Bataan, Cebu turn back NCR foes; Manila’s Lao gives back
BALANGA, Bataan—It was Robby Celiz’s turn to shine for the Bataan Risers on Saturday night in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) Datu Cup at Bataan People’s Center here.
Playing in the shadows of teammates Pamboy Raymundo and Byron Villarias for most of the season, Celiz took charge in the second half as the Risers rolled past the Pasay Voyagers, 77-60, to extend their winning streak to 11 games.
Cebu also extended its winning streak after turning back Pasig, 56-53, in the first game.
The Sharks needed to weather a late uprising by the Pirates down the stretch as they secured their fourth straight victory and improved to 5-8 in the South division.
Celiz scored 16 points, grabbed eight rebounds and dished out five assists as the Risers prevailed in the battle of streaking teams to solidify their hold of top spot in the North.
“Everyone in the team has been stepping up,” said Celiz. “We just want to stay consistent.”
In an awesome display of firepower, the Risers had 13 players getting on the scoreboard for coach Jojo Lastimosa.
Lao shines for Manila
The Manila Stars are also on a roll, their latest win a 60-59 escape act on the road against the Zamboanga Valientes.
Kyles Lao, a former University of the Philippines star, is stepping up anew for the Stars, who stayed on the upper half of the North division at 10-2.
The 23-year-old Lao said his mindset is to reciprocate the confidence he is getting from coach Philip Cezar, delivering 12 points on 5-of-8 shooting during their win over the Valientes.
“I’ll contribute every time coach gives me playing time,” said the 5-foot-10 Lao. “I’ll continue to play aggressive.”
