MPBL: Bataan stays on top, Valenzuela moves up

IT SEEMS that the Bataan Risers will not settle for anything less and they’ve shown their desire to stay on top Tuesday night by dealing the Mandaluyong El Tigre a sound beating, 109-65, in the MPBL Datu Cup at the Valenzuela Astrodome.

In notching their 20th win in 22 matches, the Zetapro-backed Risers dealt the El Tigre a careertying most lopsided setback in history.

More importantly, Bataan was able to keep a hold of the solo lead in the tough northern division of the tournament.

Gab Dagangon played yet another productive game for the Risers, scoring 15 points, the same output tallied by Richard Escoto. Pamboy Raymundo and Byron Villarias added 12 apiece for the Risers, who moved at least two games ahead of closest pursuer Manila.

The Risers shot a steady 77% from the field (44-of-57) and asserted their domination against the El Tigre all game long, 60 of their points came from inside the shaded lane, compared to only 38 for their rivals.

But Bataan was also active crashing the boards as it outrebounded its counterpart, 58-34.

Following its latest loss, Mandaluyong dropped to 11th spot as it fell to 8-14.

That allowed Valenzuela to move a notch higher as the Classic defeated the Bulacan Kuyas, 84-75, in the other game. Valenzuela, however, will be praying that none among Quezon City, Navotas and Pampanga exceed the 10-win mark.

Chris de Chavez finished with 17 points while Hans Thiele played his most productive game, contributing 16 markers. —