Meralco refused to become victim of upset-conscious Blackwater in the ongoing Season 50 Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup.
Chris Newsome uncontestedly made the go-ahead basket off Chris Banchero’s assist just 3.6 ticks left on the way to Meralco’s narrow 116-114 victory over Blackwater on Tuesday for back-to-back triumphs at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo City.
It was Meralco’s second win after three games.
After RK Ilagan’s back-to-back baskets including a tough layup and a game-tying basket with 1:31 left in the game, Ilagan tried his best to save his team after Newsome’s basket but his effort came to naught as the ball hit his foot upon dribble that cost them the game as time expired.
Antonio Hester piled up 25 points to lead the Bolts, who drew 16 points each from Newsome and Banchero.
Sedrick Barefield posted 29 points and Kentrell Barkley got 28 points and 10 rebounds, and Ilagan added 20 points, four rebounds and four assists to lead the Bossing, who fell to 2-1 record.