The Marikina Shoemasters outlasted the Bacolod Masskara in a high-octane offensive showcase, securing a 107-100 victory on July 13, 2026, in a thrilling MPBL encounter. The game, played at a neutral venue, saw both teams trade baskets throughout, but Marikina's depth and composure in the final quarter proved decisive.

Match Overview

From the opening tip, it was clear that defense would take a back seat to fast-paced offense. The Shoemasters set the tempo early, pushing the ball in transition and knocking down perimeter shots. Bacolod answered with their own inside-out game, keeping the scoreboard close. By halftime, the margin was narrow, with Marikina holding a slight edge. The third quarter saw Bacolod make a run, briefly taking the lead, but the Shoemasters responded with a 10-2 spurt to regain control heading into the final period.

In the fourth quarter, Marikina’s bench provided crucial minutes, maintaining energy and stretching the lead to double digits. Bacolod fought back valiantly, cutting the deficit to three with under two minutes to play, but the Shoemasters' clutch free-throw shooting down the stretch sealed the win. The final score of 107-100 reflected the relentless offensive effort from both sides.

Key Performers

• Marikina Shoemasters: A balanced scoring attack saw five players finish in double figures. The leading scorer contributed 28 points, including four three-pointers, while the point guard added 12 assists. The frontcourt dominated the glass, grabbing 15 rebounds as a unit.
• Bacolod Masskara: Their star guard poured in 33 points on efficient shooting, but lack of support from the rest of the lineup proved costly. The team shot well from the field but turned the ball over 18 times, leading to easy transition points for Marikina.

Tactical Story

The Shoemasters employed a switching defense that disrupted Bacolod's pick-and-roll game, forcing the Masskara into isolation plays. Offensively, Marikina spaced the floor effectively, using ball movement to create open looks. Their ability to convert fast-break opportunities off defensive rebounds was a key difference. Bacolod struggled to contain the dribble penetration, often collapsing the defense and leaving shooters open on the perimeter.

Standings Impact

With this victory, the Marikina Shoemasters improved their record and solidified their position in the MPBL standings, keeping playoff hopes alive. For Bacolod Masskara, the loss was a missed opportunity to climb the ladder, but their competitive performance showed they remain a dangerous opponent in the league.

Overall, the contest was a classic example of the high-energy, fan-friendly basketball that the MPBL is known for, with both teams leaving everything on the court.