Bataan and Batangas, two of only few streaking teams in the MPBL Datu Cup, try to sustain their winning runs when they take on separate foes today at the Batangas City Coliseum.
Riding on the crest of a 12-game winning streak, the Risers of Bataan battle the slumping Caloocan Supermos-Longrich in the first game at 7 p.m. right before the match between the Athletics of Batangas City, who will host the 9 p.m. encounter against the Zamboanga Valientes-Family’s Brand Sardines.
Bataan is the owner of the tournament’s best record with a 12-1 slate, but there are several teams breathing down its neck in the tough northern division of this tournament put up by Senator Manny Pacquiao with PBA legend and former MVP Kenneth Duremdes serving as commissioner.
A win over the Supremos will put the Risers at least two games ahead of second placer San Juan Knights, who have a 13-3 win-loss slate.
The Supremos, who had lost back-to-back games and are still in 11th spot in the northern division, are hard pressed to win their remaining games to keep their hopes alive for a top eight berth. This makes every Caloocan game crucial beginning its game against Bataan, which appeared to be unstoppable.
Just like Bataan, the Tanduay-backed Batangas City is a team on the rise as the Athletics racked up five straight wins to move up to solo third spot at 9-6.
The Athletics will take on the Valientes squad that is currently on ninth place and needs to make its move to keep its hopes alive for a top eight berth of the southern division.
Only eight teams at the end of the eliminations will make it to the quarterfinal round.
Batangas City coach Mac Tan, who missed several games as he accompanied team owner Bong Tan in business trips in the United States, is happy to see the improvement of his once struggling squad.
