Weavers extend winning streak to 14, strengthen hold on MPBL lead

The Abra Solid North Weavers continued their dominant run in the 2026 Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) season after defeating the Mindoro Tamaraws, 97-81, on Thursday at Paco Arena in Manila.

Abra took control early and never surrendered its advantage, racing to a 26-8 lead after the opening quarter behind Dave Ildefonso’s explosive start. The Weavers held off every Mindoro comeback attempt to extend their winning streak to 14 games and improve to 16-1 in the 27-team, two-division tournament.

The victory kept Abra ahead of the San Juan Knights (14-1) and Caloocan Batang Kankaloo in the race for the top playoff positions in the North Division.

Ildefonso led the way with 21 points on five three-pointers and added three rebounds to earn his second consecutive Best Player of the Game award, further highlighting his form as the reigning MPBL Most Valuable Player.

"I try to study our plays, our system, and try my best to get my opportunities," said Ildefonso, who has recovered from an early-season injury. "As a team, we're out to defend our crown and, hopefully, everybody stays healthy."

Shaun Ildefonso contributed 12 points, seven rebounds, and three assists, while DJ Fenner added 11 points, three assists, and two rebounds. Jake Figueroa finished with 10 points, seven assists, and five rebounds.

Abra head coach Yong Garcia used an 11-man rotation instead of the team’s usual 15-player lineup, with every player who entered the game contributing to the scoring column.

Mike Ayonayon and Raven Gonzales chipped in nine points each for the Weavers.

Mindoro dropped to 8-9 despite a solid performance from its leading scorer, who recorded 14 points, including four three-pointers, along with four rebounds and four assists. JC Recto also scored 14 points with six rebounds and two assists, while Aaron Jeruta added 10 points, five assists, and three rebounds.

The MPBL resumes Friday at the Batangas City Coliseum, featuring Biñan against Ilagan Isabela at 3 p.m., Caloocan versus Basilan at 5 p.m., and host Batangas against Rizal at 7 p.m.