Manila banks on huge closeout to beat Valenzuela

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—Manila pulled off a great walk-off to turn back Valenzuela, 71-66, in the MPBL Lakan Season at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay on Monday night.

The Stars finished the game on a 7-1 run, all on free throws, in the final 29 seconds to steal the win from the Classic, who were in the lead late in the game despite being held to just nine points in the first quarter.

Cris Bitoon put up 15 points, three rebounds, six assists, and three steals for Manila, which moved up to 9-1, bolstering its hold of second place in the Northern Division standings.

Aris Dionisio added 14 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, one steal, and one block.

Hans Thiele made 13 markers, 10 boards, four blocks, and one steal for Valenzuela, which fell to 4-8.

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