By James Sablan
[email protected]
Variety News Staff
THE MP Raiders continued their strong run in the Madflex Invitational Basketball League 2026 with a 58–48 victory over the Compadres on Saturday afternoon at the Agape Christian School gym.
The Raiders built an early double-digit lead and never looked back, using strong execution on offense and suffocating team defense to control the game from start to finish.
From the opening tip, the MP Raiders dictated the pace. Running their half-court sets efficiently and capitalizing in transition, they quickly established control. Marc Tengco knocked down back-to-back triples early, while Kenny Laquian and Jun Escalada added finishes at the rim to stretch the lead to 10 points.
The Compadres struggled to find rhythm against the Raiders’ physical defense, committing early turnovers and missing contested shots. They were held to 15 points in the first half, with Guevarra and Foronda accounting for most of the offense as they trailed 33–15 at the break.
In the second half, the Compadres showed signs of life. Foronda sparked a brief rally, scoring eight quick points in the opening minutes by attacking inside. However, the comeback attempt faded as the Raiders’ defensive pressure intensified.
Laquian led the MP Raiders offensively, finishing with 11 points, including a three-pointer, while Tengco and Mark Balignasay also contributed key baskets to maintain control and secure the 58–48 win.
James Sablan has been a sports reporter for Variety since 2013. He was a liberal arts student of Northern Marianas College and covers all local sports.
