ANGELES CITY - Bataan and Bulacan carved out contrasting victories on Monday night to bolster their respective chances in the MPBL Datu Cup
The Risers of Bataan ran away with a 108-77 win over the Basilan Steel to extend their win streak to 12 games. Their 12-1 card is the best in the 26-team cast.
Bataan posted a franchise best in points while dealing the Steel their worst beating since joining in the league. A fourth straight pulled down Basilan to a 4-9 card.
Four players finished in double figures for the Risers led by Byron Villarias with 23 points. Fellow ex-pro Pamboy Raymundo added 15 while former PBA scoring champion Gary David chipped in 14 and Vince Tolentino contributed 10 in a display of balance firepower.
Bulacan, on the other hand, had to grind before putting away host team Pampanga, 67-65.
The Mighty Sports-backed Kuyas turned to JR Taganas and Jorey Napoles, who delivered the crucial baskets that ensured the team’s ninth win in 14 games and snapped a two-game skid.
Taganas, the tournament’s leading rebounder, picked up a loose ball and made a basket with less than a minute to go to put the Kuyas ahead, 65-61.
After Levi Hernandez put the Lanterns within striking distance on a short stab, Napoles beat his man to the basket and scored for a 67-63 lead with 37 seconds left.
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