Buenafe, Juntilla power Zamboanga dribblers in MPBL Datu Cup

VEtERANS Ryan Buenafe and Reed Juntilla conspired when the game mattered most to tow Zamboanga to a 61-58 squeaker of Cebu in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) Datu Cup at the Marist School Gymnasium in Marikina City on Monday night.

Buenafe scored 13 points, including two marginal free throws, while Juntilla knocked in 11, the most he made in the final quarter that turned things around for Zamboanga. his step-back trey gave his team a two-point lead, then again responded in the final 2:31 for the go-ahead, 56-54.

Buenafe’s free throws in the crucial seconds sealed the game for Zamboanga, which stopped Cebu’s last offensive possession.

the Sharks went to their top gun Patrick Cabahug, who let a triple loose, but missed the target right before the buzzer that allowed Zamboanga to escape with the win.

the Family’s Brand Sardines-backed Zamboanga side improved to 10-12 wonlost, good for seventh spot in the southern division of the tournament put up by Sen. Manny Pacquiao with Philipine Basketball Association legend and former Most Valuable Player Kenneth Duremdes serving as commissioner.

Zamboanga won despite getting a scoreless night from star player harold Arboleda, who missed all of his five shots from the field. he, however, grabbed 13 rebounds.

Bataan, on the other hand, scored an 81-64 win over Marikina to hike its record to 21-2 while dealing its victim its 15th loss in 23 games to virtually bomb out of the playoffs race.