In a high-octane MPBL clash at the Villar Coliseum on June 8, 2026, the Zamboanga Familys Brand Sardines outlasted the Imus Agimat 102–92, delivering a statement win in front of a raucous home crowd. The Sardines improved to a 4-1 record early in the season, while Imus slipped to 2-3 despite a gritty effort.

Match Overview

From the opening tip, Zamboanga imposed its will on the glass and in transition. Imus stayed close through three quarters, but a decisive 14-2 run in the fourth period broke the game open. The final score reflected the Sardines’ superior depth and defensive intensity down the stretch.

Key Moments

• First Quarter Surge: Zamboanga opened with a 12-4 run, powered by back‑to‑back triples from guard Justine Baltazar.
• Imus Fightback: The Agimat answered with a 10‑0 spurt early in the second quarter, fueled by key plays from La Salle product Joshua Flores.
• Halftime Adjustments: Zamboanga head coach Allan Tan switched to a zone defense, limiting Imus’s inside scoring and forcing turnovers.
• Fourth‑Quarter Decider: With the score tied at 82, Zamboanga unleashed a 14‑2 run capped by a thunderous dunk from big man Mark Acuña, putting the game out of reach.

Tactical Story

Zamboanga’s game plan centered on attacking the paint and controlling the boards. They outrebounded Imus 48–34, converting 18 second‑chance points. On defense, they trapped Imus’s primary ball‑handlers, forcing 19 turnovers that led to 27 fast‑break points. Imus, meanwhile, relied heavily on perimeter shooting (12‑of‑35 from three) but lacked the consistent interior presence to keep pace.

Standout Players

• Justine Baltazar (Zamboanga): 28 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists – the veteran guard controlled the tempo and knocked down 4 triples.
• Mark Acuña (Zamboanga): 22 points, 14 rebounds, 3 blocks – dominated the paint and provided the highlight of the night with his fourth‑quarter jam.
• Joshua Flores (Imus): 24 points, 6 assists – carried the Agimat offense but received little help in the final period.

Season Impact

The win keeps Zamboanga firmly in the top four of the MPBL South standings, building momentum for a potential playoff push. Imus, now 2‑3, will need to shore up its defense and find more consistent scoring from its bench. The Sardines’ chemistry and depth make them a dangerous team as the season progresses.