’s also peaking behind a pair of the league’s best closers. – Michael C. Wright
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From just a sole representative in Tokyo, Philippine gymnasts now comprise a good chunk of our Paris-bound Olympians. This time around, the homegrown Caloy Yulo will now be accompanied by debutants like Aleah Finnegan and most recently qualified Emma Malabuyo.
But another impressive talent in that group is the 18-year-old Levi Ruivivar, who is the youngest Filipina athlete in the Paris-bound delegation. The young gymnast booked her Paris ticket in April, winning a silver medal for uneven bars at the FIG World Championships in Doha, Qatar.
And with a good two months before Paris, the young Levi finally stepped foot in the Philippines, being here from May 28 to May 31, a quick break before she resumes Olympic training in Dallas, Texas.
“Everyone has been so welcoming, and to see how much people believe in me here, and to spend some time in the Philippines, it’s been truly amazing….that motivates me to go back home and just give it my all, even my best training, and perform well for the country,” she shared.
Currently, Levi’s stay has been limited to official business, according to her father Anthony. Save for eating authentic Filipino food, the Ruivivars experienced, as they shared, “the best of the Philippines by having to just take care of the things we have to take care of.”
But while this stay has prevented her from being a balikbayan, Levi made sure to inspire young Filipina gymnasts. Shortly before a press conference with Caloy Yulo in Intramuros, the 18-year-old gymnast interacted with a group of youngsters, even donating old leotards for these future stars to use.
Well after that event, Levi was still more than accommodating toward other groups of young gymnasts, giving autographs, and gracefully accepting photo requests as the day went on.
“Just to give back to the younger generations is amazing. And if I can help them in any way in their journey, like, it’s just an honor to help them and be part of their journey, and to give them any inspiration and just you know? Talk to them, get to know them,” Levi said on Thursday.
As a bonus, this short trip also saw Levi cross paths with Caloy. While the homegrown star has yet to give her any advice, Levi shared looking up to the Tokyo Olympian’s demeanor as an athlete.
“He’s so poised and the way he carries himself in competition and practices for competition is something that I can look up to. And he’s really humble, just hardworking, so I have so much respect for that and I try to take some of that with me in my gymnastics as well,” she shared.
Levi Ruivivar’s Filipino roots come from her father Anthony Ruivivar, son of Society of Seven founder Tony Ruivivar. Particularly, lolo Tony was crucial as to why Levi had the lifelong dream of representing the Philippines.
“He’s [Tony Ruvivar] one of the main reasons, Because, I grew up around the entertainment industry, because of the Society of Seven. I grew up in the showroom, I grew up with a lot of Filipino uncles. And, just being around that, I really wanted to connect with that side of my family and that part of my culture,” she recalls.
Eventually, Levi would complete her switch to the Philippines in September 2023. After years of having no connections, an opportunity would present itself through her Dallas training ground: the World Olympic Gymnastics Academy (WOGA) Gym.
Apparently, someone was able to connect Levi to Cliff Parks, a coach affiliated with the Philippines’ gymnastics team. If the name sounds familiar, Parks was also the coach who recruited Emma Malabuyo to carry the Philippine flag.
“So, he recruited me to the Philippines, and once I discovered there was a lot of opportunity for me, I immediately switched…[but] I’m very, very grateful to the US because they have done a lot for me,” she shares.
And the rest is history. More than finally achieving (part) of a lifelong dream, Levi’s Olympic debut also came way earlier, as she was once aiming for the 2028 games in Los Angeles.
“I was not expecting to [enter Paris] I mean, I was obviously working towards it, but, the ultimate goal was always 2028. So, the fact that I was able to make it sooner than that is just a blessing.”
As mentioned, Levi Ruivivar will head now to Dallas after this brief Philippine visit. While she qualified through uneven bars, Levi will actually compete in the all-around event in Paris, where a finals berth gives her a tangible shot at a medal.
With two months left before Paris, she now hopes to improve on her “e-score” and “difficulty scores” once she gets back. All the more that as a taller gymnast, Levi has an edge in terms of “artistry” and “expression” rather than power.
“Also working on conditioning and building strength so that once I get to Paris, I have the endurance to get through all the competitions,” she said.
There’s also a lot to look forward to in Paris for Levi apart from her debut. Her young age aside, this is also the first time in six decades that female gymnasts will be representing the country in the Olympics.
Second, is the overall dynamic of the Philippine team according to her: “I feel like we all feed off each other’s energy, like we all motivate each other, cheer for each other. As they say, the Philippines is probably one of the loudest teams out there cheering for one another.”
“We go to each other’s competitions and support one another no matter what because it’s important to feel like a team, feel like a family, so I feel like we all have a lot of energy, a lot of support, a lot of respect for one another and I think that’s something that’s specifically really special about this team,” she said.
Last, is just the overall experience of making her Paris debut. A tall order yes, but all that’s left for Levi Ruivivar is to give her all once the games start. “Making the Olympics was always my goal so I’m just really, really excited to go out there and do my best. Go big and make the finals and hopefully win medals for the Philippines.”
Banner Image by RJ Ballecer.
Paris-Bound: The Filipino Athletes Qualified For The 2024 Olympics
Get To Know Emma Malabuyo: The Philippines’ New Gymnastics Talent
Dwight Ramos is ‘Good to Go’ for Gilas Pilipinas in the OQT
There will be no sweep in the Western Conference Finals. The Minnesota Timberwolves' 105-100 road win over the Dallas Mavericks in Game 4 ensured at least one more game.
Dallas eked out a close win on the road in Game 1 and star Luka Dončić's go-ahead three-pointer erased an 18-point deficit for the Mavericks to win Game 2. Dallas controlled Game 3 at home for a 116-107 win but couldn't close it out with a sweep Tuesday night.
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Dončić is on a tear in this series, leading all players in points (31.5), rebounds (9.5), and assists (9.0) per game. Anthony Edwards is leading the way for Minnesota. He shrugged off poor shooting nights in Game 1 and Game 2 to now average 23.8 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 8.3 assists for the series.
Will Dallas close things out in five games to secure the franchise's first NBA Finals berth since 2011? Or will Minnesota force another elimination game? Here's what you need to know ahead of Game 5:
'That's on me':Thunder GM Sam Presti 'missed' on Gordon Hayward trade
Staff note Minnesota is holding opponents to just 103.9 points per game at home, the best mark in the NBA, but the Mavericks have a 48-34-0 record against the spread this season.
Riley Thomas writes: "My pick will likely hinge on the status of Lively. If Dallas has the rookie's defensive presence, I like their chances of closing with a win (+158). The Mavs would have the interior defense to win the paint battle once again. Until I see Lively is cleared, I'm firmly backing the Timberwolves to cover the spread. With Towns producing -- which is directly impacted by Lively's status -- Minnesota is a different team."
Cameron Zunkel says: "This should be a good game, as the rest of them have been. I do not see either team winning by 10 points or more. In fact, I would not be surprised to see another game end within five points. For that reason, I will take the Mavericks to cover the spread Thursday night."
ESPN Analytics point to a close fight in Game 5 with the Mavericks holding a slight edge. The site's Playoff Basketball Power Index (PBPI) rates the Mavericks as the second-best team in the postseason at 5.9 compared to the Timberwolves in fourth at 4.9.
'He was the best of us':Kareem Abdul-Jabbar pays tribute to Bill Walton in touching statement
The Timberwolves are favored to win Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals, according to BetMGM basketball odds.
Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering betting promos in 2024.
| Games | Location | Date/Time/Results | TV/Streaming |
| Game 1 | Target Center, Minneapolis | Dallas 108, Minnesota 105 | TNT, Fubo |
| Game 2 | Target Center, Minneapolis | Dallas 109, Minnesota 108 | TNT, Fubo |
| Game 3 | American Airlines Center, Dallas | Dallas 116, Minnesota 107 | TNT, Fubo |
| Game 4 | American Airlines Center, Dallas | Minnesota 105, Dallas 100 | TNT, Fubo |
| Game 5 | Target Center, Minneapolis | Thursday, May 30, 8:30 p.m. ET | TNT, Fubo |
| Game 6(If necessary) | American Airlines Center, Dallas | TBD | TNT, Fubo |
| Game 7(If necessary) | Target Center, Minneapolis | TBD | TNT, Fubo |
How to watch:Catch the latest action from the NBA Playoffs with fuboTV
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Anthony Edwards fills the box score and Karl-Anthony Towns scores 20 in the 2nd half to force the series back to Minnesota.
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• Game detail: MIN 105, DAL 100
DALLAS — Headed to a postgame interview room, Anthony Edwards noticed Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons standing in the hall rocking a pair of Edwards’ AE1 signature Adidas sneakers.
As the door closed behind him, Edwards promised to return soon.
“I told him I’ll bring him back some nice shoes for Game 6,” he said.
We’ll see.
Edwards figures he’ll be hand-delivering kicks in Dallas this weekend after leading Minnesota to a 105-100 win Tuesday over the Mavericks in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals. To ensure a return trip to the Lone Star State, the Timberwolves need a Game 5 victory Thursday at Target Center.
Minnesota trails 3-1 in the series.
“What am I supposed to say?” he asked. “[Am] I supposed to say we’re gonna lose Game 5? No, I’m not gonna ever say that.”
Here are five takeaways from Game 4:
1. Edwards, Towns perform like stars
We’ve waited for a performance like this since the beginning of the series. Edwards scored a game-high 29 points with 10 rebounds, falling only one assist shy of his first career triple-double. Despite shooting 28% from the field in the first three games of the series, Towns hit a blistering 9-for-13 for 25 points.
Minnesota is 7-1 in the playoffs when Towns scores 18 points or more and is 2-5 when he scores fewer than 18.
“We chatted yesterday,” Timberwolves coach Chris Finch said. “I just told him the past is unrelated to the future. Trust your talent. Stay confident. Shots will fall. That’s how shooting is. We’ve just got to wait until the cards turn in your favor.”
They certainly flipped in a major way.
Feasting on a more sensible shot diet that included more attempts at the rim, Towns hit 2-for-3 in the first half before sinking 7-of-10 over the third and fourth quarters. Towns’ diversified attack helped him nail a couple of big 3s late.
Finch utilized a football analogy when speaking to Edwards about his responsibilities for Game 4. He compared Edwards to a tailback that needed to explode quickly through holes to reach the second level of Dallas’ defense.
“Once you get to the second line of the defense, then they’re at your disposal,” Finch told Edwards.
The 22-year-old attacked the paint with the ferocity of former Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson, and the Timberwolves benefitted.
2. Timberwolves cool off Doncic, Irving
Credit Minnesota for Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving’s struggles.
The Timberwolves assigned Edwards to guard Doncic, while putting defensive stalwart Jaden McDaniels on Irving.
The Mavericks superstar duo combined to score 44 points on 13-for-39 from the field. The Slovenian notched his ninth postseason triple-double (28 points, 15 rebounds, 10 assists) to tie Wilt Chamberlain for ninth all-time. Irving finished with 16 points on 6-for-18 shooting.
“We’re in the NBA, man,” Irving said. “No team is going to lay down and give me and Luka open shots. When I look at just the quality of our shots, a few of them could be better. A few of them were rushed. A few of them were in and out.”
Edwards and Towns outscored Doncic and Irving 54-44. Over the first three games of the series, the Dallas duo averaged 60.3 points compared to 37 for Edwards and Towns.
“[Edwards and McDaniels] did a good job of just being physical, understanding tendencies and not getting them on the free throw line,” Minnesota point guard Mike Conley said. “Those two guys were big for us in that matchup switch.”
3. Minnesota finally finishes
The Timberwolves entered the fourth quarter of every game this series either tied or leading by five points. They led 78-73 entering the fourth quarter of Game 4 and finally found a way to finish.
Over the first three games of this series, Minnesota generated an offensive rating of 114.3. But, in the fourth quarter of those games, the Wolves’ offensive rating tumbled off a cliff to 95.5.
The visitors scored 22, 22 and 20 points in the fourth quarters of those games. In Game 4, Minnesota put up 27 points, led by Towns, who scored 10 points and hit 3 of 4 from deep in the final quarter.
“It came together for him,” Edwards said. “He was super confident. He wasn’t worried about any shots previous to the shots he hit tonight. He played exceptionally well and came through big time. He was the reason we won.”
Edwards joked that he planned to “beat him up on the bus” for fouling out with 1:38 remaining. But Towns scored 20 of his 25 points in the second half. Before Game 4, Towns hadn’t produced 10 points in any half this series.
4. Kleber returns; Lively II sits out
The Mavericks ruled out Dereck Lively II for Game 4 due to a neck strain sustained in Game 3. The rookie could barely turn his head when walking into American Airlines Center ahead of pre-game.
Lively’s absence opened more minutes for Dwight Powell, not to mention Maxi Kleber, who returned Tuesday for the first time since separating his right shoulder in the first half of Dallas’ Game 6 win in the first round vs. the LA Clippers.
Finch anticipated Kleber’s return would provide an unfamiliar look for Dallas.
“That gives them a stretch lineup we haven’t seen all series,” he said.
Kleber played 13 minutes and scored two points as Dallas ran different actions that provided open shots for Kleber. But, it was clear he wasn’t fully comfortable taking them.
Mavericks coach Jason Kidd thought KIeber “did great” in limited action.
Lively’s potential return remains uncertain. The way the rookie looked walking into the arena Tuesday didn’t inspire much optimism for a return in Game 5.
“He’s a big piece to our defense and our offense,” Doncic said.
Minnesota knew that and attacked accordingly, according to Conley.
5. Kidd compares past to present
Kidd played on the last Dallas team to win a championship. So, naturally, he’s biased when comparing that 2011 squad to the current team.
“I’m gonna say the ’11 team was better for sure because I was on it,” he said. “Dirk [Nowitzki is] my neighbor. I don’t want to [tick] him off.”
Fair enough.
With the Hall of Fame point guard at the controls in 2011, Dallas defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 4-1 in the Western Conference Finals, before upsetting the Miami Heat, 4-2, in the Finals to capture the organization’s only title.
Kidd sees similarities between that team and this current group, which has a chance to end this conference finals series 4-1 like his squad did.
“This team probably has a little more talent, youth,” Kidd said. “The old guys on that ’11 team, they knew what they had to do. They both mirror the word[s] team and sacrifice. That team in ’11 sacrificed. You had a lot of guys that maybe felt their role could be different but enjoyed their role.”
Kidd spent time at Nowitzki’s house on Monday, and he’s kept in contact this week with former teammates Jason Terry and Shawn Marion.
“They like the team, like what’s happening,” he said.
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Michael C. Wright is a senior writer for NBA.com. You can e-mail him here, find his archive here and follow him on X.
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MANILA, Philippines – Maybe this time, the odds will favor Meralco.
Dealt multiple heartbreaks by Barangay Ginebra through the years, the Bolts stare at a breakthrough finals appearance in the PBA Philippine Cup after dragging the Gin Kings to a do-or-die Game 7 following a gripping 86-81 win at the Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, May 29.
Bong Quinto took charge with 23 points, while Allein Maliksi delivered down the stretch by pouring 12 of his 14 points in the fourth quarter as Meralco sent the best-of-seven series to a rubber match that will be played on the road on Friday, May 31, at the FPJ Arena in San Jose, Batangas.
“I hope it’s our turn. It’s good for the league. I think we’ve earned it,” said head coach Luigi Trillo in a mix of Filipino and English. “We have a lot of respect for Ginebra and what they do. We know it’s going to be hard. We’ve been there.”
History, though, is not on the Bolts’ side.
Meralco holds a dismal 0-6 record in best-of-seven battles, with four of those losses coming against the Gin Kings in the finals as the Bolts fell short of the crown in the 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2021 Governors’ Cup to the same team.
Also, Meralco has beaten Ginebra only once in their seven playoff encounters.
Last season, the Bolts also forced a Game 7 in the semifinals of the All-Filipino tournament only to succumb to eventual champion San Miguel.
The pain from those heart-wrenching defeats has lit a fire under Meralco as it aims to finally turn its fortunes around.
“I don’t want this to be another learning experience. When you’re a rookie or a sophomore, you want to gain experience. Now, I really want to win,” said Quinto in Filipino. “Ginebra made me cry twice in the finals. And now here we are, facing them again.”
Hell-bent on keeping the Bolts alive, Quinto scattered 10 points in the first six minutes of the fourth quarter before handing the scoring reins to Maliksi.
A Maliksi layup with over two minutes remaining gave Meralco an 82-74 lead – a cushion big enough to hold off a last-ditch Gin Kings comeback.
Ginebra got within 81-84 with under 10 seconds left off a pair of three-pointers from Maverick Ahanmisi and Stanley Pringle, but Chris Newsome sealed the win for the Bolts by calmly sinking his free throws to finish with 21 points.
Cliff Hodge added 10 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks in the gutsy win, Chris Banchero posted a near triple-double with 9 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists, and 2 blocks, while Raymond Almazan chimed in 7 points, 11 rebounds, and 2 steals.
As the series goes the distance, Meralco banks on its experience of winning games on the road, just like when it defeated Ginebra in Game 3 in Dasmariñas City, Cavite, and when it denied the Beermen a sweep of the elimination round in Batangas City.
“I said it’s not over. This is what we want, a Game 7,” said Trillo.
Christian Standhardinger and Japeth Aguilar scored 19 points each and combined for 15 rebounds to pace the Gin Kings, while Ahanmisi contributed 13 points and 9 rebounds in the win.
Scottie Thompson tallied 9 points, 12 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals in the loss.
Meralco 86 – Quinto 23, Newsome 21, Maliksi 14, Hodge 10, Banchero 9, Almazan 7, Bates 2, Pascual 0, Caram 0, Jose 0
Barangay Ginebra 81 – J. Aguilar 19, Standhardinger 19, Ahanmisi 13, Pringle 12, Thompson 9, Tenorio 3, Pinto 3, Cu 3, Murrell 0, Pessumal 0.
Quarters: 19-18, 38-37, 54-53, 86-81.
– Rappler.com
Manila, Philippines, May 28, 2024 – Defending champions Vietnam confirmed their finals appearance in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup for Women after a 3-0 defeat (25-21, 25-19, 25-16) of Australia in the first semi-final showdown on Tuesday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
Nguyen Thi Bich Tuyen led all scorers on the board with 24 points from 21 attacks and 3 service winners.
Vietnam started with a strong statement: They served flawlessly and even registered 7 service winners in the opening set. They anchored the offense on Nguyen Thi Bich Tuyen, who could fire from the flank and the back row. Tran Tu Linh also supported on wing attack.
Meanwhile, Australia played to their strengths by the frontline. They lined and timed their blocks effectively. When they could run their plays, they set up their main hitter Caitlin Tipping. However, the Volleyroos needed to find solutions to address their opponents strategic service. They posted better percentage on attack but firstly, they needed to do better on their serve-receive.
Volleyroos head Coach Russell Borgeaud signaled a change of players In the third set, in the hopes of sparking a much needed scoring run.
Instead, the defending champions continued to serve well. They paid attention in their transition plays, to ensure they minimize their errors. They built upon a good momentum all the way to complete the match and capture their second straight finals appearance.
Vietnam will now await the winning team between the other semi-final featuring hosts Philippines and debutants Kazakhstan.
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Barangay Ginebra erased a 15-point deficit against Meralco to win, 89-84, and take a pivotal 3-2 lead in the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The Bolts were leading 59-44 at the 7:01 mark of the third period but Barangay Ginebra went on a 10-0 run to cut its deficit down with 4:13 remaining in the said frame.
By the end of the third period, Meralco only had a slim 69-67 lead.
Meralco was leading 79-73 at the 8:13 mark of the fourth period before Barangay Ginebra responded with a 9-0 run, six of which came from Christian Standhardinger, to reclaim the lead.
The game was once again tied at 82 with 4:24 remaining but a Japeth Aguilar floater and a Scottie Thompson triple gave Barangay Ginebra control of the game until the final buzzer.
Standhardinger finished with 34 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists, while Maverick Ahanmisi had 13 points for Ginebra.
Chris Banchero had 18 points, six assists, and three boards, while Chris Newsome had 17 points for the Bolts.
The scores:
Ginebra 89 – Standhardinger 34, Ahanmisi 13, J.Aguilar 10, Pringle 9, Tenorio 7, Pinto 5, Cu 5, Thompson 5, Pessumal 1, Onwubere 0, Murrell 0.
Meralco 84 – Banchero 18, Newsome 17, Hodge 14, Maliksi 13, Caram 8, Quinto 7, Almazan 4, Bates 3, Pascual 0, Torres 0, Dario 0.
Quarters: 22-19, 40-44, 67-69, 89-84.
—Justin Kenneth Carandang/JMB, GMA Integrated News
Barangay Ginebra erased a 15-point deficit against Meralco to win, 89-84, and take a pivotal 3-2 lead in the PBA Philippine Cup semifinals on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The Bolts were leading 59-44 at the 7:01 mark of the third period but Barangay Ginebra went on a 10-0 run to cut its deficit down with 4:13 remaining in the said frame.
By the end of the third period, Meralco only had a slim 69-67 lead.
Meralco was leading 79-73 at the 8:13 mark of the fourth period before Barangay Ginebra responded with a 9-0 run, six of which came from Christian Standhardinger, to reclaim the lead.
The game was once again tied at 82 with 4:24 remaining but a Japeth Aguilar floater and a Scottie Thompson triple gave Barangay Ginebra control of the game until the final buzzer.
Standhardinger finished with 34 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists, while Maverick Ahanmisi had 13 points for Ginebra.
Chris Banchero had 18 points, six assists, and three boards, while Chris Newsome had 17 points for the Bolts.
The scores:
Ginebra 89 – Standhardinger 34, Ahanmisi 13, J.Aguilar 10, Pringle 9, Tenorio 7, Pinto 5, Cu 5, Thompson 5, Pessumal 1, Onwubere 0, Murrell 0.
Meralco 84 – Banchero 18, Newsome 17, Hodge 14, Maliksi 13, Caram 8, Quinto 7, Almazan 4, Bates 3, Pascual 0, Torres 0, Dario 0.
Quarters: 22-19, 40-44, 67-69, 89-84.
—Justin Kenneth Carandang/JMB, GMA Integrated News
MANILA, Philippines – In the weeklong 2024 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Challenge Cup, teams get little to no rest as games come one after another every single day.
Thus, an ever-ready bench mob is vital for any squad aspiring for a podium finish, and such was the case for Alas Pilipinas, once the lowest-ranked country in the 10-team field, but is now the second team to reach the knockout semifinals off a decisive rout of Iran, 25-16, 25-13, 25-15, on Saturday, May 25.
Clinching their third straight win in just as many days, the host nation turned to their hungry reserves led by PVL rising star Vanie Gandler, who made the most of her extended playing time with 9 points – 4 coming in the tone-setting first set and another 4 in the third.
Filling in for the resting Eya Laure, the Cignal HD Spikers standout was simply elated that she paid off the trust placed in her by head coach Jorge Souza de Brito.
“I’m just really happy to be able to help the team, to be able to help Eya, because it’s a tournament where we play every day and they get tired too,” she said.
“I know that our role as second-stringers is very important so that they get enough rest, so that everyone is strong especially coming into the semis, now that we made it.”
With Laure and Thea Gagate put on ice for the entire match, Alas turned to Gandler, new tournament-leading scorer Angel Canino (16 points) and PVL MVP Sisi Rondina (12 points) against Iran, to not only get the win and semis berth, but also reach a new world rank of No. 57 from No. 62.
The victory also marked the first time the Philippines reached an AVC semifinal, regardless of gender.
Heading to Alas’ fourth straight game day on Sunday, May 26, against winless Chinese Taipei, the likes of Gandler, Faith Nisperos, and Arah Panique are expected to get an even heavier workload before the cross-pool semifinal begins on Tuesday, May 28.
“I’m so proud of everyone and I’m so happy, not just for the team, but also the crowd who really boosts our energy. It’s my first time playing with the national team and it’s really a different feeling seeing the Philippine flag everywhere, feeling the heart of everyone,” Gandler continued.
“To be honest, with the preparation we had, we didn’t really put much expectations, but I always knew that this team would fight, so I’m not surprised that every game, everyone poured their hearts out,” – Rappler.com
MANILA, Philippines – Despite her paltry playing time, Faith Nisperos has enjoyed her stint with Alas Pilipinas in the AVC Challenge Cup – all for national pride.
Nisperos scored her first tournament points late in the third set against Iran, including the game-winning, off-the-block hit to seal the Philippines’ first semifinal stint in any AVC-sanctioned competition.
The former Ateneo standout received loud cheers when she took the court as she helped the national team secure a quick 25-16, 25-13, 25-15 win against Iran for a group-best 3-0 record in Pool A play.
“Teamwork and commitment – they’re both huge for us. We are really guided by our ates (big sisters) and coaches. The teamwork is very evident in our 3-0 record,” Nisperos told reporters on Saturday, May 25, at the once again packed Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
“I [have to] do everything with every chance that I get, that is why when I was fielded in, I only thought about my teammates, coaches; and I will fight for my country,” she added.
The match against Iran was the Akari standout’s first stint in the tournament, two weeks after being chosen to play in the hastily formed national squad.
She did not see any playing time in the Philippines’ first two games against Australia and India – wins which helped improve the country’s FIVB women’s world ranking from 62nd to 57th.
Philippine team coach Jorge Souza de Brito detailed that he had relied on a system familiar to the players, while adding small tweaks of his own.
Much like everybody else, Nisperos likes the chemistry the team is forming, under the leadership of Jia de Guzman.
“This is a very great mix of veterans and young blood and I think ate Jia is a very natural leader, a very good setter,” said Nisperos.
“With the leadership of the seniors, together with ate Dawn (Macandili-Catindig), young guns like us get a big lift.” – Rappler.com
The Dallas Mavericks face the Minnesota Timberwolves for Game 2 of the 2024 Western Conference finals. The Mavericks lead the series 1-0 after winning Game 1 108-105.
Keep reading for all the ways you can watch Mavericks vs. Timberwolves Game 2 tonight.
Game 2 of the Dallas Mavericks vs. Minnesota Timberwolves NBA Playoffs series will be played on Friday, May 24, 2024 at 8:30 p.m. ET (5:30 p.m. PT). The game will air on TNT and stream on Sling TV and the platforms featured below.
If your cable subscription doesn't carry TNT or you've cut the cord with your cable company, you can still watch today's game. Below are the platforms on which you can watch today's game live.
One of the most cost-effective ways to stream today's NBA playoff game is through a subscription to Sling TV. To watch today's game, you'll need a subscription to the Orange tier, which includes TNT and ESPN. For access to more NBA playoff games, upgrade to the Orange + Blue tier (recommended), which includes the games played on ABC.
The Orange tier is normally $40 per month, but Sling TV has an offer for new subscribers where you can get your first month for $15. The Orange + Blue tier costs $35 for your first month, and $60 per month after that. There's also an NBA playoffs package deal where you can save $30 when you pre-pay for three months of service on any tier. You can cancel anytime.
Note: Because Sling TV doesn't carry CBS, you won't be able to watch CBS-aired programming like next year's NFL games on CBS. To watch these games, plus PGA golf, UEFA Champions League and more live sports, we recommend you also subscribe to Paramount+ with Showtime. Paramount+ with Showtime costs $12 per month after a one-week free trial.
Note: Parmount+ with Showtime and CBS Essentials are both subsidiaries of Paramount.
Top features of Sling TV Orange + Blue tier:
Max, formerly known as HBO Max, is known for streaming top-tier HBO content like "Succession" and "House of the Dragon". Now, NBA fans can enjoy NBA Playoffs games airing on TNT on the streamer with the B/R sports add-on. You'll need a Max subscription to access B/R sports content like the NBA Playoffs and the NHL Playoffs. Some blackouts do apply.
A subscription to Max starts at $10 per month. The B/R sports add-on is currently free.
You can watch today's game with the Hulu + Live TV/ESPN+ bundle. The bundle features 95 channels, including ABC, TNT, local network affiliates and ESPN. It also includes the ESPN+ streaming service. Unlimited DVR storage is also included. Watch today's game, the 2024 NBA playoffs, MLB this season and network-aired NFL games next season with Hulu + Live TV/ESPN+ bundle.
Hulu + Live TV comes bundled with ESPN+ and Disney+. It's priced at $77 per month after a three-day free trial.
Rooting from home is more fun while repping your team with the latest NBA fan gear. Fanatics is our first stop for the newest NBA fan gear, our go-to for the latest drop of NBA Playoffs and NBA Finals merch like jerseys, commemorative T-shirts, hats and more. Fanatics also has just-released NFL Draft jerseys, like No. 1 overall draft pick Caleb Williams' new Chicago Bears jersey. Fanatics is currently offering free shipping on orders over $24 (use code 24SHIP).
Below is the schedule for the NBA conference finals. All times Eastern.
Eastern Conference
(1) Boston vs. (6) Indiana
• Game 1: Celtics 133, Pacers 128
• Game 2: Pacers vs. Celtics, Thursday, May 23 (8:00 ET, ESPN)
• Game 3: Celtics vs. Pacers, Saturday, May 25 (8:30 ET, ABC)
• Game 4: Celtics vs. Pacers, Monday, May 27 (8:00 ET, ESPN)
• Game 5: Pacers vs. Celtics, Wednesday, May 29 (8:00 ET, ESPN)*
• Game 6: Celtics vs. Pacers, Friday, May 31 (8:00 ET, ESPN)*
• Game 7: Pacers vs. Celtics, Sunday, June 2 (8:00 ET, ESPN)*
* = if necessary
Boston leads the series 1-0
Western Conference
3) Minnesota vs. (5) Dallas
• Game 1: Mavericks 108, Timberwolves 105
• Game 2: Mavericks vs. Timberwolves, Friday, May 24 (8:30 ET, TNT)
• Game 3: Timberwolves vs. Mavericks, Sunday, May 26 (8:00 ET, TNT)
• Game 4: Timberwolves vs. Mavericks, Tuesday, May 28 (8:30 ET, TNT)
• Game 5: Mavericks vs. Timberwolves, Thursday, May 30 (8:30 ET, TNT)*
• Game 6: Timberwolves vs. Mavericks, Saturday, June 1 (8:30 ET, TNT)*
• Game 7: Mavericks vs. Timberwolves, Monday, June 3 (8:30 ET, TNT)*
* = if necessary
Dallas leads the series 1-0
Below are the scores and standings for the second round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs.
(1) Boston vs. (4) Cleveland
• Game 1: Celtics 120, Cavaliers 95
• Game 2: Cavaliers 118, Celtics 94
• Game 3: Celtics 106, Cavaliers 93
• Game 4: Celtics 109, Cavaliers 102
• Game 5: Celtics 113, Cavaliers 98
Boston wins series 4-1
(2) New York vs. (6) Indiana
• Game 1: Knicks 121, Pacers 117
• Game 2: Knicks 130, Pacers 121
• Game 3: Pacers 111, Knicks 106
• Game 4: Pacers 121, Knicks 89
• Game 5: Knicks 121, Pacers 91
• Game 6: Pacers, 116, Knicks 103
• Game 7: Pacers 130, Knicks 109
Indiana wins series 4-3
Western Conference
(1) Oklahoma City vs. (5) Dallas
• Game 1: Thunder 117, Mavericks 95
• Game 2: Mavericks 119, Thunder 110
• Game 3: Mavericks 105, Thunder 101
• Game 4: Thunder 100, Mavericks 96
• Game 5: Mavericks 104, Thunder 92
• Game 6: Mavericks 117, Thunder 116
Dallas wins series 4-2
(2) Denver vs. (3) Minnesota
• Game 1: Timberwolves 106, Nuggets 99
• Game 2: Timberwolves 106, Nuggets 80
• Game 3: Nuggets 117, Timberwolves 90
• Game 4: Nuggets 115, Timberwolves 107
• Game 5: Nuggets 112, Timberwolves 97
• Game 6: Timberwolves 115, Nuggets 70
• Game 7: Timberwolves 98, Nuggets 90
Minnesota wins series 4-3
Below are the results from the first round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs.
Eastern Conference
(1) Boston Celtics vs. (8) Miami Heat
• Game 1: Celtics 114, Heat 94
• Game 2: Heat 111, Celtics 101
• Game 3: Celtics 104, Heat 84
• Game 4: Celtics 102, Heat 88
• Game 5: Celtics 118, Heat 84
(2) New York Knicks vs. (7) Philadelphia 76ers
• Game 1: Knicks 111, 76ers 104
• Game 2: Knicks 104, 76ers 101
• Game 3: 76ers 125, Knicks 114
• Game 4: Knicks 97, 76ers 92
• Game 5: 76ers 112, Knicks 106 (OT)
• Game 6: Knicks 118, 76ers 115
(3) Milwaukee Bucks vs. (6) Indiana Pacers
• Game 1: Bucks 109, Pacers 94
• Game 2: Pacers 125, Bucks 108
• Game 3: Pacers 121, Bucks 118
• Game 4: Pacers 126, Bucks 113
• Game 5: Bucks 115, Pacers 92
• Game 6: Pacers 120, Bucks 98
(4) Cleveland vs. (5) Orlando
• Game 1: Cavaliers 97, Magic 83
• Game 2: Cavaliers 96, Magic 86
• Game 3: Magic 121, Cavaliers 83
• Game 4: Magic 112, Cavaliers 89
• Game 5: Cavaliers 104, Magic 103
• Game 6: Magic 103, Cavaliers 96
• Game 7: Cavaliers 106, Magic 94
Western Conference
(1) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (8) New Orleans Pelicans
• Game 1: Thunder 94, Pelicans 92
• Game 2: Thunder 124, Pelicans 92
• Game 3: Thunder 106, Pelicans 85
• Game 4: Thunder 97, Pelicans 89
(2) Denver Nuggets vs. (7) Los Angeles Lakers
• Game 1: Nuggets 114, Lakers 103
• Game 2: Nuggets 101, Lakers 99
• Game 3: Nuggets 112, Lakers 105
• Game 4: Lakers 119, Nuggets 108
• Game 5: Nuggets 108, Lakers 106
(3) Minnesota Timberwolves vs. (6) Phoenix Suns
• Game 1: Timberwolves 120, Suns 95
• Game 2: Timberwolves 105, Suns 93
• Game 3: Timberwolves 129, Suns 109
• Game 4: Timberwolves 112, Suns 116
(4) LA Clippers vs. (5) Dallas Mavericks
• Game 1: Clippers 109, Mavericks 97
• Game 2: Mavericks 96, Clippers 93
• Game 3: Mavericks 101, Clippers 90
• Game 4: Clippers 116, Mavericks 111
• Game 5: Mavericks 123, Clippers 93
• Game 6: Mavericks 114, Mavericks 101
The conference finals will begin May 21-22, but can move up to May 19-20 if the prior round's series ends early.
The 2024 NBA Finals will begin on June 6, airing on ABC.
