Reinforced Caloocan Batang Kankaloo pulled away in the fourth quarter to defeat Muntinlupa Cagers, 74-66, to join early leaders in the 2026 MPBL Preseason Invitational on late Saturday at the Caloocan Sports Complex.
Powered by veterans Rob Celiz and Eric Camson, sharpshooter Jielo Razon, and rookie Kean Baclaan, the Batang Kankaloo unleashed a decisive 12-point run to stretch their lead to 66-53 midway through the fourth period.
Celiz, a four-time MPBL All-Star, delivered 16 points, eight rebounds, four assists, two blocks, and a steal to earn Best Player of the Game honors in his first game for Caloocan.
Chris Bitoon added 11 points along with four steals, three rebounds, and two assists, Rommel Calahat chipped in nine points, while Baclaan contributed eight points, six rebounds, and six assists in his professional debut.
Camson, Jammer Jamito, and Razon finished with eight points each for Caloocan, which is considered one of the strong contenders heading into the league’s eighth season in 2026.
The Cagers, who held the lead for nearly 12 minutes, were paced by Shawn Argente with 13 points, three assists, and two rebounds, while Felix Apreku added eight points.
Meanwhile, Batangas City Tanduay Rum Masters also won their debut match with a 77-60 victory against the Bataan Risers.
New Batangas acquisition Rhinwill Yambing starred against his former team with 16 points and four rebounds to claim Best Player honors.
Jhan Nermal led all Batangas scorers with 19 points, five rebounds, five steals, and two assists, while Cedric Ablaza contributed eight points. (AC)
