Pampanga Giant Lantern’s All-star trio of Archie Concepcion, Encho Serrano, and Justine Baltazar was unstoppable in game 1 of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) North division finals against their biggest rival, the San Juan Knights. The two best teams in the North met once again in the division finals, but San Juan couldn’t contain the reigning champs. Pampanga is now just one win away from reaching the MPBL finals again.
Clash of the Titans: San Juan vs. Pampanga
The battle in the north did not disappoint, however, Pampanga took game 1 in the best-of-three series in front of San Juan’s home crowd at the FilOil Ecooil Centre, 91-84. Serrano made the most points, tallying 22 in 53% shooting while reigning MVP Justine Baltazar finished the game with another monstrous double-double, 14 points, and 21 rebounds in addition to his 7 assists. However, it was Archie Concepcion who received the best player of the game honors after recording 18 points, 11 of which came in during the fourth period to propel Pampanga over San Juan.
On the other hand, a surprising performance from former PBA star Reyniel Hugnatan brought San Juan fans to the edge of their seat. The 46-year-old veteran put up 19 points, 3 assists, and 6 rebounds. This is Hugnatan’s finest outing throughout the season, but it was met with the firepower of the Giant Lanterns. Moreover, Hugnatan made a statement after giving Baltazar an elbow to the head, which resulted in a lot of bleeding. Helping him are Agem Miranda, Nikko Pollo Panganiban, and Orlan Wamar Jr, who all had 12 points apiece.
It’s worth noting that No.1 San Juan defeated No.2 Pampanga during the regular season, so they surely won’t go down without a fight. The North division finals will return to Pampanga, at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center on Monday, November 11.
