Warriors overpower Yangkee to stay atop MPBL South Division

The Gensan Warriors leaned on their dominance inside the paint to dismantle Imus Yangkee, 124-94, on Friday at the Pasay Astrodome, strengthening their grip on the top spot in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) 2026 South Division.

Gensan imposed its will from the opening tip, controlling the rebounding battle, 51-39, while outscoring Imus 86-38 in the paint to secure another convincing victory.

Balanced scoring once again fueled the Warriors, with all 13 players who logged minutes contributing at least four points. The win improved Gensan's record to 14-2 in the elimination round, keeping it ahead of Batangas (12-2) and Quezon Province (9-2) in the South Division standings.

Ashon Andrews spearheaded the attack with 19 points, highlighted by consecutive dunks late in the contest. The 6-foot-4 forward, who joined the Warriors from the Mindoro Tamaraws, also tallied nine rebounds, three steals, and two assists to earn Best Player of the Game honors.

Marwin Dionisio, Mark Cruz, and Nelo Santos each scored 12 points, while Adi Santos and JM Versoza added 10 markers apiece as Gensan continued what has been its best season since entering the league in 2018.

The Warriors created separation before halftime, taking a commanding 63-48 lead behind the offensive efforts of Adi and Nelo Santos before steadily pulling away in the second half.

Imus dropped to 2-13 despite a strong performance from Noel Santos, who finished with 21 points and seven rebounds. Joseph Mark Marquez contributed 12 points, five rebounds, and two assists, while Jordan Rios recorded 11 points, seven rebounds, and three assists. Justine Padua also reached double figures with 10 points and three rebounds.

MPBL action continues on Saturday at the Caloocan Sports Complex, where Sarangani takes on San Juan at 4 p.m., Quezon City battles Parañaque at 6 p.m., and Quezon Province faces host Caloocan at 8 p.m.