Leo Najorda hit clutch baskets as Davao Occidental subdued Laguna, 72-66, on Saturday night to extend its streak even as San Juan got back on track in the MPBL Datu Cup at Marist Gym in Marikina.
Najorda, a former Philippine Basketball Association player, buried 27 points, including the go-ahead jumper with 22 seconds remaining, as the Tigers clawed their way back from 22 points down in the second half to secure their sixth straight victory.
The Tigers also stopped the Heroes’ winning streak at four, while rising to 8-3 for solo second behind Muntinlupa (8-1) in the South division.
Laguna fell to 6-5, despite strong performances from Michael Mabulac and Denok Miranda, who missed a jumper that could have given the lead back to the Heroes near the end.
“This win is all about character,” said Davao coach Don Dulay. “Things weren’t going our way, but we wanted to go down fighting.”
Later, the Knights took their frustrations out on host Marikina with a 77-65 conquest behind another stellar game from Mike Ayonayon.
The former Philippine Christian University guard fired 16 points for the Knights (9-2), who bounced back from a loss to the Rizal Crusaders on Tuesday.
The win spoiled a career night for actor Gerald Anderson, who had 11 points for Marikina (4-7).