MANILA, Philippines — Meralco strengthened its top 4 bid after manhandling Blackwater, 108-93 in the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum.
American import Marvin Jones banged in 26 points and grabbed 12 rebounds to lead the Bolts’ electrifying offense en route to their seventh win in 10 starts.
The charges of coach Luigi Trillo was coming off a 112-91 demolition of Barangay Ginebra last Friday.
“It’s a testament to these guys, that they came locked in. Gives us a chance now to really put pressure and get a chance to get that top four,” said Trillo after the game.
“This could be big, the next games, if we can get the twice-to-beat.” Chris Banchero, who scored 14 points and added eight assists, said they can’t afford to play complacent, noting the Bolts are now nearing their playoff goal.
“We know how important it is to get a top four,” said Banchero. “We’ve been on the outside for the last few conferences so to get to a top four would be a huge boost for our team. But we know that because we have that we can’t let our guard down.”
Blackwater sank to 2-9.
