San Juan moves atop North Division with victory over Meycauayan Marilao

The San Juan Knights climbed to the top of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) 2026 Season North Division after defeating the Meycauayan Marilao Gems, 88-78, on Tuesday at the Navotas Convention Center.

Despite the absence of Japan B.League-bound star Michael Phillips, the Knights dictated the pace throughout the contest, leading by as many as 18 points, 74-56, before improving to 14-1 in the 27-team round-robin elimination tournament.

Michael Calisaan filled the void left by Phillips with an outstanding performance, scoring 19 points on an efficient 9-of-10 shooting while collecting seven rebounds. Former University of the Philippines standouts Harold Alarcon, Terrence Fortea, and Gerry Abadiano also played key roles in the victory.

Alarcon finished with 14 points, four rebounds, and two assists, while Fortea knocked down three triples on his way to 13 points and four assists. Abadiano, who is set to join the Korean Basketball League, contributed 10 points and four assists.

The win enabled San Juan to pull level with defending North Division champion Abra Solid North at 14-1 after previously handing the Weavers a 66-58 defeat on May 2. Caloocan stayed within striking distance at 14-2 as the race for the division's eight playoff spots continued to heat up.

"I trust my teammates. I know the ball will come to me," said Calisaan. "That's part of our system."

With Phillips now headed to Japan and 6-foot-6 forward Jommel Puno still committed to San Beda, team manager Jun Usman said the Knights are set to bolster their lineup by activating 6-foot-6 forward Jhaymo Eguilos.

Meycauayan Marilao slipped to 9-8 despite a strong outing from Agem Miranda, who finished with 20 points, five steals, and four rebounds. Felix Apreku added 13 points, five rebounds, four assists, and three steals, while Shawn Argente chipped in 10 points and three assists.

The MPBL resumes Wednesday at the Pasay Astrodome, where Parañaque faces Negros at 4 p.m., Quezon City takes on Manila at 6 p.m., and host Pasay battles Bulacan at 8 p.m.