The Bataan Risers continued their surge in the 2026 Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) Regular Season, cruising to a 110-97 victory over the Manila Batang Quiapo on Friday at One Arena in Cainta, Rizal. Riding a balanced offensive attack and disciplined defense, the Risers captured their third consecutive victory, improving to 9-11 on the season while handing Manila its 19th loss.
Leading the charge was Player of the Game Chito Jaime, who delivered another efficient all-around performance with 12 points, six rebounds, and five assists. While the veteran forward didn’t post the game’s highest scoring total, his leadership, playmaking, and timely contributions proved invaluable as Bataan controlled the contest from start to finish.
The victory marks another important milestone for the Risers, who have steadily built momentum after an up-and-down start to the campaign. With three straight wins now under their belt, Bataan is beginning to look like a dangerous team capable of challenging the league’s top contenders as the race for playoff positioning heats up.
From the opening tip, Bataan imposed its will offensively. The Risers played with confidence, moving the basketball crisply and creating quality scoring opportunities through patient execution. Rather than relying on isolation plays, the team emphasized ball movement, allowing multiple players to get involved early.
Jaime immediately made his presence felt, attacking the basket, finding open teammates, and controlling the pace whenever Manila attempted to speed up the game. His experience and decision-making helped stabilize the offense, while his six rebounds provided valuable possessions on both ends of the floor.
The Risers’ depth was on full display throughout the evening. Every rotation player contributed meaningful minutes, allowing Bataan to maintain its intensity regardless of who was on the floor. The team’s balanced scoring attack kept Manila’s defense guessing, as several players stepped up with timely baskets to extend the lead.
Bataan also excelled in transition, converting defensive stops into easy points. Their ability to capitalize on turnovers and push the tempo prevented Manila from establishing any sustained rhythm. Whether attacking the rim or knocking down perimeter shots, the Risers consistently found ways to keep the scoreboard moving.
Despite facing a sizeable deficit, Manila refused to back down. The Batang Quiapo continued to compete hard and managed to put together several offensive runs during the middle quarters. However, every time they threatened to close the gap, Bataan responded with poise.
Jaime was instrumental during those crucial stretches. The veteran forward knocked down timely baskets, grabbed key rebounds, and delivered smart passes that led to easy scores. His five assists reflected the unselfish brand of basketball the Risers have embraced during their recent winning streak.
While Jaime provided the leadership, Bataan’s defense ultimately became the difference-maker. The Risers stayed active on the perimeter, contested shots effectively, and limited Manila’s second-chance opportunities. Their communication on defensive switches and commitment to helping one another forced the Batang Quiapo into difficult offensive possessions.
That defensive discipline allowed Bataan to maintain control throughout the game. Even when Manila found success offensively, the Risers responded with stops at the other end, ensuring the lead never slipped into danger.
One of the most encouraging signs for Bataan has been the team’s growing chemistry. Earlier in the season, the Risers struggled to consistently close out games. Over the past three contests, however, the squad has displayed greater confidence and composure in pressure situations.
The players have embraced clearly defined roles, resulting in smoother offensive execution and improved defensive communication. Instead of depending on one star player, Bataan has become a collective unit where every possession is built around teamwork and trust.
Jaime exemplifies that approach. Although he finished with only 12 points, his overall impact extended well beyond scoring. His leadership, hustle, rebounding, and playmaking continue to make him one of the most valuable veterans on the roster.
Being named Player of the Game was a testament to his influence on both ends of the floor. His calm presence helped guide a relatively young Bataan squad through every challenge Manila presented, ensuring the Risers never lost control of the contest.
The 110-97 victory also reflects the offensive confidence Bataan has developed in recent weeks. Scoring 110 points against an MPBL opponent demonstrates the team’s improved efficiency and willingness to share the basketball. Their balanced attack has made them increasingly difficult to defend, with multiple players capable of stepping up on any given night.
For Manila, the defeat was another setback in what has been a difficult campaign. Despite showing determination and refusing to quit, the Batang Quiapo struggled to consistently contain Bataan’s offensive execution and were unable to string together enough defensive stops to mount a serious comeback.
As the regular season enters its critical stretch, every win carries greater significance. Bataan’s third consecutive victory not only improves its record to 9-11 but also boosts the confidence of a team that appears to be peaking at the right time.
The Risers know there is still work to be done if they hope to secure a favorable playoff position, but recent performances suggest they are moving in the right direction. Their commitment to defense, unselfish offense, and veteran leadership has transformed them into a team that no opponent can afford to overlook.
With Chito Jaime continuing to lead by example and the rest of the roster embracing a team-first mentality, the future looks promising for Bataan. If the Risers can sustain this level of play, their current three-game winning streak could be just the beginning of a much bigger run in the 2026 MPBL season.
Their commanding 110-97 victory over Manila at One Arena served as another statement that the Bataan Risers are finding their stride. Powered by Jaime’s all-around performance and a complete team effort, Bataan heads into its upcoming games with growing momentum, renewed confidence, and legitimate aspirations of making noise in the playoff race.
