The Caloocan Batang Kankaloo enters the 2026 MPBL Pre-Season Invitational with a clear objective: finish what it could not last December 2025.
The Batang Kankaloo were swept by the Abra Weavers in the North Division Semifinals in 2025, a loss that exposed depth issues and late-game execution lapses. Management responded aggressively in the offseason.
The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) is officially back, and the road to the 2026 season begins with an exciting pre-season opening on February 7, 2026, at the Caloocan Sports Complex. Fans can expect a full day of high-energy matchups as teams showcase new faces, fresh systems, and early championship intentions.
Basketball fans are in for a treat with three games lined up from afternoon to evening:
Cyril Gonzales has never been the loudest name on the stat sheet, but throughout his collegiate career, the 6-foot point guard has built a reputation as a relentless defender and dependable floor general. Born on June 27, 2000, and hailing from Samal, Davao del Norte, the 25-year-old guard has carved out a basketball journey defined by resilience, timely decisions, and a commitment to winning.
Gonzales first made his mark with the Mapúa Cardinals during NCAA Season 95. Even as a young guard, he displayed maturity beyond his years, averaging 9.6 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. His ability to pressure opposing ballhandlers and contribute on both ends quickly established him as one of Mapúa’s promising backcourt pieces.
The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) officially unveiled the lineup and competition format for the MPBL 2026 Pre-Season Invitational, setting the stage for an exciting buildup to the league’s next season. The tournament will run from February 7 to March 21, with games scheduled every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, promising weeks of nonstop basketball action for fans across the country.
The pre-season tournament features two loaded groups composed of established MPBL contenders, emerging provincial squads, and developmental teams.
Staying true to their identity as a team built by and for Mindoreños, the Mindoro Tamaraws of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) have bolstered their roster with three homegrown talents who bring size, versatility, and a winning pedigree: Christan Jake Agoncillo, Jon Ivan Cudiamat, and John Christopher “JC” Recto.
These recruits don’t just fill spots—they represent Mindoro’s growing footprint in Philippine basketball.
The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) has formally clarified its position regarding team participation and the status of Leaves of Absence (LOA), emphasizing that such allowances are no longer permitted under current league rules.
According to the statement released by the league, the MPBL previously allowed franchises to take a Leave of Absence during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. This temporary measure was intended to help franchise owners recover from the severe financial and operational challenges brought about by the global crisis.
Kymani Ladi didn’t need much time to announce his arrival in Philippine collegiate basketball.
In just one season with the Ateneo Blue Eagles, the 6-foot-8 Filipino-American forward-center delivered production, poise, and promise—quickly putting his name on the national radar.