Meralco loses to New Taipei Kings, out of EASL Final Four

Meralco suffered a heartbreaking 106-96 double overtime loss to host New Taipei Kings on Wednesday night, ending their hopes of reaching the Final Four in the East Asia Super League (EASL).

Despite DJ Kennedy's strong effort with 21 points and eight rebounds, Meralco could not overcome New Taipei's decisive run led by Sani Sakakini with 31 points and Joseph Lin’s crucial baskets.

In a virtual sudden death for the last Final Four berth, Meralco blew a nine-point lead in the final seven minutes of regulation but failed to recover as New Taipei sealed their victory in the second overtime period.

Sani Sakakini led New Taipei with 31 points and 12 rebounds while Austin Daye added 24 points, 12 rebounds, and three steals, securing second place in Group B with a 4-2 record.

The loss concludes Meralco's EASL campaign with a 2-4 card, following their exit from the PBA Commissioner's Cup quarterfinals last Sunday against Barangay Ginebra.