MANILA, Philippines — Meralco showed better team work and relied on defense to hand Phoenix its first defeat via a 93-86 decision on Saturday in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner's Cup at the Ynares Center.
The Bolts held the Fuel Masters to just 15 points on a measly 23 percent (5-of-21) shooting from the floor in the final period to complete the win.
Meralco improved to 2-0, while Phoenix absorbed its first loss after opening the conference with back-to-back wins, leaving Terrafirma at the top of the standings with its 3-0 record.
Chris Banchero led the Bolts with 17 points, rookie Jason Brickman had 16, seven boards and five assists.
Import Marvin Jones finished with 15 points and 15 rebounds.
James Dickey led Phoenix with 28 points and 21 rebounds, Ricci Rivero 22, while Ken Tuffin had 11.