VAN Ligutan erupted for 34 points as the reigning titlists Gilas Defenders cruised to their third straight win in the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Basketball League with a, 99-80 bashing of the undermanned Panthers last Saturday .
Ligutan also pulled down 12 boards while Argao municipal councilor Jonathan Villegas led the losing Panthers with 26 points and 10 rebounds.
In the second game, the Pañeros leaned on the 20-point, 13-rebound performance of returning power forward and Napolcom lawyer Ronald Luib to escape the Bad Boys, 89-82.
Judge Ferdie Esperidion and Edward Bauzon led the Bad Boys with 25 and 18 points, respectively.
Meanwhile, sweet shooting Lito Ortiz and Jessie Capoy each had 22 points, leading the Idols to a close, 89-84 victory over the Spartans who were led by the 20 points of Pari-an Councilor Mat Eric Medalle.
In the last game, the Rebels banked on their balanced offensive in crushing the YLAC, 73-58.