Valkyries Aim for Twice-to-Beat Edge Against RK Hoops

Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) Defending champions Batangas–New Zealand Bluefire have a chance to secure at least a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals with a win over RK Hoops–Quezon City 10 ACT on Wednesday at Hoops Haven in Pasay City.

Batangas–New Zealand Bluefire, sitting second with a 5-1 record, has been one of the most consistent teams this season. A victory would not only lock in a crucial playoff incentive but also keep their push for an outright semifinal berth alive.

Standing in their way is RK Hoops–Quezon City 10 ACT, which holds a 2-5 record and is still fighting to solidify a top-four position. The team will also be aiming to pull off a major upset against one of the league’s top contenders.

Head coach Cholo Villanueva is focused on keeping the Valkyries’ momentum going during this critical stage of the elimination round. “We just want to build momentum with our first win in the second round and be more consistent for another championship run this season,” Villanueva said.

The first game of the day kicks off at 4 p.m., with Batangas–New Zealand Bluefire facing RK Hoops–Quezon City 10 ACT, followed by Akari–Rizal vs. Biñan–Tatak Gel at 6 p.m.

Much of Batangas–New Zealand Bluefire’s success has come from Afril Bernardino, who led the team’s recent victory over Biñan–Tatak Gel and is expected to play a pivotal role once again. The game is also set to feature a marquee matchup between Bernardino and Tantoy Ferrer, two of the league’s most impactful players on both ends of the court.

The outcome may hinge on whether Batangas–New Zealand Bluefire can execute its game plan effectively. The Valkyries will rely on their perimeter shooting while containing Ferrer, whereas RK Hoops–Quezon City 10 ACT will need its supporting cast to step up to relieve the pressure on their star.

Meanwhile, Akari–Rizal (6-1) aims to move closer to an outright semifinal spot against Biñan–Tatak Gel (5-2), which is also eyeing a top-two finish. Akari–Rizal will look to newly acquired Janine Pontejos, along with Allana Lim and Raiza Palmera-Dy, while Biñan–Tatak Gel will depend on Chack Cabinbin, Eka Soriano, and Monique Del Carmen to secure the win.