Many NBA fans expressed their disappointment with Cignal TV after it failed to broadcast Game One of the best-of-seven finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs. None of Cignal TV's channels or platforms aired the first game of the series, which began on Thursday, June 4.
As a result, Cignal TV was flooded with negative reactions and comments on social media. On Friday, June 5, the network issued an official statement addressing the issue.
Cignal TV admitted that, unlike the regular season and playoffs, it does not have the rights to broadcast the NBA Finals. The network clarified that its contract with the NBA only covers the regular season and playoffs. Therefore, no NBA Finals games can be seen on One Sports, NBA TV Philippines, or the Pilipinas Live App, which are Cignal TV's platforms.
However, questions arose: Why was this only announced now? Why was it kept hidden, perhaps to attract subscribers?
Cebu Greats Secure Eighth Win
The Cebu Greats secured their eighth victory by defeating the Valenzuela City Darkhorse, 89-70, on Thursday, June 4. With this win, the Cebu Greats improved to an 8-3 record.
Mark Meneses, known as "Top Gun," recorded 17 points, eight rebounds, three steals, and two assists for Cebu. The Cebu Greats excelled in field goals, making 37 of 71 attempts compared to Valenzuela's 25 of 72.
Meneses received support from Ron Dennison, who had 17 points and two rebounds; Wowie Escosio, with 14 points and eight rebounds; Simon Camacho and Alfrancis Tamsi, each with nine points; and Cebuano legend Dondon Hontiveros, who contributed eight points.
Valenzuela, now sitting at 5-6 in the standings, was led by Angelo Obuyes with 21 points and four rebounds, and Jay Collado with 20 points, seven rebounds, and two assists.
This victory came amid a busy week for the Cebu Greats. On May 29, they lost to GenSan, and the following day played an exhibition game against Tuburan 360 Coffee in Tuburan, Cebu. From June 1-2, they trained in Cebu to give locals a chance to meet them, then immediately traveled for their game against Valenzuela.
With this win, the Cebu Greats are now in fifth place in the South Division, tied with Biñan at 8-3. They will face Biñan on July 16 at the Cebu Coliseum. This matchup is particularly interesting as Biñan has two Cebuano players.
