In their quarterfinal playoff game late Monday in the (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) 4th Season Presented by Xtreme at the Batangas City Coliseum, General Santos City defeated Bacolod, 77-72, and necessitated a decider.

Earlier, the Brand Sardines of Zamboanga Family relied on the triple-double of Jaycee Marcelino to defeat Muntinlupa, 77-71, and proceed to the semifinal round by sweeping their own quarterfinal series in two games.

In order to avenge a 77-81 setback in the series opener and retake the status as the slight favorite in their game-or-die matchup on October 31, GenSan, who had been relentlessly pursued by Bacolod, relied on Nikko Panganiban.

With 24 points, six rebounds, two assists, and the game-winning three-pointer with 11.3 seconds left, Panganiban was named the game’s best player.

The 6-foot-1 former NAASCU rookie of the year received help from Cristopher Masaglang (15 points, 4 steals), Christian Fajarito (13 points, 8 rebounds, ex-Letran star), and Mark Cruz (9 points, 9 rebounds).

Only Mark Yee could give scoring support with 11 points, thus despite Jhan McHale Nermal’s game-high 25 points, which included a triple that brought Bacolod within 72-74, and eight rebounds, his efforts fell short.

Zamboanga came prepared for the kill after humiliating Muntinlupa 79-50 in game one to strengthen its confidence.

The Zamboanguenos jumped off to a 59-40 lead before settling into a comfortable lead late in the third quarter.

When the Muntinlupa Cagers, captained by Biboy Enquio, went for a final assault, they were still comfortably up at 67-55.

With 56 seconds left, Muntinlupa was still within striking distance at 71-73 thanks to five points from Enquio.

However, Zamboanga maintained its composure and secured the victory with to two free throws from Ralph Tansingco and a basket from Jayvee Marcelino.

With 24 points, 11 rebounds, 11 assists, and 6 steals for Zamboanga, Jaycee Marcelino stood out throughout the game. Tansingco and Jhaps Bautista came in second and third with 11 points each.

The winner of the South division semifinal between GenSan and Bacolod will play the Zamboanguenos.