MANILA – Basilan Viva Portmasters fell short of their endgame run. They suffered a 71-66 defeat to Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards in the 2025 MPBL Season on late Saturday at the Nueva Ecija Coliseum.
Trailing by as many as 12 points in the second half, the Portmasters slowly clawed their back until they took a 62-61 lead on two free throws by Sherwin Concepcion with over five minutes left in the game.
The Rice Vanguards, however, responded with baskets from William McAloney, Jaycee Marcelino, and Negrense John Byron Villarias and free throws from Jayvee Marcelino and Ilonggo Billy Ray Robles to secure the win.
Alex Cabagnot emerged as top performer for Basilan with 19 points, three rebounds, and three assists, while Concepcion and Rabeh Al-Hussaini added 11 and 10 points, respectively.
“Our rally might have come up short, but our team showed resilience and stayed competitive until the final buzzer,” Basilan co-team owner Jackson Chua Jr. told Panay News on Sunday morning.
“Adjustments and building chemistry take time, but the team is slowly finding its rhythm. We’re building something special here and are excited for what’s to come,” he added.
Negrense Robby Celiz posted a double-double of 18 points and 13 rebounds, while Jaycee Marcelino added 18 points, six rebounds, and six assists as the Rice Vanguards improved to a 2-0 record.
Meanwhile, Rizal XentroMall Golden Coolers also surged to a 2-0 start after a 111-81 rout over Manila Batang Quiapo (1-1). Alwyn Alday top-scored for Rizal with 27 points, including seven triples.
Valenzuela Classics Dynacast (1-1) defeated Quezon City TODA Aksyon (1-1), 74-66. Kobe Monje finished with 19 points and nine rebounds to be named Player of the Game for Valenzuela./PN
