PAMPANGA is now in the MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) National Finals.

And the Giants Lanterns did it in style.

Encho Serrano scored 11 points in the fourth quarter alone as Pampanga rallied to beat San Juan Knights, 86-82, and complete a two-game sweep of their best-of-three North Division finals.

Pampanga will meet the winner of the South Division Finals between Bacoor and Batangas.

With Serrano scoring 11 points, Pampanga outscored San Juan, 25-6, in the payoff period to completely turn the game around.

Despite trailing most of the way in the first three quarters, the Giant Lanterns went full throttle in the final quarter.

A crippling 22-3 run, powered by Serrano’s eight points, John Lloyd Clemente’s two triples, MJ Garcia’s basket, and Justine Baltazar’s two free throws enabled Pampanga to take control, 79-73, entering the last minute of the game.

Serrano finished with 16 points, seven assists, and three rebounds, earning him the “Best Player” honors over Baltazar.

Baltazar showcased a well-rounded performance with 14 points, 19 rebounds, seven assists, and two steals, while Garcia contributed 16 points, five rebounds, two assists, and two steals.

Allen Liwag also made a significant contribution with 10 points and 14 rebounds. His efforts played a crucial role in the Giant Lanterns’ dominating the boards with a commanding 61-32 advantage.

Pampanga Gov. Dennis Pineda, who also serves as the head coach of the Giant Lanterns, commended his players for their trust in each other and expressed gratitude to the people of Pampanga for their unwavering support.

Pineda highlighted the immense backing from Pampanguenos, noting that the 11 buses and numerous vans transporting supporters made the team feel as if they were playing on their home court.

He acknowledged the supporters for maintaining the team’s fighting spirit even when the Knights seemed to be gaining an advantage.

Pineda and Giant Lanterns team owner Congressman Dong Gonzales, Commissioner Kenneth Duremdes and Executive Officer Joe Ramos presented them with the championship trophy — their first in the 29-team MPBL.