Powered by Jeffrey Flowers, the Volunteers led by as many as 17 points but had to pool their talents together to post their fifth win in seven games that tightened their grip of the lead in the Northern Conference.
The Gems fell to 5-2 and dropped to a share of the lead in the Southern Conference. Tied with Cebuana Lhuillier is RCPI Negros, while close behind at 5-3 is Professional Davao.
The Eagles rode on another fine performance by prized acquisition Cid White to dump the LBC Batangas Blades, 77-60, in the lone game at the newly built Davao Oriental Sports and Cultural Center in Mati, Davao Oriental.
It was the first time that a professional basketball game was staged in the city, a leisurely three-hour-drive from Davao, and fans filled the 7,000-seater gym to watch their Eagles humble the Blades.
Among those who watched the game were Davao Oriental Gov. Elena Palma-Gil, Vice Governor Thelma Almario, Rep Joel Mayo Almario, Mati Mayor Francisco Rabat and members of the Mati City Council.
Also present were MBA Commissioner Chito Loyzaga and Ramon Tuason, MBA Director for marketing and business development.
In view of the success of its initial foray in Mati, the MBA is planning to hold weekend games at the DOSCC.
White, formerly of RCPI Negros, wound up with 17 points, 10 rebounds and three assists and was named the game’s best player.
Osaka Pangasinan eliminated Pampanga, 90-82, in another game at the Convention Center, Osaka Pangasinan rose to 4-3 while Pampanga slipped to 1-7.