CEBU Classic secured a resounding 79-51 victory over Manila Batang Quiapo in the ongoing Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) 2025 Season at the Paco Arena in Paco, Metro Manila on Saturday, March 29, 2025.
A balanced attack starting in the early stages of the game propelled Cebu Classic to its second win following three consecutive losses.
Former PBA mainstay Paolo Hubalde led the charge with 10 points, five rebounds, and three assists, earning him the Best Player of the Game honors.
Jan Jamon and Mark Meneses also made significant contributions with 9 points each. Meneses also grabbed nine rebounds.
After a closely contested first quarter, which ended with a 21-16 lead for Cebu, the team unleashed a 21-4 run in the second quarter to extend its advantage to 41-23 with 2:52 remaining in the half.
The surge was fueled by the combined efforts of John Paul Martinez, Jeco Bancale, and Jan Jamon, allowing the Classics to maintain their pace.
With a 47-25 lead at halftime, Cebu sustained its strong performance throughout the second half, ensuring a convincing victory.
The Cebuanos dominated the game in rebounds, 51-26, and converted 32 field goals compared to Batang Quiapo’s 20.
The loss dropped Batang Quiapo to 1-4.
The Cebu-based squad will next face the Muntinlupa Cagers Lakan on April 4 at the Batangas Coliseum.
The scores:
Cebu (79) - Hubalde 10, Meneses 9, Jamon 9, Santos 8, Tampus 8, Martel 6, Martinez 6, Jabonete 6, Bancale 6, Lepalam 3, Holmqvist 2, Malinguez 2, Meca 2.
Manila (51) - Faa 19, Dandoy 7, Andaya 6, Albo 6, Lopez 5, Inigo 4, Cielo 3, Caraballos 1.
Quarters: 16-21, 47-25, 61-39, 79-51. / JBM