Pliskova sweeps into Cincinnati semis, Nadal comes up short
Man sworn in as lawyer by judge who sentenced him to prison as a teen 20 years ago After a quick turnaround, she needed only 67 minutes to beat a rested Caroline Wozniacki 6-2, 6-4 for a sweep into the semis.“The first match helped me a little bit to have some rallies already today,” Pliskova said. “Physically it was not that tough, so I was warmed up enough.”FEATURED STORIESSPORTSWATCH: Drones light up sky in final leg of SEA Games torch runSPORTSSEA Games: Philippines picks up 1st win in men’s water poloSPORTSMalditas save PH from shutoutNadal got only halfway there.He spent an hour and 37 minutes on court in the afternoon while beating fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in a match carried over from the previous night. Five hours later, he was back on court against Nick Kyrgios, who had won a three-set match earlier in the day.Nadal was sloppy at the outset and on the defensive for much of a 6-2, 7-5 loss that lasted an hour and 20 minutes. Catriona Gray spends Thanksgiving by preparing meals for people with illnesses Flags of SEA Games countries raised at Athletes Village LATEST STORIES Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. Oh baby! Jeter welcomes birth of daughter Kyrgios will face David Ferrer, who won his only match of the day — 6-3, 6-3 over fourth-seeded Dominic Thiem. At age 35, Ferrer is the second-oldest semifinalist in Cincinnati during the Open Era behind Ken Rosewall in 1970.No. 7 Grigor Dimitrov is the top seed left in a men’s field depleted by upsets and injuries — Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray and defending champion Marin Cilic missed the tournament because of injuries. Dimitrov needed only 52 minutes to beat Yuichi Sugita 6-2, 6-1.He’ll face John Isner, who beat wild-card Jared Donaldson 7-6 (4), 7-5. Isner won the only break point of the match to go ahead 6-5 in the second set. He closed it out with a 136 mph ace, one of his 25 in the match.“I knew that a lot of the conditions and everything about this tournament, my schedule — a lot of things have worked in my favor this week,” Isner said. “So I hope to keep it going.”In the women’s bracket, Pliskova will face Garbine Mugaruza in the semifinals. The Wimbledon champion survived another tough challenge on Friday, beating Svetlana Kuznetsova 6-2, 5-7, 7-5. The match went 2 hours, 45 minutes — her longest of the tournament.“I think it was one of the best matches of the year,” Muguruza said. “I think we both played very well, especially in the third set. I know I won, but I’m sure she feels like it was a great match as well, because it was a tough battle and very hot out there.”Muguruza’s win came less than 24 hours after she spent 2 hours, 18 minutes on the court and fought off three match points to beat Madison Keys in the round of 16.Muguruza has reached the semifinals of two of the three tournaments she’s entered since winning Wimbledon.“You know, I’m happy with the way I’m playing and the way I’m going through these tough matches because, you know, I’ve got to dig in and somehow win them,” she said.Sloan Stephens also pulled off a two-win day to reach the semifinals. She beat Ekaterina Makarova in three sets, and then ate lunch, took a nap, woke up and knocked off Julia Goerges in straight sets. SEA Games in Calabarzon safe, secure – Solcom chief WATCH: Streetboys show off slick dance moves in Vhong Navarro’s wedding UPLB exempted from SEA Games class suspension
LOOK: Venues for 2019 SEA Games Brace for potentially devastating typhoon approaching PH – NDRRMC View comments Karolina Pliskova, of the Czech Republic, reacts during a match against Caroline Wozniacki, of Denmark, at the Western & Southern Open tennis tournament, Friday, Aug. 18, 2017, in Mason, Ohio. (AP Photo/John Minchillo)MASON, Ohio — Defending champion Karolina Pliskova pulled off a doubleheader sweep Friday at the Western & Southern Open, reaching the semifinals by winning a pair of matches with little rest in-between.Rafael Nadal couldn’t do the same.Pliskova completed a match that was suspended overnight because of rain, beating qualifier Camila Giorgi in three sets.ADVERTISEMENT Read Next Trending Articles PLAY LIST 00:50Trending Articles00:50Trending Articles02:57DOJ to come up with resolution on case vs 13 Pampanga cops in a month01:37Protesters burn down Iran consulate in Najaf01:47Panelo casts doubts on Robredo’s drug war ‘discoveries’01:29Police teams find crossbows, bows in HK university01:35Panelo suggests discounted SEA Games tickets for students02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games “No excuses, nothing at all,” Nadal said. “I didn’t play well.”Despite the loss, Nadal will move back to No. 1 in the ATP rankings next week for the first time since 2014, before a series of injuries affected his game.“To be No. 1 after all the things I’ve been going through the last couple years is something unbelievable,” Nadal said. “For me, it’s an amazing achievement.”After the match, Nadal wore a ribbon honoring the victims of the attack in Barcelona that left 13 people dead.“A tragedy,” he said. “The feeling that you’re not safe nowhere — that’s terrible. It’s very sad and I’m very, very sorry about what happened. To all the victims, the families, friends — all my support.”ADVERTISEMENT “The day is just like a blur,” Stephens said. “I’m ready to get dinner and get in bed because I’m so tired.”On Saturday, she’ll face No. 2 Simona Halep, who beat Johanna Konta 6-4, 7-6 (1).“I played the best match so far this tournament,” said Halep, who was slowed by a knee injury earlier this season. “I could hit the ball. I could move well. So I feel the rhythm. It’s back. So I’m positive again.” MOST READ
Former Chicago Bulls general manager Jerry Krause, and former Globetrotter and New York Rens player Zack Clayton were honored posthumously.McGrady had earlier told reporters his celebration was being tempered by the impact of Hurricane Harvey on his family and neighbors in Texas.His estate in Sugar Land, Texas, suffered only minor damage from the storm, allowing him and his wife to take in the families of five relatives and friends for three days after mandatory evacuations. He also put on a Labor Day feast at a church in the Houston area for about 800 victims of the storm.“My sister was at the house, and I was trying to take her home and driving to her house. Just seeing cars under water and you don’t know if people are in there — it’s real,” he told reporters. “I’m being as vocal and proactive as I can.”Other inductees were vocal about other issues Friday night.ADVERTISEMENT View comments LOOK: Loisa Andalio, Ronnie Alonte unwind in Amanpulo for 3rd anniversary Jackson talked about being born in a box car in Missouri and rising to become a player and later a successful business executive and owner of the Globetrotters. His was the most political speech of the night, calling for unity in a divided nation, saying he does not believe the country can endure if it does not cast indifference, hatred and bigotry aside.“If basketball can be a showcase for non-discrimination, for integration, for performance-based emotions, why can’t we do that over in every part of our society?” he asked.Lobo and McGraw celebrated the growth of women’s basketball. McGraw became just the sixth women’s coach to be enshrined.“I’m grateful for Title IX and the opportunities that it’s given to women like me, who dreamed of a future where we could do the same job as a man, where playing a game could lead to a 40-year career,” she said.Lobo told a story about when her oldest daughter, Siobhan, was 5 years old and saw her father watching a UConn men’s game. She said to him, “I didn’t know boys play basketball too.”Self, 54, told The Associated Press he feels a little uncomfortable being enshrined in the middle of his career, which includes nine 30-win seasons and an NCAA championship in 2008“I hope it doesn’t mean that I’m on my last leg yet,” he said. “I think this will be motivation to try and validate it, always. I’ll work harder now that ever to validate being thought of with these other fraternity members.”Self spent part of his speech listing the Kansas basketball coaching greats in the Hall of Fame.“James Naismith, Phog Allen, Larry Brown, Roy Williams and me; what is wrong with that picture?” he joked.Jernstedt, credited with overseeing the growth of the Division I men’s tournament and the creation of the women’s tournament, acknowledged to reporters that his class doesn’t include a superstar name like Michael Jordan or Shaquille O’Neal, but said he is impressed with what this class has meant to the sport. Nonong Araneta re-elected as PFF president Read Next WATCH: Streetboys show off slick dance moves in Vhong Navarro’s wedding Trending Articles PLAY LIST 00:50Trending Articles00:50Trending Articles02:49World-class track facilities installed at NCC for SEA Games01:37Protesters burn down Iran consulate in Najaf01:47Panelo casts doubts on Robredo’s drug war ‘discoveries’01:29Police teams find crossbows, bows in HK university01:35Panelo suggests discounted SEA Games tickets for students02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games Frontrow holds fun run to raise funds for young cancer patients Pau Gasol becomes career scoring leader in EuroBasket “I didn’t know three of four of these people very well at all before, but the contributions they’ve made are so impressive,” he said. “Hopefully now, more people will understand that and reach out and learn more about them.”
E.T. returns to earth, reunites with grown-up Elliott in new ad BSP sees higher prices in November, but expects stronger peso, low rice costs to put up fight Fire hits houses in Mandaluyong City Brace for potentially devastating typhoon approaching PH – NDRRMC LATEST STORIES MOST READ Tracy McGrady raises his fists as he takes the stage for his enshrinement into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Friday, Sept. 8, 2017, in Springfield, Mass. McGrady is a seven-time NBA All-Star and a two-time NBA scoring champion who played for seven NBA teams in his 16-season pro career. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Tracy McGrady says his wife, Clerenda, has been trying to get him to say that he deserves to be in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.The seven-time NBA All-Star and two-time league scoring champion couldn’t bring himself to do that, until Friday night.ADVERTISEMENT Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. He went to the podium during his induction pumping his fists in the air as the crowd chanted “T-Mac,” then celebrated his 15 years in the league.“On this day, I can finally say, ’Yes I deserve to be here,’” said McGrady, who played for seven teams, starring with Toronto, Orlando and Houston. “I am truly humbled. I’m grateful and proud to be in the class of 2017.”FEATURED STORIESSPORTSWATCH: Drones light up sky in final leg of SEA Games torch runSPORTSSEA Games: Philippines picks up 1st win in men’s water poloSPORTSMalditas save PH from shutoutMcGrady was among 11 basketball greats enshrined Friday night.The class also includes former ABA and NBA star George McGinnis, former UConn and WNBA star Rebecca Lobo, Kansas men’s coach Bill Self, Notre Dame women’s coach Muffet McGraw, former Texas high school coach Robert Hughes, former Harlem Globetrotters player and now owner Mannie Jackson, NCAA administrator Tom Jernstedt and former European star Nick Galis.
LATEST STORIES View comments Fire hits houses in Mandaluyong City Read Next Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. MOST READ WATCH: Streetboys show off slick dance moves in Vhong Navarro’s wedding Ateneo earned back-to-back wins in the UAAP Season 80 women’s basketball tournament after sneaking past University of the Philippines, 52-51, Wednesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.Cara Buendia had 10 points and eight boards to lead the Lady Eagles, who are undefeated at 2-0.ADVERTISEMENT Frontrow holds fun run to raise funds for young cancer patients E.T. returns to earth, reunites with grown-up Elliott in new ad 
Lakers’ Ingram alters shooting stroke, has grown 2 more inches—report BSP sees higher prices in November, but expects stronger peso, low rice costs to put up fight Brace for potentially devastating typhoon approaching PH – NDRRMC LOOK: Loisa Andalio, Ronnie Alonte unwind in Amanpulo for 3rd anniversary Nonong Araneta re-elected as PFF president For the complete collegiate sports coverage including scores, schedules and stories, visit Inquirer Varsity. Trending Articles PLAY LIST 00:50Trending Articles00:50Trending Articles01:00Chief Justice Peralta on upcoming UAAP game: UP has no match against UST01:37Protesters burn down Iran consulate in Najaf01:47Panelo casts doubts on Robredo’s drug war ‘discoveries’01:29Police teams find crossbows, bows in HK university01:35Panelo suggests discounted SEA Games tickets for students02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games University of the East, meanwhile, hung on and tamed Far Eastern University, 59-56, for its first win in the season.Eunice Chan finished with a near double-double of 19 points and nine rebounds as the Lady Warriors improved to 1-1, the same record as the Lady Tamaraws’.FEATURED STORIESSPORTSWATCH: Drones light up sky in final leg of SEA Games torch runSPORTSSEA Games: Philippines picks up 1st win in men’s water poloSPORTSMalditas save PH from shutoutLove Sto. Domingo aided Chan with 12 points and nine rebounds while Ruthlaine Tacula filled the stat sheets with eight points, seven boards, six assists, and three steals.
Frontrow holds fun run to raise funds for young cancer patients MOST READ “We played good defense and made the stop,” Isaac said.The dramatic win was Blackwater’s first in the playoffs since joining the league in 2014 and it couldn’t have come at a better time with the Elite facing the formidable Bolts, who won nine games against only two losses in the elimination round.Walker only had 11 points in the first three quarters before taking over when it mattered most. He exploded for 19 points in the fourth quarter, scoring Blackwater’s first 18 points in the period.The former NBA veteran, who had stints with the Boston Celtics, New York Knicks and Miami Heat, scattered 30 points, 18 rebounds, six assists, one steal and a block.The 30-year-old Maliksi, who was acquired from Star in a four-player trade on Sept. 10, wound up with 15 points and four rebounds. Starting guard Mike DiGregorio added 20 points.ADVERTISEMENT Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. Reigning Best Import Allen Durham posted 18 points, including an inside basket that gave the Bolts a 91-90 edge with 15.8 ticks remaining, 21 rebounds and seven assists while Chris Newsome and Cliff Hodge had 19 and 18 points, respectively.Blackwater tries to become only the fourth team to knock off the No. 1 team on Thursday at Smart Araneta Coliseum. LOOK: Loisa Andalio, Ronnie Alonte unwind in Amanpulo for 3rd anniversary Read Next “Going into the final 15 seconds of the game with Meralco up by one, the instruction was to have a good shot and if there was opening, we take it,” Blackwater head coach Leo Isaac recalled.“We challenged the players to face the situation. We wanted the ball to Walker but there was also an option for Maliksi,” Isaac said.FEATURED STORIESSPORTSWATCH: Drones light up sky in final leg of SEA Games torch runSPORTSSEA Games: Philippines picks up 1st win in men’s water poloSPORTSMalditas save PH from shutoutThe ball did go into the hands of Walker, who then setup Maliksi for game-winning jumper from the free throw line with 9.5 seconds left.Walker and Maliksi carried the Elite down the stretch but it took team effort in the waning seconds to pull off the defensive stop on the Bolts, whose last shot was a one-hander from just inside the 3-point line by Mike Tolomia that was off target. E.T. returns to earth, reunites with grown-up Elliott in new ad BSP sees higher prices in November, but expects stronger peso, low rice costs to put up fight LATEST STORIES Fire hits houses in Mandaluyong City Nonong Araneta re-elected as PFF president Marcelino twins help Lyceum go 14-0 Kammuri turning to super typhoon less likely but possible — Pagasa PBA IMAGESAllein Maliksi continued to prove why Blackwater made a good move in trading for him late in the season.Maliksi came up clutch as the Elite took down the top-seeded Meralco Bolts, 92-91, Wednesday to pave way for a do-or-die for a slot in the 2017 PBA Governors’ Cup semifinals at Mall of Asia Arena.ADVERTISEMENT Brace for potentially devastating typhoon approaching PH – NDRRMC Trending Articles PLAY LIST 00:50Trending Articles01:38‘Bato’ to be ‘most effective’ CHR head? It’s for public to decide – Gascon00:50Trending Articles01:37Protesters burn down Iran consulate in Najaf01:47Panelo casts doubts on Robredo’s drug war ‘discoveries’01:29Police teams find crossbows, bows in HK university01:35Panelo suggests discounted SEA Games tickets for students02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games View comments
PBA IMAGESGinebra and TNT engaged in a tension-filled battle in the semifinals, but the intense competition still couldn’t take away the respect Japeth Aguilar has for veteran TNT forwards Danny Seigle and Kelly Williams.After the Gin Kings’ tough 115-105 Game 4 win to eliminate the KaTropa, the reedy forward went to as far as asking veteran Danny Seigle for his jersey.ADVERTISEMENT BSP sees higher prices in November, but expects stronger peso, low rice costs to put up fight MOST READ “Can I have one of your jerseys please? You are my childhood idol. Forgot to ask you a while ago,” Aguilar wrote on his Twitter account (@japethaguilar35) late Sunday night.Luckily for him, the 41-year-old Seigle was quick to respond and “Of course! Thank you & I’m flattered you asked. So nice to see you develop into one of the Superstars of PBA and Gilas. Good luck in the finals!”FEATURED STORIESSPORTSWATCH: Drones light up sky in final leg of SEA Games torch runSPORTSSEA Games: Philippines picks up 1st win in men’s water poloSPORTSMalditas save PH from shutout View comments Brace for potentially devastating typhoon approaching PH – NDRRMC “You are an inspiration, man,” he tweeted.You are an inspiration, man @KelWilliams21 https://t.co/9bBoiRJdjR— Japeth Aguilar (@japethaguilar35) October 8, 2017Aguilar’s comments weren’t reserved on Seigle alone, as he also praised TNT forward and former PBA MVP Williams.“You are an inspiration, man,” he tweeted.Aguilar averaged 9.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks in the semis series. Read Next Nonong Araneta re-elected as PFF president No surprise as Mbala leads UAAP MVP race Trending Articles PLAY LIST 00:50Trending Articles00:50Trending Articles00:50Trending Articles01:37Protesters burn down Iran consulate in Najaf01:47Panelo casts doubts on Robredo’s drug war ‘discoveries’01:29Police teams find crossbows, bows in HK university01:35Panelo suggests discounted SEA Games tickets for students02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games
Kammuri turning to super typhoon less likely but possible — Pagasa LATEST STORIES LOOK: Loisa Andalio, Ronnie Alonte unwind in Amanpulo for 3rd anniversary Frontrow holds fun run to raise funds for young cancer patients Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. Wow that’s awesome! I really never opened up to you about it but since I was a kid, I’d try to copy your game.🙈 Thanks, man!✔ https://t.co/DgDCp7glOI— Japeth Aguilar (@japethaguilar35) October 8, 2017Aguilar’s comments weren’t reserved on Seigle alone, as he also praised former PBA MVP Kelly Williams for the tremendous battle they had in the series.ADVERTISEMENT Fire hits houses in Mandaluyong City Of course! thank you & im flattered you asked. So nice to see you develop into one of the Superstars of PBA & Gilas.Good luck in the finals!— Danny Seigle (@dannyseigle42) October 8, 2017 Typhoon Kammuri accelerates, gains strength en route to PH
Typhoon Kammuri accelerates, gains strength en route to PH UCLA basketball player LiAngelo Ball keeps his head down as he leaves Los Angeles International Airport on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017, in Los Angeles. Three UCLA basketball players detained in China on suspicion of shoplifting returned home, where they may be disciplined by the school as a result of the international scandal. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)LOS ANGELES, California—Three UCLA basketball players detained in China on suspicion of shoplifting returned home, where they may be disciplined by the school as a result of the international scandal.Freshmen LiAngelo Ball, Jalen Hill and Cody Riley arrived at Los Angeles International Airport late Tuesday afternoon after a 12-hour flight from Shanghai. They ignored reporters’ shouted questions while making their way through a horde of media outside and getting into a van that took off from the departure level.ADVERTISEMENT QC cops nab robbery gang leader, cohort Japan ex-PM Nakasone who boosted ties with US dies at 101 Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. Aldridge has 32 points, Popovich gets milestone in Spurs win Read Next “I want to be clear that we take seriously any violations of the law,” he said in a statement. “In this particular case, both Athletics and the Office of Student Conduct will review this incident and guide any action with respect to the involved students. Such proceedings are confidential, which limits the specific information that can be shared.”There was no immediate word on the trio’s status for the team’s home opener Wednesday night against Central Arkansas.The school said the three players, along with coach Steve Alford and athletic director Dan Guerrero, will make their first public comments about the matter at a campus news conference Wednesday, but won’t take questions.Scott thanked President Donald Trump, the White House and the State Department for their efforts in resolving what he called “the incident with authorities in Hangzhou, China.” He indicated that UCLA made “significant efforts” on behalf of its athletes.It wasn’t clear under what terms the players were freed to return to the U.S.ADVERTISEMENT Stronger peso trims PH debt value to P7.9 trillion Brace for potentially devastating typhoon approaching PH – NDRRMC LATEST STORIES CPP denies ‘Ka Diego’ arrest caused ‘mass panic’ among S. Tagalog NPA Kammuri turning to super typhoon less likely but possible — Pagasa MOST READ Trending Articles PLAY LIST 00:50Trending Articles00:50Trending Articles00:59Sports venues to be ready in time for SEA Games01:37Protesters burn down Iran consulate in Najaf01:47Panelo casts doubts on Robredo’s drug war ‘discoveries’01:29Police teams find crossbows, bows in HK university01:35Panelo suggests discounted SEA Games tickets for students02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott said the matter “has been resolved to the satisfaction of the Chinese authorities.”The players were detained in Hangzhou for questioning following allegations of shoplifting last week before the 23rd-ranked Bruins beat Georgia Tech in their season-opening game in Shanghai as part of the Pac-12 China game. The rest of the UCLA team returned home last Saturday.FEATURED STORIESSPORTSWATCH: Drones light up sky in final leg of SEA Games torch runSPORTSSEA Games: Philippines picks up 1st win in men’s water poloSPORTSMalditas save PH from shutoutA person with knowledge of the Pac-12’s decision said any discipline involving the trio would be up to UCLA. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the conference doesn’t plan any sanctions.UCLA Chancellor Gene Block said the school is weighing its options. John Lloyd Cruz a dashing guest at Vhong Navarro’s wedding “We are all very pleased that these young men have been allowed to return home to their families and university,” Scott said.Trump said Tuesday he had a long conversation about the three players’ status with Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping.Ball, Hill and Riley were expected to have an immediate impact as part of UCLA’s highly touted recruiting class. Instead, they are being talked about solely for their actions off the court.Ball, a guard whose brother Lonzo is a rookie for the Los Angeles Lakers, averaged 33.8 points as a high school senior. The elder Ball played one season in Westwood and left early for the NBA draft.The Balls’ outspoken father, LaVar, was in China at the time of the incident. He spent some time promoting the family’s Big Baller Brand of athletic shoes with his youngest son, LaMelo, while his middle son was detained.Forwards Hill and Riley, both four-star recruits, figure to bolster 7-foot senior Thomas Welsh in the frontcourt.The Bruins traveled to China as part of the Pac-12’s global initiative that seeks to popularize the league’s athletic programs and universities overseas. The China Game is in its third year, and while the scandal was developing the league announced that California and Yale will play in next year’s edition.The game is sponsored by Alibaba Group, the Chinese commerce giant that both UCLA and Georgia Tech visited before the shoplifting incident occurred. View comments
MOST READ Slow and steady hope for near-extinct Bangladesh tortoises Read Next What she also hopes to do, of course, is win a second gold medal in her sport’s fastest event, to go along with the one from the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.Vonn missed the Sochi Games four years ago after tearing ligaments in her right knee and has said this will be her last go-round at an Olympics.FEATURED STORIESSPORTSWATCH: Drones light up sky in final leg of SEA Games torch runSPORTSLillard, Anthony lead Blazers over ThunderSPORTSMalditas save PH from shutoutShe was asked this week how her health is at the moment.“Everything’s great. I feel like a million bucks,” she said with a smile. “And 33!” View comments John Lloyd Cruz a dashing guest at Vhong Navarro’s wedding Vonn, generally considered the greatest female ski racer in history, was in strong form heading into these Olympics, winning the last three World Cup downhills she entered beforehand.Most consider her the favorite, and she looked good in training runs. She produced the fastest time Sunday and the third fastest Monday despite easing up before the finish. In the final practice Tuesday, she was fourth fastest, trying different racing lines to see which created the most speed.“Some of the lines I took (Tuesday) I think were faster, others not,” Vonn said course-side, before going to analyze her run on video. “Everything feels pretty good.”Vonn promised an “all or nothing” effort.“There’s really no need to be nervous or think about pressure or expectation,” she said. “If I’m nervous then I’m going to lose anyway, so what’s the point?”ADVERTISEMENT Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. Brace for potentially devastating typhoon approaching PH – NDRRMC Phoenix, Blackwater clash in virtual q’final KO match LATEST STORIES
United States’ Lindsey Vonn competes in women’s downhill training at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Jeongseon, South Korea, Monday, Feb. 19, 2018. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)JEONGSEON, South Korea — Lindsey Vonn prefers not to dwell on what shapes up as a significant story line for the women’s downhill at the Pyeongchang Games.“I’ve tried not to think about it as being my last Olympic downhill. Just focus on the moment, the right here and the right now. And I think later I’ll reflect on how much I enjoyed it and how much my teammates and my coaches made it special for me,” Vonn said ahead of Wednesday’s contest. “But you can’t get too sentimental right now, because I still have to race. I still have to be focused. And afterward, I’ll do some reflecting.”ADVERTISEMENT AFP official booed out of forum Globe Business launches leading cloud-enabled and hardware-agnostic conferencing platform in PH Typhoon Kammuri accelerates, gains strength en route to PH 2 ‘newbie’ drug pushers fall in Lucena sting TWO GOLDSThere will be no repeat Olympic champion in this race, even though there were two winners — yes, two — in 2014.Four years ago, Slovenia’s Tina Maze and Switzerland’s Dominique Gisin tied for the downhill title with the same time down to the hundredth of a second. It was the first time in 78 years of Olympic Alpine skiing there were double gold medals.Maze and Gisin have since retired; Gisin’s younger sister, Michelle, is in the lineup and was second fastest in the final practice run Tuesday. The bronze medalist last time, Lara Gut of Switzerland, is also a strong contender.COURSE DESCRIPTIONRacers consider this a course that is neither particularly creative nor particularly steep, so the skiers need to generate pace on their own. “It’s easy,” Italy’s Nadia Fanchini said. “Very beautiful, but very, very easy.” NEXT BLOCK ASIA 2.0 introduces GURUS AWARDS to recognize and reward industry influencers Trending Articles PLAY LIST 00:50Trending Articles00:45Onyok Velasco see bright future for PH boxing in Olympics00:50Trending Articles01:29Police teams find crossbows, bows in HK university01:35Panelo suggests discounted SEA Games tickets for students02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games01:44Philippines marks anniversary of massacre with calls for justice01:19Fire erupts in Barangay Tatalon in Quezon City Here are other things to know about the women’s downhill:SURPRISE! NO LEDECKAThe woman responsible for one of the most stunning Alpine results in Olympic history will not be in the starting hut four days later.Ester Ledecka of the Czech Republic, who had only once finished as high as seventh place in 19 career World Cup races, came out of nowhere to beat Vonn and others and win the super-G on Saturday.She’s also a snowboarder, though, and instead of entering the Alpine downhill, she will switch to her other sport and try to qualify Thursday in the parallel giant slalom. That would make Ledecka the first athlete to compete in ski racing and snowboarding at the Winter Games.Italy’s Sofia Goggia, who edged Vonn in March to win the only World Cup downhill ever raced on this track, called Ledecka’s double duty “one of the coolest things in the whole Olympics.”The last women’s super-G champ who skipped the downhill at the same Winter Games was Diann Roffe of the U.S. in 1994.NO SHIFFRIN, TOOThe altered Olympic program of back-to-back race days has not helped Mikaela Shiffrin.Shiffrin opted out of the downhill after the schedule was changed late Monday by forecast strong winds, moving the Alpine combined event forward one day.She will now focus her energy on Thursday’s combined, which adds the times of a downhill and one run of slalom, her specialist discipline.
Photo from Fiba.comSocial media exploded after the Philippines’ monumental victory over China Wednesday night in the 2017 Fiba Asia Cup in Beirut, Lebanon.The Filipinos showed tremendous heart and grit in beating the Asian champions, 96-87, at the start of the continental tilt and that fact did not escape the fans.ADVERTISEMENT Robredo should’ve resigned as drug czar after lack of trust issue – Panelo The whole country was watching tonight, and rejoicing. Nakakatayo ng balahibo! And very proud of you. #PUSOADVERTISEMENT NGCP on security risk: Chinese just technical advisers Not surprised by @tbvromeo performance… I gotta guard that every day in practice!! 🕺🕺🕺🕺— mike cortez (@mikecortez_11) August 9, 2017 Trump signs bills in support of Hong Kong protesters — sam daghlas (@samd13) August 9, 2017 READ: Philippines stuns China to open 2017 Fiba Asia Cup bidGilas Pilipinas was playing with an undermanned, All-Filipino roster with June Mar Fajardo sitting out with an injured calf and naturalized center Andray Blatche begging off a week before the tournament.FEATURED STORIESSPORTSSEA Games: Biñan football stadium stands out in preparedness, completionSPORTSPrivate companies step in to help SEA Games hostingSPORTSWin or don’t eat: the Philippines’ poverty-driven, world-beating pool starsPerhaps the biggest cheerleader of Gilas Pilipinas was sportsman-businessman Manny V. Pangilinan, who couldn’t help but be proud of the Filipinos’ effort in the victory.What a great win tonight!Made more special with an all Filipino crew. Great job Team. Great job @coachot !— Manny V. Pangilinan (@iamMVP) August 9, 2017 Sweet win. Proud of Japeth. Chot coached brilliantly. Like all of us in the PBA, China didn’t know what to do with Terrence. Again, awesome!— Tim Cone (@manilacone) August 9, 2017Fellow players–some former members of the national team—also took to Twitter to share their excitement over the Filipinos’ strong start in the Fiba Asia Cup, where the country has finished second the past two editions. Helll f**king yea!!! I see you T-Romeo!!! Lil bro Balling! #PUSO— Asi Taulava (@agelessasi88) August 9, 2017 Terrence Romeo is taking over the clutch role that Jimmy Alapag left! #BigTimeClutchBaskets @tbvromeo @JAlapag3 #LetsGoPilipinas #Gilas— Vince Hizon (@VinceHizon12) August 9, 2017 MOST READ Lacson: SEA Games fund put in foundation like ‘Napoles case’ Celebrity chef Gary Rhodes dies at 59 with wife by his side
NATO’s aging eye in the sky to get a last overhaul — Manny V. Pangilinan (@iamMVP) August 9, 2017Ginebra coach Tim Cone, a former national team coach, also marveled at the Filipinos’ tenacity against their Asian rivals, saying Gilas Pilipinas is “ready for anyone.”READ: Gilas shatters Great WallHe also praised his player Japeth Aguilar, who made a big impact on the defensive end, with a team-best five blocks.Who’s next??? Bring ’em on!! Gilas is ready for anyone!ADVERTISEMENT DILG, PNP back suspension of classes during SEA Games Robredo should’ve resigned as drug czar after lack of trust issue – Panelo View comments Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss PLAY LIST 02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games01:44Philippines marks anniversary of massacre with calls for justice01:19Fire erupts in Barangay Tatalon in Quezon City01:07Trump talks impeachment while meeting NCAA athletes02:49World-class track facilities installed at NCC for SEA Games Jimmy Alapag, who was part of the team that ended the Philippines’ curse to South Korea in 2013, put into words what Gilas players are probably feeling right now.No better feeling than getting the opportunity to represent our country!!! #PUSO 🏀❤️— Jimmy Alapag (@JAlapag3) August 9, 2017LA Tenorio, meanwhile, turned into a big fan—like most of those who witnessed Terrence Romeo’s mesmerizing performance against China—when talking about the sly guard.Grabe ka @tbvromeo!!! #Puso #LabanPilipinas— L.A Tenorio (@LA_Tenorio) August 9, 2017Romeo unleashed 26 points including eight of the Philippines last 12 points that put Gilas Pilipinas out of danger in the last four minutes of the game.He’s on his way to earning nick name of big shot Romeo of Asia @hoopnut @JAlapag3 @FIBA — Tim Cone (@manilacone) August 9, 2017 Pocari bucks 2-set hole, grounds Air Force to book Finals berth Gilas Pilipinas hopes to sustain the momentum as it faces Iraq on Friday in the continuation of the group stages.Sports Related Videospowered by AdSparcRead Next Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. LATEST STORIES
Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. NATO’s aging eye in the sky to get a last overhaul Lacson: SEA Games fund put in foundation like ‘Napoles case’ Hotel says PH coach apologized for ‘kikiam for breakfast’ claim View comments SEA Games: PH booters bow out Cray, who hails from Olongapo but lives in Texas, spent the few suspense-filled minutes waiting for the results lying on the track, totally sure that he won the first of his two finals events of the evening.The officials timer showed he clocked 50.03 seconds as against the Vietnamese’s 50.05. It was way off the 49.40 SEA Games record that he also holds.FEATURED STORIESSPORTSSEA Games: Biñan football stadium stands out in preparedness, completionSPORTSPrivate companies step in to help SEA Games hostingSPORTSBoxers Pacquiao, Petecio torchbearers for SEA Games openingCray was probably saving himself as he was to compete later in the 100m dash which he also won two years ago.Another Filipino in the final, Francis Tiaga Medina, also crossed the finish line but on wheelchair as he appeared to have injured his legs. Trending Articles PLAY LIST 00:50Trending Articles02:49World-class track facilities installed at NCC for SEA Games03:07PH billiards team upbeat about gold medal chances in SEA Games05:25PH boxing team determined to deliver gold medals for PH03:04Filipino athletes share their expectations for 2019 SEA Games00:45Onyok Velasco see bright future for PH boxing in Olympics02:25PH women’s volleyball team motivated to deliver in front of hometown crowd01:27Filipino athletes get grand send-off ahead of SEA Games00:36Manny Pacquiao part of 2019 SEA Games opening ceremony Trump signs bills in support of Hong Kong protesters Robredo should’ve resigned as drug czar after lack of trust issue – Panelo Eric Cray of the Philippines competes in the men’s 400-meter hurdles event of the 29th Southeast Asian Games. Cray clocked 50.03 seconds to win the gold medal. INQUIRER/ MARIANNE BERMUDEZKUALA LUMPUR — Eric Cray chose to coast along to the finish line despite a Vietnamese competitor and still emerged the men’s 400-meter hurdles champion Tuesday night in the Southeast Asian Games.Holding a big lead at the final turn, the defending champion brushed off the challenge of Quach Cong Lich in the final 50 meters to nail it via thrilling photo finish.ADVERTISEMENT Sports Related Videospowered by AdSparcRead Next Ethel Booba on hotel’s clarification that ‘kikiam’ is ‘chicken sausage’: ‘Kung di pa pansinin, baka isipin nila ok lang’ LATEST STORIES Celebrity chef Gary Rhodes dies at 59 with wife by his side MOST READ Pagasa: Storm intensifies as it nears PAR