Manila spoiled Zamboanga’s home debut with a thrilling 60-59 victory on Saturday to gain a share of second spot in the North division of the
MPBL Datu Cup at Mayor Vitaliano D. Agan Coliseum in Zamboanga City.
Former Philippine Basketball Association player Reil Cervantes sizzled for 21 points, including a late triple that allowed the Stars to withstand an uprising by the Valientes, who absorbed their fifth loss in 10 games.
Manila pulled level with San Juan in the North at 10-2, just behind Bataan, which has dropped just one of 10 games.
The Stars stifled the Valientes down the stretch with Reed Juntilla, who helped the host stay within striking distance, bottled up by Aris Dionisio on Zamboanga’s final play.
Cebu also kept its run going after trouncing Marikina, 78-74, in the first game.
Patrick Cabahug hit the Sharks’ last five points, including a tough fadeaway from the baseline in the final minute as Cebu rolled to a third straight win to improve to 4-8 in the South.
The Shoemasters fell to their fifth straight setback for a 4-8 card. —CEDELF P. TUPAS