Meralco beats Rain or Shine, 121-111, in all-Filipino game

Meralco Bolts defeated Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, 121-111, in an all-Filipino game on Sunday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

Despite losing import Akil Mitchell to a broken nose early in the match and Rain or Shine's Deon Thompson being absent due to not securing a special work permit, Meralco maintained control throughout the contest.

Meralco led by ten points, 93-83, early in the fourth quarter before Rain or Shine made a comeback attempt, narrowing the gap but ultimately falling short.

Chris Newsome and Bong Quinto led Meralco with 25 and 20 points respectively, while Cliff Hodge added a double-double of 11 points and 11 rebounds.

Rain or Shine struggled from the free-throw line, making only 19 out of 31 attempts, contributing to their loss by a margin of ten points.

Meralco improved to 2-0 in the conference, while Rain or Shine began their season with a 0-1 record.