Steel and Shoemasters Claim Wins, Join Early Leaders

Basilan and Marikina picked up contrasting victories on Monday in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) 2026 Season at One Arena Cainta, Rizal Province.

The Basilan Steel dominated Valenzuela City, securing a 99-86 win in the second game, while the Marikina BigZ Burger staged a strong fourth-quarter performance to overcome Sarangani, 75-66, in the nightcap of the elimination round triple-header.

John Wilson, the 2021 MPBL MVP, led Basilan with 27 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists, earning Player of the Game honors. At 39 years old, Wilson showed he still has plenty to offer, igniting a 29-15 run in the second quarter, including 13 points highlighted by back-to-back three-pointers. “Extra work, extra shooting,” said Wilson, reflecting on his continued success.

Gabriel Cometa contributed 19 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists, while Miles Canal added 14 points and 7 rebounds. Veteran guard JV Casio tallied 11 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists, and John Cantimbuhan also scored 11 points with 3 rebounds.

Despite a stellar 33-point, 7-rebound, 7-assist, and 2-steal performance from Shaq Alanes, Valenzuela fell short. Jay Collado finished with 17 points and 9 rebounds, Nico Mamaradlo contributed 11 points and 3 rebounds, and Val Chauca added 10 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists.

Marikina trailed 55-59 entering the final quarter but surged ahead, with Louie Vigil leading the charge, outscoring Sarangani 12-7 in the fourth to seal the victory.

Ed Daquioag delivered a double-double for the Shoemasters, finishing with 10 points and 10 rebounds, while Jeff Javillonar added 9 points and 10 rebounds.

Sarangani's Carl Bryan Lacap led with 14 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists, followed by Leland Estacio’s 11 points and 6 rebounds, Yvann Ludovice’s 10 points, 6 assists, 3 rebounds, and 2 steals, and Jo Escalambre's 10 points and 2 steals.

The tournament continues Tuesday at Ynares Center Montalban with another triple-header: Iloilo vs. Bataan at 4 p.m., Imus vs. Bacolod at 6 p.m., and Caloocan vs. host Rizal Province at 8 p.m.