Defending champions Metals Services Pipeliners threw newcomers Saudi Master Bakers' offense into disarray with a back-breaking defense and fast break plays en route to a 96-72 Eastern Province Basketball League victory in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

Screaming fans at Ettifaq Club Gymnasium saw the Pipeliners begin their quest to duplicate their crown in the EPBL's 22nd season.

MVP Rodante Luete came away with a double-double performance of 29 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Pipeliners to an easy win.

But it was the champions' smothering defense on the Bakers shooters from the start, capped with a 28-6 scoring on transition play, that won the game..

Coached by Gil Asis and managed by Reonel Castillo, they held the Bakers to just six points in the second quarter to seize control, then hung tough in the clutch to carve their opening victory.

Jun Lata and Renato Salonga backed up Luete in a solid performance with 25 and 22 points respectively, while Alex Reyes had 18, Anthony Enriquez and Alquin Dizon 15 apiece and Jaq Soliven 13 in the Bakers loss.

Meanwhile, Gulf Consolidated Company Power Chargers beat PI Consult in the earlier game via a 68-55 decision.

Ruben Pamplona recorded a game-high 22 points, Migz Conlu 12 and Jimmy Gorospe nine for the Power Chargers.

PI Consult trailed until the third quarter when Alvin Macaumbang hit a pair of three-pointers and Michael Angelo drained another one to start the second half with only a 40-45 deficit from a 14-point setback at the half.

But the Power Chargers mounted a 6-0 run on a fast break play by Pamplona and Noli Clavecillas to put GCC ahead 51-40. PI Consult never again came close as GCC knocked out the win.

In other matches, grand-slam seeking Dammam Warriors notched their first win in an easy 78-48 demolition against Gulf Real Estate, Saudi Ready Mix came through via a 84-69 win against Al Majdouie Group, the Daggers team beat Leytenos 79-65, and Al Bilad Fire Fighting thrashed newcomer FEMCO team 63-44.