By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The Quezon City Black Bulls turned back Bacolod Masskara, 77-66, in the 2026 Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) Preseason Invitational at the Paco Arena in Manila on Tuesday, February 24.

Pat Buena, a standout discovered from inter-barangay tournaments, paced the Black Bulls with 12 points, seven rebounds and two assists as they improved to a 2-2 mark in Group A.

MJ Joson added 10 points, five assists, two rebounds, and two steals.

Joeben Loria also contributed 10 points along with six rebounds.

Quezon City bounced back and stayed in contention in the group standings.

Bacolod, meanwhile, remained winless after three games.

Adven Diputado led Masskara with 13 points, five assists, four rebounds, and three steals.

Reil Cervantes also scored 13 points, to go with four rebounds and two assists.

Arvie Bringas chipped in 10 points, seven rebounds and two assists.

Masskara will look to regroup as they seek their first win of the preseason tournament./ASC, WDJ