Rob Celiz delivered when needed as Nueva Ecija Rice subdued Pangasinan, 101-94, in overtime to extend their hot streak and keep the lead in the Manny Pacquiao presents 1xBet-Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) 2025 Season at the Calasiao Sports Complex in Pangasinan on Friday.

Showing why he is a member of the MPBL Second Mythical Team last year, Celiz poured nine points, including the game’s last six, in extra time to power the Rice Vanguards to their eighth straight win in the round-robin elimination phase of the 30-team tournament.

The Heatwaves, who trailed by 22 points, 29-51, early in the third quarter, rallied behind Vic Manuel, Hesed Gabo, Michael Mabulac and Ralph Robin, who hit a triple to forge overtime, 88-88, with 12 seconds left.

Celiz, however, heated up as the Heatwaves turned cold in the extra period and tumbled to 5-2 in the standings.

Compiling 19 points, 11 rebounds and four assists, Celiz earned Best Player honors over Jaycee Marcelino, who pooled 16 points, six assists, five steals and two rebounds despite fouling out in the fourth quarter.

Other Rice Vanguards who shone for Coach Don Dulay were Christian Manaytay with 15 points, four rebounds, three assists and two blocks; Jammer Jamito with 13 points and three rebounds; and Will McAloney, who also fouled out in the fourth period, with 10 points and six rebounds.

Manuel posted 27 points, nine rebounds and three assists; Gabo 21 points, nine assists, two rebounds and two steals; and Mabulac 13 points, 10 rebounds and three steals for Pangasinan, which is being steered by former Nueva Ecija coach Jerson Cabiltes.