Team Marianas undefeated heading into playoffs

Team Marianas notched their 11th straight win and is still undefeated heading into the playoffs of the 2024 Michelob Ultra Cup after they beat Bridge Capital, 111-67, last Saturday at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium.

In a reign of unmatched supremacy, Team Marianas boasts the only undefeated record as they head into the playoffs. But against Bridge Capital—who are tied for second with New Chang Ming with a 9-2 record, they were given a run for their money in the first half.

Team Marianas, however, doubled down and continued their reign of terror on the court as their offense exploded in the last half.

Despite just a 6-point margin heading into the second half from an aggressive Bridge Capital team, Team Marianas seemed to be rejuvenated by the half time break. They came out with more energy and focus and quickly regained control of the game.

By the start of the fourth quarter, their lead was in double digits once again, 76-57.

It was all uphill from there as everyone contributed to their ever-growing lead. Douglas Schmidt opened up the last quarter with a three, which became a precursor to their hail of threes towards the end of the game.

Bridge Capital’s Francisco Mizutani and Matt Duenas and company were shut down and struggled to keep up. Mizutani contributed from downtown as Duenas tried to do everything from within the paint and the charity line, but it wasn’t enough to take down the giants of the league.

Team Marianas extended their lead further as Preston Basa scored his fourth three of the game. Djay Ong followed suit with a 3 of his own, then was followed by back-to-back 3s by Airson Atan.

At this point, Bridge Capital went mum while Team Marianas was the exact opposite. Bridge Capital ended up scoring just a total of 11 points in the fourth, while Team Marianas racked up 35 points which made for a 44-point blowout win.

Team Marianas’ Coby Santos led the team with 23 markers, Jack Lizama had 20 points, while Basa put up 14.

Mizutani had a game-high 25 points, while Duenas scored 11, and Steve King contributed 8.

The playoffs are set to start this week. Starting today, Bridge Capital is taking on Akkari EET 1 at 6pm, with New Chang Ming against Ol’Aces at 7:30pm.

Tomorrow, the Saints face off against La Mesa Kusina at 6pm; on Wednesday, Team Marianas takes on the winner of Monday’s Game 1, followed by the winner of Game 2 and Tuesday’s game at 7:30pm.

The championship is set for this Saturday, June 1 at 6pm.

Team Marianas 111 – Santos 23, Lizama 20, Basa 14, Schmidt 11, Rabauliman 9, Ong 9, Ai. Atan 8, Dela Cruz 6, Sablan 5, Af. Atan 4, Aldan 2.

Bridge Capital 67 – Mizutani 25, Duenas 11, King 8, Richardson 5, Kim 4.

Scoring by quarters: 23-14, 35-29, 76-57, 111-67.