Meralco Bolts’ Balanced Attack Secures Overtime Victory
Meralco showcased a balanced offensive performance with six players scoring in double figures to secure a thrilling overtime victory against Rain or Shine in the PBA Philippine Cup.
Unselfish Play Leads to Success
Meralco standout Bong Quinto’s selfless gesture of deferring his Best Player of the Game award to teammate Allein Maliksi exemplifies the team’s commitment to teamwork and unselfishness. The Bolts, under the guidance of head coach Luigi Trillo, emphasized the importance of collective effort in their 121-117 triumph over Rain or Shine at the Araneta Coliseum.
Key Performances
Maliksi led the scoring for Meralco with 26 points and 7 rebounds, supported by Quinto’s all-around contribution of 16 points, 6 assists, 5 rebounds, 1 block, and 1 steal. The team’s depth was evident as other players like Chris Newsome, Cliff Hodge, and Norbert Torres also made significant contributions to the victory.
Overtime Heroics
In the overtime period, Quinto and Maliksi combined for 14 crucial points to secure the win for the Bolts. Despite a strong performance from Rain or Shine’s Adrian Nocum, Meralco’s resilience and teamwork proved to be the difference-maker in the game.
Final Thoughts
The victory not only marked Meralco’s first win of the season but also highlighted their ability to come together as a team in challenging situations. With a well-rounded performance and a display of unselfish play, the Bolts look poised for a successful campaign in the PBA Philippine Cup.