Negros thwarts Sarangani
THE Negros Muscovados withstood the Sarangani Marlins’ final assault and prevailed, 102-94, in the MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) Sixth Season elimination round at the Alonte Sports Arena in Binan, Laguna.
Behind by as far as 59-77, the Marlins threatened at 94-97, following a triple and a drive by Ryan Isaac Sual with a minute left.
A costly turnover, however, derailed the Marlins and Ryan Reyes sealed the Muscovados’ 10th win in 22 starts in with a drive, 99-94, only 25.2 seconds remaining.
Renz Palma shone again for Negros with 22 points, 8 assists, 5 rebounds plus 2 steals to clinch the Daily Fantasy best player honors.
Jonjon Gabriel provided support with 18 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals.
Felipe Chavez also delivered for the Muscovados with 16 points, including the buzzer-beating triple, 8 rebounds, plus 6 assists, followed by Alvin Capobres with 12 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, plus 2 steals, and Reyes with 10 points plus 7 rebounds.
The Marlins skidded to 4-16 despite Sual’s 32 points, spiked by 6 triples, the 17 points of Larce Christian Sunga, and the 10-point, 8-rebound effort of Jaymark Mallari.
The MPBL goes to the San Andres Sports Complex with games pitting Imus against Pampanga at 4 p.m., Davao against Marikina at 6 p.m., and Batangas against Manila at 8 p.m.
