Sports

Scottie Thompson recorded a triple-double to lead Barangay Ginebra to a 105-85 win over Converge in the PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinals on Christmas Day at Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, as the Gin Kings moved closer to advancing in the playoffs. Thompson approached the game with a businesslike attitude, directed Ginebra’s offense, contributed on defense and on the boards, and left the arena quickly after the final buzzer despite his all-around performance.

Brooks Koepka, a five-time major champion, became the first player to leave Saudi-funded LIV Golf, creating a major shift in professional golf and raising questions about his possible return to the PGA Tour. LIV Golf confirmed his resignation on its website and named Talor Gooch as the new team captain to replace Koepka. Officials from LIV Golf and the PGA Tour did not immediately disclose details about contract terms, eligibility rules, or timelines for Koepka’s reinstatement.

LA Tenorio returned from retirement as a playing coach for the Magnolia Hotshots in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup in Manila, where he shook off early jitters and adjusted quickly to his new dual role. The 20-year PBA veteran balanced coaching responsibilities with on-court duties, coordinating with the Magnolia bench, directing younger teammates, and providing leadership in key moments. Team officials and league records confirmed his formal designation as both player and coach, marking a significant transition in his long career.

Ray Parks Jr. rejoined Osaka Evessa in Japan’s B.League on May 19, 2025, immediately after winning men’s basketball gold with Gilas Pilipinas at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games. Parks suited up in Osaka’s 75-73 home loss to the Sendai 89ers at Ookini Arena Maishima, as the result counted toward both teams’ regular-season standings. The game followed a tight schedule coordinated between the Philippine national team, Osaka Evessa, and B.League officials to accommodate Parks’ SEA Games duties and club commitments.

Aston Villa defeated Manchester United 2-1 at Villa Park as Morgan Rogers scored two solo goals to secure the club’s 10th straight win in all competitions. The Premier League victory kept Unai Emery’s side in third place and within three points of the top of the table. The result extended Villa’s strong form in the title race and left Manchester United outside the leading positions. This fact-based match report covers the key moments, scoring, atmosphere, and implications for both clubs in the ongoing Premier League season.

Jamie Malonzo helped Gilas Pilipinas secure a 70-64 win over host Thailand in the SEA Games men’s basketball gold-medal match at Nimibutr Stadium in Bangkok on Friday. Filipino fans chanted “MVP” as Malonzo headed to the free-throw line in the closing minutes and converted crucial points that preserved the lead. Gilas used tight defense and timely free throws to hold off Thailand’s late comeback attempts and then received the gold medals during a postgame ceremony on the court.

Gilas Pilipinas defeated host Thailand, 70-64, at Nimibutr Stadium in Bangkok to win the men’s basketball gold medal at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games. Robert Bolick led the Filipinos in the title-clinching victory and issued strong remarks after the game about the hostile atmosphere. Players and coaches celebrated on the court and during the medal ceremony as organizers awarded gold to the Philippines and silver to Thailand. The win added another gold to the Philippine campaign in the regional meet.

Victor Wembanyama logged his 100th consecutive NBA regular-season game with at least one block in the San Antonio Spurs’ 126-98 win over the Atlanta Hawks in Atlanta. The Spurs center finished with 26 points, 12 assists and two blocks, anchoring both the offense and defense. His early-career streak of games with at least one block continued as San Antonio controlled the matchup and secured a decisive road victory. Officials, statisticians and fans documented the milestone as the Spurs advanced through their regular-season schedule.

Jake Paul confirmed he suffered a double broken jaw in his sixth-round knockout loss to former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua in Miami. Paul posted an X-ray image on social media showing his jaw fractured in two places following the Netflix-streamed boxing bout. The injury occurred when Joshua stopped Paul in Round 6, and medical staff later evaluated the YouTuber-turned-boxer before he announced the diagnosis.

San Antonio Spurs players Victor Wembanyama and Devin Vassell marked the holiday period with personal and community-focused actions, as Wembanyama shared a public tribute to his late grandmother and Vassell visited the Boys & Girls Club of Greater San Antonio to meet with local youth and support ongoing outreach programs.