Tyrese Haliburton Reports Progress in Achilles Injury Recovery

Indiana Pacers star point guard Tyrese Haliburton has provided an update on his Achilles injury recovery, characterizing his progress as "very small steps." Speaking at the Simple Truth Tyrese Haliburton Pro Camp in Westfield, Indiana, on Saturday, he expressed cautious optimism about his rehabilitation journey. "I’m walking now in my boot," Haliburton revealed. "Getting closer to walking full time in my shoe. So, that’s exciting for me. It’s kind of like a new benchmark, a new achievement for me. … Just being able to walk, it’s like the small wins right now. Just taking it a day at a time. I have good days, bad days." The 25-year-old guard suffered the injury during Game 7 of the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder and will miss the entire 2025-26 season. "I obviously want to be good tomorrow, but I know it takes time," Haliburton acknowledged. "The team has already ruled me out for the year, so I’m in no rush. It’s just about getting 100 percent, not necessarily as fast as I can, but getting 100 percent is important. I don’t want to come back and be 85, 90 percent. I want to be able to come back at 100, so I’m just taking my time through that." Last season, Haliburton posted averages of 18.6 points, 9.2 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.4 steals across 73 starts. He also earned selection to the All-NBA Third Team. A two-time NBA All-Star, Haliburton holds career averages of 17.5 points, 8.8 assists, and 3.7 rebounds over 333 games (294 starts) spanning his tenure with the Sacramento Kings (2020-2022) and the Pacers.

Tyrese Haliburton Resumes Shooting Drills Following Achilles Injury

Indiana Pacers standout Tyrese Haliburton has been seen engaging in shooting drills at the team's practice facility, marking a significant milestone in his recovery from an Achilles tendon injury sustained three months ago. A video posted on the official Pacers social media account confirmed the absence of the walking boot Haliburton previously wore for support. The All-Star guard incurred the injury early in a pivotal Game 7 during the recent NBA playoffs, where the Pacers ultimately fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder. His return to practice activities suggests positive progress in his rehabilitation and bodes well for his potential return to competitive play in the near future.

DLSU Lady Spikers Aim for Consecutive Titles at 2025 Davao Invitational Volleyball Tournament

Volleyball excitement is set to ignite in Davao City as the 2025 Davao Invitational Volleyball Tournament kicks off on Thursday, September 4, at 5 p.m. The event, held at the University of Southeastern Philippines (Usep) Gym in Bo. Obrero, opens with no admission fee, welcoming fans to witness top-tier collegiate volleyball action. Defending champions De La Salle University (DLSU) Lady Spikers will headline the opening day, facing off against the College of St. Benilde (CSB) Lady Blazers at 5 p.m. This matchup will be followed by a contest between the Zus Coffee Thunderbelles and the Farm Fresh Foxies at 7 p.m. Organized by Madayaw Sports Davao, the four-day tournament runs through September 7, featuring an exciting slate of games. On Friday, September 5, the Lady Spikers return to the court, while the Foxies face the Lady Blazers in the evening’s main event. Saturday’s schedule concludes the preliminary rounds with CSB taking on Zus Coffee at 5 p.m., followed by DLSU versus Farm Fresh. The competition will culminate on Sunday, September 7, with matches deciding the third-place winner and the championship team. The DLSU squad arrives with a formidable lineup, led by standout outside hitter Angel Canino, middle blockers Amie Provido and Thea Gagate, and spiker Shevana Laput. Adding hometown pride is Davao’s Irina Glenne Escandor, who joins a deep roster including Jhianna de Jesus, Lyka de Leon, Lilay del Castillo, and others. Teams began arriving in Davao on Wednesday, September 3. The Farm Fresh Foxies shared a spirited message on social media, posting a photo at NAIA with the caption: "Smile muna bago magpuksaan. See you in a few, Davao City… LET’S GO!" Similarly, the Zus Coffee Thunderbelles posted a group photo at NAIA Terminal 2, expressing their readiness: "WE ARE HEADED TO YOU, DAVAO! Games begin September 4. SEE YOU THERE!" This prestigious tournament is organized by Madayaw Sports Davao in partnership with the City Mayor’s Office and The Royal Mandaya Hotel. It also receives support from Genesis 88 Construction, Arcadia Active Lifestyle Center, Open Space Café and Bar, the Office of the Vice Mayor, the Office of the Second Congressional District, Acting Vice Mayor Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II, and Puwersa ng Pilipinong Pandagat. Volleyball enthusiasts in Davao and beyond are encouraged to attend and witness the display of skill and competitive spirit as teams contest for the coveted title in this high-profile invitational event.

Venus Williams and Leylah Fernandez Advance in US Open Doubles with Impressive Win

At 45 years old, Venus Williams continues to defy expectations, showcasing skill and resilience beyond her ranking and age. Paired with 22-year-old Canadian Leylah Fernandez, Williams secured a straight-sets victory against the sixth-seeded duo of Lyudmyla Kichenok from Ukraine and Ellen Perez from Australia, winning 7-6 (4), 6-3. The match, originally scheduled for the Grandstand Court, was moved to the expansive and energetic Louis Armstrong Stadium. Despite Williams' low doubles ranking of No. 582, the pairing displayed remarkable synergy and talent. They overcame an early deficit in the first set, regaining a break in the ninth game to force a tiebreaker. Tied at 4-4 in the tiebreak, Williams and Fernandez won the final three points decisively. In the second set, the duo broke serve at love early in the second game and successfully defended multiple break points in the subsequent game. They maintained their composure, dropping just one point in their last three service games. Their aggressive yet controlled play was reflected in the statistics, as they committed only ten unforced errors compared to sixteen by their opponents. Following the match, Williams praised Fernandez, calling her "the best partner I ever played with besides (sister) Serena. We play the same style. I’m just a little bit bigger." Venus and Serena Williams have won 14 Grand Slam doubles titles together, including two at the US Open (1999 and 2009). This match marked Venus Williams' first Grand Slam doubles appearance since the 2022 US Open, which was Serena Williams’ farewell to competitive tennis. Fernandez described their on-court approach positively: "I don’t think we came in with a plan. We tried to figure things out in the beginning. Venus said the most amazing strategy during the changeover, ‘Bring the energy up’ — It was a great atmosphere." Looking ahead, the wildcard team will face the unseeded pair Ulrikke Eikeri of Norway and Eri Hozumi of Japan in the round of 32.

PLDT and Creamline Gear Up for Key PVL Invitational Matches at PhilSports Arena

MANILA, Philippines — PLDT and Creamline look to maintain their winning momentum as they face off against Cignal and Chery Tiggo, respectively, this Saturday in the Premier Volleyball League Invitational held at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City. The High Speed Hitters, reigning PVL on Tour champions, dominated their previous match with a convincing 25-16, 25-15, 25-20 victory over the Crossovers. Meanwhile, the Cool Smashers edged out Cignal HD Spikers in a tightly contested five-set thriller, winning 22-25, 25-17, 22-25, 25-11, 15-8, sharing the early lead with PLDT. Scheduled for 4 p.m., the PLDT squad will face off against their sister team Cignal, followed by Creamline’s 6:30 p.m. match against Chery Tiggo. PLDT will once again rely on rookie standout Alleiah Malaluan, who impressed with a match-high 11 points in her debut after competing with Alas Pilipinas. Creamline, unshaken in high-pressure moments, depended on seasoned players Michele Gumabao, Jema Galanza, and captain Alyssa Valdez to secure their first victory of the tournament. This win sets them on course for their 19th consecutive podium finish and a potential record 11th league title. "We just have to fight, keep on going. We can’t stop no matter what," said Gumabao, who led the team with 22 points in their triumph. The day’s action begins at 1:30 p.m. with a match between Japanese guest team Kobe Shinwa University and ZUS Coffee. Kobe Shinwa stepped in as a late replacement after Kurashiki Ablaze, another Japanese squad, withdrew from the event.

Creamline Cool Smashers Stage Comeback to Defeat Cignal HD Spikers in PVL Invitational

The Creamline Cool Smashers showcased resilience on Thursday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City, rallying from a 1-2 set disadvantage to triumph 17-25, 25-17, 22-25, 25-11, 15-8 over the Cignal HD Spikers during the PVL Invitational Conference. Michele Gumabao led the defending champions with a team-high 22 points, fueled by 18 kills and four blocks, in addition to delivering 15 exceptional digs. Jessica Galanza contributed significantly with 18 points and 17 receptions, while team captain Alyssa Valdez recorded a triple-double of 11 points, 12 digs, and 14 receptions. "Perhaps the turning point was overcoming the sweep we suffered during the first round of eliminations. This time, our experience really gave us an edge," remarked Cool Smashers head coach Sherwin Meneses. After dropping the close third set, Creamline bounced back decisively with a 25-11 fourth set win, forcing a nail-biting fifth set. The Cool Smashers seized an early 7-3 lead in the decider, maintaining control despite Cignal narrowing the gap to 8-6. A pivotal 4-0 run featuring powerful attacks from Gumabao and Valdez, along with errors from Cignal’s Gel Cayuna, paved the way for Creamline's victory. Although Valdez committed some late mistakes, Galanza secured the match with consecutive kills following a grueling 2 hours and 21 minutes of play. Setter Kyle Negrito orchestrated Creamline’s offense effectively with 32 excellent sets and added four points, while Jeanette Panaga and Sheena Toring contributed a combined 15 points. On the opposing side, Heather Guino-o led Cignal with 21 points, 12 digs, and seven receptions but was held scoreless in the final set. Newly minted PVL On Tour MVP Erika Santos added 11 points, yet the HD Spikers slipped to 0-2 in the Invitational standings. In other action, the PLDT High Speed Hitters began their campaign with a commanding 25-16, 25-14, 25-18 sweep over the Chery Tiggo Crossovers, even without key players Savannah Davison, Kim Dy, and Kim Fajardo. Rookie Alleiah Malaluan impressed in her professional debut, recording 11 points, 13 excellent digs, and nine receptions, narrowly missing a triple-double in the hour and 25-minute match.

Rookie Alleiah Malaluan Leads PLDT to Sweep Victory Over Cignal in PVL Invitational

Alleiah Malaluan continued to impress in her rookie season by powering the PLDT High Speed Hitters to a straight-set victory over the Cignal HD Spikers, 25-19, 25-13, 25-22, during the PVL Invitational held Saturday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City. The former De La Salle University standout contributed 12 points, including 11 successful spikes, and was honored with her second consecutive Best Player of the Game award. This victory extends PLDT's undefeated streak to 3-0 in the tournament. Malaluan, also a member of the Alas Pilipinas national women’s volleyball squad, had an impressive professional debut by recording 11 points, 13 digs, and nine receptions against Chery Tiggo Crossovers earlier. Reflecting on her growth, Malaluan stated, \"It motivates me to raise my game even more, especially since my teammates support me on the court. Whenever I err, they remind me, ‘It’s okay, you can make up for it.’\" Leading the High Speed Hitters was Savannah Davison, who scored 17 points complemented by six digs and seven receptions. Mary Joy Baron also reached double digits with 10 points, including three blocks. Setter Kim Fajardo contributed with 19 excellent sets, while libero Kath Arado bolstered the defense with 11 digs and eight receptions, vital contributions towards the team’s strong performance. For Cignal, Erika Santos led the scoring with 10 points, while Ernestine Tiamzon added seven. Rookies Jessa Ordiales and Ishie Lalongisip chipped in five and four points respectively, though the team is still searching for their first win after dropping to 0-3. In other matches, the Chery Tiggo Crossovers maintained their title hopes by overcoming the Creamline Cool Smashers in a thrilling five-set match: 25-20, 24-26, 21-25, 25-17, 17-15. Rookie Renee Peñafiel shined for Chery Tiggo with 18 points, including 12 attacks, three blocks, and three service aces, earning her Player of the Game distinction. Meanwhile, Kobe Shinwa University made a strong debut with a straight-sets victory over ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles, 25-14, 27-25, 25-17. Setter Sakura Furuta's 18 excellent sets earned her Player of the Game honors in that contest.

PLDT Secures Finals Spot with Straight-Set Win Over Kobe Shinwa University in PVL Invitationals

At the PhilSports Arena in Pasig, PLDT continued its dominant run in the PVL Invitationals by defeating the resilient Kobe Shinwa University squad 25-20, 25-22, 25-23 last night. With this victory, the High Speed Hitters cemented their place in the finals, improving their record to an unblemished 4-0. The win, coinciding with National Heroes’ Day, sets up a much-anticipated championship match scheduled this Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Setter Kim Fajardo led PLDT’s offensive efforts, delivering 19 excellent sets paired with four points. Outside hitter Savi Davison was instrumental in securing the victory, amassing 17 points through 13 attacks, three blocks, a service ace, and six digs. Rookie Alleiah Malaluan, also representing Alas Pilipinas, contributed significantly with 12 points and eight excellent receptions, while middle blocker Mika Reyes chipped in with 11 points. PLDT, who entered the tournament as the pre-season On Tour champion, now aims to complete a flawless run through the single-round preliminaries when they face ZUS Coffee on Thursday at the same venue. Reflecting on the contest, PLDT coach Rald Ricafort commented, \"The game against the Japanese team demanded great respect and preparation for their long rallies and exceptional floor defense. We reminded our players to be patient, lessons we have learned from previous matches, which became our foundation. The experience was unique and valuable, and we are happy to secure a win against Japan.\" Nagisa Komatsuda stood out as the primary contributor for Kobe Shinwa University, scoring 21 points. The Japanese visitors, now holding a 1-1 record, seek redemption in their upcoming game against the Creamline Cool Smashers today at 4 p.m. The day’s schedule at PhilSports Arena also features a match between Kobe Shinwa University and Creamline at 4 p.m., followed by a clash between ZUS Coffee and Chery Tiggo at 6:30 p.m.

Adamson University Dominates Visayas Leg of 2025 SSL National Invitationals

Adamson University showcased their dominance in Cebu by sweeping Ateneo de Manila University 25-15, 26-24, 25-14 to secure the Visayas leg championship of the 2025 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals at the Mandaue Sports Complex on Sunday night. Shaina Nitura, an exceptional player from Alas Pilipinas, led the Lady Falcons with a remarkable 23-point performance that included 15 successful attacks, four blocks, and four service aces, earning her the Best Player award. This victory marked Adamson’s unbeaten run in the tournament and provided a measure of redemption after finishing second in the 2023 edition. In the decisive third set, Adamson held a commanding 19-9 lead before Ateneo attempted a comeback. However, Nitura’s clutch plays sparked a 6-2 run, sealing the match and the championship title. "I thank God for my players’ performance. We’re blessed with three consecutive wins, and I’m very proud of their development," expressed Adamson head coach JP Yude, who previously led the Lady Falcons to victory in the 2024 Shakey’s Girls Invitational Volleyball League. In the battle for second place, University of San Carlos (USC) earned the silver medal by overcoming their rivals from the University of Southern Philippines Foundation in four sets, 22-25, 25-17, 25-23, 25-14. Ghanna Suan paced the Lady Warriors with 14 points, supported by Angel Galinato and Juliane Yu contributing 11 and 10 points, respectively. USC coach Grace Antigua, a former national team member and multiple SEA Games gold medalist, commented, "It was all about eagerness and adjustment. The team was still finding their rhythm in the first set, but their energy improved significantly by the second." Ateneo settled for third place with a 1-2 record in the tournament. Attention now turns to the Luzon leg of the competition, scheduled from August 29 to 31 in Batangas. The leg will feature NCAA champion College of St. Benilde, Letran, Far Eastern University, and University of Batangas competing for the title.

Successful Launch of Cebu City Inter-Collegiate Invitational Basketball Tournament Spurs Plans for Expansion

CEBU CITY, Philippines — The first-ever Cebu City Inter-Collegiate Invitational Basketball Tournament, held from August 20 to 25 at the Cebu City Sports Institute in Barangay Sawang Calero, ended on a high note, according to tournament commissioner and local sports advocate Rocky Alcoseba. Alcoseba highlighted the strong public engagement as a major factor in the event's success. Backed by the Cebu City government, the competition not only featured thrilling matchups among premier collegiate teams but also incorporated a unique environmental campaign championed by Mayor Nestor Archival. A notable initiative required spectators to bring plastic bottles as their entry fee, which contributed to the collection of over 700 kilograms of single-use plastics during the six-day tournament. Alcoseba remarked, \"It is heartening to see our community embrace Mayor Archival’s environmental efforts through sports. Collecting such a substantial amount in just under a week demonstrates the commitment of Cebuanos. The mayor is delighted that our event supports his advocacy.\" Highlighting the competitive landscape, the tournament featured esteemed teams including the Adamson Soaring Falcons, who clinched the championship, the St. Benilde Blazers as runners-up, the Perpetual Altas, alongside local teams the USJ-R Jaguars and USC Warriors. Encouraged by the event’s positive reception, Alcoseba is already looking forward to hosting an expanded edition. \"The turnout exceeded expectations, and the enthusiastic crowd confirms the strong basketball culture here. The last similar tournament dated back to 2013, and despite unfavorable weather, the support was remarkable,\" he commented. Plans include upgrading the event’s facilities and exploring partnerships for venues like the Cebu Coliseum and SM Seaside Arena to accommodate larger audiences. Discussing future schedules, Alcoseba revealed ongoing consultations with Mayor Archival regarding the possibility of holding a follow-up tournament either during the Christmas season or aligned with the Sinulog festivities in January. \"We aim to organize either a Christmas league or a Sinulog Cup, but will select only one to ensure thorough preparation,\" he explained. Efforts to involve Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) teams were challenged by scheduling conflicts, as the PBA season runs from October to February. However, discussions are advancing with international teams, including one from Australia’s National Basketball League and another from the East Asia Super League. Alcoseba also emphasized the importance of competitive balance, considering invitations to strong local squads such as the Cebu Greats, CM Farm, Quezon City Huskers, and RKF Iloilo to face the visiting foreign teams. \"Collaborations with reputable local teams will provide quality competition; these ideas are being actively explored in coordination with basketball personalities like Dondon Hontiveros,\" he added. The tournament marks a significant milestone in Cebu City's sporting calendar, blending athletic competition with environmental responsibility and community involvement, with ambitious plans to elevate its scale and impact in the years to come.