Sparks Shine Early, Cruise Past Queenpin

Mar Prado made an instant impact in her return to the court, leading Akari to a commanding 78-60 win over Queenpin Basketball in the 2026 Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League ( W MPBL ) regular season on Sunday at the Alonte Sports Arena.

Prado, who had previously played for the Pilipinas Aguilas during their WMPBL Invitational championship run but missed the inaugural pro season, marked her comeback with an all-around performance of 20 points, six rebounds, and five steals for the Sparks.

“I’m happy to be back doing what I love—playing basketball. I’ve been focused on handball recently, playing for the national team, so it feels great to return,” said Prado, who spent the past year with the national handball team.

Akari took control early, with Prado scoring 10 points in the opening quarter to help the Sparks jump to an 18-10 lead. They steadily extended their advantage through the middle quarters, eventually leading by as much as 79-42 after a three-pointer from Raiza Palmera-Dy with 5:57 left in the game.

Behind Prado, Palmera-Dy, and Allana Lim, Akari dominated the paint, scoring 50 points inside as they cruised to a one-sided victory.

“There’s still a lot of work to do,” said Sparks head coach Derrick Pumaren. “We made mistakes and haven’t played to our full potential yet, but it’s a solid start for us—still, a long way to go.”

Lim posted a double-double with 16 points, 11 rebounds, and three assists, while Palmera-Dy and Angel Anies contributed 10 points each as Akari joined Biñan-Tatak Gel among the early winners.

For Queenpin, who were without Stefanie Berberabe, the team struggled to find its rhythm against a more experienced Akari squad.

Charm Natural led Queenpin with 12 points and six rebounds, while Hazelle Yam and Lee Sario added 10 and nine points, respectively. Gabi Bade was held to six points but contributed seven rebounds and four assists.