Match: Bataan Risers vs Ilagan Isabela Cowboys
Date: July 9, 2026 | League: Philippines MPBL

At the Bataan People’s Center, the Ilagan Isabela Cowboys secured a gritty 80–76 victory over the Bataan Risers in a tightly contested MPBL matchup. The Cowboys relied on stifling defense and timely scoring late in the fourth quarter to overcome a determined Risers squad that had led for most of the contest.

Match Overview

Bataan started strong, jumping out to a 22–15 lead after the first quarter thanks to efficient inside scoring. The Risers maintained a narrow advantage through the second and third periods, leading by as many as 11 points early in the third. However, Ilagan Isabela chipped away, using full-court pressure to force turnovers and convert in transition. The Cowboys finally took the lead for good on a three-pointer with 2:18 left in the game and held on through a tense final minute.

Key Moments

• Third-quarter collapse: Bataan’s offense stalled midway through the third, scoring only 4 points in a six-minute stretch that allowed Ilagan to tie the game at 54–54.
• Go-ahead triple: Cowboys guard drained a step-back three from the wing to put his team up 75–73 with under three minutes to play.
• Free-throw shooting: Ilagan converted 5-of-6 from the foul line in the final minute, while Bataan missed two critical free throws that could have tied the game.

Standout Players

Ilagan Isabela Cowboys: The shooting guard led all scorers with 22 points, including 4-of-7 from three-point range. The power forward contributed 14 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 blocks, anchoring the defense inside.

Bataan Risers: Their starting center recorded a double-double of 18 points and 14 rebounds, but was limited to 2 points in the fourth quarter due to double-teams. The point guard had 12 points and 8 assists but committed 5 turnovers under pressure.

Game Impact

Ilagan Isabela (8–12) climbs out of the bottom tier of the MPBL South Division standings with this crucial road win. Bataan (9–11) falls to .500 and loses ground in the playoff race. The Risers will look to regroup as they face the Bacolod City of Smiles in their next outing.