MPBL PLAYOFFS

THE Pangasinan Heatwaves shocked the Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards in a heart-stopping thriller, 82-80, in their win-or-go-home match in the 7th Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) Quarterfinals on October 28, 2025, at the Nueva Ecija Coliseum in Palayan City.

Reeling off the first frame, Bong Galanza steered Pangasinan’s scoring with five early points. On the other end, the Rice Vanguards launched an eight-point burst led by Jaycee Marcelino and Byron Villarias, who drained back-to-back triples to seize the lead, 21-17.

In the second period, seasoned veterans Hesed Gabo and Michael Mabulac combined for 11 points to spark Pangasinan’s offense. However, Villarias continued his hot shooting, nailing two more triples to help Nueva Ecija preserve its edge at halftime, 42-40.

Coasting along the third quarter, the Heatwaves found momentum through Jorey Napoles, who made his presence felt with transition layups and strong drives for eight points. In response, Rice Vanguards’ big man Will McAloney dominated the paint and contributed five points to keep Nueva Ecija ahead, 63-58. (Kim Gealogo)