Dela Cruz Stars as Cowboys Edge Steel in Narrow Win

Ilagan Isabela relied on veteran Alex Cabagnot and a strong finish to edge Basilan Steel, 57-56, on Saturday and regain momentum in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) 2026 Season at the Bataan People’s Center in Balanga.

Cabagnot scored the Cowboys' final four points, helping them withstand a late Basilan rally after trailing by nine early in the fourth quarter, 36-45.

Arth Dela Cruz, however, earned Best Player honors with an all-around performance, finishing with 18 points, 14 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 steals in just over 30 minutes of play. Dela Cruz also hit a crucial three-pointer that gave Ilagan Isabela the lead, 53-51, after Basilan briefly took control at 51-50.

Basilan's John Wilson had a chance to win it at the buzzer, driving to the basket, but he was blocked by Don Gumaru on a crucial defensive play. Gumaru then missed two free throws with 11.7 seconds left, giving Wilson one final opportunity, but his game-winning three-pointer rimmed out as time expired.

The Cowboys bounced back from an 83-68 loss to Batangas City Tanduay Athletics on April 11, moving to level terms with Basilan in the round-robin standings.

Dela Cruz credited his offseason work with preparing him for a leadership role alongside Cabagnot this season. Gumaru contributed 9 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 steals, while Jayboy Solis added 9 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists. Cabagnot chipped in 9 points and 6 rebounds.

For Basilan, Cometa led with 15 points and 2 rebounds, Wilson added 11 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals, while Gelo Loristo posted 7 points and 10 rebounds.

The game was ultimately decided at the free-throw line, with Ilagan Isabela converting just 10-of-26 (38.5%) of their attempts, while Basilan shot 9-of-19 (47.4%).

The tournament continues on Monday at the One Arena in Cainta, with Sarangani facing Bacolod at 4 p.m., Rizal taking on San Juan at 6 p.m., and Iloilo squaring off with Imus at 8 p.m.