Bataan conquers Mandaluyong in one of biggest winning margins of MPBL history

FILE: “Bataan Risers Basketball def. Mandaluyong El Tigre, 109-65. Powerade Best Player of the Game: GAB DAGANGON – 15 points, 8 rebounds, 3 steals, 1 block” (Photo: Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League/Facebook)

There were four players from the Bataan Risers who contributed double-digits, namely forwards Gab Dagangon and Richard Escoto with 15 points, as well as guards Pamboy Raymundo and John Byron Villarias with 12 points. The team in total shot 44 points out of 57, resulting in 57-percent shooting from the field. They outrebounded the Coach Arlene Rodriguez-led squad as well, 58-34. Janus Lozada was the only one who had as much as 50% shooting for El Tigre, everyone else struggling offensively.

Through this win, Bataan not only secured the top spot but a home court advantage coming into the playoffs that begin March 9. This also dropped Mandaluyong down to the 11th spot in the South Division, tallying eight wins and 14 losses.

On the same day, the Valenzuela Classic faced the number five seeded Bulacan Kuyas for their last home game of the season. They protected their home court, winning at 84-75 over the Mighty-Sports-backed squad. Chris de Chavez was the team’s top scorer at 17 points, but it was the newest recruit Hans Thiele who was named Player of the Game with 16 points, seven rebounds, and eight of 11 made field goals. This win moves the Classic to number 10 in the North Division, needing to win their next two games in the hopes that Quezon City, Navotas, and Pampanga do not exceed 10 wins.