Patriots snap 13-game losing streak; Shoemasters claim win by forfeiture

The Parañaque Patriots finally ended their long drought, stunning the Imus Yangkee, 102-96, on Friday night at One Arena in Cainta to secure their first win of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) 2026 Season.

Marlon Monte delivered a vintage performance, exploding for a season-high 34 points — including 18 in the third quarter — to lead the Patriots. The sharpshooter went 8-of-13 from beyond the arc, finishing with six rebounds, five assists, and two steals in just 17 minutes. His dominant showing earned him Best Player of the Game honors.

Domark Matillano added 17 points and 11 rebounds, while Samuel Peralta and Jomar Santos contributed 14 and 12 points, respectively. Parañaque shot an impressive 40.5% from three-point range (15-of-37), compared to Imus’ dismal 12.9% (4-of-31).

The loss dropped Imus to 2-10 despite strong outings from Eroll Soriano (24 points, 8 rebounds) and Jordan Rios (21 points, 15 rebounds).

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In the second game, **Marikina Shoemasters** were awarded a 20-0 forfeit victory over the Iloilo United Royals, improving their record to 5-8. Iloilo fell to 2-8.

The MPBL continues on Saturday at One Arena Cainta with a triple-header:

- Biñan vs Zamboanga (4 p.m.)

- Caloocan vs Mindoro (6 p.m.)

- Batangas vs Negros (8 p.m.)