The Bacolod Master Sardines continued their slump in the ongoing Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Lakan Cup with a fourth consecutive defeat last Wednesday night, falling 82-76 to the Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards at the Bulacan Capitol Gymnasium.
It was Bacolod’s first game since dropping Mark Jayven Tallo following an alleged misunderstanding with head coach Vic Ycasiano.
After a competitive first half, Jai Reyes and James Martinez led Nueva Ecija to a 51-46 lead heading into the fourth quarter.
Into the final period, Nicholas Belasco scored timely conversions for Nueva Ecija to secure the win.
Reyes tallied 21 markers with five three-point baskets for Nueva Ecija; while Martinez added 19 points, including four outside hits.
Meanwhile, Nico Paolo Javelona finished with double-double for Bacolod on 14 points and 11 assists, while newcomer Benedict Adamos scored 13 points, and Jess Mar Villahermosa added 11./ASC, WDJ