Joson and Monje Lead Black Bulls' Comeback Victory Over Gems

Quezon City relied on the strong performances of MJ Joson and Kobe Monje to pull off a stunning 78-69 comeback win over Meycauayan Marilao on Wednesday in the 2026 Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) Season at the Pasay Astrodome.

Joson, a standout from Manila Central University, and Monje, a former track-and-field athlete from Letran turned basketball player, combined for 19 points in the fourth quarter. The duo outscored Meycauayan's entire 14-point effort in that period, turning a 24-37 deficit into a thrilling victory.

Joson, who was named Best Player of the Game, finished with 22 points, 10 rebounds, four steals, and three assists. Monje added 17 points, five rebounds, and two assists. The win marked Quezon City's first victory in three games.

Other notable contributions came from Brian Rosalin, who had 12 points and three assists, and Kenz Rai Diokno, who posted seven points, two rebounds, and two assists.

Meycauayan made a late push, closing the gap to 69-72 after Agem Miranda hit a three-pointer, but Monje responded with a reverse layup and a successful three-point play. Joson then sealed the win with a crucial three-pointer.

The Black Bulls dominated the boards, outrebounding Meycauayan 51-38, and also controlled the paint, outscoring their opponents 40-14 inside.

Meycauayan was led by Robin Nayve with 19 points and seven rebounds, Migs Corteza who added 13 points and four rebounds, and Shawn Argente who finished with 11 points and three rebounds.

The tournament continues on Thursday at the Kamalig Sports Complex in Orion, Bataan, with Gensan facing Marikina at 4 p.m., Manila taking on Bacolod at 6 p.m., and Bulacan playing Bataan at 8 p.m.