Zamboanga stifles Muntinlupa at start of MPBL playoff series

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—Zamboanga turned into its defense to turn back Muntinlupa, 79-50, at the start of their MPBL playoff series on Monday night at the Vitaliano Agan Coliseum in Zamboanga City.

While Zamboanga somehow slowed down late in the first quarter despite a furious start led by the Marcelino Twins, the team's defense worked wonders at home against Muntinlupa, holding the visiting squad to just 19 points in the first half even as the host's offense was more solid in the second half.

Crowd favorite Choi Ignacio led Zamboanga, which can close out the series next week in General Santos City, with 15 points, one rebound, two assists, and two steals.

Jhaps Bautista added 11 points, five rebounds, one assist, and one steal.

Dom Matillano was the lone Muntinlupa player in double figures with 10 points alongside four rebounds, one assist, and three steals.

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