The STANDS - An Inquirer Sports Newsletter

 

View in browser   |   Download our app March 14, 2025 It's going to be another tough encounter between Barangay Ginebra and TNT. (PBA IMAGES) Hey there sports fan, Later tonight, Game 1 of the PBA Commissioner's Cup gets going. Let's unwrap all the storylines for this Finals showdown. For Barangay Ginebra and TNT Tropang Giga, this championship battle is another chapter in their growing rivalry. These two powerhouses have met in high-stakes matchups before, and once again, they clash for supremacy in a best-of-seven series. Ginebra, known for its massive fanbase, seeks redemption after previous heartbreaks against TNT.  The Tropang Giga, despite missing key veteran Jayson Castro, remain confident in their ability to challenge the Gin Kings with their deep roster and experienced play. The Finals schedule is set, with every game expected to be a test of endurance, adjustments, and sheer willpower. For Ginebra, this series represents an opportunity to finally break through against TNT, a team that has often had their number in recent years. Their passionate supporters, known for their unwavering belief, are hoping this time the magic works in their favor. For TNT, this is a chance to reinforce their dominance, even in the absence of a key leader. The team has thrived under pressure, proving that their depth and versatility make them a formidable opponent. While Castro's absence will be felt, the Tropang Giga have weapons that can exploit Ginebra’s vulnerabilities. Beyond just a title bout, this duel is a renewal of a rivalry that will be long remembered. Both squads have championship pedigrees, and this latest collision will add another compelling chapter to their history. Who will seize control in Game 1 and set the tone for the rest of the series? Basketball fans are in for a battle worthy of the biggest stage. Like this email? Forward it to your friends and let them know that they can sign up here. ZUS Coffee is through to the quarterfinals. (PVL IMAGES) Meanwhile... Here's a trivia question: Which UAAP women’s volleyball star is currently undergoing an internship as a teacher of Grade 3 students? I'll give you the answer later. Speaking of volleyball, brace yourselves for the biggest game in the first round of the UAAP women's volleyball tournament. Season leader National University hopes to keep its record spotless and will face a chill University of Santo Tomas on Sunday. And oh, the PVL All-Filipino Conference now has a complete set of quarterfinalists and guess what? ZUS is part of that field.  What we're up to next: The knockout rounds are done and the PVL All-Filipino heads to its quarterfinal round with some surprising and intriguing matchups. We don't expect Barangay Ginebra to fumble in the semifinals anymore so we're focusing now on how the championship of the PBA Commissioner's Cup will shape up. And, of course, we will keep track of the UAAP women's volleyball tournament.  Number of the Week: 1 NBA players who have scored at least 30 points, 20 rebounds and 20 assists in a single game: Nikola Jokic. QUOTE OF THE WEEK “Hopefully, we can win at least one against Belen. Please [Belen], let us have one.” —Detdet Pepito, UST captain, joking about how she has yet to beat goodfriend Bella Belen in the UAAP.  Hi Klaus, Have feedback? We're happy to hear it. Give Suggestions 68. That's the answer to the trivia question above. Think you can ace the rest of our weekly sports quiz? Head over to our Viber community and try the test out! Buy the Inquirer at newsstands, subscribe to our digital edition, Inquirer Plus, visit our online site and follow us on socials (Twitter: @inquirersports; FB: facebook.com/inquirersports) for more stories and updates—or to send us questions or suggestions of stories you'd want to read. See you next Friday! Francis Francis T. J. Ochoa is the Sports Editor of the Philippine Daily Inquirer. For comments, suggestions and questions, hit him up on Twitter (@ftjochoaINQ).