Caloocan, San Juan sweep into MPBL North semifinals

San Juan and Caloocan trounced their respective opponents on Tuesday to arrange a semifinal showdown in the MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) 2026 Season North Division playoffs at the Caloocan Sports Complex.

The Batang Kankaloo downed the Ilagan Isabela Cowboys, 83-72, while the Knights held off a late rally by the Bataan Risers, 82-77.

Prized acquisition Kean Baclaan scored six points and set up Kymani Ladi for a two-handed slam as Caloocan pulled away, 73-57, en route to its second consecutive victory over Ilagan Isabela to clinch the best-of-three quarterfinal series.

Baclaan, the former standout guard of the De La Salle Green Archers, finished with 17 points, including nine in the fourth quarter, three rebounds, and three assists to earn Player of the Game honors.