The Valenzuela Classic edged out a hard-fought 85–81 victory over the Meycauayan side in an electrifying Philippines MPBL showdown on June 26, 2026. The game, held at a neutral venue, showcased the Classic’s resilience as they closed out a tight fourth quarter to secure two crucial points in the league standings.

Match Overview

From the opening tip, both teams displayed intense defensive pressure and fast-paced transition play. Valenzuela established an early lead with sharp outside shooting, but Meycauayan responded with strong interior scoring and second‑chance opportunities. The score remained close throughout, with neither side able to build a double‑digit margin. By halftime, the Classic held a slim 44–42 advantage.

Key Moments

• Third‑quarter surge: Meycauayan came out of the break with renewed energy, going on a 10‑2 run to take a 56–50 lead. Valenzuela called a timeout and quickly regrouped, answering with a 12‑4 spurt to reclaim the lead before the end of the period.
• Clutch free‑throw shooting: With under two minutes remaining and Valenzuela clinging to an 80–79 lead, the Classic’s backcourt drew fouls and converted 5 of 6 free throws down the stretch to ice the game.
• Defensive stand: Meycauayan had a chance to tie or take the lead with 30 seconds left, but Valenzuela’s zone defense forced a contested three‑pointer that rimmed out. The Classic grabbed the rebound and sealed the win at the foul line.

Tactical Story

Valenzuela leaned on a balanced scoring attack, with four players finishing in double figures. Their ability to spread the floor and hit timely three‑pointers (10 made on 32% shooting) stretched Meycauayan’s defense. Defensively, the Classic switched effectively on screens and limited fast‑break points. Meycauayan, meanwhile, dominated the boards (42 rebounds to Valenzuela’s 36) and scored heavily in the paint, but erratic perimeter shooting (6‑of‑24 from deep) proved costly in the closing minutes.

Standout Players

For Valenzuela, guard Jayson Rivera led all scorers with 22 points, including 4 three‑pointers and a perfect 6‑for‑6 from the free‑throw line. Forward Mark Santos added a double‑double with 14 points and 12 rebounds, providing a steady inside presence. Meycauayan’s Kevin Dela Cruz poured in 20 points and grabbed 8 rebounds, but he received limited support from his teammates in the final quarter.

Season Impact

The victory improved Valenzuela’s record to 8–4, keeping them firmly in playoff contention in the MPBL’s North Division. Meycauayan dropped to 6–6 and will need to address their late‑game execution to remain in the hunt for a postseason berth. Both teams are set to return to action next week as the regular season enters its decisive stretch.