Huskers stay hot as Gems pull off stunning fourth-quarter comeback

3 days ago

The Quezon Huskers continued their march toward another strong playoff push, while the Meycauayan Marilao Gems delivered one of the most dramatic finishes of the MPBL season on Wednesday.

Quezon dominated the Bulacan Kuyas, 88-63, at the Malolos Convention Center in Bulacan to extend its winning streak to five games, while the Gems overcame a late 14-point deficit to stun Pasig, 105-100.

Behind Judel Fuentes’ all-around performance, the Huskers quickly turned a competitive opening stretch into a one-sided affair. After Bulacan scored the first basket, Quezon responded with a 12-0 run and never surrendered control.

Fuentes finished with 23 points, five rebounds, four assists, and three steals as the defending back-to-back South Division champions improved to 13-2, staying within reach of division-leading Batangas City Tanduay Athletics (14-2).

"We're always ready as our coaches urge us to give everything during practices," said Fuentes. "We really need to play well and adapt as we're going up against San Juan in our next game."

Jolo Manansala added 12 points and seven rebounds, while Cyrus Tabi chipped in 10 points, seven assists, and four rebounds. Cedric Manzano also dominated the boards with 15 rebounds while adding nine points and three assists.

Bulacan, which dropped to 14-3, struggled to keep pace despite efforts from Jonathan Medina, who led the Kuyas with 16 points, five rebounds, and three assists. Benedict Benedictos contributed 13 points, while Jeremy Cruz finished with 10.

In the nightcap, the Meycauayan Marilao Gems showed resilience when it mattered most.

With Pasig seemingly in control after taking a 96-82 lead with just 2:58 remaining, the Gems mounted a furious comeback, closing the game on a 23-4 run to steal the victory.

Argente became the catalyst of the turnaround, scoring 11 points during the final surge and finishing with 30 points on five three-pointers.

"My coaches and my teammates give me the confidence to shoot," said Argente. "Of course, I've been practicing those shots."

The former Jose Rizal University Heavy Bomber helped Meycauayan Marilao secure its 10th win in 18 games and remain in the North Division playoff hunt.

The Gems’ comeback was fueled by Argente, Robin Nayve, and Agem Miranda, who delivered the go-ahead jumper that gave Meycauayan Marilao a 98-96 lead with 1:06 left.

Lambino briefly tied the game with two free throws, but Argente answered with a decisive three-pointer to put the Gems ahead for good.

Pasig’s Warlo Batac led all scorers with 25 points, nine rebounds, and two assists, while Jacob Galicia added 17 points, seven rebounds, and two assists. Ahron Estacio chipped in 14 points, seven assists, and two rebounds, and Lambino finished with a double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds.

For Quezon, it was another dominant win. For Meycauayan Marilao, it was a reminder that no lead is safe until the final buzzer.