Don’t look now, Biñan making spirited chase for playoff slot

BIÑAN—Making the Chooks-to-Go MPBL Lakan Season playoffs seemed like a long shot for rookie coach Denok Miranda and Biñan City Luxxe White more than a month ago.

Near the bottom of the South division and struggling even against teams with losing records, Biñan’s season looked headed for disappointment.

But a sixth consecutive victory last Friday night now has Biñan harboring dreams of pulling off what was once an impossible mission.

The Heroes squad leaned on James Mangahas’ second-half explosion and the steady play of younger brother Allan Mangahas to pummel the Sarangani Marlins, 92-74, at Alonte Sports Arena.

James had 18 points—all in the second half, while Allan finished with 11 points and 10 assists for the Heroes, who inched closer to the No. 8 spot in the South after improving to 12-14.

Bicol currently holds the final playoff position with a 13-12 record, with Cebu at No. 9 with an 11-12 card, but with Biñan looking sharp and rejuvenated, the race could go down the wire.

“We’re just trying our best to finish the season strong, but getting to the playoffs would be a great achievement,” Miranda said. “We’re just taking it one game at a time.”