MPBL: Nueva Ecija ousts Pasay after tense Game 2

Michael Mabulac and the rest of the Rice Vanguards move on to the next playoff phase. MPBL (file photo)
By Ivan Saldajeno

PASIG--Nueva Ecija booked the second seat in the MPBL division semifinals after eliminating Pasay with a 71-62 win in Game 2 of their first-round series on Monday night at the Ynares Sports Arena.

In a tense game where physicality and emotions were at high levels, the Rice Vanguards' second-quarter dominance where they outscored the Voyagers, 23-13, turned out to be enough to complete the sweep of the best-of-three series.

Cris Bitoon led Nueva Ecija, which will now await the outcome of another North Division playoff series between San Juan and Makati, with 16 points and one rebound.

Mike Juico added nine points, going 3-for-3 from the field, one rebound, two assists, three steals, and one block.

Brian Hilario led Pasay with 16 points, six rebounds, and one steal, while Dhon Reverente added 10 points, 12 rebounds, and two assists.

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