Black Bulls extend hot streak with dominant rout of Royals

The Quezon City Black Bulls continued their impressive run in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) 2026 Season, cruising to a dominant 102–70 victory over the Iloilo United Royals on Friday at the One Arena Cainta in Rizal.

Fueled by a strong start and efficient offense, the Black Bulls pulled away early and never looked back, securing their **fourth straight win** after an 0-2 start in the round-robin elimination phase of the 28-team tournament.

Ryan Costelo led the charge with **24 points and 6 assists**, including a huge fourth-quarter explosion, earning Player of the Game honors. He was well-supported by Christian Jake Agoncillo (13 points, 5 rebounds), MJ Joson (9 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists), and Kenz Rei Diokno (9 points).

Iloilo’s Levi Hernandez put up a heroic 36-point effort (along with 5 rebounds and 3 assists), but it wasn’t enough as the Royals fell to their fifth loss in six games.

The Black Bulls built a commanding 50–31 halftime lead and maintained full control throughout, shooting efficiently and closing out the game with a decisive 10-0 run in the final quarter.

“We’re just pushing ourselves and getting our chemistry right,” said Costelo after the win.

The MPBL continues on Saturday at the One Arena Cainta, with Zamboanga vs. San Juan (4 p.m.), Ilagan Isabela vs. Manila Batang Quiapo (6 p.m.), and Valenzuela vs. Gensan (8 p.m.).