MANILA — Gab Banal was named the Most Valuable Player of the MPBL Datu Cup following the season awards at the FilOil Flying V Centre in San Juan City on Monday night.
The Bacoor City forward got the nod after the tallying of votes from the coaches of the 26 participating teams, the sportswriters covering the beat, and league founder Manny Pacquiao.
Banal had an impressive season for the Strikers highlighted by most three triple-doubles in the league, despite having to play for Mighty Sports in the Dubai International Basketball Championship earlier this year.
Joining Banal in the All-MPBL First Team are Manila's Aris Dionisio and Cris Bitoon, Davao Occidental's Mark Yee, and Muntinlupa's Allan Mangahas.
The All-MPBL Second Team, on the other hand, consisted of Zamboanga's Harold Arboleda, Davao Occidental's Leo Najorda, Biñan's Michael Mabulac, Navotas' Jai Reyes, and San Juan's John Wilson.
Dionisio was the recipient of the Defensive Player of the Year award, while Bulacan's Jay-R Taganas took home the Sportsmanship Award. (PNA)
