Author: John Michael Decierdo Agustin
Photo Credit: MPBL
The South Cotabato Warriors took the no.6 spot in the South division after beating the Davao Occidental Tigers, 84-74, behind Jammer Jamito’s finest performance in the sixth season of Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL).
Jamito Had A Career Night After A High-Scoring Game, As Well As Recording A Nice Double-Double For South Cotabato.
The 34-year-old big man went for 21 points and 17 rebounds to lead the Warriors past the Tigers in the elimination round. Filipino-American AJ Benson and Antonio Lorenzo Joson also contributed with 10 points each.
On the other hand, Davao’s Arth Dela Cruz was even more impressive after finishing with 23 points, 20 rebounds, 6 assists, and 4 steals. Unfortunately, the Warriors held the momentum all throughout the game.
Both teams suffered from poor shooting night, but South Cotabato ruled the boards and made more assists compared to Davao. South Cotabato has now won 16 games and lost 11, currently the sixth seed in the South. Meanwhile, Davao have lost six straight, dropping them to 15-12 and 7th in the South division.
The Batang Kankaloo Whips The Negros Muscovados, Despite Almost Allowing A Huge Comeback
Caloocan led by as many as 25 points by the end of the third period. However, the Muscovados made a late push in the fourth that almost reversed the game’s outcome. The Muscovados made an 11-1 run late in the fourth quarter. Unfortunately, time was their biggest enemy, as they only started to make a comeback in the final two minutes.
Paul Joseph Sanga was named the Best Player of the Game after recording 22 points, including 6 triples. Former PBA star Gabby Espinas and Reil Cervantes both finished with double-double stalines. Espinas posted 23 points and 13 rebounds while Cervantes had 15 points and 10 rebounds.
Negros’ Renz Palma and Ryan Reyes both became threats to Caloocan. Palma finished with 17 points and 5 assists, while Reyes had an outstanding double-double, 16 points and 15 rebounds. Caloocan is now tied with Abra in the standings, 15-9, but gets to keep the 6th seed in the North. Despite the loss, Negros still holds on to the no.8 spot in the South for a chance to stay alive in the playoff season.
The Scores:
- Quezon City TODA Aksyon vs. 1Bataan Risers (76-60)
- South Cotabato Warriors vs. Davao Occ. Tigers (84-74)
- Batang Kankaloo vs. Negros Muscovados (93-85)
