The MPBL Datu Cup concluded its Mindanao sojourn and the games swing back to the metropolis when the Imus Bandera-GLC Truck and Equipment host the Cebu Sharks-Casino Ethyl Alcohol.
Game time is 9 p.m. right after the match between the Muntinlupa Cagers-Angelis Resort and the Bacoor Strikers at 7 p.m.
Still the only undefeated squad in the tournament, the Cagers try to extend their winning streak to six against the unpredictable Strikers, who carry a 4-3 win-loss record.
Allan Mangahas continued his great overall performance as he had led not just in scoring but also in playmaking and steals as well for the Lito Alvarez-owned franchise. The former Meralco Bolt had another scintillating performance as he finished with 21 points, five assists and four rebounds in helping his team deal the San Juan Knights their first loss in the tournament put up by Senator Manny Pacquiao with PBA legend Kenneth Duremdes serving as commissioner.
Mangahas will be pitted in an exciting backcourt duel with fellow ex-pro MIkee Reyes, the cerebral guard of the Strikers.
In the main game, the Bandera try to continue their rise from the lower half of the standings when they take the floor against the Sharks.
Since taking over the head coaching chores from PBA legend Jerry Codiñera, Mike Orquillas has propelled the squad to two straight wins and the Bandera have no plans of settling down with guys like Ian Melencio and James Castro and Genmar Bragais working double time to get their team back in the hunt.
Bragais had a breakout game last time around, finishing with 20 points in powering the squad to an upset win over the Valenzuela Classic-CDO Idol Cheesedog.
These three will lead Imus at the firing end anew in facing Cebu, which continued to slump at 1-6 record and lost its last two games.
