GAME HIGHLIGHTS
FULL GAME REPLAY
Undefeated Run on the Line
The Magnolia Hotshots are looking to maintain their perfect start in the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup as they face the Meralco Bolts on Wednesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. Currently sitting at 5-0, Magnolia is the only unbeaten team left in the tournament and is poised to solidify its top-tier status by bagging a sixth straight victory.
Having benefited from a schedule adjustment that gave them over a week of rest, the Hotshots are returning to action refreshed but potentially at risk of losing game sharpness. Originally set to face NLEX last Sunday, the team’s extended break could be both a blessing and a challenge.
Team Chemistry and Consistency Fueling the Streak
Coach Chito Victolero credits the Hotshots’ blazing start to their strong team chemistry and system-oriented playstyle. The team has so far recorded decisive victories against Blackwater, Converge, San Miguel Beer, Phoenix Super LPG, and Terrafirma. Notably, their win against San Miguel was a tightly contested comeback (98-95), but their other wins have been dominant blowouts.
“Everybody’s stepping up, everybody’s contributing—and that’s our system,” said Victolero. “Even the bench players are ready to give 100% when called.”
Forward Zav Lucero, a key contributor during this run, emphasized the importance of consistency, saying the team is focused on improving each game, staying grounded despite their impressive form.
“We’re happy with our start compared to the last two conferences,” Lucero said. “But we’re still far from our goal.”
Quarterfinal Incentives at Stake
Magnolia’s strong start has placed them in a commanding position for a top-four finish, which comes with a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals. With the halfway mark of the elimination round in sight, maintaining momentum is crucial for securing that incentive.
Meralco Struggles with Consistency
The Meralco Bolts, on the other hand, are experiencing an up-and-down campaign. With a 3-4 record, they are hovering near the bottom of the playoff seedings. In their last outing, Meralco faltered against TNT Tropang Giga, losing 101-84 after failing to contain TNT’s explosive three-point shooting.
TNT drilled 16 three-pointers and a four-point play, turning what was a close game—Meralco led 72-69 at the start of the fourth—into a blowout loss. The Bolts will need to regroup quickly if they are to compete with Magnolia’s well-oiled system.
What to Expect
The upcoming clash will test Magnolia’s ability to retain sharpness after a long rest and Meralco’s resilience after a crushing loss. For the Hotshots, a win would reinforce their status as top title contenders. For the Bolts, it’s a chance to prove they can still rally mid-season and challenge stronger opponents.
With momentum, depth, and strategy on their side, Magnolia enters as the heavy favorite—but in a tournament where every game counts, Meralco still has a fighting chance to pull off an upset.