Thrilling Victory
The Meralco Bolts overcame a 23-point deficit to secure a narrow 111-109 win over the Phoenix Fuel Masters in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. Akil Mitchell sealed the win with a clutch floater with 1.3 seconds left on the clock, marking a triumphant start to Meralco’s mid-season campaign.
Phoenix’s Strong Start, Disappointing Finish
Phoenix appeared dominant in the first half, racking up a season-high 73 points to lead by 19 at halftime (73-54). However, they faltered in the second half, getting outscored 36-57. Jason Perkins missed a potential game-tying hook shot as the buzzer sounded, completing the team’s collapse.
Key Performances
- Meralco Bolts:
- Akil Mitchell: Debuting with 27 points, 13 rebounds, six steals, and the game-winning basket.
- Chris Newsome: Contributed 23 points and six assists.
- Aaron Black: Returned from injury to post 15 points, eight rebounds, and five assists in under 29 minutes.
- Bong Quinto: Despite a knee issue, added 14 points and was pivotal in Meralco’s late-game push.
- Phoenix Fuel Masters:
- Donovan Smith: Led with 33 points and nine rebounds despite foul trouble.
- Kai Ballungay: Set a career-high with 18 points.
- Tyler Tio and Ricci Rivero: Scored 17 and 14 points, respectively.
Coach Luigi Trillo’s Perspective
Coach Trillo credited his players for their resilience despite missing key contributors like Allein Maliksi, Chris Banchero, and Brandon Bates. He praised Aaron Black’s impactful return and acknowledged the team’s collective effort to secure the victory.
Game-Deciding Moments
Meralco took the lead with an 8-0 run late in the fourth quarter, spearheaded by Newsome and Quinto. Tyler Tio and Donovan Smith briefly tied the game at 109, but Mitchell’s decisive shot after a timeout clinched the win for the Bolts.
Conclusion
Phoenix’s early dominance was overshadowed by Meralco’s spirited comeback, demonstrating the Bolts’ grit and teamwork. This dramatic win highlights Meralco’s potential to overcome adversity and perform under pressure.
The Scores :
MERALCO 111 – Mitchell 27, Newsome 23, Black 15, Quinto 14, Caram 10, Rios 8, Hodge 7, Jose 5, Almazan 2, Pasaol 0.
PHOENIX 109 – Smith 33, Ballungay 18, Tio 17, Rivero 14, Alejandro 6, Perkins 6, Jazul 6, Manganti 4, Tuffin 3, Verano 2, Ular 0.
QUARTERS : 25-36, 54-73, 78-91, 111-109
