Second-half surge powers Biñan past Ilagan, extends streak to 12

a day ago

For one half, Biñan Tatak Gel found itself chasing the game.

After halftime, the Heroes completely flipped the script.

Biñan unleashed a dominant second-half performance to crush Ilagan Isabela, 90-69, on Friday at the Batangas City Coliseum, stretching its winning streak to 12 games in the MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) 2026 Season.

The Heroes outscored the Cowboys, 54-25, over the final two quarters, turning an eight-point halftime deficit into a runaway victory that improved their record to 15-3.

The triumph also propelled Biñan past Gensan (14-3) into third place in the South Division, trailing only Batangas City (14-2) and Quezon Province (13-2).

Leading the charge was Nic Cabanero, who continued his outstanding campaign with 22 points, three assists, and three steals to earn Best Player of the Game honors.

The former University of Santo Tomas standout showcased another dimension of his game, knocking down four of his five three-point attempts after building his reputation as an aggressive driver.

"They want me to develop my shooting and not rely solely on my drives," Cabanero said, adding that he believes the Heroes can compete with the league's elite with a few minor adjustments.

Renzo Subido added 15 points, highlighted by a pair of triples, while Carlo Lastimosa chipped in 13. Michael Mabulac also made a major impact with 12 points and eight rebounds as Biñan controlled the paint, outscoring Ilagan Isabela 54-26 while winning the rebounding battle, 43-28.

The Cowboys appeared in control before halftime, using a 9-0 run capped by five points from MJ Ayaay to turn a one-point deficit into a 44-36 advantage at the break.

That momentum disappeared after intermission.

Biñan tightened its defense, dominated inside, and repeatedly found open looks to overwhelm Ilagan Isabela and pull away for the lopsided win.

The Cowboys slipped to 12-7 despite 14 points from Allen Mina, while Arth Dela Cruz contributed 12 points, five assists, and four rebounds. Robby Celiz also reached double figures with 11 points.

Tempers flared in the closing minutes as Ilagan head coach Louie Gonzalez was ejected after receiving his second technical foul with 6:12 left to play. Just 32 seconds later, Biñan veteran Marc Pingris was also sent off after being whistled for his second technical.

With another convincing victory, the Heroes continued their climb up the South Division standings and strengthened their case as one of the league's hottest teams heading into the final stretch of the elimination round.