The Pampanga Lanterns squeaked past the Navotas Clutch while the Laguna Heroes bested the Mandaluyong El Tigre on Wednesday in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Datu Cup at the Alonte Sports Arena in Biñan, Laguna.
Juneric Baloria and Levi Hernandez sank three of the four free throws in the last 16 ticks as the Lanterns survived the Clutch, 89-88, while the Heroes downed the El Tigre, 76-72.
It was the Lanterns’ fifth victory against nine losses, snapping a three-game skid, while the Heroes improved to 7-6.
Baloria finished with 16 points and 12 rebounds even as Hernandez posted 23 points. Michael Juico paced the Lanterns throughout with 25 points, six boards and three assists.
Michael Mabulac, meanwhile, led the Heroes with 17 points and 15 rebounds even as Raymond Ilagan added 14 points and 11 boards.
The Clutch and the El Tigre fell to 5-7 and 6-6 records. (Kristel Satumbaga)
