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Nueva Ecija takes another crack at the Okbet-MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) 4th Season Presented by Xtreme national title when it tangles with Zamboanga Family’s Brand Sardines Monday night at the Mayor Vitaliano Agan Coliseum in Zamboanga City.
The Zamboanguenos foiled the Rice Vanguards’ sweep bid, 75-65, at the same venue on Friday to force Game 4 in the best-of-five title playoffs.
Although Nueva Ecija, the North division champion, still lead the series, 2-1, following back-to-back victories in Games 1 (81-75) and 2 (75-74), the South division titlist, the Zamboanguenos, especially with the hometown crowd egging them on have proven they are at par with the Rice Vanguards.
In fact, the Zamboanguenos pulled away at 48-32, the biggest spread thus far in the series, before dropping their guards and allowing the Rice Vanguards to threaten at 59-62.
Jayvee Marcelino, named the Game 3 best player, and twin Jaycee, named the regular season MVP, however, connived with Chris Dumapig to seal the outcome at 69-59 going to the last two minutes.
Poor shooting hounded the star-studded Rice Vanguards, who made only 1 of 19 triple attempts and 14 of 24 charities.
Apart from Jayvee, who posted 22 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists, and Jaycee, who tallied 9 points, 10 rebounds, 9 assists and 4 steals, Zamboanga coach Vic Ycasiano got an unexpected lift from Ralph Tansingco, who contributed 15 points, all from triples, and Chris Dimpaig, who added 10 points and 9 rebounds.
Nueva Ecija got 15 points and 8 rebounds from Michael Mabulac and 14 points and 5 rebounds from John Villarias, but Game 1 hero and Mythical Team member Hesed Gabo wound up scoreless.
Nueva Ecija Coach Jerson Cabiltes is expected to make major adjustments and find a way to neutralize the Marcelino twins.13.3 points and 3 steals.
After three games, Jaycee is averaging 15.7 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists and 3 steals while Jayvee is norming 13.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.3 assists
If Zamboanga manages to win and level the series, the deciding Game 5 would be held at the Nueva Ecija Coliseum in Palayan City on Friday, December 15.