ARQ, Artera keep immaculate records in MPBA hoops

ARQ’s Ian Ortega (left) and Artera Builders’ Rey Gonzaga (right). | MPBA photos

CEBU CITY, Philippines– ARQ and Artera Builders tightened their grip on the top spot of the team standings after grabbing impressive wins in the ongoing Mandaue’s Pride Basketball Association (MPBA) Season 2: Cebuano Cup on Friday evening.

ARQ remained unbeaten in three games for the lead in the Southern Conference after defeating JDCB Ballers, 97-86, at the Mandaue City Sports Complex.

Meanwhile, Artera Builders thrashed M-Tech, 108-92, to also climb to 3-0 in the Northern Conference standings.

Ian Ortega topscored ARQ with his double-double output of 19 points, and 12 rebounds.

John Paul Dugenio added 16 points, while JD Solitario had 14, and Alain Tarona added 12 in ARQ’s win.

Five of JDCB Ballers also logged double-digit scores but still failed to win as the team dropped to a 1-2 (win-loss) record good for fifth in the Southern Conference.

Anthony Alburo scored 12 points, while Henry Donor and Jerome Barrita each scored 11 points. Ian Abboc and Tawee Canedo had 10 points apiece in their losing efforts.

Gonzaga topscored for Artera

On the other hand, Rey Gonzaga erupted for 21 points for Artera Builders. He paired it with eight assists, three rebounds, and three steals to lead his team in beating M-Tech.

Dennis Dela Cerna and Ukinz Delos Santos contributed 16 points each for Artera Builders, while Marin Anabieza added 14 and Rumar Ponce chipped in 10.

M-Tech’s Benjamin Cantal spoiled his 21-point performance after his team lost. He added nine rebounds, one assist, and one steal.

Arfiel Manigbas, Chesney Roma, Christian Jumamoy, and Jonas Kintanar scored 19, 18, 12, and 11 points, respectively for M-Tech.   /rcg

RELATED STORIES:

UAAP: UP stays perfect, defending champion Ateneo rights its ship

Artera, Agalons, and Pray Boys nip foes in MPBA Season 2