Greats Steal Win from Batangas After Yambing's Goaltending Violation

Cebu pulled off a dramatic 84-83 comeback win over Batangas City on Wednesday in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) at the Pasay Astrodome, thanks to a buzzer-beating goaltending violation by Batangas' Rhinwill Yambing.

With just 3.7 seconds left, Ced Ablaza made the first of two free throws to give Batangas an 83-82 lead but missed the second. Cebu’s Simon Camacho grabbed the rebound and quickly passed to Paul Desiderio, who dribbled up the court and launched a long-range shot as time expired.

Yambing, known for his athleticism, jumped to block the shot but was called for goaltending after making contact with the ball, allowing Cebu to complete the stunning comeback and secure the win.

Cebu, now 2-1, tied Batangas in the standings with the victory.

Desiderio led the way with 21 points and 3 rebounds, earning Best Player honors, while Jun Manzo contributed 18 points, 4 assists, 3 steals, and 2 rebounds, and Mark Meneses posted a double-double with 18 points, 11 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks.

For Batangas, Jhan Nermal had 18 points, 3 steals, and 2 rebounds, Ino Comboy added 15 points, 6 assists, 2 steals, and 2 rebounds, and Yambing finished with 12 points and 4 rebounds in the loss.