By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
The Muntinlupa Cagers came through with a blazing finish, scoring 10 points in the last 2:32 minutes to turn back the San Juan Knights, 77-71, in a battle of unbeaten teams in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Datu Cup at the Muntinlupa Sports Complex on Wednesday night.
A triple from Allan Mangahas and back-to-back baskets from Dhon Reverente and Dave Moralde set the tone for the Cagers as they grabbed the 74-68 upperhand en route to their fifth straight victory.
Mangahas finished with 21 points, four rebounds and five assists while Moralde added 15 points as the Cagers also dealt the Knights their first loss in six appearances.
The Knights dictated the pace in the first two quarters with a 39-25 lead at halftime, but the Cagers found their rhythm in third by outscoring their rivals, 28-16, to cut their deficit to only two, 55-53.
In the other game, Genmar Bragais shot 20 points to lift the Imus Bandera past the Valenzuela CDO Idol Cheesedog, 81-71.
Dan Alberto chipped in 12 points, James Castro had 10 points and Jomari Sollano collared 10 boards as the Bandera improved to 3-3.