Weavers cruise past Gems, tighten North Division race

The Abra Solid North Weavers delivered a dominant performance, handing the Meycauayan Marilao Gems a 101-75 blowout loss on Friday at One Arena Cainta in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) 2026 Season.

The defending champions improved to 10-1, closing the gap on North Division leaders Caloocan (11-1) and staying ahead of San Juan (9-1). In the South Division, Quezon Province remains unbeaten at 8-0, followed by General Santos City at 12-1.

Jake Figueroa led the Weavers with 12 points, eight rebounds, and two assists to earn Best Player of the Game honors. Shaun Ildefonso added 15 points and eight rebounds, while Encho Serrano contributed 13 points. DJ Fenner chipped in nine points as Abra dominated the boards, 53-32.

Mike Ayonayon capped the rout with a highlight-reel alley-oop from Nico Elorde, pushing the lead to 88-53 late in the game.

The loss ended Meycauayan Marilao’s five-game winning streak as they fell to 7-4. Jayson Apolonio led the Gems with 22 points, while Agem Miranda added 14.

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In the earlier games, the **Parañaque Patriots** snapped a 13-game losing streak with a 102-96 upset win over the Imus Yangkee, led by Marlon Monte’s career-high 34 points. **Marikina Shoemasters** were awarded a 20-0 forfeit victory over Iloilo United Royals.

The MPBL returns to One Arena Cainta on Saturday with a triple-header:

- Biñan vs Zamboanga (4 p.m.)

- Caloocan vs Mindoro (6 p.m.)

- Batangas vs Negros (8 p.m.)