MANILA — San Juan pounced on an off night on Bacoor City to hack a 74-63 win in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) Datu Cup at the Strike Gymnasium in Bacoor, Cavite on Thursday night.
The Knights limited the Strikers to just six points in the first quarter, sparking an impressive defensive output that saw the latter only making 28 percent of their baskets.
San Juan actually led by as much 30 points before settling for the 11-point winning margin, as Bacoor City found their stroke when the outcome was all but settled.
Rian Ayonayon made 21 points, two rebounds, one assist, two steals, and two blocks.
Mac-Mac Cardona added 15 markers, seven boards, four dimes, and one steal for the Knights, who are now at 10-2, a half-game behind the Bataan Risers for the top spot in the Northern Division.
In his first game as a Striker, following a trade with the Valenzuela Classic for Mikee Reyes, Rocky Acidre put up 15 markers, three rebounds, and one steal.
Bacoor City fell to 7-5, although it remained third in the Southern Division. ( Ivan Stewart Saldajeno/PNA)
