Bacolod nips GenSan to open MPBL playoff series

Unheralded Jhan Nermal made his presence known in Bacolod's playoff opener. MPBL

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—Fifth-seeded Bacolod pulled off essentially an early upset in the MPBL Playoffs after beating fourth-seeded GenSan, 81-77, in Game 1 of their Southern Division first round meeting on Monday night at the Vitaliano Agan Coliseum in Zamboanga City.

The Ballers turned the tides in the third quarter, outscoring the Warriors, 26-15, before holding off a gallant stand spearheaded by Nico Elorde, Chris Masaglang, and Christian Fajarito.

Alwyn Alday and Jhan Nermal each scored 20 points with the latter also grabbing 11 rebounds for the double-double to lead Bacolod, which can clinch the series next week.

Masaglang went 6-for-7 from the field for 13 points along with five rebounds, two assists, and three steals for GenSan, which can bounce back with a Game 2 win at home.

Elorde and Fajarito each added 12 points with Elorde going 5-for-5 from the field and Fajarito also finishing with a double-double with 10 rebounds.

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