The Meralco Bolts unleashed a powerful second-half surge to turn back the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, 122-114, securing their first victory in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup on Saturday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
Antonio Hester made an impactful return to the squad, racking up 21 points, nine rebounds, and two assists.
His effort helped Meralco bounce back from a stinging 98-97 defeat against the Phoenix Fuel Masters in their opening game of the conference.
“We just rode the storm and defended the ball,” said Meralco head coach Luigi Trillo after the Bolts recovered from a double-digit deficit before building a lead that grew to as much as 15 points.
Veteran guard Jason Brickman steered the Bolts’ offense with 19 points, seven assists, and two steals. Backing him up were Chris Banchero and Bong Quinto, who contributed 15 and 12 markers, respectively, to the balanced attack.
On the other side, Rain or Shine failed to protect an early 50-39 advantage, sliding to its second consecutive defeat in the tournament.
Aaron Fuller carried the fight for the Elasto Painters with a double-double of 28 points and 10 rebounds. Freshman Deo Cuajao also stood out in the losing effort, firing 19 points on an efficient 7-of-11 shooting clip, which included three connections from beyond the arc.
The Scores
- Meralco 122 – Hester 21, Brickman 19, Banchero 15, Quinto 14, Cansino 12, Newsome 10, Bates 9, Mocon 6, Maliksi 6, Hodge 6, Black 4.
- Rain or Shine 114 – Fuller 28, Nocum 21, Cuajao 19, Villegas 10, Tiongson 9, Clarito 8, Manaytay 6, Asistio 5, Caracut 4, Malonzo 4, David 0.
Quarterscores: 32-34, 54-60, 95-83, 122-114.