Ian Ortega (from left), Jhon Rey Gequilan, and Kenny Genobia. | MPBA photos
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The ARQ Builders secured their second consecutive victory in the Mandaue’s Pride Basketball Association (MPBA) Commissioner’s Cup Season 3, eking out a nail-biting 73-71 win over Matia’s Foodhaus on Saturday, August 24, at the Cebu Port Authority (CPA) gym.
Coming off a championship win last season, ARQ Builders faced a formidable challenge from Matia’s Foodhaus, with the game featuring three lead changes and two deadlocks, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
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Ian Ortega emerged as the standout player for ARQ Builders, delivering a near double-double game with 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists.
His performance was crucial in securing the victory. Jestony Baclaan also made a significant contribution with 11 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists, helping ARQ Builders take the top spot in the elite division with an unbeaten 2-0 record.
Despite a stellar performance from Kyle Dajalos, who scored a game-high 27 points, Matia’s Foodhaus fell short, dropping to 0-2 in the league.
In the Premier Division, Team Void and the Flago Prayboys both improved to 2-1, though with contrasting results. Void dominated Slowgrind with a resounding 108-59 win, while the Prayboys narrowly escaped with an 82-79 victory over Urestore.
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Jhon Rey Gequilan led the charge for Void, scoring 22 points along with 5 rebounds and 4 assists. He was supported by Joshua Ybañez with 16 points, and James Balili and Isiah Nanoy, who each contributed 12 points in the 49-point rout.
The Prayboys’ hard-earned victory was a team effort, with Kenny Genobia and Stephon Gonzales combining for 33 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists. Kibs Genobia added 14 points and 9 rebounds, while Mark Yaun chipped in with 10 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, and 3 steals.