Manny Pacquiao sparkled as guest team Bulalakaw shocked Batangas City, 72-70, in the 2023 Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League preseason tournament late Friday at the Lagao Gym in General Santos City.
The MPBL founder and chief executive officer knocked down eight of his tournament-high 35 points in the crucial stretch that enabled Bulalakaw to climb out of the 25-point hole, 24-49, en route to the thrilling victory.
It was only the first win of Bulalakaw in three games, but it spoiled Batangas’ bid of advancing to the semifinal of this tourney that serves as a tuneup event for the league’s fifth season starting 11 March at the Quezon Convention Center in Lucena City.
Showing that he still has the speed and stamina that made him the only eight-division world boxing champion, the 44-year-old Paquiao played without relief and poured 11 points, including two three-pointers, in the last quarter that started with Bulalakaw trailing, 49-60.
The 5-foot-6 Pacquiao also snagged a game-high 10 rebounds, issued four assists, and swiped two steals, including the one in the final five seconds that doomed Batangas’ chances.
No other Bulalakaw player scored in twin digits with David Sisson and EJ Dialogo tallying seven markers each.
Meanwhile, Zamboanga Family’s Brand Sardines booked a 92-85 victory over Sarangani while Imus SV Squad secured its spot in the semis with a convincing 78-61 victory over General Santos City in the second game.
On the other hand, former Philippine Basketball Association players Bryan Faundo and Mac Cardona sizzled with 16 and 15 markers, respectively, to help Imus join champion Nueva Ecija in the Last Four.
