San Juan's Clutch Performance Leads Biñan to OT Upset Over Valkyries

Luisa San Juan stepped up in the final moments as Biñan-Tatak Gel stunned defending champion Batangas-New Zealand Bluefire, 83-79, in an overtime thriller in the Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) on Wednesday at the Filoil Centre.

With just 13.9 seconds remaining in overtime, San Juan hit the game-changing three-pointer from the top of the key, putting the Angels ahead 81-79 and giving them the edge in the closing moments.

Batangas-New Zealand forward Afril Bernardino, who had missed the Valkyries’ first game due to national team duties with Gilas Pilipinas, drove to the basket to try and tie the game but missed, as she was met by the strong defense of Ara Abaca. San Juan grabbed the rebound and was fouled by Snow Peñaranda. The former La Salle standout then sank both free throws with calm precision, sealing the win for Biñan with 7.7 seconds left.

San Juan finished with a team-high 20 points on 7-of-15 shooting for Biñan-Tatak Gel, which moved to an undefeated 2-0 record in the Aktive-backed tournament.

“This was a great experience for us early in the season, to play in such a tight game,” said Angels head coach Jack Azcueta.

Monique Del Carmen was just shy of a double-double, contributing 15 points and nine rebounds, while Justine Domingo and Ria Nabalan each added 10 points. Chack Cabinbin also played a key role, finishing with eight points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, including a crucial steal to end the overtime period.

For Batangas-New Zealand, Bernardino marked her return with an outstanding performance, recording 28 points, 23 rebounds, six assists, and five steals. Peñaranda added 24 points and nine rebounds, but the Valkyries dropped to 1-1 in the tournament.