Meralco ends skid, beats Blackwater 103-85

Meralco ended a two-game losing streak by defeating Blackwater 103-85 in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

The win improved Meralco's record to 4-5, while Blackwater absorbed their third consecutive loss, bringing their record to 1-5.

Chris Newsome led Meralco with 19 points and seven rebounds, supported by CJ Cansino (14 points), Chris Banchero (13 points), Raymar Jose (12 points), and Brandon Bates (10 points).

Christian David scored 24 points and Sedrick Barefield added 23 points for Blackwater.

Meralco played without suspended player Cliff Hodge.

Coach Luigi Trillo praised his team's defensive effort and urgency, noting they held Blackwater to around 80 points and outrebounded them 52-42, with 24 assists.

The victory is crucial for Meralco as they navigate a tight race for a quarterfinals seat.