Four teams remain flawless as the 2026 MPBL Pre-Season Invitational gathers momentum, with early contenders beginning to separate from the field.
In Group A, Abra and Batangas City lead the way at 4-0, asserting dominance through balanced play and steady execution.
Biñan (3-1) stays within striking distance, while Mindoro (2-1) holds fourth. At the bottom, Bataan (0-4) faces mounting pressure, alongside winless Bacolod (0-2) and Sarangani (0-3).
Group B features a similar two-team race, with Quezon and San Juan both unbeaten at 3-0. Caloocan (2-1) remains in pursuit, while Muntinlupa and Ilagan Isabela sit at 2-2 in a tight mid-table battle. Marikina (0-4) and D-League (0-3) will need immediate turnarounds to stay relevant.
With the elimination round progressing, the margin for error continues to shrink — and the chase for the top seeds is firmly underway.The early phase of the tournament has produced a familiar dynamic: undefeated squads building momentum, mid-tier teams fighting for position, and winless clubs racing against time.
With playoff berths at stake and pride on the line for provincial programs, the margin for error continues to shrink. Coaches are expected to tighten rotations, lean more heavily on veteran leaders, and emphasize defensive execution as the elimination round intensifies.
For now, Abra, Batangas City, Quezon and San Juan stand alone atop their respective groups. The question facing the field is straightforward: who will be the first to bring the unbeatens back to the pack? As the MPBL pre-season showcase gathers momentum, the answers may arrive sooner rather than later.