PBA: Meralco spoils Mike Watkins' monster game, nips NLEX to bolster Top 6 bid

Akil Mitchell took flight anew for Meralco. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--Meralco solidified its chance of finishing the PBA Commissioner's Cup eliminations at least inside the Top 6 after downing NLEX, 105-91, on Friday night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

The Bolts broke loose within the game's final six minutes as they prevailed despite huge numbers from Road Warriors import Mike Watkins.

Akil Mitchell led Meralco, which tied Ginebra for fifth place at 5-3, with 24 points, 12 rebounds, six assists, and four steals.

Bong Quinto added 16 points, two rebounds, six assists, and one steal.

Watkins put up 38 points on 15-for-22 field goals, 21 rebounds, one assist, two blocks, and two steals to lead NLEX.

Robert Bolick added 19 points, two rebounds, 10 assists, and two steals, but both players combined for 15 of the team's 23 turnovers.

The Road Warriors dropped to 3-5, tying the Magnolia Hotshots, who beat the Terrafirma Dyip in the first game, for ninth place.

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