Bolts snap Fuel Masters perfect run

Meralco kept its hot start alive in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner's Cup, stopping an injury-plagued Phoenix 93-86 on Saturday night at the Ynares Center.

The Bolts leaned on a mix of veterans and newly acquired Javee Mocon to seize control in the fourth quarter, handing Phoenix its first defeat after a perfect 2-0 start.

Mocon, fresh from a trade with NLEX, proved decisive at the charity stripe, sinking all his free throws to break a 77-all tie. Aaron Black and Chris Banchero followed with crucial buckets, while Bong Quinto’s clutch four-pointer pushed Meralco’s lead to 89-78 with under five minutes remaining. The quartet fueled a decisive 12-1 run that sealed the victory.

“Our starters executed well, and the bench gave us a boost in the third quarter to create a cushion. The first group came back to close it out,” said Coach Luigi Trillo.

Meralco displayed scoring depth, with five players reaching double digits. Banchero led the way with 17 points, four rebounds, and four assists, while Jason Brickman delivered 16 points, seven rebounds, and five assists — a career-best performance for the veteran international rookie.

“As Coach said, I’m dealing with a groin injury, but I don’t want to miss games. Every match matters, especially in the regular season as we position ourselves for the playoffs,” Brickman said.

Marvin Jones contributed 15 points and 15 rebounds, along with two blocks, while Chris Newsome and CJ Cansino added 11 and 10 points, respectively, highlighting Meralco’s balanced attack against a shorthanded Phoenix squad.

The Fuel Masters were missing key contributors, with Tyler Tio and Kai Ballungay sidelined and Jason Perkins limited due to a knee contusion. “Phoenix played without Kai and with Perkins limited. They’re important pieces, but credit to them for competing despite the setbacks,” Trillo noted.

James Dickey III led Phoenix with 28 points and 21 rebounds, supported by Ricci Rivero’s 22 points and Kenneth Tuffin’s 11.

Both teams will resume action next week, with Phoenix visiting Terrafirma on Wednesday, and Meralco facing Rain or Shine on Friday.