Irvyn Malonzo of Jacob Bakery takes a contested three-pointer during a game in the Alpha Kappa Rho 1st Semi-Open Invitational Basketball League 2025 at the TSL Sports Complex.
Photo by James F. Sablan Jr.
JACOB’S Bakery has secured a semifinal spot in the Alpha Kappa Rho 1st Semi-Open Invitational Basketball League 2025 after outlasting Save More/DPA Car Mart, 78-71, at the TSL Sports Complex on Tuesday.
Jacob’s Bakery established control in the first half, thanks to the efficiency of Arjhay Singca. He was a constant threat, as his team consistently looked for him beyond the arc, where he connected on four treys, leading the offense with 18 points. With support from Jhay Jhay Gatbonton and Dan Fernando, the team entered halftime comfortably ahead, 43-24.
The second half was a different story, however.
Save More/DPA Car Mart shifted the momentum in their favor, with Chris Lilles orchestrating a rally using his craftiness to draw fouls and contributing four of his 10 points from the free-throw line. Kristian David and Craig Padayao then took over, scoring 11 and 16 points, respectively, to cut the deficit to single digits.
Jacob’s Bakery managed to hang on as every player contributed to scoring during crunch time. Jerome Reyes joined the fray, providing support under the rim with a handful of second-chance buckets alongside Ryan Bayna. Meanwhile, Fernando and Singca picked up where they left off, combining for 15 points in the final few possessions to seal their 78-71 victory and secure a spot in the semifinals.
Winner’s circle
JC Marketing also joined the winner’s circle after easing past Premier Builders/Apex, 78-71. However, since Premier Builders sit atop the leaderboard, JC Marketing must defeat them twice to advance to the semifinals. Game 2 is set to take place later this week.
