Global betting company 1xBet has signed a landmark partnership with the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) until 2026, bringing fans exclusive offers, enhanced experiences, and greater excitement for the game.
Meralco Bolts star Chris Newsome opens up about his basketball journey, from winning his first PBA title and Finals MVP to his international success with Gilas Pilipinas. In an exclusive interview with 1xBet, he shares his challenges, pre-game rituals, engagement story, and future plans—including how he hopes to inspire young basketball talents in the Philippines.
Calvin Oftana continues to shine as TNT Tropang Giga’s driving force, inspiring both teammates and fans with his unwavering determination to make the team a top contender in every PBA conference.
![Alfrancis Chua [PBA Images]](https://sportsbytes.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/PBA-Images124-400x200.jpg)
Alfrancis Chua officially rejoins Gilas Pilipinas as Program Director and Team Manager, promising to elevate Philippine basketball to new heights. His successful leadership history with SMC-backed teams and his instrumental role in the 2022 Asian Games highlight his readiness for this challenge.
Who would have thought that something hanky-panky was going on in local ball when most of us Filipinos were quite apprehensive and living in fear because men in uniform were roaming everywhere in the streets?
![Caloy owned a 58-14 record in 10 global competitions. [Henry Liao photo]](https://sportsbytes.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/146150589_3685379861583295_7043500414210937829_n-400x200.jpg)
He was big. He was great. He was a game changer. Rolled into one, he was Carlos Loyzaga, the greatest athlete in Philippine basketball history.
![PH National Team that won the bronze in 1954 World Basketball in Rio de Janeiro. [Henry Liao photo]](https://sportsbytes.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/144429345_221818172990075_1891445414791191084_n-400x200.jpg)
According to the famous historian and National Artist awardee Nick Joaquin, basketball was introduced to Filipinos within the historic walls of Intramuros, Manila. Unclear, however, is the exact date of the first basketball game ever played on Philippine soil.