Peñaranda powers Valkyries past Angels in Game 1 semifinal win

Snow Peñaranda took over down the stretch as Batangas-New Zealand Bluefire pulled away for a 75-64 win over Biñan-Tatak Gel in Game 1 of their 2026 Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) semifinal series on Sunday at the Parañaque Coliseum.

Peñaranda scored seven of the Valkyries’ final 12 points, finishing with 22 points, nine rebounds, and two blocks to help the defending champions seize a 1-0 series lead and move within one win of another Finals appearance.

With the game hanging in the balance at 63-64 and four minutes remaining, Peñaranda answered with a go-ahead layup that ignited a decisive 12-0 closing run. Biñan failed to score the rest of the way as Batangas-New Zealand Bluefire closed the game in dominant fashion.

“We know it’s a tougher road for us getting a second championship,” said head coach Cholo Villanueva. “Teams are more prepared this season, so we really have to put in more work. It showed tonight.”

Reigning MVP Afril Bernardino once again anchored the Valkyries with a near triple-double of 20 points, 19 rebounds, eight assists, two steals, and two blocks. Pringle Fabruada added 10 points and seven rebounds, while Andrea Tongco also chipped in 10 points and four assists.

Batangas-New Zealand Bluefire will aim to clinch a Finals return in Game 2 on July 11 at 4 p.m., in the tournament supported by Aktive.

Biñan-Tatak Gel, meanwhile, unraveled late, missing all five field-goal attempts and committing two turnovers in the final four minutes.

Monique Del Carmen led the Angels with 18 points, six rebounds, and five assists, while Ara Abaca posted 12 points, nine rebounds, and five assists despite seven turnovers. Eka Soriano also added 12 points, five rebounds, and four assists off the bench.

Biñan also struggled with the absence of Chack Cabinbin, who was limited to scoreless production in under 19 minutes of play.