Key Highlights of the Game
- Final Score: Meralco Bolts defeated San Miguel Beer (SMB) 100-93 at the Candon City Arena, Ilocos Sur, securing a spot in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup playoffs.
- Crucial Performance: Akil Mitchell, Chris Newsome, and Chris Banchero led the Bolts with standout performances.
- Mitchell: 26 points, 16 rebounds, and 5 assists.
- Newsome: 20 points.
- Banchero: 19 points.
- Decisive Run: The Bolts rallied in the fourth quarter to overturn an 86-89 deficit, taking a commanding 96-89 lead in the final five minutes.
Impact on Standings
- Meralco Bolts: Improved to 7-3, tying with NorthPort Batang Pier, Converge FiberXers, and Hong Kong Eastern for second place. They remain a game behind TNT Tropang Giga (8-2).
- San Miguel Beer: Fell to 4-5, holding on to eighth place in the standings ahead of Magnolia (4-6), Phoenix Super LPG (3-6), and NLEX (3-6).
Game Dynamics
- Meralco’s Recovery: After blowing a 70-59 third-quarter lead, the Bolts regrouped behind Mitchell, Newsome, and Banchero’s efforts.
- SMB’s Struggles: Despite contributions from June Mar Fajardo (20 points) and CJ Perez (16 points), new import Malik Pope had a subdued debut with just 14 points.
Context and Outlook
- Meralco’s Momentum: The Bolts secured their third consecutive win, maintaining a strong bid for a Top Two finish and a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals.
- San Miguel’s Challenge: The loss highlighted SMB’s struggle to maintain consistency, as they remain on the playoff bubble.
This win solidifies Meralco’s position as a strong contender in the playoffs, showcasing their resilience and teamwork.
1st Q2ND Q3RD Q4TH Q
22:26
26:02
27:23
35:10