Walking into the Quezon Coliseum last Tuesday, I could feel the electric buzz in the air even before tip-off. As someone who’s followed the PBA for over a decade, I’ve seen my fair share of blowouts, but what the Quezon Huskers did to the Paranaque Patriots was nothing short of a masterclass. Final score: 96-68. Let that sink in for a moment. That’s a 28-point demolition, the kind of game that doesn’t just happen by accident. The Huskers didn’t just win—they made a statement. And as a longtime fan and occasional analyst, I can tell you this: if you’re serious about understanding the PBA, games like this are where you learn the most.
Now, I know what some of you might be thinking—blowouts can be boring, right? Wrong. When a team like Quezon executes with this level of precision, it’s like watching a perfectly choreographed dance. Every possession mattered, every defensive stop felt intentional. The Huskers shot an impressive 52% from the field, and their ball movement was crisp, racking up 24 assists compared to Paranaque’s meager 11. But here’s the real kicker: this wasn’t a fluke. Quezon has been building toward this all season, and their 13-3 record now places them firmly in fifth place in the elimination round. That’s no small feat in a 30-team tournament where every game feels like a playoff battle.
Let’s talk about what makes a performance like this so special from a fan’s perspective. First off, defense. The Huskers held the Patriots to just 68 points, which, in today’s fast-paced game, is almost unheard of. I’ve always believed that defense wins championships, and Quezon’s ability to disrupt passing lanes and force turnovers—15 in total—shows they’re built for the long haul. On the offensive end, their balance was stunning. Five players scored in double figures, and that kind of distribution is every coach’s dream. It means you can’t just key in on one star; you have to respect the entire roster.
But being a true PBA fan isn’t just about celebrating the wins—it’s about understanding the context. The Huskers’ rise to fifth place isn’t just a random spike; it’s the result of smart roster moves, player development, and a coaching staff that knows how to adapt. I’ve followed this team since their rebuilding years, and seeing them now, with a 13-3 tally, feels like a payoff for years of patience. Compare that to some other squads that rely too heavily on big names without building chemistry, and you’ll see why Quezon’s approach is so effective.
Of course, no team is perfect, and even in a dominant win, there are areas to watch. The Huskers turned the ball over 12 times, which against a tougher opponent could be costly. And while their three-point shooting was decent at 36%, I’d love to see them push that closer to 40% as the playoffs approach. But hey, that’s the beauty of being a fan—you celebrate the highs but also keep an eye on the details that could make or break a title run.
If you’re new to the PBA or just looking to deepen your fandom, games like this are your best textbook. Notice how Quezon controlled the tempo from the opening whistle, how they never let the Patriots find a rhythm. That’s not luck; it’s preparation. And as someone who’s spent countless hours breaking down game tape, I can tell you that the little things—like defensive rotations and off-ball movement—are what separate good teams from great ones.
So, where does this leave us? The Huskers are now in a prime position to make noise in the playoffs, and if they maintain this level of play, I wouldn’t bet against them. But beyond the standings and stats, what sticks with me is the sheer joy of watching a team click on all cylinders. It’s reminders like these that keep me coming back season after season. Whether you’re a die-hard or a casual viewer, there’s always something to learn, something to appreciate. And if you take one thing away from this game, let it be this: in the PBA, greatness isn’t just about winning—it’s about how you win.
