Meralco Bolts beat Hong Kong Eastern 88-83

The Meralco Bolts secured a victory over Hong Kong Eastern with a score of 88-83 in their PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup match on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Akil Mitchell led the team with 31 points, adding 14 rebounds and seven assists despite wearing a face mask for his broken nose to help Meralco end a two-game losing streak and improve their record to 4-2.

Coach Luigi Trillo expressed satisfaction with most of the team back in action, including Brandon Bates and rookie CJ Cansino who made long-awaited returns after being sidelined for months.

Despite Eastern's comeback attempt in the fourth quarter, Meralco remained persistent and secured the win as they prepare to face TNT Tropang Giga on Tuesday and NLEX Road Warriors on Friday.

The Bolts aim to build momentum with their upcoming games against formidable imports Rondae Hollis-Jefferson of TNT and Donovan Smith of Phoenix.