Meralco clinches PBA quarters ticket after beating SMB

Updated Sat, January 18, 2025 at 10:26 PM Published Sat, January 18, 2025 at 2:29 AM

Meralco secured a quarterfinals ticket in the PBA Commissioner's Cup with a 100-93 victory over defending champion San Miguel Beer.

The Bolts achieved their third consecutive win, improving their record to 7-3 and solidifying their position for a twice-to-beat advantage.

Import Akil Mitchell led Meralco with 26 points, 16 rebounds, and five assists, supported by Chris Newsome's 20 points and Chris Banchero's 19 points.

The win spoiled the debut of San Miguel's new import Malik Pope, who contributed 14 points and nine rebounds.

Despite trailing by 11 points in the third quarter, San Miguel rallied to tie the game at 80 by the end of the period.

A late 10-0 run by Meralco, sparked by a Chris Newsome triple, proved decisive in sealing the victory.

For San Miguel, June Mar Fajardo scored 20 points and 13 rebounds, while CJ Perez added 16 points.

The Beermen's record dropped to 4-5, placing them precariously close to the playoff elimination threshold.

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PBA San Miguel Group Meralco San Miguel Beermen June Mar Fajardo Meralco Bolts CJ Perez Chris Newsome Akil Mitchell

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