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Key Highlights of the Game

• Final Score: Meralco Bolts defeated San Miguel Beer (SMB) 100-93 at the Candon City Arena, Ilocos Sur, securing a spot in the PBA Commissioner's Cup playoffs.
• Crucial Performance: Akil Mitchell, Chris Newsome, and Chris Banchero led the Bolts with standout performances.
  • Mitchell: 26 points, 16 rebounds, and 5 assists.
  • Newsome: 20 points.
  • Banchero: 19 points.
• Decisive Run: The Bolts rallied in the fourth quarter to overturn an 86-89 deficit, taking a commanding 96-89 lead in the final five minutes.

 

Impact on Standings

• Meralco Bolts: Improved to 7-3, tying with NorthPort Batang Pier, Converge FiberXers, and Hong Kong Eastern for second place. They remain a game behind TNT Tropang Giga (8-2).
• San Miguel Beer: Fell to 4-5, holding on to eighth place in the standings ahead of Magnolia (4-6), Phoenix Super LPG (3-6), and NLEX (3-6).

 

Game Dynamics

• Meralco’s Recovery: After blowing a 70-59 third-quarter lead, the Bolts regrouped behind Mitchell, Newsome, and Banchero’s efforts.
• SMB’s Struggles: Despite contributions from June Mar Fajardo (20 points) and CJ Perez (16 points), new import Malik Pope had a subdued debut with just 14 points.

 

Context and Outlook

• Meralco’s Momentum: The Bolts secured their third consecutive win, maintaining a strong bid for a Top Two finish and a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals.
• San Miguel’s Challenge: The loss highlighted SMB’s struggle to maintain consistency, as they remain on the playoff bubble.

This win solidifies Meralco’s position as a strong contender in the playoffs, showcasing their resilience and teamwork.

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