As Christmas nears, the Philippines and the entire world were captivated by sporting events pushed back post-pandemic. It is unusual to talk about sports in late December since sporting events are usually held mid-year when the weather's more friendly. Now we are back to regular programming, stadiums are back at full capacity to celebrate our athletes and foster camaraderie.

In the NCAA, the Letran Knights were victorious in claiming a three-peat championship after defeating the College of Saint Benilde Blazers. Both teams have their stories to tell — the Knights are in their fourth year of its partnership with San Miguel Corporation where they won three championships, while CSB is led by neophyte coach Charles Tiu, brother of Atenean Chris Tiu. CSB was notably part of the controversial physical altercation instigated by Jose Rizal University player John Amores. Letran's victory marked a historic run; however, its continuation is in doubt with the possible end of its partnership with SMC.

Over at the UAAP, the Ateneo Blue Eagles got their redemption win against the UP Fighting Maroons in a three-game thriller. Ateneo was considered the underdogs going into the season after losing key players who turned pro. The team play prevailed for Ateneo where their second stringers performed beyond expectations when it mattered. The only regrettable detail in this series was the injury suffered by UP stalwart Zav Lucero in Game 2 who is expected to miss an entire year to recover.

Dubbed the "Battle of Katipunan", UP and Ateneo games never fail to disappoint. Both teams have the impeccable coaching staff and strong alumni backing. More accolades should be given to UP which won its first championship last season at the expense of Ateneo. All this gives more anticipation to next season with new recruits coming in for both teams. A big question is whether UP's Carl Tamayo will stick around or opt to play overseas. Tamayo is a Lebron-like player, let him spend more time in the gym, he can outmuscle anyone with the ball in his hands.

The attention of the Filipino basketball faithful is now more on the collegiate leagues with the exodus of promising basketball players as imports in neighboring Asian leagues, and some European leagues. The future is bright for Filipino basketball with our young players gaining experience in other parts of the world.

At the same time, the world's biggest sporting spectacle ended last Sunday. The World Cup ended with Argentina lifting the trophy under the leadership of Lionel Messi, now heralded as the Greatest of All Time (a.k.a. GOAT). This author actually backed their opponents France, led by phenomenal player Kylian Mbappe, but Argentina's hunger to win the World Cup was evident from the opening minutes of the match. The finals match is likewise considered one of the best matches of all time in World Cup history, finishing 3-3 in extra time and decided by a dramatic penalty shootout.