Endgame blunder helps Cebu escape with win in MPBL

Sports

WHAT looked like an already lost ballgame turned into a dramatic win as an endgame blunder propelled the Cebu Greats to an 84-83 win over Batangas City Tanduay Athletics in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) Season 2026 at the Pasay City Astrodome.

Cebu was pushed on the brink of defeat when Ced Ablaza made split free throws that gave Batangas an 83-81 lead with 3.7 seconds left.

After the Greats secured the rebound after a missed free throw by Ablaza, Paul Desiderio hurriedly dribbled to the other end and launched a desperate shot just a few steps from the midcourt.

The ball was airborne when the buzzer sounded but Batangas' Rhinwill Yambing came up with a huge blunder.

As the ball was about to hit the rim, Yambing leaped and swatted the ball away that was clear a basket interference violation.

As expected, referees ruled that Yambing committed a goaltending violation, giving the Greats the victory in the most unexpected way.

Cebu, thus, chalked up its second win in three games. Batangas also now sports a 2-1 (win-loss) record.

Desiderio led Cebu with 21 points and three rebounds while Jun Manzo added 18 points, four assists, three steals, and two rebounds.

Also turning in a superb game for Cebu was Mark Meneses, who piled up 18 points, 11 rebounds, two assists, two steals, and two blocks.

Leading the frustrated Batangas was Jhan Nermal, who tallied 18 points, three steals, and two rebounds. Ino Comboy added 15 points, six assists, two steals, and two rebounds while Yambing had 12 points and four rebounds.(CCM)