Meralco Bolts defeat Rain or Shine, enter PBA Philippine Cup semifinals

Updated Tue, December 30, 2025 at 12:15 AM Published Sat, December 27, 2025 at 8:00 PM

The Meralco Bolts have advanced to the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup semifinals after defeating Rain or Shine, 98-89, in a do-or-die quarterfinal clash.

Chris Newsome led the Bolts with 31 points, scoring 16 of the team's final 21 points to secure the victory.

Meralco completed a twice-to-win reversal against the second-seeded Elasto Painters, who held the twice-to-beat advantage.

This victory marks the Bolts' return to the semifinals after failing to reach it in all three conferences last season.

The elimination of Rain or Shine ends their streak of four consecutive semifinal appearances and signifies the retirement of Gabe Norwood.

Meralco will face TNT Tropang 5G in a best-of-seven series starting January 4, while San Miguel Beer will play Barangay Ginebra.

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PBA San Miguel Group Meralco Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Rain or Shine Elasto Painters Meralco Bolts Chris Newsome

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