Meralco escapes late Ginebra run to tie PBA Comm's Cup QF series

Chris Newsome led the way for Meralco in sending its quarterfinal series against Ginebra to sudden death. PBA Images

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--Meralco heaved a sigh of relief as Ginebra's comeback fell short and escaped with a 108-104 win in Game 2 of their PBA Commissioner's Cup quarterfinals on Friday night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

The result is that their best-of-three series will continue to the full length, with Game 3 set for Sunday night at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

The Bolts looked to be on track to pull away after leading by nine, 108-99, right at the last two-minute mark.

However, Jamie Malonzo hit a three-pointer and two free throws to cut the gap down to a one-possession game with 34 seconds to go.

The Gin Kings then forced the Bolts to a shotclock violation, giving them the ball back with 10 seconds to go.

However, RJ Abarrientos misfired on the potential equalizer from four-point range, and Chris Newsome secured the game-saving rebound.

Newsome led Meralco with 24 points, two rebounds, and five assists, while Cliff Hodge added 17 points, six rebounds, one assist, and one block.

Akil Mitchell and Chris Banchero chipped in 13 markers each with Mitchell completing a triple-double with 17 boards and 10 dimes.

Justin Brownlee put up 36 points, six rebounds, and four assists, while Scottie Thompson added 21 points, nine rebounds, one assist, and one steal for Ginebra.

Follow him on X: @IvanSaldajeno